Holiday at home...

 

Spending the week at home.  

See you next year!

photo via paper city magazine

Merry, Happy...

 

Merry Christmas!

xx

image via Pinterest

On Dancer, on Prancer...

Getting ready for Santa!

image via instagram.com/dearannabelle 

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 12

Go to town!  Literally, go to your town.  There is no time to ship, and that charming shop on the edge of town needs you.     

If you are in Greenwich, run to Navy Lobster, Mary Beth will take care of you.  She has the most charming assortment of home goods and knickknacks.  You will leave with an armload of gifts for others, and one for yourself!

Palmer & Purchase is a one stop shop!  Jewelry, apparel, cashmere!!  And, if you are in and or around Larchmont or Rye, they offer local delivery.

On the West Coast?  One of my favorite stops is Hudson Grace.  Their wares are Nancy Meyers, meets Martha Stewart, meets Bunny Williams.  It is all divine. These glasses are great for wine, orange juice, ice cream... tested by yours truly! 

Pretty tables and beds were all the rage in 2020, and I don't see that changing anytime soon.  Treat someone you love with some cheery checks from Heather Taylor Home.  

images via Instagram 

Winter Solstice...

 For a year like no other, a Winter Solstice like no other.  Today Jupiter and Saturn will be so close, they will appear as one blurry big planet.  According to the New York Times, this interstellar event will be visible to the naked eye, an hour after sunset, by looking southwest the sky.  Scientists say that such a sight won't occur again until March of 2080!

To bring the galaxy inside, Ralph Lauren's North.Hem wallpaper in midnight blue.

Shoeday Saturday... bonus

Every so often The Real Real comes thru.  While on my weekly search for Chanel boots that I regret not buying, I came across these never-been-worn beauties.

Shoeday Saturday...

 Welcome to winter!

Hands down, the best winter boot out there.  Rain, sleet, snow, slush, these stand the test of time!

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 11

 Ralph Lauren edition.

This is not a sponsored post, but Ralph Lauren has never looked better.  I don't know if it is the familiarity of the blackwatch plaid and the Polo Bear, or the fact that I walk by the stores on Madison Avenue almost daily, but I'm having a Very Ralph moment. 

1. Color-block packable jacket.  RL offers a customizing option for this jacket, but their stock version is pretty fun!

2. There are few thigns sweeter than the children's shop at Ralph Lauren.  Miniature cashmere cable sweaters and tiny corduroy pants.  The Polo Bear is particularly cute on children's apparel.   

3. Speaking of cashmere cable sweaters, the latest iteration - the poncho. Ideal for staying home.     

4. A Merry Ralph Christmas.  

5. Pretty Pitcher.  Water, iced tea, flowers, everything is gorgeous in this piece.  

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 10

 When in doubt, buy what you like! Go with your gut.  Chances are if you like it, the receiver will too!

1. Le Lion velvet pouch.  I love Le Lion, their line of sweaters are gorgeous and cozy, and their mask bijoux is my favorite pandemic accessory.   The line is launching totes and these pouches are the perfect trinket for the whimsical gal on your list.

2. Liberty floral alphabet necklace.   Personal, reminiscent of travels past, and hopeful for the future.  A truly thoughtful and wearable gift.  

3. Tish Cox chic masks.  They aren't going anywhere anytime soon.  A gift that is pretty and useful. 

4. Amanda Lindroth cocktail napkins.  Whether you are a cocktail or mocktail drinker, these napkins are a jolly good time.

5. Don't gift another scarf this year! Powder Puff Collection pullover.   Each is made of quilted nylon and lined in cashmere.  Available in a variety of colors, for person that has everything on your list!

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 9

 A very Nancy Meyers Christmas!   

1. First up, dressing the part!  A Nancy leading lady loves a cream turtleneck sweater - Diane Keaton in Something's Gotta Give, Cameron Diaz in The Holiday, Natasha Richardson in The Parent Trap.  The cozy knit is a supporting character in Nancy Meyers films.   

2. Kitchens are meant to be used.  Not only is a Nancy Meyers film kitchen gorgeous, they also produce delicious meals.  Who else thinks about Croque Monsieur and Honey Lavender ice-cream from It's Complicated regularly?   Ina Garten's newest tome feels right at home here!

3. A common theme throughout a Meyers film, footed glassware.  From Home Again, written and directed by Meyers' daughter, to Father of the Bride, Meyers loves a footed glass.  Thus, I love a footed glass. 

4. Until we develop smell-evision, I'll just pretend that Nancy's films smell of clean laundry and freshly cut flowers.  To bring this notion to life, Flowerbx snapdragons! To keep the smell going, a candle is included in the set.

5. A cozy throw to curl up for a Nancy Meyers marathon this winter.  Channel Cameron Diaz in The Holiday with the eye mask.   

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 8

One thing I love about a gift guide is the aspirational wishlist.  The things on your list that make you say, maybe one day.

 1. A Peloton bike.  I can freely admit, I thought these were stupid.  This time last year I was going to studio spinning classes multiple times a week.  I went all over the city, class in SoHo followed by trips to the farmers market. This was my routine for years, why would I want to work out at home?  Then 2020 hit, and I ate my words.  I now think this is genius.  

2. Last year, at the Barney's (RIP) last sale ever, I didn't buy a pair of Chanel ballerinas.  And, I regret it.  This style shoe is the epitome of timeless. If I ever see a pair on great sale again, I am jumping at the opportunity. 

3. The Foundrae oversized heart pendant.  Their jewelry is to die for, every time I see this necklace I get chills. 

4. Dior Maison dessert plates.  Designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri depicting the four seasons, reminiscent of designs by Mr. Dior.  Gorgeous anytime of year!

5.  Cece Barfield 'Agra' cups.  CeCe Barfield is one my my favorite interior designers.  She mixes traditional and contemporary seamlessly, creating beautiful, familiar, inviting spaces.  These silver plated cups have been all over instagram lately.  Used as water cups on tables set for one, or filled with gorgeous flowers, they serve a multitude of uses.         

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 7

 If this year has taught me anything, it is to value what you have, and to use everything!  My teapot comes out almost daily, this sweater is in constant rotation, and this Hugo Guinness print is facing me as I type. Spending so much time at home has made me appreciate all that I have even more, and lead me to a few things I am hoping for...

1. Dyson hair dryer.  This has been on my list for a while.  The current push for me is size.  It is smaller than other hairdryers, meaning more space in bathroom drawers. Now that I am the only one that will be drying my hair for the foreseeable future, maybe it is not so crazy.

2.  Pizza Cutter and Ice Cream Scoop.  Yes, basic kitchen tools.  I have a mandolin, spatulas in all shapes and sizes, but not the most basic items.

3. Memo notecards.  My response to being stuck at home earlier this year was to write notes to my friends.  Getting mail was something fun to look forward to.  That said, I'm running low on stationery.  

4.  Fabric.  I love upholstery.  LOVE. IT.  I have visions of  oversized pillows on my couch in 2021.

5. Puzzles.  I completed my Grey Malin beach puzzle three times.  A new one is in order for winter.  

    

Shoeday Saturday...

 

Cashmere slip-ons from The Row, yes please!

Weekend Plans...

 No holiday party, no problem!

1. See the lights!  I've visited the Rockefeller Tree and it is beautiful!   Homes must be going all out with lights this year, I'm determined to find some.  Bonus points for putting on a holiday outfit for the car! And, buying tickets for Glow!

2. The Nutcracker soundtrack has been playing all week.  This weekend I'll binge Christmas movies morning, noon, and night.  

3. Two words - Christmas Cookies!

4. Houses & Parties is one of my favorite new follows.  Rebecca Gardner brings elegance and charm to her tables, and of course tons of fun! 

5.  My wreath and tree are up, but I want a little more. Maybe a mantle inspired by Putnam & Putnam.   

image by Sarah Harris via Keep It Chic

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 6

 For the lover of all things New York City.

1. Kate Spade New York key chain.  Taxi!

2. John Derian Apple decoupage plate.  There is no place like the big apple.

3. Lou Lou Baker New York City playing cards.  

4. Tiffany & Co. china paper cups.  Breakfast at Tiffany's every day!

5. William Greenberg Desserts.  What is more New York than a black and white cookie!?

Lately...

 Winter edition!

A few things keeping me sane this time of year.

1. House Guest - a new to me podcast about British interior design.  Kit Kemp, Humphrey Munson, Nina Campbell... hours of listening and fabric daydreaming.

2. This pinwheel pie is at the top of my 'to-make' list!  Laura Kim is the chic-without -trying co-designer for Oscar de la Renta and Monse.  She is also a very talented cook.  

3. The New York Times games section.  Mini-Crossword, Spelling Bee, Soduku, I do them all!

4. Small DIY projects.  Photo albums of trips taken, fabric mood boards of images to remember... I have a few ideas for Winter 2020.

5. Plans.  I want to have plans in 2021.  The notion of packing bags, buying plane tickets, making dinner reservations, visiting museums without haste keeps me going.  

  

image via Pinterest

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 5

We are all spending a lot more time at home, a few things for the homebody in all of us.  

1. Life of the Party puzzle.  So true!

2. Courtland & Co. x Brent Neale napkins.  Brent Neale's jewelry may be out of budget, but a set of four napkins with her charming mushroom prints are just the ticket.

3. British Designers at Home, the Brits do home best!

4. KRB tulip candlesticks.  Whether on your mantle, coffee table, dining room table, these candlesticks are the star of the space.

5. Hand blocked pillow.  As Bob Ross said, Happy little trees!

6. Les Touches pillow.  A timeless print.

7. Emme Parsons shearling ballerina slipper.  I would never take these off!

Shoeday Saturday...

I love a velvet Mary Jane.  

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 4

 For the tennis obsessed.  Wimbledon may not be in the cards this year, but we can always pretend.  

1. Blair Breitenstein tennis illustration.  This print depicts how I feel after most matches.

2. Babolat tennis racket.  Your game always improves with a new racket, right?

3. Hedge New York 'Anyone for Tennis?' tee.  Says it all!

4. Kule sweatshirt.  For year-round tennis!

5. Tory Sport pom-pom socks.  Touch of nostalgia.  

Ed Note: this is also quite a cute list.

The one that got away...

 On the coldest morning of the season thus far, this Toteme coat was back in stock for a minute.  Speedy shoppers snapped it up just in time.  Coats have become the statement piece lately, hiding day old leggings and the cashmere sweater you wear on repeat now.  

For now, I'll keep hitting refresh, waiting for a restock.

Holiday Season...

 My plans in a nutshell.

Self portrait by Tim Walker

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 3

Some of my favorite items are currently on sale.  Whether you are looking for yourself, or someone else, these are sure to spark joy.

1. Ralph Lauren 'Anette' floor lamp.  Yes, a lamp.  This is the lowest price I have seen for this style recently.  It is by far one of my favorite items in my home and dream of having a set framing my bed.  

2. Sisely-Paris lip twist.  Worth every penny!  

3. Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit sneakers.  The most comfortable sneakers on the planet.

4. India Armory tablecloths.  The entire site is 20% off!

5. LoveShackFancy mini skirt.  I lived in my skirt this past summer, always good to stock up when they are half price.

Shoeday Saturday...

 I have been waiting months for this sneaker to debut.  British designer of-the-moment, Wales Bonner, has collaborated with Adidas Originals on a line of sneakers and apparel.  I simply adore them.  

In the kitchen...

 Today is the day - Apple Pies are being assembled, Turkeys are marinating in their brines, tables are getting dressed, the holidays are here.

I hope your day is filled with laughter, joy and plenty of pie.

Veronica Swanson Beard in her Long Island kitchen for Elle Decor.

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 2

Our kitchens have been working overtime for the past few months, it deserves some love this season. 

1. Salt and Pepper grinders. So chic, you will want to keep these out on your countertop.

2. Breville espresso machine.  If it is good enough for Oprah, it is good enough for me.  Bonus tip: add some Ralph's espresso beans!

3. Sur la table's glass containers.  They are lifesavers! From fridge to oven, and back again.  

4. Oven mitts and dish towels.  I know, super snooze. But, sometimes the best gifts are the things you don't want to buy for yourself. 

5. Jonathan's Spoons 'spootle', winner of the Cook's Illustrated wooden spoon test!

     

La Cashmere...

 

I have spent the past few months editing, cleaning out, organizing, rearranging, and editing my closets some more.   I am now well versed in what I own a plethora of, and what is missing.   

Things I am not allowed to even look at, even if they are gorgeous and on sale: white cotton tops, all chunky knits, black boots, and bags of all sizes.  

My clothing wishlist is pretty simple, a navy slip dress, to be worn with aforementioned chunky knit, a pair of lug sole loafers, bonus points for the tassel (!), and my latest addition an ivory oversized turtleneck sweater.  I would wear this sweater everyday. Softer than my navy and black versions, and a classic for post-pandemic life.  If Santa is reading, it is 30% off thru tonight.

image via modaoperandi.com          

Shoeday Saturday...

My favorite sneaks, on sale!

Twelve Days of Christmas... Day 1

The Christmas carols have been on repeat for weeks now, why not start to check a few things off your list.

There is nothing more thoughtful than a personalized gift, something truly unique for the receiver.  These gifts are the ones that take a bit longer, and best to order early.  

1. Corksicle mug, perfect for coffee, cider, even wine!

2. Oliver Bonas velvet ornaments,  Christmas trees will be getting lots of love this year.  

3. The classic L.L. Bean Boat & Tote, rather than initials try a phrase, Weekend Plans, Tennis, or Six Feet.

4. Joy Creative desk notepads, available in countless color options, there is something for everyone on your list.

5. Hill House Home pillowcase set,  I simply adore all things HHH and personalized pillowcases are a welcome gift for another season spent at home.  Especially for a girl who {hearts} {palm trees}. 

How's your day going...

Same, same.

 

image via Harper's Bazaar UK

Bring on the lights...

At the top of my list of things I am looking forward to: Christmas decorations.  

I cannot wait to see how the department stores will transform themselves with glitter and garland and the tasteful townhomes wrapped up in bows.  I plan to go all out in my own home this season too!  I've already ordered my tree, and the hunt continues for a wreath.   Is adding something to the mantle too much?  Only time will tell...

I have a lot of thoughts about gift guides this year.  I do believe that this year is not like other years, buying a gift to just buy something (if that is your thing) seems particularly tone-deaf.  Finding the perfect gift has always been something I have truly enjoyed doing.  Gift giving is a very thoughtful process, and even more so this year now that we can't just pop into a store to pick up a gift.

What is on your list?  You will laugh when you see mine, it is funny how priorities have changed.

These snow toys are perfect for a little one who loves to build snowmen, and I already bought myself this  gift.  

What to buy the man who has everything, the discerning 5 year old, the woman who says she wants nothing, the preppy sister?   Stay tuned...

image via Habitually Chic

New York, we love you...

 

Anyone that has been to NYC lately knows it is anything but deceased.  There are construction projects happening on every corner - new buildings, new beginnings, new homes, new memories - not dead.

Hanging on the skeleton façade of a building in development on Madison Avenue at 80th Street is a billboard for Jerry Seinfeld's op-ed in The New York Times, written over the summer.  This is a piece you read once, re-read, and then read again.  I found myself cheering Jerry on as I read. Yes, New York is having a tough time at the moment, we all are. But, New York isn't going anywhere. 

'greatness is rare. And the true greatness that is New York City is beyond rare.'

image via The New York Times    

Winter is coming...

Personally, I am excited for colder temperatures.   I spent the Summer wearing 1/3 of my closet - mainly swimsuits and tennis togs.  Putting on a cozy sweater is something I am looking forward to!  

The Wall Street Journal recently wrote about how blanket dressing is the new norm.  With outside dining continuing, and really our only option of things to do other than sit at home, outerwear is the new loungewear.

Confession: I love a whimsical knit.  I own an Isabel Marant woven poncho, from a few years ago, that is like wearing a hug.  I love how the chic lady below styled hers over her trench!  Don't be surprised if you see me in an inspired by look.

On the topic of whimsical knits, there is no shortage this season.  Isabel Marant's cashmere hood is ideal for outdoor dining, Tory Burch's fair isle dickie instantly adds some charm to your winter coat, and on my wishlist Joseph's slit front cashmere sweater dress.   

Hold my calls...

Season 4 of The Crown debuts on Netflix today.

I'll be drinking tea and eating scones, thinking about my last trip to London, while devouring the sets, the fashion and all the Royal drama.

 

Shoeday Saturday...

 Candy-colored velvet slippers, yes please! 

SantM slippers available at Verishop

Use code YAYDAY for 25% off

All at once...

  This year, I want all of the holidays all at once!  No waiting until after Thanksgiving to put up Christmas decor, the time is now!  I want to have holiday cheer for as long as possible this year.  I'm on the hunt for the chicest faux wreath, in order to maximize its tenure, and gorgeous velvet ribbon to hang it from. 

India Armory debuted tree skirts this season, and they are divine.  Festive without being garish, could I use this as a tablecloth as well?!  Shh... don't tell.  

Happy decorating!