The Symbolic Meaning of Flowers

Pink peonies from my husband, Stuart’s, garden at Fox Hall, intertwined with mountain laurel, are arranged as a colorful centerpiece for a dinner party. Did you know that mountain laurel, the state flower of Connecticut, symbolizes a mark of achievement and perseverance, and my beloved pink peonies relay the beauty of marriage and love at first sight? These two flower varieties and colors discreetly offer a loving tribute, in the secret language of flowers, to my darling husband of 45 years!

Every day is the perfect day to give, receive or admire pretty flowers!  But are you aware of the secret language of flowers?  Besides merely admiring them, the color and the variety of various flowers can have symbolic meaning behind them... a secret language. 

During the Victorian ages, the language of flowers was an ingenious way of expressing intimate, romantic feelings to another, back when it was taboo to do so blatantly.  The color and type of flower chosen was a silent dialogue.  I was unaware of this lovely language until I discovered a precious little book, placed by my bedside, at my mother-in-law's charming Cape Cod house.  (As an avid, voracious reader, she consistently selects fascinating books to pique our interests and places them in the various bedrooms.  It is a gracious gesture that I now emulate for my guests and family too.) 

The little book was about the secret language of flowers.  There are many books written about floriography, the coded communication through various flowers and their colors.  I was intrigued and enthralled with this creative concept, probably because I adore flower arranging.  I asked myself, "What secret message am I relaying with the flowers I give to others?"  Not that the recipient would ever know, but it is amusing to consider, once you know that there is a language!

I am not alone; others are fascinated with the secret language and symbolic meaning, too.  Christian Dior had a passion for Lily of the Valley and chose it for his classic perfume, Diorissimo, designing it on the bottle and many other creations.  The symbol of Lily of the Valley means purity, a return to happiness, and humility.  Coco Chanel adored the white Camellia (or Chinese Rose), a symbol of everlasting love and devotion.  Oscar Wilde wore a green Carnation on his lapel, which was his secret hint that he was a man who loved other men. 

This classic arrangement of white roses at The Ritz Hotel in London represents, in flower language, a sign of purity and a symbol of respect, which is one reason they are also often featured in bridal bouquets.

Flower Colors:
Roses are red, violets are blue, kiss me, and I'll love you!
Typically, a bouquet of red roses indicates romance because the color red signifies love and passion.  
White: purity and grace
Pink: gratitude and admiration/femininity, gentility and elegance (Oh, I do like pink!) 
Peach: gratitude
Yellow: joy and gratitude
Purple: enchantment, love at first sight, and success
Orange: enthusiasm and energy (the university color of my husband’s alma mater!) 

Specific Flowers:
Anemones: anticipation and good luck (everyone could use good luck!)
Red Carnations: pride and beauty
Daisies: new beginnings (the flower for our daughters’ school, Miss Porter’s)
Gardenias: purity and secret love (reminds me of spring dances at St. Christopher’s School)
Hyacinths: playfulness and constancy (I adore the fragrance!) 
Lilacs: (magenta) love and passion; (purple) first love (Mummy’s favorite flower)
Lilies: purity and refined love
Peonies: happy marriage and good fortune (my favorite flower, yours too?)
Tulips: perfect love (my love, Stuart, plants masses of tulips at Fox Hall)

Grandmillennial Tips:

Consider sending cut flowers without a vase, the day before a dinner party to the hostess.  She can then arrange them in a container of her choice and display them before the party commences.

When sending flowers to someone that you don't know (or if you have not visited their house), send a white arrangement or a white orchid plant to be placed in any room in the house!  

Deliver an easy and meaningful toast by incorporating the secret language of the flowers on the table or in a bridal bouquet!  When my daughter Caroline’s friends in Park City, Utah, hosted a beautiful baby shower for her first baby, outside on the St. Regis Hotel terrace, I offered to make a little flower arrangement for each guest to take home. I chose flowers to complement the party’s color scheme, adding wildflowers from the mountains surrounding us.  I then looked up and noted each flower's meaning to integrate and compose my toast to her, making the arrangements even more meaningful to everyone.  This technique is easy if you want to make a memorable toast, even if you choose only one flower's meaning from within the table arrangement! 

A glimpse at the luncheon place setting on the verandah at Fox Hall, in honor of Lady Carnarvon’s visit from Highclere Castle. I arranged a little porcelain container of flowers for each guest to take home as a memento. Carnations originated from England, so I incorporated a few pink Carnations as a nod to her country, and the horse sculpture as a nod to our mutual passion for horses!

What color and variety of flowers did your lover send you for Valentine’s Day?!

Please join me for daily design inspiration on my Instagram!

Secret Traditions For Elegant Notes!

Our family was happily gathered together at the base of an elaborate marble staircase, during the joyous wedding reception for our daughter, Caroline, and her new husband, Edward. Do you know where the venue is? Take a peek at the stamp on the envelope for a hint!

Oh my, what a brilliant reception the debut of my Dempsey & Carroll notecards have received.  Thank you all for your enthusiastic support and interest… and purchases!  

I hope that you are inspired to write more notes! With the plethora of emails and texts these days, a handwritten note is a precious sight to discover amongst a pile of bills and catalogs.  Even the hand-addressed envelope stands out as a surprise present.  Remember that a  handwritten note is a thoughtful gift you can easily give at any time.  It will be received like a sparkling gem or a ray of sunshine.  You know that someone has taken the time to compose, and mail, their meaningful words, which are meant just for you! Often, thank you notes are cherished and kept by the recipient forever.  I have accumulated several “keeper drawers” for those special notes. Do you have a keeper drawer too?

Here are a few old-school traditions and parlance for handwritten correspondence:

A “bread and butter note” is another way of referring to a thank you note sent to thank someone for their hospitality and sent within 48 hours of the event. 

Thank you notes are handwritten, never typed.

The most traditional choice for a writing instrument is a fountain pen.  Fountain pens have several different size nibs, as discussed in a former MMM. Blue ink is always a classic color choice. I adore using my signature pink ink and Mont Blanc pens! Remember, black ink is the most formal and always used for a sympathy note.  

The salutation on a note to a married couple is:
Formal: Dear Mr. and Mrs. Holden, (Mr. comes before Mrs.)
Informal: Dear Holly and Stuart (ladies first!)

In England, stationery and notepaper are always referred to as “writing paper.”

Choose your stamp to complement the color scheme of your writing paper, ink color, or the theme of the lining paper or occasion.  The wedding for our daughter, Caroline, was held at Marble House in Newport, RI.  Caroline designed the splendid stamps offering a peek at the stunning architecture of her wedding venue, as shown in the first photograph above.

Coordinating your pen ink color with the color of the stamp adds a tailored detail to your envelope.

When your formal name includes a title (such as Mrs., Mr., Lady, Countess, General or Doctor) which is engraved or printed onto your stationery, you may draw a line through your name if you are writing to a dear friend. This is especially appropriate on a sympathy note. The line you draw through your name discreetly indicates that you are writing to them on a personal level, as a friend, and without formality. This is appropriate for any type of stationery that you have, and for any occasion, including a gift card enclosure. You do not draw a line through a monogram or if your name does not include a title before it.

The Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: To assume that an email thank you note is a sufficient expression of gratitude after attending a dinner party.  It is not!  The amount of time and effort a hostess puts into a party solely for your pleasure should inspire you to take a few moments to acknowledge her with sincere recognition by writing a note.

No-no: To think that brides have up to one year to write a thank you note.  A thoughtful bride will write and acknowledge a wedding gift within three months of receiving the gift.

No-no: To buy writing paper or a card that has "thank you" already printed on it.  You are writing a note to say thank you, so there is no need to have the stationery company print it on the card for you.  The same is applicable for a store-bought “sympathy” card.  Your sympathy is extended within the thoughtful words that you compose on white writing paper, using black ink.

No-no: When addressing an envelope, using the words “To” or “From.”  The placement on the envelope of the address to the recipient, and the placement of the return address on the upper left-hand corner, or on the back center of the envelope flap, indicates who the envelope is addressed to, and who it is from.

For those of you who are in OR near Palm Beach… guess what?

Pearls of Palm Beach: A secret peek into eight timeless and tailored elegant houses, my new book, is available for purchase at Lori Jayne’s store at 304 S. County Road, Palm Beach!  But, be forewarned... when you visit, you may come out with more than just a book upon entering her enticingly beautiful shop which is filled with all the goodies I adore! 

There is such a treasure trove of talent in Atlanta, Georgia, at Fred Reed Framing, which has been creating one of a kind, fabulous bespoke frames since 1947! Their frames are made starting from the raw wood which is cut, assembled, carved, hand-painted, and gold leafed. The splendid French mats are intricately laid out, and each line and panel are hand-painted in watercolor by one of their skilled artists, all of which have graduated from SCAD (The Savannah College of Art and Design) in Atlanta. Fred Reed Framing has a full custom line of creations: bespoke TV screens with art to cover the TV (brilliant!), shaped frames for mirrors, and large pieces of art. All of their creations are stunning!

My debut at Dempsey & Carroll Stationery!

Have you ever received something that strikes you as the essence of exceptional quality, and also uniquely beautiful, so much so that you want to learn more about it?  Over twenty years ago, I opened up a thank you note from a very dear friend in Farmington, originally from NYC, who has impeccably refined taste in all things tailored and traditional.  I admired the handsome texture of the paper, the signature blue color, and the bespoke engraved monogram.  That same day, I opened up a bespoke gift note that accompanied a hostess present from another dear friend who is a very stylish CEO living in NYC and London.  Both note papers had meticulously detailed engraving, and the cotton fiber paper had an elegant feel too.  It inspired me to look at the name of the stationery company embossed on the envelopes.  Voila!  That was my first introduction to Dempsey & Carroll, stationery engravers since 1878, and undoubtedly with a very discerning worldwide clientele who appreciate the art of correspondence.

As you can well imagine, I was simply overjoyed and honored when Dempsey & Carroll invited me to create a bespoke “Holly Holden” notecard to offer in their store and online!   It was such a delight to work with their accomplished team to create the design of my gold fox logo on white stock, along with an exclusive pink and gold design for the envelope liner.  I am so excited for the debut of these notecards to the world today! 

Dempsey & Carroll also invited me to an interview for their website, to introduce me to their clientele.  Below, are my answers in reference to their questions about writing paper:

What are your correspondence rituals? Do you write a little bit or somewhat often? Maybe you catch up on correspondence on a certain day of the week? 

First thing in the morning, I love to make a pot of Countess Grey loose tea from Fortnum & Mason, and if I have personal correspondence to do, I sit down at our dining room table to write.  I purposely do not write personal notes in my office.  I savor the moments of early morning as “my time” to enjoy corresponding with dear friends and loved ones while sitting in a beautifully quiet room.

Tell us about your own correspondence! Do you have separate papers for business and personal?

Oh goodness, yes, I do have separate papers for business and personal!  Can you guess what my color of choice is?!  Yes, pink ink for my business logo, on white laid paper, and either pink, black or gold for my engraved personal papers.  I adore the quality of Dempsey & Carroll.  Discovering the traditional loose piece of tissue paper between each engraved card to prevent the ink from smudging when being delivered on my new Holly Holden line of notecards, relays to me a time when grace and gentility reigned.

Mummy was an advocate for fine stationery, especially for engraved pieces, and she was a stickler for promptly responding to invitations and writing thank you notes!  I took it for granted that she would use a fountain pen and engraved writing paper to excuse me from school for an appointment or for sick days.  She adored her classic blue paper and used traditional blue ink in her fountain pen.  But, I think my true appreciation for writing paper came from the variety of formal wedding R.s.v.p. responses from my guests.  Back then, preprinted response cards were not an option, and I continued the same tradition for our daughters’ weddings too!  It was such fun to see the handwritten responses, because one’s choice of stationery speaks louder than words.  What individuals choose represents them in their own unique way, from the paper stock and color, to the unique fonts and colors, insignias, crests, titles and monograms, to the pen ink color and the choice of lining for the envelopes.  These are some of the nuances that make each piece one of a kind, just like the personality who sends it.  

What is your #1 piece of advice for lovely living that most people might not know about?

There are so many aspects of lovely living that I cannot narrow it down to a #1 piece of advice!  In reference to writing paper and correspondence, I can share some secrets that are not necessarily found in etiquette books, but passed down from generation to generation, by word of mouth.  Handwriting is alive and well, and not a lost art, especially for those who understand the social and business significance of a hand-written note.

You can clearly see the “Dempsey & Carroll” name embossed on the left inside edge of the envelope.

A few of my secrets and  “forbidden faux pas”:

-Avoid starting your letter with the word “I”  as it gives the impression that you are more important than the person you are writing to.  

-Sidestep starting your correspondence with “Thank you.”  Instead, first explain why you are grateful and happy to receive the gift, how you will use it, and then conclude with the thank you. 

-Seal only the tip of the envelope V flap, instead of sealing the entire envelope flap, making it easier for the recipient to open the envelope.  By doing so, they can also have a peek at the embossed name of the stationery company, found on the back left, under the flap.

I share many more correspondence secrets in five previous MMM newsletters about “How to write a thank you note,” which are listed on my website under the sign-up form.  

The complete Dempsey & Carroll interview includes what inspired me to become a designer, my favorite color palette, thoughts on color trends, some challenges as a designer, my pen of choice, and my favorite room to design.

The notecards, in packages of 10, are available through Dempsey & Carroll, and are true to tradition, exquisitely boxed and presented. Their lovely store is located at 1049 Lexington Avenue in New York City.  

Exclusive Interview with the Founder of Jude Connally Clothing

Jude Zimmerman, founder and CEO of the Jude Connally classic clothing line, is wearing the classic Taylor Shirt.

One lovely August day, five years ago, my husband Stuart and I were off to the Saratoga Races, our summer tradition.  Afterwards, we strolled along Broadway in historic Saratoga Springs when Stuart spied a pretty hot pink and white lattice designed dress in a store window.  He promptly bought it for me.  That was my first Jude Connally piece, and the most comfortable dress ever!  I was hooked.  Soon, every color came home with me!  Welcome to the world of Jude Zimmerman, the clever designer who created a charming line of clothes in her unique “Jude material,” which is soft, machine washable, wrinkle-free and made in NYC.  I was inspired to learn more about Jude and how she created her line of clothes that are timeless, pretty, and continue to flatter any figure...  now, that is a real plus!
 

What inspired you to start your own clothing line business?

I was 47, raising two sons, and in a job I didn’t like.  It was April 2009 and I was running the More Magazine Half Marathon when I had an epiphany.  I was asking God to give me something to think about because I had wiped my time off my watch, and I was obsessing about finishing the race in under two hours.  Moments later, a woman in a lovely bright blue printed skort went running by me.  She stood out in a sea of black that all the other runners were dressed in.  It was like this flash of beauty.  Immediately I thought, “wouldn’t it be really cool if I could create a line of clothing that allows you to feel good in it while wearing it, but is also fashionable and pretty?!”  That was it!  I had my purpose and got to work.  I launched my first collection one year later in April of 2010. 

What is your method of production? Do you sketch before you create your designs or do you let the magic come before you while making your creations?

The process all begins with the color story and inspiring prints!  I am always inspired by anything from nature and from what’s happening in the Interior Design world.  Once we decide on the color palette and print direction, we determine what styles we feel might be needed or wanted by our customers.  My collection is really considered a uniform for so many of our customers.  We only create a few new styles each season, as the newness really comes from the colors and the prints.

What have been your most successful pieces?

Our simple Beth shift dress, Megan tunic dress, Trixie and Lucia pull-on pants and versatile Morgan skort are favorites!  The “Fab Five” as we like to call them, are staples in every woman’s closet.  They are in our “easy-care easy-wear” Jude Cloth. 

How did you decide on using such versatile fabric? It stretches and doesn’t wrinkle- brilliant! 

Ah…. the fabric!  Yes, my entire vision for the collection of beautiful clothes was always about COMFORT!  I grew up wearing dresses to school, and playclothes when I got home.  Can you guess what I preferred to wear?  Playclothes!   So, I searched high and low in fabric stores in NYC for just the right touch and feel.  When I found it, I thought, EUREKA!  I quickly bought a few yards and brought it to a pattern maker who made my first Jude dress.  It was love at first sight, and it felt amazing on the body!!  Adult playclothes!

Your wonderful dress creations are timeless, which I adore! How do you keep them so “au courant?”

I believe classic styles have all the right bones and you just need to tweak them periodically to keep them “au courant.”  I simply adjust things like the sweep, a subtle increase or decrease in length, a repositioning of a dart, etc.  The details make the difference. 

The moment I put on this Cora Top, a soft tunic with a ruffled neckline and sleeves, I was enamored with it!

My favorite color is pink! Do you have a favorite color? Is there a color that you would say is associated with or considered a trademark color for Jude Connally? 

My favorite color is navy, as it is the backdrop for all other beautiful colors!  Navy compliments my other favorite colors, orange, fuchsia, blue and green.  Orange is probably the color I would say represents the brand, as it radiates warmth and happiness.  The color psychology of orange is optimistic and uplifting, rejuvenating our spirit.  That’s what I hope our collection does for you!

Jude is wearing a head-to-toe ponte from a previous collection.

What advice do you give to entrepreneurs just starting out? 

Be courageous and follow your intuition.  Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, and if something doesn’t feel right, then it probably isn’t.  Always be honest and ask lots of questions.  And don’t ever think you can’t do it.  You can!

Was your Mummy a stickler for good manners? Any particular lesson learned that has served you well? 

Yes, my mother was a stickler for manners.  One lesson that has served me well over the years is to always address people by their name, never just say “hello” or “hi.”  I was raised to always address my elders as Mr. and Mrs.  Another good manner was when visiting friends’ homes, you always said “thank you for having us,” or if we had company it was always “thank you for coming."  “Kindness counts" was a big one in our home, too.

Jude is an inspiration on so many levels! As a special treat, Jude is offering my MMM subscribers 20% off with this code: holly20

Do you know what a sizzle reel is?

Do you know what a sizzle reel is? Hint: it has nothing to do with manners! Similar to a trailer, which is used to announce a new film, a sizzle reel is created to serve as a pitch, to entice and secure sponsors for a show. I thought it might be fun to share my sizzle reel, which was created to pitch my television series, You Are Cordially Invited. It served to attract Viking Cruises to become my sponsor!

The long story about “how and why” I created my television series, You Are Cordially Invited, which features privately owned, masterpiece houses in England, is often the topic of my “Regal Interior Design” talks, and will be in a forthcoming newsletter. But, since I have introduced you to the term “sizzle reel,” I wanted to offer a little glimpse into some of the steps it took to create my first episode, featuring Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey.

After meeting with Lady Carnarvon, at Fox Hall, and agreeing to film together, my team and I flew to England for a “scouting trip” to meet with her. Lady Carnarvon is the 8th Countess of Carnarvon at Highclere Castle, which has been in the Earl of Carnarvon’s family for generations. It is handsomely maintained by their stewardship and commitment.

Once we decided which rooms to feature and agreed on the overall theme and outline, we then came back to the states to plan the final details and discuss them with the BBC crew hired to film. Detailed pages of elements to feature, history to share, conversation to consider, insurance to secure, wardrobe to purchase, and equipment to take, kept us all busy for two months.

We flew back to England to film. It was just about this time of year… cold and damp, with drizzle and sleet. It took three days to film. That was the fun part! Then, there were additional weeks of editing at the Connecticut PBS affiliate CPTV, more studio visits to write and record my “voice-overs,” the theme music to create and copyright, a convention to attend in Salt Lake City for American Public Television to promote to stations in the USA, and much more. Fortunately, an Emmy nomination blossomed from the hours invested in the project.

It is hard to fathom that weeks and weeks of effort were required to create a product that is only 29 minutes long! I have a whole new level of appreciation for what truly contributes to the detailed nuances necessary to create a movie.

Look closely when viewing the sizzle reel, and you may get a peek at the secret door in the library, the newly minted porcelain with the Carnarvon crest, the massive oak staircase with a Sir Joshua Reynolds painting behind me, the dining room featuring the commanding equestrian portrait of King Charles I by Van Dyck, the butter-yellow wall upholstery and curtains, and yes, a yellow lab who does indeed live with the Carnarvons!

An Exclusive Interview With Lori Jayne!

Oh, bed! Oh, bed! Delicious bed! That heaven upon earth to the weary head. -Thomas Hood

A luxurious present to yourself that will provide sweet dreams night after night, and delight your eyes day after day, are exquisite, bespoke bed linens!  

From the moment I first walked past the eye-catching windows of the two Lori Jayne stores on S. County Road in Palm Beach ten years ago, I was smitten. Lori Bernstein has created a charming paradise for anyone who appreciates beautiful linens… and sooo much more! You will discover not only elegant linens, but also extremely attractive gifts, which can be personalized, custom made, monogrammed, engraved, designed, and are always “presented” elegantly. Lori Jayne is where you go when you want to get EXACTLY what you want. Timeless, tailored, and oh, so much FUN! 

Hearing that Lori created a new line of linens with custom embroidery designs named after the charming streets of Palm Beach (the top left photo is the Primavera Way design), I decided to focus on her bed linens. I met with Lori to discuss and learn more… two hours flew by! Here is a condensed version of what I gleaned from her expertise, which I am excited to pass on to you. 

~Basically, there are two kinds of decorative embroidery embellishments for bed linens: applique or embroidery. Applique is an ‘accent fabric’ that is embroidered (stitched) on the edges and applied to the linen as the design, whereas embroidery is solely the thread design stitched on to the linen. 

~Any color combination of embroidery is possible for any design that you want. If you like one of her stunning pattern designs, then you may choose from endless colors and customize the pattern for your room, or create a unique design to complement the vintage fabric curtains you adore, or the artwork featured in your room, or replicate a discontinued pattern, or even consider adding the name or rendering of your house, or or or… endless options! A strike-off can be made for you to see, feel, and approve.

Lori’s chic model, her dog, lovingly poses on Lori’s “appliqué” bed linens.

~The placement of the embroidery or applique design is usually placed on the top of the bed in a “U” shape design (going down both sides and across the foot of the bed). You may also add it again along the flange so the design will be in two places– both on top and around the edge of the coverlet or duvet (the cover used for your comforter) as seen below.

~Recently I have become an advocate of the European fashion of bed making. A top sheet is not used, and instead, only a fitted sheet and a duvet are used to make the bed. It is one less sheet to buy, one less sheet to launder, and for children, it is one less step for them to make their bed… no excuses! 

~Pique, a textured cotton fabric, is a splendid material for duvets. Embroidery looks stunning on it, and pique launders well, and usually doesn’t require ironing. Lori has brilliantly created a duvet option with pique on the top, and a sateen sheet as the bottom side of the duvet, so that it is soft and cozy to the skin. Note to self: my next duvet will be this combination!

~There are two kinds of comforters to choose to insert into the duvet. Traditionally, a comforter is filled with soft goose down, but an alternative is a pure mulberry silk insert. After feeling it, I will now refer to it simply as “sleeping on clouds.” It is light and heavenly! 

~The difference between sateen and percale bed linens: sateen is soft and cozy, whereas percale tends to be crisp and cooler. I adore the feel of sateen, and usually, it is forgiving about not ironing. When I asked about the importance of thread counts, Lori’s response was that thread counts don’t really count! High thread counts can also create a heavier sheet. What truly matters is what it feels like to you when you touch the fabric. Only then will you know what texture appeals to you. 

~Sham versus pillowcase? Lori prefers shams because the pillow is completely encased, unlike a pillowcase which has one open end for the pillow and looks a tad messy. A sham can have a few options, but traditionally either a knife-edge or a flange-edge. The flange extends out like a frame or flap around the actual pillow edge, which I prefer. Below, the Sweet Dreams pillow has a flange-edge, while the pillow with the scattered flowers has a knife-edge.

~When monogramming a king-size duvet, do not skimp on the size of the monogram or it will look lost and disproportionate. This monogram was just created as a gift to a bride by her mum. This monogram is 19.5” wide, which looks appropriately sized for a king bed. Lori is capable of doing monograms up to 20” on-site in her showroom. Look how the embroidery design of the monogram picks up on the darling color and pattern nuances on the floral pillow. What a lucky bride! 

Lori and I always have such fun together! Her clever creativity and business savvy are so admirable. I featured her lovely Georgian home, which I labeled “The Lucky House,” in my Palm Beach book. Make a pilgrimage to her two stores; it is a “world is your oyster” experience. Quintessentially, this is where you go to create a custom gift for yourself or your lucky recipient. Her website is just a blink away from being launched, and perfect for those who can not travel to Palm Beach! In the meantime, you can phone the shop at 561-855-4290 or take a peek at Instagram here. 

Grandmillennial Tips:

Try not to over-dry your bed linens, nor over-stuff the washing machine. Your linens will thank you over time.  

Lori recommends using Le Blanc Linen Wash, a specialty liquid soap that is triple-concentrated to handle tough jobs, but gentle enough for your fine linens. 

Consider giving a crib size custom designed duvet and comforter as a baby gift or for a small child. Once they outgrow it, you can use it as a throw for your bedroom as a sweet memory. It reminds me of Victor Hugo’s words, “A mother’s arms are made of tenderness and children sleep soundly in them.”

Welcome 2021!

An elegantly festive doorway at Parterre, the Newport home of Bettie Bearden Pardee, is open to greet a few cherished friends on New Year’s Eve. Photo credit: Vibrant Optics

Glory be and alleluia!  Finally, it is a new year that brings with it the promise of a new beginning with renewed hope.

I was inspired to reach out to a few dear friends to learn how they were planning to celebrate their own private debut of 2021.  In consideration of the guidelines that Covid has forced us all to respect, I wanted to be inspired by their vision of bringing in this rather peculiar new year and share it with you.  I posed the simple question: How will you be spending this New Year’s Eve? 

Bettie Bearden Pardee, the creator of Private Newport, is a precious friend who is exceptionally accomplished in ALL aspects of lovely living.  If you are ever offered an invitation to visit Parterre, her glorious house and gardens in Newport... go! She is a fabulous cook, too. 

I'll be recalling a wonderful and ever more meaningful tradition of my mother's… a day after Christmas turkey curry buffet. But ours will be on New Year's Eve, with just 6 close friends, sitting fireside in the library. It's such a perfect selection for this setting as it's a "one-fork" dish (no knife needed). And the 8 condiments that accompany the curry add another level of festivity. Bon Appetit!

Tim Davis is the number one real estate broker in the Hampton’s, New York. My daughter-in-law, Karen, introduced me to Tim. I am so grateful for his enthusiastic support of my Instagram posts and MMM newsletter. Talk about an eye for real estate… he certainly has the gift.

A far cry from our New Year's Eve celebration two years ago, viewing the fireworks display from the penthouse at the Corinthia Hotel in London. This year we will enjoy a quiet evening with my son, his wife, and our grandchildren at our 1855 historic home in Newport, currently in the midst of a major restoration project. Two of our five pups will be with us as well. 2020 will go down for us as a year of challenge and change, self-reflection, the arrival of our grandson, and creative Covid-safe connections with our loved ones. A Happy 2021 and God’s blessings to you and yours.

My dear friend, Andrea Kavanagh, the very clever creator of the divinely classic and quite notable Glam Pad blog, is a charming southerner who delights in all things elegant and beautifully timeless. She kindly shared her evening plans, capped with the ball drop at midnight! 

We are homebodies and always enjoy staying in on New Year's Eve, so this year will be no different.  Our tradition is to make delicious cheese fondue and sip champagne and ginger ale throughout the evening.  My father and I have watched the New Year's Twilight Zone Marathon on SYFY every year since I was young, and now my husband enjoys watching it with me as well, along with the Times Square ball drop on television.  This year we have all been living in a real-life Twilight Zone, so hopefully, everyone will make sure to eat their black-eyed peas (a classic Southern tradition we also enjoy) for good luck on January 1! 

When we were first married, Stuart and I celebrated New Year’s Eve at a ball at The Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia.  In the last few years, we have hosted an intimate black-tie dinner party with darling friends at Fox Hall.  This year our celebration was spent in the snow, around the fireplace in our house at Stratton Mountain, Vermont, with our son’s darling family.  Putting our best foot forward for the new year, we happily participated in a virtual wine tasting (courtesy of CEO.org) with Salvatore Ferragamo, the grandson, and namesake of one of my favorite fashion houses, Salvatore Ferragamo.  He is the CEO of their Tuscan winery, Il Borro.  Well, I have always adored and collected their shoes, and wouldn’t you know… now I am an advocate of their wine.  Yes, they excel at designing divine wines too! 

Having fun in Vermont with our family tasting the Ferragamo wines on New Year's Eve!

2021 will undoubtedly bring challenges. I wish you strength, happiness and all good health to carry you through to what we remember as a proper world filled with friends and travel. Even though it shall never be the same world as we remember, it will be one we are all richer for, with a newfound appreciation for what we love and care about. Cheers to 2021… to you, my dear subscribers!

Showing Gratitude!

“Cheers to you!” An adorable gift of hand-printed cocktail napkins were sent to me by Lemondaisy Design last Christmas. I couldn’t wait to send Leslie, the owner, a photograph of how I used my “monkey business” napkins this year!

The Episcopal girl’s school I attended in Richmond, Virginia, has this motto: “What we keep we lose; only what we give remains our own.” Giving gratitude is one of life’s most important goals; do you agree? So, besides a handwritten note, make an effort to show or comment on how you use or will use the gift, what joy it brings to you, or why it is so meaningful to you. This will translate into a meaningful, heartfelt level of sincere gratitude to the gift-giver.

On my website, I have several MMM titles about “how to write a thank-you note.” But the topic today is how to recognize gifts beyond the required, de rigueur, thank-you note. A further gesture of thanks, especially for those especially appreciated gifts, is to acknowledge them in another way, at another time. It is a gentle gesture to share how much you appreciate the effort the giver invested in selecting the gift that they thought would delight you.  

An additional “nod of gratitude” tends to inspire the gift-giver to want to give even more. This is not the reason to go the extra mile with an additional thank you, though! Tantamount to a child who repeatedly thanks you for a homemade cookie, it is natural to be inspired to offer them yet another cookie simply because you feel their genuine gratitude and happiness. 

Christmas Day, a few years ago! As my darling daughter, Alexandra, opened gifts, she added the ribbon to her attire. This photograph captures her joy and gratitude to her ‘oh, so generous grandmother’ who elegantly wraps presents in fabulous ribbons!

When you receive the gift of clothing, make an effort to wear the item when you know you will be seeing the person who gave it to you. Our daughters make a point of wearing the jewelry my husband and I have given them when they visit (smart move!). When I hear that they have used my recipe from the tried-and-true cookbook I created for them last Christmas, I feel so honored. The noble effort of a friend who sent a photograph of the book I sent her while on holiday, at the beach, made me smile, and the voice message I received from a relative commenting on how her dinner party guests adored the cocktail napkins we sent, gave me great pleasure. It does not take much to simply remark how much you appreciate a gift as you use it. It goes a long way on to the person who sent the gift to you.

A dear follower, Molly, sent me this beautiful silver coaster engraved with HH for my birthday, along with the most meaningful note. An Angel hopped on straightaway, to see her charming reflection, which I shared with Molly.

I thank YOU, dear subscribers! Because of your efforts to inspire others to sign up for Mummy’s Monday Manners, we now have a readily growing international audience! 

A sincere thank you to my dear SPONSORS too! Oh, how grateful I am to our celebrated and stupendously esteemed sponsors who collaborated during challenging 2020. Your distinctive brands are truly noteworthy! Take a peek... ALL of my sponsors for 2020 are listed below, and discover a few secret discount codes. Click on the logos and shop away! A gift to you! 

Christmas Traditions For Children!

Magical Christmas traditions for children!

The charming Christmas moments that you create for your family are precisely the traditions that will carry on and become cherished memories for your children. Most likely, you still cherish and implement traditions that were passed along to you by your family when you were a child, right? We shall all miss being with our loved ones this year, but thinking about holiday memories, while dreaming of creating even more next year, brings a sense of comfort to me, and hopefully, to you too. Perhaps, a few of these ideas may become traditions for you to embrace when our families are finally able to gather once again to celebrate this joyous holiday season.

Every Christmas Eve, we all dress up and gather around the Christmas tree for drinks before dinner. While there, one of the men in the family, usually my husband, quietly disappears... and reappears on the front lawn, in a decades-old Santa outfit, bells and all. This is a beloved tradition from my husband’s family that we have inherited. Santa’s happy “Ho Ho Ho’s” are heard, and the children (adults too!) gleefully run to the window to catch a glimpse of Santa waving back, dashing across the lawn in the darkness. A REAL Santa sighting… sooo much excitement!! He even leaves his well-traveled big burlap bag near the front door. It holds one little present for each child to play with that evening. When the children were really small and unable to distinguish his voice, Santa would come in and sit down by the fire, holding a child on his lap to give them their present. Seeing him waving outside on Christmas Eve will always be a jolly tradition for our family! This year, since we cannot be together, I have replayed the video that I took last year, so that I may savor hearing the shrills of excitement from the children. It is the best gift ever!

When I lived in Germany as a child, my parents gave me twelve little red elves to place on our dining room table. One year, our dog licked off the hand-painted face of one, and a few others have been lost through the years, but five still remain, and continue to make me smile as they hop on the candelabra for my littlest grandchildren to discover! Magically, each day before Christmas, they dance around to various positions on the dining room table, and... up far enough from our dog, Miss Zsa Zsa’s, reach! Our grandchildren happily decorate the dining room table, hence the extensive army of nutcrackers and reindeer!

Here is a recent tradition that was kindly shared with me two years ago by a darling subscriber and dear friend, Mary E., who gave me the nod to share it with you. Have you heard of “Magic Reindeer Food?” Oh, it is a stupendously splendid activity for children! Each child is given a special bag of magic reindeer food to sprinkle on the lawn, near the chimney or front door on Christmas Eve. I saved one of the bags that Mary sent me last year to show you. What is the secret recipe? Mix dry oatmeal with a touch of glitter (or sprinkles, to be more environmentally correct). Our eight grandchildren sprinkle a pinch of magic food on the lawn, or over the snow, on Christmas Eve, just in time for Santa’s surprise visit.

With a name like Holly, I am always eager to learn more holiday secrets! Do share some of your holiday traditions, for all beliefs, during this festive season.

Wishing you all a happy Christmas and may your new year be filled with comfort and joy.

Sweet Memories of Christmases Past

Our Christmas tree tickles the 15’ high ceiling in the living room at Fox Hall. One year we had a live tree the same size, but the branches became stiff after a few weeks in the house. My son then had to use a chainsaw to cut the branches off so that it would fit back out through the doorway… hence the debut of an artificial tree!

As we embrace and celebrate this holiday season before us, I believe that 2020, a most challenging year, has opened our eyes wider and made us more grateful for our health, and life on earth, than ever before.  We also cherish our precious loved ones even more, especially when we cannot be with them.  

In the words of Norman Vincent Peale, “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.”  

Have you ever considered creating a few “petite vignettes” on tabletops as a quiet nod and serene gesture to decorating for the holidays? A Christmas tree that fills the room or one that touches the ceiling is also oh, so joyful and majestic! Yet, discovering a few little, almost secret, treasured festive displays sprinkled around the house is a tender tribute to the magic of the season with a hint of innocence ... conjuring the sweet memories of Christmases past.

A collection of Austrian bronze deer have made their appearance each year, bounding onto one sideboard in the dining room, peacefully grazing near a miniature candle tree.

Mummy loved this sparkly, miniature musical tree. The sound of the music is magical and it reminds me that my parents are there with me in spirit the very moment I hear the first note. I wind it up to hear the music as I begin to arrange the charming orchestra of hand-carved angels from Germany, a collection added to each year by my son-in-law’s thoughtful German family.   

Enchantment often comes in small packages, just like tender loving gestures and a few well placed Lilliputian decorations! What are some of yours?

Grandmillennial Tips:
Place an ornament as an embellishment when presenting a tray of hors d’oeuvres. A dab of poster board clay on the bottom will keep it from falling off. This little Herend bunny elf, given to me by my amazing mother-in-law, dances and kicks his festive gold-tipped shoes up at my guests!

Pluck a few sprigs of holly to adorn your hors d’oeuvres, or on your butter plates. Be careful to discard any red berries from the holly. Do NOT bring the red berries into the house if you have children as they are poisonous!

Making your at-home office reflect your style!

Having a grand view is undoubtedly a luxury, especially while seated at an at-home office desk! The daylight shining in will enhance your face naturally for virtual meetings. This stunning office space is featured inside of Joy de Rohan Chabot's 15th century French chateau.

Several darling subscribers inquired about how to enhance their new WFH (work from home) office. If you have space to dedicate as your WFH office, have fun with it! Allow your new "office" to reflect your personality, passions, and interests in the same way that you would treat the interiors of your house. Quietly adorn the background for a Zoom meeting in a classic and timeless way. Perhaps a Christmas wish list for a few goodies to enhance your WFH office is in order?!

It is imperative to create a dedicated workspace that reflects you, makes you happy, and maintains the distinction between work and play... yet, it does not have to be all work and no play, right? Create a place you want to spend time in, yet structured enough that you will work! My daughter-in-law, Karen, and I are designing a stunning workspace for a very notable CEO, who will be working from her Florida home in the winter, instead of Connecticut. Here are a few suggestions we considered; ones you may want to think about as well:

~ If you are fortunate to have an ocean view or something marvelous to look at, treat yourself to that view when positioning your desk, even if it means your desk is not in a traditional position in the room!

~Thoughtfully contemplate the “background” for your Zoom sessions. A sense of symmetry is always pleasing. A fireplace, a lovely piece of artwork, even a black television screen work well. It is best not to have a window as the background unless the curtains are closed, as the light source will overpower the viewer’s computer image, and it will be challenging for your audience to see you from their screens.

If you have to sit in front of existing wallpaper, consider that what you wear for the Zoom meeting should ultimately complement the colors and design on the walls, and not fight with it! This space was designed by Susan Farcy Interior Design.

~If your wallpaper design is too busy, think about painting the room or one wall for your Zoom background. Choose a color you adore! At Fox Hall, my office is a Benjamin Moore OC-73 “Opal White,” a yummy peachy white, naturally enhancing any outfit or complexion! Or, simply paint the room all white, while also keeping the decorative distractions minimal.

~ Another chair with an ottoman or a chaise in the office is not just a decadent accessory! Use it to take a break from your desk, to read, or contemplate your work... and hopefully, not fall asleep!

~Place a tray upon the ottoman for another surface to hold your necessary papers for the day.

~Transform an existing chest-of-drawers into a credenza for your files, papers, etc. Move your clothes to another location if possible.

~Consider using a sleek desk. We specified a stunning glass desk for our client that will allow the new decorative carpet, a handsome statement piece, to be admired!

Since you are home, why not indulge in an attractive lamp and flowers or a pretty plant for your desk? This WFH area was designed by Elizabeth Guest featuring Brunschwig and Fils curtains.

~Good light is essential, whether daylight or task lighting. Splurge on an attractive lamp for your desk, one that you delight in each time you turn it on! Add a light fixture above for an added light source.

~Keep a vase of flowers on your desk or an orchid plant, creating a sense of luxury, which will transform the workplace into a place you want to work.

~Get the best and most comfortable desk chair you can afford. Think white, instead of black, for the upholstery. If you sit at the desk minimally, think about using an attractive side chair instead of a swivel work chair.

~ Add a decorative kidney-shaped pillow (rectangular shape vs. square) to place behind your back for lumbar support and added beauty to the room!

~Install curtain panels that are “inter-lined” in flannel. They will not only look attractive and hang brilliantly, but will assist in noise reduction. When a window is behind you, close the curtain panels to eliminate daylight for a Zoom call.

~Arrange to have more plug sockets installed near your desk, a charging station, and have the cords hidden in a box. Cable organizer boxes are available in white or black from Amazon.

~If you need a television to watch the stock market or breaking news, think about its placement and how the light sources in the room will affect viewing the screen.

~Hang artwork that speaks to you so that you can embrace the “uniquely-you-atmosphere,” bringing you joy when you enter into your home office, yet, discrete enough for a workspace.

~ Finally, try your best to eliminate clutter on your desk. Good luck with that aspect! (Ha! Note to self, Holly!)

Notice how all of these “make-do” home offices have beautiful lamps and flowers. These added accessories are what make your work environment beautiful and add a layer of decadence to your new work and living space. Treat yourself to these adornments as a little happy gift to see each day! This image is from flowermag.com and features Loggia wallpaper from Meg Braff Designs.

Grandmillennial Tips:
Of course, a separate office room is ideal! If space and budget are limited, have an open mind and think of potential workspace differently: create a desk under a staircase, transform a closet or niche into a work surface with shelves above, or install a floating work shelf without legs on a wall.

For visual Zoom continuity, take photographs of the background of where you sit at your desk, both day and night. Use these as a digital backdrop for your Zoom calls when you have to leave your office and Zoom from a different location.

A scarf as art? We choose to have a 35” x 35” Hermes scarf framed to hang on the wall behind a desk in Boston. I doubt anyone on a Zoom call would even know what it is because of the architectural design elements and neutral colors. Yet, the scarf adds a subtle touch of glamour to the office, reflecting the CEO’s personality and penchant for fashion!

Forbidden Faux Pas:
No-no: To have photographs of your family displayed in the background for your Zoom.
What is done: Strive to create an illusion that you are indeed working. Place your beloved pictures on your desk to enjoy, privately!

Part II Stewart Parvin: A Private Interview!

What a joy it is to continue on with Part II of my interview with Stewart Parvin, the brilliant royal couturier, who has garnered a Royal Warrant from Her Majesty The Queen!

Manners that Matter:

My newsletter, Mummy’s Monday Manners and Lessons for Lovely Living, is a tribute to my Mum and all that I learned from her!  Did your mother have a big influence on you?

My mother and grandmother have both had a huge influence on me and my manners. Being able to chat politely about nothing in particular, knowing which knife and fork to use and how to use it, should never ever be underestimated!!!  

 Was your mother or father a stickler for manners, and if so, what stands out in particular? 

I was having a socially distanced walk past Fortnum and Mason on Saturday with a dear friend, and we were discussing this very topic and drinking a paper cup of takeaway coffee at the same time.  We both agreed that our mothers would be horrified that we were drinking in public whilst walking down the street! As my mother would say “It’s VERY common” and I hate myself every time I do it! I also still can’t go to bed without brushing my hair which is my grandmother’s influence! 

What advice has served you well when working with a notable and noble clientele? 

When I first started out, a society hairdresser told me that I should never, ever refer to my clients by their Christian name and it’s something that I still do to this day, except in very few, very special circumstances. I now have one very grand-titled client who always berates me for calling her by her correct title, however despite our close friendship both working and personal, whilst in the boutique, I would never dream of doing it any other way. It allows for no personal conflict in what is a professional environment.

Covid Related:

What inspired you to make and donate scrubs to hospitals?  (Well done you!)  

Louisa, my assistant, lives in Windsor Castle (a long story!!) and a member of the castle community put the word out that the health service needed enormous amounts of scrubs for our dedicated healthcare workers. Through the kind donation of many of our fabric suppliers and the hard work of our seamstresses, we were able to help.

We’re in the middle of a pandemic, and people are not going out to events such as lunches, meetings, and big weddings.  I am curious as to what people are buying, how it has changed, and how is that translating into what you are designing presently during Covid?  

During the summer when here in Great Britain the rules for lockdown were eased slightly, we were lucky enough that weddings could take place with smaller numbers and people increasingly took to the idea of celebrating with real style at intimate gatherings. We were lucky enough to be involved in one such event when we assisted HRH Princess Beatrice by re-styling one of her grandmother's, Queen Elizabeth II’s vintage Norman Hartnell dresses into a wedding dress truly fit for a Princess!

This season we’ve created a special selection of items within the main collection which are specifically geared towards relaxing at home – there’s no need to be slovenly in isolation! We’ve created wonderful stretch velvet palazzos, leggings, and deluxe joggers to team with silk knit tees, vibrantly printed sweatshirts, and casual but luxurious silk shirts. Most of these are available to order in standard sizes from our new online boutique. We also have created many classic easy, glamorous separates like our Grace Kelly pants with their sophisticated ease and “cargo” skirts that are easy fit options. Whilst these aren’t available on the online shop, we’ve done wonderful business with our loyal clientele who are happy to order many of the easier fitting items through a telephone consultation. 

What do you think your clientele is yearning for — besides the end of the pandemic!  What do they want, as they look forward, in terms of clothes? 

I think my clientele, like everybody else, is desperate to be able to get dressed up, go out and have fun seeing all their dear friends at proper social occasions. Here’s to getting the jewellery out of the safe, putting on a hat, and having a wonderful time at Royal Ascot in 2021!   (Alleluia to that!) 

For the first time ever, Stewart Parvin is now launching an online purchasing option! 

An exclusive womenswear collection, in sizes 8-18, is now available online, with complimentary fabric swatches, and no charge for shipping internationally. Made to order in his West London studios, the online selection is perfect for staying chic whilst relaxing at home.

I do hope you have enjoyed this peek into the world of Stewart Parvin as much as I did! 

Part 1 Stewart Parvin: A Private Interview!

Stewart Parvin has earned a Royal Warrant of Appointment as a mark of recognition for the couture clothes he has designed for HM The Queen of England.

If you are familiar with Belgravia, London, chances are that you know of Mr. Stewart Parvin, the brilliant couturier behind some of the most titled people in the world, including Her Majesty The Queen of England. Stewart Parvin received his Royal Warrant in 2007, and has also earned an MVO (Member of the Royal Victorian Order, a British order of knighthood). 

Mr. Parvin’s window creations at his shop stopped me in my tracks, and enticed me to enter quicker than a wink! My daughter, Alexandra, and I were immediately ensconced! It is a classical couture haven. Chance would have it that while we were blissfully savouring his elegant collections, we had the honor of meeting Mr. Parvin. His charming demeanor and talents were palpable. 

It was most kind of Mr. Parvin to participate and share his insight into the world of Stewart Parvin. I could not bare to condense any part of this interview, so there will be two newsletters because his answers are like a decadent, double-layered box of fine chocolates… you just crave more! I am grateful to share Part I with you today. 

When did you know you wanted to be a designer and study fashion at Edinburgh College of Art? 

I knew I wanted to be a designer from a very young age. By three I was telling my mother not only what I wanted to wear, but what she should buy and how she should accessorize it! I was fortunate to attend a kindergarten where the owner had a beautiful home and dressed in the most wonderful clothes. Every morning I would be excited to see what she was wearing – at that age I knew the difference between Chanel and St Laurent!! 

Is there a designer you have always admired, and why?

There are many designers I’ve always admired, but my favourites are Hubert de Givenchy and Valentino – but I love the classic American luxe sportswear of Halston, Claire McCardell and Bill Blass. I admire them for their easy, relaxed, and sophisticated style, combining wear-ability and glamour.

 Was there ever a time you doubted yourself in the context of your talents, or just in life?

I remember just before I started my business in the mid 90’s I was working for a large eveningwear manufacturer whilst all my friends were working in Milan for the likes of Giorgio Armani and Max Mara, and I wondered “am I ever going to make my mark?” Thankfully opening my business and starting my collection in 1995 gave me the focus I needed to channel my creativity in a new and better direction.

 Where do you draw your inspiration from?  

Whilst I find art, travel, and cinema inspirational, it tends to be my clients and their desires that are the creative impetus behind my collection.

Before you opened your own firm, what was the one thing you learned from working alongside designer, Mr. Donald Campbell? 

There were many things I learned from Mr. Campbell who was a designer of great style, and with an exceptional eye. The most cherished thing I take away from my time with him is the knowledge and detail involved on the technical side of creativity. He taught me the importance of precise pattern cutting and how you can adapt a model pattern to fit a real customer, emphasizing the best features whilst disguising the less perfect.

Do you have a favorite fabric that you like to work with? Is there one that is your signature fabric?

 There are so many amazing fabrics available to work with these days, but my go-to signature is double wool crepe – which has amazing versatility and comes in the most incredible range of colours. Nobody can ever look wrong in beautifully tailored and impeccably crafted Italian double wool crepe.

Classic women’s clothing, like classic interior design, is timeless. A simple shift dress is as lovely today as it was when Jackie Kennedy was the First Lady of the US. How do you at “Stewart Parvin” use designs from decades ago, today, and how do you make them current?

I absolutely love the classics such as the shift dress. What I find is that there are so many subtle differences in firstly people’s figures, secondly in fit and thirdly in the trend at that moment in time, that all of these tiny adjustments can make turn something classic into something modern, young and relevant to a new audience.

Do you have a particular creation that you are most proud of?

I’m constantly striving to make my most recent creation the one I’m most proud of – I think that’s what drives one as a designer. 

Historically one of my proudest fashion moments was creating a state gown worn by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, which was initially designed for the state opening of parliament – a very formal occasion when the Queen is dressed in full ceremonial robes and presents a speech at the House of Lords wearing the Imperial State Crown. This dress was created out of vintage embroidered satin in a design that paid slight homage to the dress Normal Hartnell made for Her Majesty’s coronation in 1953. The dress I designed achieved international renown when it was worn by the Queen in a set of photographs taken by Annie Liebovitz for Vanity Fair.

“Do you have a favorite color for your designs? (My signature color is pink!)

Snap! My favourite colour is pink too…. and navy blue! ”

When designing a wedding gown (your creations are enchantingly divine!) how do you decide the style for a client?  

As with all of my clients, I don’t start out by dictating a silhouette – a quick chat with several nuanced questions will quickly lead me towards the style direction I think we should go. With brides I find this can be a lengthy process as we often have to try many and various options, normally coming back to my initial concept!

What recommendations do you have for designing for women of a certain age? How can they remain fashionable without looking frumpy or dowdy?

It’s very easy for women of a certain age to remain fashionable. It’s usually about proportion – maybe not quite so short, low, tight as a few years ago!! Always emphasize the best bits whilst disguising the bits you’d draw a veil over! In essence - give a nod to your age but don’t be a slave to it!!

In 2016, you designed the lovely dress for HM The Queen that she wore when presenting you with the MVO award. What inspired you to make it purple?

The Queen kindly wore an outfit I’d designed for her when she presented me with my MVO.  It was a dress and jacket of the most wonderful purple and subtle gold lame brocade – a colour that particularly suits her. When designing for Her Majesty a bold choice of colour is often at the forefront of my thoughts. The Queen herself once famously said “I have to be seen to be believed” and strong bold colours not only enable her to stand out in a crowd but also suit her beautifully. 

Your iconic coat and dress designs never cease to amaze me, especially with the delicate nuances, which make them emblematic to your style. When designing a coat with a matching dress, which do you design first?

It depends on many factors whether I design the coat or the dress first. Sometimes stunning printed silk will be the initial focus so the dress comes to mind first, whilst on other occasions, I’ll have an idea for a detail on a coat necessitating the dress design fitting in with that, so as not to be seen beyond a subtle hint of neckline or collar. 

How do you determine the colors each season?
Do you have any projections about colors and fabrics for 2021?

Under normal circumstances, every season one goes to Paris for the bi-annual exhibition where fabric of every hue, texture and style is available to the fashion trade. As such my eye, like other designers be they fashion or interiors, have an innate sense of the new colours we’re going to be working with. This comes I think from having observed each seasons coming colour palettes, watched the world around us go by and as such a feeling for the tones and shades we’ll be drawn towards each season. Having said this I know that my clientele being as they are, will always want to see shades of blues be it royal, powder or navy in the collection, because that always suits the skin tone of the English rose in a way that the beiges and neutral tones suit an Italian complexion.

 In my collection for 2021 we’ll be seeing delicate shades of pale rose, primrose yellow and gentian blue.

Have you ever heard of the term, “Loose covers?”

The Brunschwig & Fils chintz, in the notable Campanula pattern, has a solid blue chintz ¼” contrast welt and skirt edging.

Mummy always said, “To get your house in order, host a party or invite house guests. It is amazing what one can get done with that incentive!”

Being a designer, the month of November, in normal times, has garnered the reputation as “crunch month” in order to achieve miraculous design installations for clients. The deadline of Thanksgiving is the goal to spruce up their houses before family and friends arrive!

The use of slipcovers, aka ‘loose covers’ in the UK, immediately comes to mind as a charming notion to spruce up a tired piece of upholstery, or to offer an attractive new garment for your furniture any time of year! A slipcover is a custom-made cover, which can be put on or taken off of a piece of upholstered furniture. It can be made with just about any fabric, yet most traditionally, they are made of cotton, chintz, linen, damask, or even white muslin.

In England, the loose covers are just that… slightly loose. In America, they tend to be more snug, with the appearance of actually being upholstery.

Slipcovers can be changed intermittently for the seasons, to protect the furniture from dust, sun, or even storage. The myriad of times I have toured the handsome, historic Governor's Palace in Williamsburg, Virginia, the checkered cotton slipcovers, which are simply made, loose and unembellished, always capture my attention as a timeless and sensible decorative element, and historically correct.

When I specify slipcovers, I try to incorporate a contrasting welt, which means that the piping that adorns the seams is made in a solid color fabric to complement the fabric design. I use a flat ¼” welt for the edging of the skirt. I also use a colorful twisted ¼” cord with tape, to accent a plain fabric, so that the cord becomes the decorative detail that distinguishes the bespoke cover.

This fireside chair is not slipcovered, but I am displaying it as an example of how a contrast welt works well as a tailored detail. The Ralph Lauren linen hunt print fabric (which is now discontinued) has a burgundy, solid-colored chintz as the contrast welt and edging. The box-pleated skirt is at home in the Hunt Room at Fox Hall.

Slipcovers usually have zippers, or sometimes buttons, which are applied to a side or back seam, in order to remove them. Whilst filming my television episode with Lady Carnarvon at Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey, I noticed that in the enchanting “Morning Sitting Room” the muted, English floral patterned chintz loose covers that graced the two fireside chairs and sofa, did not have zippers, but instead, the sweetest row of petite ‘hooks-and-eyes.’

More examples are featured in my first design book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room.

Grandmillennial Tips:

Slipcovers on dining chairs are a stupendous method for keeping the actual chair upholstery fresh from little children’s sticky hands.  And even without children, the appearance of a slipcover is a tailored, old-school touch to add to a dining room chair. 

Have fun when designing slipcover skirts!  From scalloped edges to pleated or gathered skirts, I like to pretend I am designing a darling dress-skirt for the furniture to wear.

Dining Room chairs are the perfect candidates for slipcovers, and this scalloped edge adds a touch of whimsy.

Slipcovers can also be laminated, depending on the fabric, and it is usually best applied to flat, cotton fabrics. This technique offers a brilliant cleanability for a well-used chair in the kitchen!

Be clever and design two-room schemes for the same room! Consider having summer slipcovers made in a cool cotton, linen or chintz fabric, which naturally gives a summery feel to a room! For the winter, change them to a soft wool or cotton velvet to give warmth and texture. Of course, these seasonal changes are all dependent on the other design aspects of the room, for a complimentary appearance.

Exude confidence with your carriage!

My most favorite Edward Degas painting, “Dancers in Pink,” is a treasure featured in the Living Room at the Hill Stead Museum in Farmington, Connecticut.

With the constant use of face masks in public, the art of smiling with your eyes has become perfected as our adapted manner of communicating without facial smiles being visible!  I think of a smile as a kind acknowledgment of someone’s presence. Now, my eyes have to perform double-time with a mask on! 

Another way to silently communicate, and quite effectively with or without masks, is the art of standing straight, aka the art of deportment. The way we carry ourselves relays grace with our poise and carriage. Did you listen to your Mum when she said, “Stand straight, pull your shoulders back!”? I have flashbacks of the movie, The Titanic, at teatime, where a mother gestured to her daughter to sit up straight and not touch the chair with her back. While we are not as formal as in that scenario, good posture is still considered a sign of good-breeding and a secret code handed down from mothers (and fathers) to their daughters and sons. This gesture is equivalent to the significance of a firm handshake and a “how do you do?”  It is a silent signal of confidence, polish, and grace. 

While attending a tea in NYC, a lovely young lady approached me to chat. Instinctively, I admired her posture and the elegant way she held her head high and her neck straight; she was incredibly graceful. After a while, I inquired if she had been a dancer. It was no surprise to learn that she had performed ballet in an international arena. Her walk and stance were poised, effortless, and not exaggerated in any way. She appeared confident and elegant. Her refinement inspired me straight away. I began to stand taller! Good posture can be pleasantly contagious to those around you. 

While working at home during Covid at a desk, table, or even on a sofa, it is quite easy to ignore our posture. Consider being conscious of your carriage today. Make a concerted effort to walk taller and sit with an elegant purpose. Go out with a mask on, smiling eyes, and the awareness of a newly inspired finesse to your carriage. Good posture is commensurate to wearing a beautiful outfit; it conveys a tenacity and self-assured spirit!   

We have to admit, our mothers were right all along with their proper prodding! The lesson learned is to stand tall.  Pay this lesson forward.   And, oh, by the way, are your shoulders back?! 

Oh, joy! I just was informed by the charming and creative Director of the Hill Stead Museum, Anna Swinbourne, that they will be collaborating with the Ballet Theatre Company to create a brilliant reimagining of the Nutcracker on the carriage porch, which will have a dance floor installed in it. The dancers will perform for 25-30 minute excerpts, from the full ballet, inside the glassed-in walls, while the visitors, safely spaced, will watch from the outside, as they sip hot chocolate… visions of looking at your very own snow globe. I am pirouetting! From Nov. 28 to December 20th, 2020, peek at www.hillstead.org to discover more details.

Grandmillennial Tips:

A dear friend of mine, a noted plastic surgeon, remarked that this generation of cell phone users are continually gazing down.  This action will begin to take its toll on their necks. The remedy is to hold your phone up in front of your eyes, not below them. This technique may seem strange at first, but you will begin to notice the difference in your posture and you will save your neck from aging prematurely. That free advice is a golden nugget, right? 

The same is applicable for your computer screen. Boost it upward so that your eyes are looking to the center of the screen. My computer screen is now on top of a stack of Sotheby’s and Christie’s catalogs, which work brilliantly to save my neck... and my pocketbook!

Elegant Earrings... For Your Walls?!

Our living room at Fox Hall features a pair of antique, Italianate gilded wall brackets on either side of our painting of a terrier. We discovered the painting at a gallery in Prague, and our children all voted to buy it. To this day, it is one of their favorite pieces! Mummy found the antique pair of Chinese porcelain jars in Hong Kong back in the 1960’s, and I think the graceful curves of the brackets complement the curves of the porcelain.

A pair of lovely wall brackets will enhance any wall... in any type of interior!

In my Lessons for Lovely Living, decorative wall brackets seem like an appropriate topic to discuss at the beginning of November. I am steering away from our national election issues, and instead will focus on home sweet home! This time of year, quite fittingly, many wish to spruce up interior areas for the upcoming holidays, even during Covid times.

The Canton porcelain pieces, which flank either side of a portrait of my grandfather, required rather large wall brackets!

Use your imagination, and join me in envisioning wall brackets as pretty drop-earrings that adorn a wall! Wall brackets are stands that support three-dimensional artwork such as porcelain pieces, sculptures, clocks, and even candlestick holders. They have graced interiors in Europe for centuries. A charming pair of 1760-80, gilded shell wall brackets from England even embellish the front parlor of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Wall brackets are my go-to for enhancing a wall space inside of Fox Hall, and for my clients.

This pair is based on an 18th-century design and are hand carved with an antique gold gilt. Scully and Scully offer some lovely options.

Wall brackets give dimension to a wall. If purchased in pairs (highly recommended!), they add glorious symmetry when placed on either side of a featured piece of artwork or a looking glass (mirror). I refer to them in my book, The Pretty & Proper Living Room. Wall brackets come in all sizes, shapes, and forms. They can be made of gilded wood, stone, plaster, acrylic, and other media forms.

Like picture frames, wall brackets should complement the object they hold, and the room they are displayed within. When you discover a pretty pair, my recommendation is to buy them! My husband and I purchased a set of four gilded brackets from the Mario Buatta sale at Sotheby’s in NYC, and they are patiently waiting to be appointed to a wall in Fox Hall!

While shopping for a client in Palm Beach, I spied these fun and attractive acrylic wall brackets at the store HIVE.

Grandmillennial Tips:

When you have a piece of porcelain, such as a vase or a Chinese ginger jar, and wish to display it on a wall bracket, remember to measure the widest point, as the widest point will push the piece away from the wall, sometimes further than just the base. It may require a larger shelf surface, necessary for the item to appropriately fit. I once purchased a rather buxom pair of Canton vases. It was a challenge to find a large enough shelf on the wall bracket to place them on, but eventually, I found a pair! 

From overzealous, dusting endeavorist housekeepers, to slamming doors, remember to use some “museum putty” under the pieces displayed to keep them in place on the wall brackets. 

 There is nothing like pretty earrings to finish off an elegant outfit, so let your imagination go wild with the array of possibilities of what to display on your wall brackets! There are endless options. Look around your house for a pair of “something pretty” and ponder… are they wall bracket-worthy?!

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: To hang a pair of wall brackets too high when used to grace either side of a piece of artwork!

No-no: Try not to only center the wall bracket on the piece of art, but instead, center the entire composition of both the wall bracket and the item that is placed upon it. If anything, the composition can be hung a scant lower than dead center of the artwork.

Another Use For Your “Guardian” Staffordshire Dogs!

Please, Do Come In!

A little hand-written note like this is a thoughtful way to let your party guests know that they may enter the house and not wait outside until someone answers the door!

As always, I am grateful for your subscribership to MMM!  Thank you for your thoughtful questions.  They serve to inspire me for new topics, like this one, which I received last week:

“If you are hosting a bridal shower or the like, and someone says they’d like a tour of your house… what do you say?  It seems very rude, to me, to ask such a thing.  Am I wrong in thought??  I’d love YOUR thoughts on this.”

While it may be considered impolite to pose such a question, it can also be interpreted as a compliment to the homeowner!  Keep in mind that your darling guests are not trying to offend you; quite the opposite.  You have created a beautiful and inviting house, and they only wish to see more, as odd as that might seem. But, if you choose not to take them on a tour, my suggested responses are: 

“I was so focused on preparing for this event that I am afraid the rest of the house is not ready for a tour today, but perhaps another time?!” 

“I cannot show you that area of the house today, but let me show you… the verandah!”

A similar situation: Our former nanny is now married and living in a grand house on a lake outside of Minneapolis.  It still boasts the reputation of the famous owner who had previously lived there.  When she hosts large cocktail fundraising events, inevitably, guests are inquisitive and begin to stray away on their own to explore areas she would prefer them not to venture into.  She asked me how to discourage guests, whom she doesn’t know, from wandering about and exploring bedrooms. 

I, too, can relate to this situation.  Before Covid, when hosting fundraising events at Fox Hall (when I may not personally know all of the guests), on a few occasions I have glanced up the staircase to see a rogue guest on their way up to the Ballroom, inviting themselves to discover it on the third floor!

While I adore sharing the history of our 1803 house and giving tours, I invite guests to join me on a tour on my timeframe, when I can accompany them.

A few Staffordshire dogs work well as a deterrent during large, fundraising events... as long as Miss Zsa Zsa doesn’t try to eat them or play with them as fellow canines!

One way to discourage wandering guests is to hang a small ribbon across the stairway or place two chairs in the hallway with a ribbon tied between them.  Placing a vase with flowers on the floor or on a table in the center of a doorway is also an attractive deterrent.  Sometimes I even like to assemble a few porcelain pieces, such as my ‘fur-ocious’ Staffordshire dogs, on one of the staircase steps. Guests instinctively understand what these attractive “roadblocks” are meant to indicate… well, hopefully, they will!  

I am interested to hear what discreet “roadblocks” you have used and which ones have worked well for you?

My husband, Stuart, moved the pumpkin to the center of our front door momentarily, while he was potting the two holly bushes. I looked at it and thought this may be a subtle way to display the pumpkin on Halloween to indicate no trick-or-treating during this crazy Covid time.

Grandmillennial Tip:

The opposite of keeping guests out of certain areas is to invite them to come in!  When hosting a party, I place a small note on the unlocked front door which reads: “Please, do come in!”  I try not to have guests standing outside waiting for someone to open the door, especially with the inclement weather in New England! 

If you watch the Netflix series, Emily in Paris, in Season 1, Episode 8, Emily visits a lovely family chateau in Reims, the Champagne region of France. Upon meeting the Madame, Emily says, “Oh, the chateau is so beautiful, I’d love a tour!” The response from Madame was, "We don’t give tours of the chateau, we live here! If you’d like a vineyard tour there is one in 30 minutes." 

P.S.  I received several inquiries about the wall paint color for the "porcelain wallpaper" in our Butler's Pantry. It is a flat latex, in Benjamin Moore #805 ‘New York City State of Mind!'

Ever consider having “porcelain wallpaper?”

The Butler's Pantry at Fox Hall is now adorned with various blue and white plates. Mummy purchased the large round platter, over the coat closet door, when we lived in Taipei, and trust me, it weighs a ton!

If you’re an avid collector of china patterns, such as myself, you’d agree that one can never have too many china designs.  Plates, platters, service pieces, oh my!   Like me, if you have a penchant for collecting various sets of china, it can be a challenge to find ample storage space for them. Fortunately, many historic, or turn-of-the-century houses, have Butler’s Pantries designated for this purpose.  Even so, what do you do if you are challenged with a lack of space to store your acquired stacks of pretty plates?

Here is part of the answer!  First, let me share a short story… 

The week before Lady Carnarvon flew over from Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey, to attend a luncheon I hosted on my verandah at Fox Hall for 45 ladies, the plumber came to change the faucet in the laundry room, located just above our Butler’s Pantry.  He neglected to turn off the water main… old house, old pipes!  Yes, indeed.  The pipes broke and water instantly gushed through the ceiling, ruining the Butler’s Pantry cabinets, floor, and beyond.  A temporary ceiling was installed a day before the party, not that I was inviting anyone in to see the disaster area, but because the show must go on!  

New cabinetry was designed, which offered a vast amount of new storage space for more plates.  Hmmm, a silver lining in that black cloud, right?  I was on the search for a replacement wallpaper too. My vision was to have a blue and white Canton porcelain design, but as each wallpaper sample arrived, while pretty, none were quite right. 

In a pinch, days before another dinner party, I had the walls painted a deep blue.  When I stored all of the china away during the renovation, I discovered some old boxes with stacks of blue and white plates that were long forgotten!  It was an ah-ha moment!  I would make my own wallpaper design out of china plates.  In essence, I hung plates all over the painted walls as a faux wallpaper design.  And that is what I refer to as my “porcelain wallpaper.”  It features a charming dimension and authentic sheen that only plates can achieve!  Dinner on the wall, anyone? 

Fox Hall has the original "Butler's call-box," pictured in the center. When the ringers are pressed from various rooms, the little arrows dance back and forth. The children used to push the call buttons in their bedrooms, hoping the butler would magically appear. I imagine he must have been hard of hearing!

Grandmillennial Tips:

If you inherit an abundance of plates, platters, or saucers, or when you spy a box of plates for sale at an estate or church sale, think “porcelain wallpaper” in a kitchen, Butler’s Pantry, laundry room, or even in a bathroom!   Not that we are all entertaining during COVID, but we do have the time to re-design and decorate while repurposing pieces we already own.

Hang plates on your cabinet doors, unless you have a heavy-handed family! It works well in the Butler's Pantry, and I was able to display the Meissen cobalt blue plates that I never used, and Mummy's Imari plates, too. Over the window are some antique tiles that my daughter, Alexandra, purchased in England and gave to me. Do not hesitate to mix and match patterns, shapes, and sizes, as long as the color theme is consistent.

Plate hangers are available at any hardware store or online on Amazon.  I also use a dab of posterboard putty to hold them in place.

Extraordinary French decorative arts and porcelains are displayed in the many well-appointed rooms at Hillwood Estate.

Treat yourself to a visit to the Hillwood Estate, Marjorie Merriweather Post’s home, heiress to the Post cereal fortune, in Washington D.C.  Mrs. Post was not only an avid collector but one of Washington’s most exalted and admired hostesses of her time.  To put her hostess adroitness in perspective, her other house was Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach.  Yes, she could entertain on a rawwther grand scale!  Observing her vast collection of stunningly remarkable porcelain service pieces, as they peeked through the glass cabinet doors in the Butler’s Pantry, I left with an indelible impression and could relate to her appreciation for pretty plates.  Put this venue on your “must-visit” the next time you are in Washington.

What Does Your China Say About You?

Break Out Mummy's China! 

Collecting various china patterns through the years has been a joy. My two favorite colors have obviously attracted my eye: pink and cobalt blue! Mummy's white Wedgwood is next to my grandmother’s floral Bavarian plate, pictured in the center.

One of my sweet subscribers, Nikki, wrote to me after reading last week's topic of choosing a color and theme to build upon: 

“My Southern belle mother always said that the lady of the house should decorate the dining room in her most flattering color.  At the table, she is the star of the evening and the walls behind her are her stage.  To this day, the walls of my dining room are the same shade of green as my eyes.  I always feel more confident and prettier in that room!” 

What a lovely observation! This inspired me to write about your choice in china, because china patterns serve to accent and flatter your dining room, and you, too.  China designs are a splendid way to mirror your personality, complement an occasion, and enhance a dining experience!  Observing the china pattern a hostess chooses for an event is tantamount to reading tea leaves; it tells so much in a delightfully subtle way. 

When I was a twenty-one-year-old bride, Mummy suggested that I choose a white set of china, one that could cross over from informal to formal. My parents moved around to various places in the world every two or three years, so she spoke from experience.  Her solid ivory-white Wedgwood pattern would dovetail into the dining room color scheme she was greeted with and could harmonize with any occasion, floral arrangement, or country.  My word, I don’t know how she did it, but she would host a formal dinner party within a week of moving into a new domicile! 

I have collected many patterns, but I continue to use her Wedgewood, along with her pretty floral Bavarian porcelain plates, which she inherited from her mother. Now, the same floral plates (in the center of the above photograph) grace my springtime dinner parties at Fox Hall.

When selecting your china patterns, think about the colors and themes that make you happy!  My daughter, Alexandra, adores her Herend Chinese Bouquet in Raspberry, and my other daughter, Caroline, chose Haviland Parlon Syracuse in Turquoise. Again, these represent their favorite colors that they use for both their wardrobe and interiors.

I have been asked if one can appropriately mix patterns during the same dining event. Mummy taught me that a salad course or dessert course is the optimal time to slip in a different china pattern, as long as it complements the overall scheme of the table and dinner plate pattern. I collect various plates just for this purpose, to add variety and shake it up a bit, versus using a matchy-matchy set throughout the dinner party.

Is there a difference between formal and informal?  Indeed! To me, the quality of the porcelain and the amount of gold embellishment on a plate is what contributes to the formality of the design.  When I first started my interior design business, I was invited to design a formal dining room for the Junior League of Hartford’s Showhouse, so I asked Tiffany & Company to collaborate with me. I chose an exquisitely formal pattern: Royal Copenhagen’s Flora Danica porcelain plates. To this day, it is my most beloved, formal pattern. Take a quick tour with me in the bridal registry at Scully and Scully, Park Avenue, NYC. 

Grandmillennial Tips:

Consider buying sets of china at auction, where your dollars will go much further. From a few plates to extensive porcelain sets, when purchasing at auction, plates tend to sell for a mere fraction of what the retail cost would be… even Flora Danica! 

During COVID, grand scale dinner parties certainly are not an option. But, may I suggest for your dinner tonight, or breakfast tomorrow, take out your prettiest plates? Begin to use them more often than just for special occasions. Whatever you serve, it will taste better, I promise!  

Welcome to our new sponsor!  

How delightful to discover a source for darling, traditionally designed clothes for my eight grandchildren! The clothing collection at Yellow Lamb is made with exceptional fabrics and can be passed down for generations to come. Adorable, well-made, and traditional are attributes that I admire. I just spied a “fox designed” dress… I wonder if they make it in my size?! 

Pearls of Design: What color and theme represent you?

When entertaining a large gathering, I utilize the space under the “Mene” bronze sculpture of horse and jockey by placing our collection of Fox-head goblets and derby cups. Mint juleps, anyone?

It has been said that one will meet a handful of people in their life who will share their magnanimous advice or touch one’s life in an impactful way, even though it may seem insignificant at the time. 

After 45 years of marriage, and after recently celebrating the wedding of a dear friend, I was inspired to share with you the advice that a dear friend, Marie deButts, gave me when I was a young bride. We met at the Deep Run Hunt Club, outside of Richmond, Virginia. She was twenty years older and I admired everything about her. On our long, glorious rides, I asked questions and relished her answers. We discussed everything, from how she furnished her plantation, to what design advice served Marie well. Here are two pieces of advice that I took to heart. Nothing earth-shattering, but in reality, these have impacted my life in a most positive way, which is the reason I am sharing them with you. Please share them too if you know of a young lady or gentleman just starting out!  

COLOR:  

Marie said to choose one, or possibly two, colors that you love to wear and build on them. Your entire wardrobe will blend well together forever, and the color you choose will become your trademark. Her color was red.  Well, you already know my color.  I love pink as much today as I did as a bride! From shoes to handbags, accessories, coats, and dresses, pink and green reign in my dressing room closet.

The same holds true for the colors in one’s house. Mummy loved cobalt blue, which I have also incorporated in various aspects of design in Fox Hall, from blue and white Chinese rugs to Canton porcelain, and a pastel blue bedroom. When my husband and I had a portrait commissioned of our children, they were dressed in tones of blue, which would have complemented just about any room at Fox Hall. While one of my daughters adores coral and turquoise, the other one is attracted to shades of yellows and pinks, which are incorporated in their wardrobes and interiors.

Atop our Hepplewhite mahogany card table is a collection of Meissen vases and Imari porcelain, placed under the English oil painting by Edwin Fox. This is another nod to the cobalt blue theme in our front hall.

THEME: 

Marie’s prudent tidbit of advice was to include design elements that you adore, and make them a theme to build upon in your house. She had a “running horse” gold belt buckle that enhanced her outfits. I was inspired and thought to myself, horses and foxes,  perhaps by osmosis, or by my ancestors who definitely passed the horse obsession gene along to me. Thank heavens my darling husband, Stuart, has supported my interest in British sporting art, silver foxes, hunt scene breakfast porcelain and accessories, and an 1803  house named Fox Hall!  

In my television series, I spoke about the porcelain room at Blenheim Palace, which features retired porcelain patterns.  Having one room dedicated to one theme is another way to give your house a unique and enchanting detail.

What speaks to your heart?  Whatever theme you choose, it will subtly give an insightful glimpse to others about your life experiences, travels, personality and it will tell your story. A house filled with good stories is rich with authentic patina, adding to its enchantment to others, and is rewarding to your eyes, too! 

(And Marie, I thank you for your advice and I  hope that you are galloping through the clouds of heaven on your handsome grey horse!)

The front hall at Fox Hall features my grandmother's cobalt blue Chinese rug which I inherited. Notice in the far corner is “Team Holden,” an antique bronze piece from Normandy, which we purchased in Paris. It gives us great joy and serves as a happy memento each morning as we descend the staircase.