Summer Go-To

Time in Costa Rica was sensational for many reasons (most notably, I got engaged!!!), but pure relaxation does the body & soul darn good. There is something about the type of vacation where your suitcase only requires bathing suits, caftans and sunscreen... and returns with a helping of sand and seashells.

Many have asked about where I procured my caftans and beach tunics, thus, I thought I'd share my new favorite go-to for beachwear. The brand Le Sirenuse, Positano, hails from the infamous boutique hotel on the Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse, a family-owned seaside oasis known for its intimate atmosphere. (Their Instagram feed alone will make you long for the emerald sea and an Aperol spritz)! They have a lovely collection of caftans - I'm loving my Acanto Long Caftan for example, and they have the dreamiest garden print this season I ordered in the form of a kimono top. Each piece and print feels like a little piece of the enchanting world in Positano, but I must mention how incredibly comfortable and practical they are. Slip on while stepping away from the sun for lunch, or for a waltz down the beach, they truly are part of the dolce vita!!

Shop the collection here, or on Matches Fashion (my other go-to for all things plotting & packing).

Jakobs of Gotland

I think I've met my match. My trip back east allowed me to relish in many simple pleasures I missed. As I return to my routine, I find myself day dreaming of another escape. This restored farm house on the Swedish island of Gotland is nestled among 2 acres of green gardens, a bike ride away from the sea and thoughtfully dusted with beautiful interior pieces in true Scandinavian style.  Known as Jakobs of Gotland, this property is available for rent by the long weekend in winter, or week in summer.

Naturally, my stay at Jakobs has already been sorted out in my head. I have visions of reading on the terrace in a white chemise, only glancing away to watch the branches on the trees sway in the morning breeze. In the late afternoon, I'll bike ride to the sea for a long swim before supper, returning to visit the sauna in the barn. Then, I'll retreat to the garden to pick herbs, flowers and produce for supper outside and dine with acquaintances I've met in the nearby town of Visby. When the laughter and dim candlelight subsides, I'll retreat indoors for a glass of scotch or port, my eyes fixated on the glow of a hearty fire...It seems every day at Jakobs is a verse out of a pastoral poem.

Learn more about Jakobs of Gotland here and be sure to see Net-A-Porter's feature as well! Owners Anna and Andi are lovely as ever and available via email to address your inquires.

(Photography credit: Ken Kochey and Katarina Grip-Höök’)

Office Inspiration: Grégoire's Gem

  One of the perks of now working at an interior design firm is the sheer joy of being surrounded by tangible inspiration all day long. I am deeply affected by the landscapes in which I live and work in, and my new work environment makes me truly happy. Instead of the interior rigidness of a financial institution, I am now surrounded by a flood of rich fabrics and textiles, architects drafting elaborate blueprints, a sea of French antiques, and, a library full of auction and design catalogues. Thus, I bring you my latest obsession. If I could jump in to this landscape, I would. The images come from the French design publication Côté Sud and depict the most idyllic residence on the French Riviera. The vacation home belongs to Grégoire Gardette, legendary photographer, designer, publisher and graphic designer. Now all I need is a new white bikini, my Bain de Soleil and a tall glass of Pellegrino - dreamy! In addition to salivating over the serene scenes above, be sure to view Grégoire's portfolio, here: http://gregoiregardette.com/fr-en/

Dear Slim,

Those close to me know that there is one man that will forever make my heart pitter patter. The man of course, is none other than photographer and King of the jet-set era, Slim Aarons. I suppose it's his photography that captures me, rather than Slim himself...Given that it's a Friday and I'm on vacation, I thought I'd share a few of my favorites. Bon Weekend!