A Red Suit

Sometimes when I see a great outfit I imagine myself lucky enough to be dressed in it and off to a special event.

Same with this wonderfully tailored suit of red and white Tattersall plaid. Matched with a white silk floral scarf with a scattering of red watercolor flowers, a crisp white shirt with French cuffs topped off with a straw-brimmed kettle hat with a brilliant red linen crown. I've teamed my jacket with a tailored pair of white linen, wide legged trousers, cuffed and a red leather belt. And red lips - a Chanel red, no doubt! I also am wearing the light, sweet scent of Fracas (gardenias, lily of the valley and jasmine) Now, where would YOU imagine yourselves off to while wearing this dream of an outfit? I tell you where I think I'd be going - to afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria BC, Canada. To sit among the ladies and gentlemen wearing their afternoon best, enjoying salmon and cream cheese sandwiches and petite fours and a hardy English Breakfast tea with milk and 2 lumps, served in a delicate, floral bone china cup from England. After tea, we'd take a turn through a nearby garden or along the waterfront in the warm summer sun. Your turn! Leave a comment - where are you off to in this wonderful suit?

Photo is courtesy of the May 1998 issue of Victoria magazine.

Naturally Inspired

I have never been a real fan of neutrals like khaki but this house does it right, in my most humble opinion.

With washable, simple linen slipcovers, interesting furniture with a history, aged gilding and natural antique pine, everything is able to play off each other without being boring.

The use of striped fabric on the large Rococo chairs adds richness and class while reflective surfaces like oversize mirrors and glass reflect light back into the rooms.

The end result is an approachable, comfortable yet still classic approach to decorating this small stone cottage in Virginia.

Photos are from a wonderful book by Meredith books, copyright 2006, titled "Great Country French Style". It's cover does not really hint as to what is inside on it's pages. It is filled from cover to cover with the most beautiful, well-done French country rooms. I'd really recommend it for your decorating book collection.

A Love Affair - Blue & White

I am dealing with a bout of spring fever today and thought I'd share some pretty blue and white images with you all. I love the flowers and the stationery especially.


Makes me want to be sitting in a sunny window by a desk full of fresh spring flowers, writing notes to friends on beautiful blue and white paper.