Charleston Bound!

Even though my Rimowa carry-on roll-a-board seems bottomless, I try really hard to make co-ordinated plans when packing. I can't stand having to check a bag!  Here is what I'm planning to take to Charleston!

 I'm obsessed with my new monogrammed Elisabetta Slouch from Mark and Graham - Love it!  It holds everything!  I'll throw this sparkly envelope clutch inside to pull out for the evenings. 

I ordered this Tabula Rasa Tie Sweater a few weeks ago and I'm hoping the weather will co-operate on this trip and allow me to wear it!

This pear shaped body of mine is thrilled that flare bottom pants are back!  I especially love these Rosetta Getty Flare Pants

A Boat and Tote Bag for $17!  - I use these all the time and I love to get a new one every year.  All this one needs is a monogram!

Hermes Belt - Reversible and practical!

Hermes Collier de Chien Cuff  - I love that this goes from day to night.  It is the only accessory I really need!

Stitched Scarf - I hope I need this!  I'm craving cool temps!  

Stylish Sneakers  for exploring Charleston's sites - we plan to do the walking tour - and a pair of pointy toe pumps for the evenings. 

I always travel with this blazer - the sweater underneath is a dickey and can be removed for two different looks! 

I have worn my new Tibi Bow jumpsuit so many times!  I'm taking it for dinner and my book signing.  

In my makeup bag, I'm adding a bit of shimmer with these Tom Ford shadows and trying to perfect the nude lip look with these Charlotte Tillbury colors. 

Tablescape Tuesday: Breakfast in the Afternoon

For me, setting the table is a great creative outlet. I take every opportunity, even brunch with girlfriends, to do just that!  Here is a green and white table that was featured in my book, Tablescapes.

 "Tablescapes"

To set a ladylike tone,  I began with a simple white cloth and a Lily of the Valley-patterned overlay from Porthault.This is a set we use nearly every day - a green and white plate with tiny green flowers that we brought home from a trip to Paris and a smaller breakfast plate from Porthault with a border of green clover.

 "Tablescapes"

Ceramic bouquets of flowers from Christian Dior in Paris provided a special touch at each place setting!  Please please promise me that you will add a stop at the amazing Dior Boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne to your Paris wish-list. It is my very favorite shop in the world!  It is filled with amazing Dior fashions and it has beauty area covered in smoky mirrors that is to die for but the area that really makes my heart stop is the home section.  From the hand-painted glasses to the cashmere throws, I promise you won't leave empty handed.

 "Tablescapes"

In the center of the table was a beautiful lemon topiary created by my friend Susan Spindler. Susan came over with a bag full of tools, I provided the lemons and off we went to create this long-lasting arrangement. Small pieces of hydrangea left over from another dinner party filled in the space and the topiary sprang to life!

 "Tablescapes"

We laid out cheerful silver flatware with an enchanting bird pattern and placed a vintage chick eggcup beside each juice glass.

Informal place cards in light green and white marked the seating. To add to the garden feel, I brought outdoor chairs into the breakfast room. 

 "Tablescapes"

The refreshing view out the window into the garden was the final perfect element and our breakfast in the afternoon was a relaxing time well spent!

Photography by Scott Womack