Gifts of Style for December 19

The holidays are the perfect time to forget calorie-counting, and I can't think of a better way to do so than by indulging in some decadent chocolate cake from Chocolate Cake Charleston. Baked by owner Christen Reese, the chocolate cakes are truly some of the best that I have ever had. And if you're afraid of the temptation of having a whole cake on your counter, Reese also bakes mini-cakes too. Yum!

Gifts of Style for December 19

OK, I couldn't resist- I love this Dog London Trench Raincoat from Pieces. Unfortunately, my late dog refused to wear clothing, but I'm sure some of you must have obedient, sartorially gifted dogs.

Gifts of Style for December 18

How fun are these porcelain pea pods from Michael Devine Home? I could see placing one on top of a stack of books, or grouping a few of them together for a festive Spring tablesetting!

Gifts of Style for December 17

What about a painting by John Matthew Moore, a Southern artist who resides in Washington D.C.? A favorite of designers throughout the country, Moore's work is incredibly striking. I had the opportunity to meet Matthew at one of his shows recently, and not only is his work even more beautiful in person, but he is also one of the nicest people you will meet. If you're not ready to commit to a big piece, perhaps you might be interested in his prints that are available through Trowbridge Gallery. I'm partial to the silver leaf prints (below) myself. (Note: Trowbridge is to the trade only. If you're not a designer, get a "in the trade" friend to help you purchase one)

Gifts of Style for December 13

What about these crazy vintage lamps from Lum Lighting of New Orleans? There are plenty of other fun vintage lamps on Lum's site, so make sure to check out the others!

Gifts of Style for December 12

Venezia Fabriano sketchbooks from Kate's Paperie. The perfect thing for sketching furniture, room plans, or just making notes.

Gifts of Style for December 11

Looking for a fun cookbook to give the chef on your holiday list? If so, "Park Avenue Potluck" might just fit the bill. With recipes compiled by the ladies of The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering (and with proceeds going to support programs at this revered cancer center), the book is chock full of recipes for both formal and casual entertaining. A few that I'm anxious to try: Indulgent Spiced Pecans, Chicken Salad for the Ladies (I think the Men will like it too!), Scalloped Oysters, and Accademia Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp. The bonus? There are some photos of great apartments designed by Mark Hampton, Irvine and Fleming, and Meg Braff! Go to parkavenuepotluck.com for more information.

Gifts of Style for December 10

How about a one of a kind gift for those of you who dwell in New York City? Charity Buzz is hosting an online auction that benefits The Paris Review, one of our country's most respected literary reviews. One of the hot items up for auction is a two-hour design consultation with Celerie Kemble at the winner's New York City home. This might be an affordable way for someone to get advice from a top-notch designer. But hurry, bidding ends on December 13. Click here for more information.

Gifts of Style for December 7

Soli e Lune screen by Fornasetti, available at Moss

Gifts of Style for December 6

Scent is a personal thing, but I have yet to find anyone who does not like the smell of these soaps from The Carlyle in New York. And, they make your bathroom smell divine!

Gifts of Style for December 4

For those of you who want to display a trophy head in a humane way, why not get a Cardboard Safari 3-D Animal Puzzle. Yes, that's right, it's a puzzle that you piece together to create a Buck, a Rhino, or a Moose head. You can leave the head in its natural, cardboard color, or, you can decorate the pieces with paint or paper before you piece together. Now you can give your home a bit of that Bavarian hunting lodge look without the hunting.

Gifts of Style for December 3

In the spirit of holiday consumerism, I'm kicking off a Gifts of Style series. Each weekday leading up to the 25th, I'll profile items that might interest you design mavens out there. So, without further ado...................




A Tony Duquette cuff bracelet. Sorry guys, but you'll be included in future selections. This fantasy gift is very apropos with the recent release of Tony Duquette by Wendy Goodman. And what a mix of colors!