Can a one-piece be sexy? I dare say yes when they look like this. You bet your sweet Italian villa that I'll be rocking looks #1 and #3 poolside this summer. Hello, glamour!

We spent the afternoon making summer-inspired tablescapes. Glass cylinders with fine sand, ivory candles and a melange of seashells. alongside coral of all varieties and the occasional sea urchin. Now the plan is to continue to blur the lines between indoors and out.

First up? A new table for the patio. Something neoclassical would be ideal. I'm completely obsessed by this table from Horchow. Good God, it's perfect. Perfect! I love it. The aged base almost begs for linen upholstered chairs. I tend to go back on forth on whether or not I like the skirted chairs. In this case I'm leaning towards a full-on yes. These would look fabulous with the table. 

Next... the dinnerware. I just picked up the most amazing set of Cynthia Rowley outdoor plates. They have that preppy-chic look that Cynthia does so well. Aquamarine and apple green servingpieces with those classic bubbled goblets, an illuminated lantern in the center and you've set the scene for an al fresco fete.

What's for dinner? That's up to you. I suggest grilled fare and limoncello followed by a light gelato for dessert. What about you?   

Pulling from the AD Archives... I don't consider myself Cher fan musically, but it's difficult not to appreciate her spectacular Malibu property. The interiors offer the theatrical approach to design you might expect from the star, but her ocean-facing pool area is a lesson in sophisticated California cool.

I'm always a fan of Mediterranean architecture when the location calls for it, and Southern Cali is certainly the spot for barrel-tile roofing and stucco. Just look at the covered outdoor area. It's enough to inspire me to write songs for legions of fans. 

Restoration Hardware. Or should I say, RH? Where do I begin? As someone with access to trade accounts at luxury furniture brands, I want so desperately not to like them. But I love them. I adore them. I can't get enough of them. Is it the subdued color palette? The seductive mix of rough hewn wood with belgian linen and gilded finishes? Yes. It is the periodic delivery of bicep strength testing catalogues? Yes. It is the unapologetic nod to French post-industrial influence? Yes. 

And now I see they've opened a jawdropping flagship store in Boston. And when I say "store" I mean that in the most general of terms. This is more of an upscale retail experience. The massive 40,000 square foot space and incredible interior architecture afforded to them by the historic 1860's building is a sight to behold. It's a match made in heaven, really. Floor to ceiling sheer drapery panels and glistening chandeliers designed to seduce the senses and lure the black AMEX from the wallet. Through images alone I hear (feel?) the siren call of the low-key music and detect the faint scent of leather and Belgian linen. 

Hang on... let me slap myself before I book a flight to Logan. There! That's better. My point is, RH knows retail and the art of branding and environmental seduction. Love them, hate them. It doesn't matter. Every designer friend I know still finds themself unable to stop their feet from strolling through their romantically-lit stores and occasionally buying a thing or two. 

It's hard to explain but their retail experience is fascinating. From the Hotel Costes music to the dim lighting, I find myself in a Zen-like state every time I visit one. And yes, their catalogs are massive, but impressive. I do use them. I pull images from them, I shop from them. I aspire to live the slightly French and always globetrotting lifestyle presented within them. There's no getting around it. They are a design powerhouse. 

If this store is any indication of their bottom line, I'd say I'm not alone in our love. Read more about their Boston location at ArchDigest. 

I was delighted to see Susan Hable's house features in this month's Elle Decor. Fellow interior design friends know her as half of "the Hable Sisters" - the talented textile designing duo introduced to us through Hickory Chair. They've brought us whimsy, color and artistry through their truly original designs. 

I've met Susan several times at Market and she exudes youth, energy and creativity. She and her sister Katharine design textiles based on their hand-drawn designs. Their partnership with such a high-end furniture brand has been a successful collaboration for both parties. They are warm and fun and offer their distinctly fresh point of view. In many ways we can't get enough of them. 

And while we have an idea of a person, it's always revealing to see how and where they live. Susan's family home - shared with her husband and two young children - reads like a hip art gallery. It doesn't look "decorated" or "designed"... she's one of those delightful creatives whose home reads like a collection of cherished objects acquired along her journey. Yet somehow it al comes together in the most relaxing, inviting way. The epitome of Elle Decor, no?

See more of her colorful and cool Athens, Georgia home here, and be sure to read her story on bootstrapping, ultimatums and running a business while raising a family.

You have those days where you feel like you'e seen it all. You've reached the far corners of the furnishings universe and there are no new catalogues to peruse, no new brands to discover and no unexpected surprises. And just as that moment you find it. It. "The" brand you'd been seeking. Those pretty pieces you've been coveting. The deliciousness your eyes have been eager to devour.

Whoever said less is more must not have realized the satisfaction of maximalism. A silver leaf here, a bit of gilding there, more patina here and a dash of sparkle there. All with a sophisticated air delivered with restraint. I know, I know... how can maximalism and restraint coexist? Easily when you're looking at classic pieces with time-tested silhouettes. May I introduce you to Ebanista... my happy place. 

Whether you're a classic caviar + gold girl or love the eyepopping look of spectator style, we can all agree on this: Chanel is yummy. Dallas girls take note: Scoop NYC at Highland Park Village is having another WGACA trunk show May 14th - 19th. Don't miss your chance to see vintage Chanel pieces (many of which are collector's items) up close & personal. I can almost guarantee there's a bauble or a bag just waiting to be a part of your collection. 

I'm having one of those "why didn't anyone tell me about this?" moments. I kew about Texas Hill Country, but it seems that what I've seen in the past is only a tiny sliver of the grandness that awaits. Sweeping vistas. Verdant hills. Flowing rivers. Outdoor enthusiast heaven. Trust me, I may love my yoga classes - and I do - but nothing compares to doing your asanas with vistas in every direction. Hello, heaven!

And of course, having a nose that seeks out the best of the best - I've fallen for the Barton Creek Spa & Resort. As well as being the top spot to golf in the great state of Texas (no small feat, considering the sheer number of private golf clubs in tony areas around the state), this is one of Austin's premier spa resorts. Nestled within 4,000 acres of rolling hills, this is a weekend getaway I can't get off my mind. 

Readers, expect to see more on this topic! 

Those clever girls at To & From are at it again. In the spring issue they queried dozens of bloggers & tastemakers to find the perfect gifts for the many holidays & occasions that arise. You'll see my lovely visage on page 50 (does this count as a centerfold? I'll call that a yes.) as I dish on the perfect gifts for the Glamorous Mom. (Honey, if you're reading this, my shoes size is 6.)

The magazine is beautifully done and I love the collaborative concept. Thank you for including me, girls! 

Ahhh, weekends. We live for them, right? Somehow the welcome arrival of Saturday morning is no less grand even when you're your own boss. There's a palpable shift in the air. Life is just a bit more relaxed, more nuanced and less straight & narrow.

Weekday showroom visits and and client meetings have me pulling for fitted jackets, pretty blouses and towering heels. But spring weekends are different. Relaxed glamour is the name of the game. Easy pieces that can easily transition from coffee shop to pretty dining patio.

The key elements? Fitted tops, pretty wedges, roomy totes and the all-important skinny white jean. And of course, fabulous sunglasses and "just enough" gold to keep things polished.

Here's what I'll be wearing this weekend. How about you? What's your spring weekend uni? 

J Brand mid-rise skinny white jean // J Crew Cotton Jersey Top // Kennet Jay Lane Gold Coin Necklace // Rochas Glossed Leather Papaya Tote // Mac Jacobs Printed Satin Wedges // Victoria Beckham Aviator Glasses // Emilio Pucci Quartz & Crystal Ring

This month's big affair? Well, tomorrow you have the Mad Hatter's Tea Party benefiting the Women's Council of the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden. An event not to be missed, especially if you have a passion for millinery.

My personal favorite springtime event, however, is the Stiletto Strut. Is it an excuse to buy shoes? Yes. Is it one more reason to love Neiman Marcus? Yes. But rather than just kicking up your heels in the name of fun, all proceeds from this highly anticipated event benefit The Family Place. 

What to wear? Might I suggest these insanely gorgeous Tom Ford Gold Snakeskin Platforms for your strutting? When? April 25 from 6:30-8:30. Bring your high heels, your fabulous smile an a group of fun-loving friends. 

Fellas? You're invited to join us at "The Loafer Lounge." A concept designed exclusively for Dallas gentlemen at the Joule and overlooking The Stiletto Strut. There will be no better view, in my opinion!

The list grows longer daily, doesn't it? Now I have a craving to see the Caspian Sea from the comfort of my impossibly shiny room at the Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel in Baku.

Where exactly is this, you ask? I've provided a map in addition to the jaw dropping photos. Suffice it to say it's a long way from home, which only adds the the allure. 

But let's pause for a moment to admire that glistening entry corridor with shimmering chandeliers and metallic wall sculpture. It's mesmerizing, which is likely par for the course for a luxury hotel such as this. 

From standalone cottages to perfectly appointed rooms, this beautiful hotel property shines bright like a diamond. 

See more amazing properties at Kiwi Collection... 

Tory Burch Striped Sweater // COH Skinny nude jeans // Alaia Laser Cut Tote // Oversized Victoria Beckham Sunglasses // Givenchy Zipper Detail Nude Sandals

I have a fondness for ivory desks with gold accents. What better place to pen your autobiography or pin to your heart's content? This one makes me a bit giddy. Why? She looks aged and patina'd but she's brand new. Always a bonus when you like things neat and tidy. Also? Those drawers open from either side. Lovely detail with the potential for great convenience. 

The gilded accents, reeded tapered legs and girlish good looks all make this a "yes" in the Venti rulebook. 

Mary McDonald for Schumacher and Patterson, Flynn & Martin from Schumacher on Vimeo.

I've been crushing on a Tennessee boutique named Revival for a while now. I'm no where near Chattanooga, but that doesn't stop me from be awestruck by their merchandising and collection of goods available for purchase. Dreamy, right?

What do I pine for? These items, just to name a few...

Fortunately, they do have an online boutique. Enjoy! 

While I'm not really feeling the lace trend (forgive me if even the hint of "granny" is a turnoff to me) I am really vibing on the sheer blouse movement. Thankfully this time around we're all about the cami underneath rather than bra-baring Madonna visibility. Ladylike glamour is the message you're sending to the world.

The bow closure, tailored fit and (you guessed it) overall black color of this particular sheer blouse are perfection to me. Red Valentino, we expect no less, right? And while this borders on polka-dotty, the monochromatic design keep the pattern upscale and anything but Minnie Mouse.

Why it works:
Featherweight fabric and slim fit make this super feminine without feeling overtly frilly. Wear with a predictable pencil skirt & nude-ish cami for weddings or evening business attire. But for those of us looking to rock this out and about for fun, I choose to go the other direction...

Venti style:
Pair with skinny blush-hued jeans, sky high heels & a black camisole. Hair: Chignon, messy up-do or pony is a must. Channel your inner Bardot and pile on the gloss to polish your pout. Finish with black liner, thickening mascara and my favorite blush. Viola! Off you go to conquer the world. 

Everything about this home featured Architectural Digest is incredible. The sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez - from the living room - wow. But if you'll notice the amazing kitchen that just opens to a little oasis of palms and the privacy of the yard... that makes me so happy. Add this to the "wants" list. 

Much props to Marshall Watson for the remarkable design.

I think we've all had our moments of obsession with the work of Benjamin Dhong. But I just can't shake my desire to look at his work. Which is really heavy praise when I consider myself a talented designer. 

What is it about his spaces that I love? They are both outlandishly luxe and restrained at the same time. Each piece is exquisite in its own right... but there's a quiet sphistication as well. Nothing is overdone even though on their own merit each piece is carefully designed, collected or selected.

His rooms are lyrical, beautiful and completely livable. We share an appreciation for pile fabrics, antiquities and patina. And there's something to be said for adding a black occasional piece with gilded accents to a room. Instant wow! 

Now, unfortunately, I am truly and completely obsessed with the chinoiserie daybed at the top. Ideal for nurseries, guest bedrooms or libraries. I need one. His was sourced from Michelle Nussbaumer's Ceylon et Cie - one of the best shops here in Dallas. I'll have to nudge Michelle to see if she can find another one on one of her many journeys. 

For now... enjoy a little more Benjamin here. 

{originally posted June 2009...}

By now it's clear I have an obsession with white. And when I say white, trust that this extends to the entire white-ish family. Cream, ecru, parchment, eggshell... the whole ivory gamut. And it's easy to continue loving this elegant color range when there are shows on Bravo filled with jawdropping interiors.

And lately I'm warming to organic fabrics like linen. So you can imagine that Villa Blanca offers much eye candy for a girl like me. Whitewashed woods, soft white slipcovered chairs and exotic touches abound. Can I just say.... gorgeous?

Loving the grand simplicity of this modern French foyer. Wingback chair in deep charcoal linen, vintage grey dining table as center of attention, books, oversized bouquet of fresh flowers, modern crystal chandelier and - of course - grand pedestal hurricane candleholders. What's not to love? 

Thank you, Google. 

Loving these effortless french details. Monochromatic spaces, solid fabrics covering classically styled upholstery, fresh white flowers, hints of patina.

Because I can never get enough of Lisa Vanderpump's delicious interiors, this post is essential. What is the recipe for this delicious mix? Add equal parts patina, eglomise, solid upholstery in touchable textures and floor to ceiling grapes. Don't forget the crystals, hints of Balinese exoticism and as much white as possible. The bright Southern California sunshine is an element you may find difficult to replicate unless you're blessed enough to live in a sunny state yourself. 

What Lisa does masterfully is exude the air of easy luxury. Polished surfaces balanced by aged elements, decadent fabrics in soft hues and a general "lightness of being" are hallmarks of her designs. Nothing appears forced or overdone, yet I'm certain Lisa took time to get every decision just right.

To achieve this look don't forget to add in touches of nature. What keeps her interiors looking lively, young and vibrant are the abundant natural elements. Fresh bouquets of flowers, lush folliage and sweeping views of the outdoors keep these precious interiors from feeling too museum-like. 

Lisa, you've definitely shaken this cocktail perfectly. 

Although some would say tufting is either in or out, I have to admit I love seeing it done well on velvet covered upholstery year after year. I think that in moderation and with correct styling it is timeless. Think: old Hollywood glamour. You thought about tufted velvet slipper chairs and long silk gowns on movie starlets, right? Of course you did.

But when it comes to tufting I'm quite specific on how I like to see it done? Deep diamond-tufting is my preference. I love the pattern it creates and the rhythm of shadow and light upon the surface. It lends interest to what would otherwise be a flat plane.

This scene above is an example of this texhnique done perfectly within a sophisticated banquette dining area. In cappuccino-colored velvet it's a look I can't help but admire. 

{image Decorpad}