Glamorous Dorothy Thorpe silver tipped stemmed glasses -- a small scale version --perfect for sipping mini martinis in a little black dress and heels
If you covet these perfect little sippers, you can get them here:
http://www.nathalieseaver.biz/dothcogl.html
I 'm partial to cloth napkins and one of my favorites is classic white cotton damask. My grandmother placed starched stacks of them in her huge linen closet. As a child, I remember feeling very grown up and elegant when I smoothed mine across my lap at her formal Thanksgiving dinner table. I have some of hers now and happily set them out for special dinners and something about their substantial heft is very pleasing and reassuring and makes even the simplest meal that much more meaningful.
I recently scooped up a cache of lovely vintage damask napkins (circa 1925) that are similar and very soft and drapey. I was told they were stored for years and forgotten in a dowry chest. Hard to know for sure but these nicely preserved 16" x 16" squares can be an "instant heirloom" for your own special occasions. We have a few sets of 6 at the shop or on line:
http://www.nathalieseaver.biz/vilidana.html
...I can have a daily smile with this lovely Metro ticket glass tray
At 6" x 12", it's a perfect size for desktop paper clips or for bedroom dispensing of loose change or jewelry.
Drove by this eye-catching installation in Silverlake on the way to a barbecue.
I had to stop and admire this clever and delightful design, repurposing wine and water bottles:
Really like the harmonious choice of blue and green glass and the graceful curves of the bottles when they're stacked together.
Can't decide which of these playful, lively fabrics I prefer -- the smaller scale or the larger version on the sofa. They're designed by Christian Zuzunaga in collaboration with Ligne Rosset (the chairs) and Danish design house, Kvadrat (the sofa). I think the chairs win.
These remind me of sitting at a Paris cafe in the late afternoon, reading and watching the passersby...
I like that the graceful porcelain cups and saucers have a nice, light weight but seem sturdy enough for everyday use
Also appreciate a smart idea with an elegant design: The delightful cylinder box swivels to open and close which makes for a great gift package and storage.
Isn't this bouquet dreamy? It's from one of my favorite spots in Los Angeles, Rita Flora.
I love flowers and a lush array is such a welcome gift. It can be as simple as handful of sweet scented Lilies from someone arriving at my house or an unexpectedvase of roses as a "thank you" or "congratulations" appearing at the door.
Then there's the uber-elegant gesture of finding a beautiful arrangement delivered in the afternoon before a guest arrives at a dinner party. Flowers are fabulous. You're welcome to use any excuse to give them to me!
If you've gotten out of the habit, Valentine's Day, is the perfect way to get back in practice...
I've been living out of a suitcase for the last month so seeing this re-purposed vintage valise made me smile.
I love the restrained cool blue and white, so the piece stays elegant but still fun...a little bit Hollywood Regency...on acid ?
This is a one of a kind piece by artist Katie Thompson.
Funny how an unexpected color can completely recharge a familiar item.
Driving past this array on Route 27 always makes me smile
