Supermodel Linda Evangelista’s infamous words immortalized on a Jonathan Adler needlepoint pillow. Genius! Available here.  And while you’re at it, check out this number with more wisdom from Kate Moss:

Available here.

_{A terrace from the book Rooftop Gardens, features red maple trees, ivy, cypress, blue hydrangea, boxwood hedges and more, making this a beautiful and  a colorful oasis in the sky, high above Park Avenue.}

In New York City outdoor living space is an extreme luxury that most people covet. There are a few who are lucky enough to enjoy a tiny sliver of outdoor space in the form of a balcony or maybe even a small terrace. And then there are the ultra-privileged ones who can claim ownership to the most sprawling and enviable terraces and outdoor gardens that the City has to offer. These spaces, like the one above, are like little slices of heaven in New York and a new book published by Rizzoli and written by Denise Le Frak Calicchio and Roberta Model Amon, is devoted to exploring these lavish outdoor gardens. From Park Avenue to Soho, Rooftop Gardens, gives us a rare glimpse inside the posh private terraces and balconies and conservatories of the city’s toniest residences and the glamorous lives of the people that live in them.

I received an advance copy of the book and one of the spaces I was completely smitten with is this wraparound multi-level penthouse terrace in Tribeca that is complete with two dining areas and stunning views of New York City. It’s planted with lush, gold-tipped arborvitae, juniper, fernspray and white hydrangeas which are one of my favorite flowers.

The garden can be seen directly from the penthouse’s windowed living room, which creates the perfect visual flow between the well-appointed indoor and outdoor spaces. (In case you were wondering, the sumptuous interiors were designed by Thomas Jayne who I’ll be profiling here on So Haute very soon!)

You can order a copy of Rooftop Gardens here through Rizzoli or here from Amazon.com

Photos by Norman McGrath, courtesy of Rizzoli

On April 5th luxury publisher Assouline will release a new coffee table book that celebrates the beauty and magic of St. Barths which happens to be one of my all-time favorite vacation destinations. Written by Pamela Fiori (who also authored In the Spirit of Capri), In the Spirit of St. Barths is full of captivating photos, giving us an up close look at the posh Caribbean isle that evokes the glamour of the French Riviera and is synonymous with chic. Think yachts, champagne, beautiful beaches and beautiful people. Below is a little peek at what you’ll find inside! (Photos and captions from In the Spirit of St. Barths are courtesy of Assouline).

“Sunset on Shell Beach in Gustavia is a good time to find treasures from the sea.”

“Gustavia watercolor on paper by Stanislas Defize.”

“Gustavia harbor lit up at dusk.”

“A colorful harbor view.”

“It takes a skilled pilot to land on the 2,170-foot-long runway without ending up in the Baie de St. Jean.”

You can order your copy of In the Spirit of St. Barths here. And since we’re on the subject, I thought I’d share a few of my own photos of St. Barths that also capture the spirit of this idyllic little island. Now who’s ready for a vacay?!

_{PB Found Vintage Kilim Rugs $1,699.00 – $3,299.00}

I came across these limited-edition vintage kilim rugs that Pottery Barn is currently offering and thought they were fabulous! Such rich colors and patterns! Sourced from a collector in Istanbul, each rug is unique and is anywhere from 40-80 years old.  I’ve been hunting for something similar to hide my ugly rental kitchen floor. I totally love the rug Jamie Meares used in her kitchen which was featured in High Gloss Magazine:

_{Design by Jamie Meares. Photo via High Gloss Magazine}

If you love this look too below is some more inspiration from designers Sara Gilbane, Commune Design and Tia Zoldan. And if the Pottery Barn vintage kilims are out of your range, eBay has an incredible selection at all price points to help you achieve this look for less! Click here to browse eBay’s selection of beautiful vintage kilim rugs!

_{Design by Sara Gilbane. Photo via Lonnymag.com}

<sub>Photo: Commune Design


Design by Tia Zoldan. Photo via High Gloss Magazine</sub>

_{Undecorate – by Christiane Lemieux.}

DwellStudio Founder and Creative Director Christiane Lemieux has just released her first coffee table book, out today, that celebrates the art of achieving an unfussy, effortlessly chic home. It’s titled Undecorate: The No-Rules Approach to Interior Design and after eagerly anticipating its arrival for more than a year, I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy. As expected, the book is chock full of inspiration and I’m utterly obsessed with it! Undecorate gives us a glimpse inside 20 real homes across America to explore the concept of “undecorating” – a term Christiane coined to describe perfectly imperfect approach to decor which really boils down to achieving a comfortable, lived in home that’s designed over time and truly reflects your personal style. I think it’s worth noting that the book’s foreward was written by Deborah Needleman who now helms WSJ but was the founding Editor-in-Chief of Domino – a magazine I credit with giving this effortless decorating style its mainstream appeal.

One of the excerpts from the book that resonated with me was when Christiane talks about how the rise of the internet and design blogs have influenced her decorating decisions in recent years. Whereas she used to look to top tier decorators for design direction, she now prefers blogs and finds more inspiration from decorating amateurs with real ideas and a totally fresh approach. In fact, there are even a few blogger homes featured in Undecorate including the homes of Lisa Borgnes Giramonti from A Bloomsbury Life and Valerie Hart from Visual Vamp!

Christiane was kind enough to share some insider scoop about the book with me as well as reveal details on other exciting projects DwellStudio has in the works. Read on to hear all about it plus get a little sneak peek inside Undecorate!

What made you decide to write a book?

It’s funny – it was very organic and a natural next step. I had been noodling this idea in my head and then I had a meeting with Clarkson Potter and it all fell into place.  The part I did not take into consideration was the actual execution. Getting a book done is a lot of work…wow!

Tell us about how the project finally came together…

You know – I’m not even sure. I gave my amazing editor Doris Cooper some ideas and voila – we had a book. It was totally fluid.  I am so glad it happened because it was one of the most amazing things I’ve done.

How did you land on the title Undecorate?

It really says exactly what I am getting at in the book.  I really believe we look at interior design and decor in a more fluid way these days…we do things ourselves and the project is never really done. It’s never really decorated. We also – through blogs and social media – invite each each other in and work together and decorate together. It’s always an evolving process.

I love that you chose Melanie Acevedo to shoot your book – I’ve always been drawn to her photographs! Was working with her an obvious choice? What was it like collaborating with her?

I had another photographer lined up and then Mel came to my office with her portfolio…it was love at first sight! AND one of the dummy spreads we had created for the book for concept board had her photography – talk about a sign! We had an amazing time working together.  We went on a journey across the country and got to photograph these amazing homes and people.

Of all the amazing homes and people you photographed for Undecorate…do you have a favorite?

I fell in love with each and every person we shot – seriously.  It was like 20 amazing parties.  We did have an amazing cocktail-infused evening with Chase Booth and Gray Davis at their gorgeous place in Copeck lake.  We all cooked dinner and went swimming.  It was perfect.

Your book refers to undecorating as a movement…what do you think it is about this effortless style that resonates with people?

I think there are no barriers to entry. If you love something – you can make it work in your interior.  We shot to the most amazing place in Chicago where the owners Heidi and Art lived with their Jaguar cars…it was gorgeous.  The cars functioned like sculptures.

What do you think is the key to achieving an “undecorated” look?

I think it’s personal.  Don’t follow rules – follow your instincts.  Do the things you like and it will come together.  There are a lot of interiors out there that look the same.  Undecorating is about soul and personality.

Aside from Undecorate, what’s next for the brand?

We are launching furniture in 3 weeks at High Point. Now that was a project!  I will say that everything we designed is very influenced by my experience with the book…It’s personal, eclectic and people can truly put this collection together and make it their own.

Finally, what does home mean to you?

Home is the place I go for refuge.  The place where I get comfort….It’s family and being surrounded by the things and people I love.

Thanks Christiane!

You can order your copy of Undecorate here and to check out DwellStudio’s latest offerings visit DwellStudio.com!

_{Book photography by Melanie Acevedo. Photography of Undecorate by Nicole Gibbons}

Etsy is one of my favorite online shopping sources and right now I’m loving these soft hued, vintage inspired prints from the Etsy Shop Simply Hue. Prices range from $20-25$ and the shop is offering free shipping on all prints through August! Visit the Simply Hue shop on Etsy here.

If you love the stylish hotel suites recently designed by Diane von Furstenberg for London’s Claridge’s hotel, then you’ll love this fabulous cashmere blanket that is currently available at DVF.com. It features the same berry and chocolate ikat print used in her Claridge’s project and is also available in two other colorways. Luxury certainly doesn’t come cheap though as this 100% cashmere blanket is quite pricey at $750. Available here.

Here are our picks for the 13 perfect pieces you need to host a fabulous outdoor soiree this summer…and they’re all under $100!

1. Bianca Melamine Dinnerware, $2.95-4.95 at Crate & Barrel: This elegant classic white dinnerware has the look of ceramic but is made of melamine for durability, making it perfect for outdoor dining.

2. Aqua Market Umbrella, $69.99 at Pier 1 Imports: Take refuge from the sun under this colorful umbrella that’s sure to brighten up your next outdoor gathering.

3. Utensil Holder & Condiment Caddy, $6.95-8.95 at Crate & Barrel: You can add color to your outdoor table setting by storing your flatware and condiments in these sunny hued caddy totes.

4. BLANDA Serving Bowl, $4.99-14.99 at Ikea: These turquoise colored serving bowls are dishwasher safe and come in a variety of sizes for various serving needs.

5. Silvertone Plastic Cutlery – set of 24, $7.99  at Walmart: Stylish and affordable, this plastic cutlery offers the look of real silver without the silver price tag!

6. Acrylic Margarita Glasses, $4.95 at Crate & Barrel: No outdoor soiree is complete without fabulous cocktails and these acrylic glasses are perfect for serving margaritas or other frozen drinks.

7. SIGRID Striped Tablecloth $14.99 at Ikea: Add a bold splash to your picnic table with this  colorful striped tablecloth from Ikea!

8.  Acrylic Stacking Double Old-Fashioned Glasses, $2.50-4.50 at Crate & Barrel: These practical, all-purpose glasses come in fun summer colors and are both stackable and dishwasher safe!

9. BORRBY Lantern, $6.99 at Ikea: For summer parties after sundown, you can’t forget about lighting! The Borby lantern from Ikea holds a block candle to add a soft, illuminating glow to your table.

10. Bash Party Tub, $24.95 at CB2: Keep your beverages cool with this stylish, curved party tub.

11. Spun Rattaan Serving Trays, $16 at West Elm: These rattan serving trays will add texture to your table for a layered and organic look.

12. TEKLA Dish Towel , $.049 each: At less than 50 cents each, you can re-purpose these cotton dish towels as napkins, adding a nice touch for your guests and are also more eco-friendly compared to disposable napkins.

13. Mason Jar Drink Dispenser, $69.00 at Pottery Barn: A good old fashioned mason jar drink dispenser allows your guests to help themselves to their favorite summer beverage!

Recently launched New York based floral delivery service H. Bloom is offering up a sweet discount for So Haute readers! If you’re not familiar with H. Bloom, the company delivers beautiful floral arrangements to your doorstep with its innovative subscription based service, making it easy for New Yorkers to enjoy extraordinary flowers every week. H. Bloom imports its flowers direct from growers around the world and its selection is full of gorgeous and unique flowers that you won’t find anywhere else. Subscription prices start at just $35 a bundle! I always say that incorporating fresh flowers into your decor is one of the easiest ways to add beauty, life and color to your space. So go ahead and try H.Bloom today and receive a special discount just for being a So Haute reader! Simply enter “sohaute” at checkout you’ll receive $25 off your first delivery! That means you can get your first delivery of the $35 classic bundle for just $10! A pretty amazing deal if you ask me! Visit the H. Bloom website now to subscribe!

“Brilliant Splendo”, Oil on Wood, by Kit Hevron Mahoney

I just discovered an amazing new resource for affordable original art that I couldn’t wait to tell you about! Zatista is is an innovative new online marketplace for high-quality original art which gives you access to fine and contemporary works from artists across the globe.  Zatista’s virtual gallery makes browsing its broad selection of photography, paintings, drawings, digital art and mixed media works a breeze and you can find pieces at all price points to fit any budget. And if you’re new to collecting or don’t know where to start, the site’s Art 101 section provides useful information and resources to help the novice art buyer take the first steps towards building a collection. Be sure to check out Zatista and below are my top 5 picks for amazing artwork…all under $100 and all available at Zatista.com!

“Serene”, by Kelley Sanford Oil on Canvas, 4.0 ” x 6.0 ” $95

“Sugar Spoons”, by Justin Wheeler , Archival Ink Jet Photograph, 11.0 ” x 14.0 ” $55

“Poppies”, by Becky Joy, Oil on Canvas, 6.0 ” x 6.0 ” $100

“Barnstorming 1″, by Tracy Mewmaw, Archival Ink Jet Photograph, 19.0 ” x 13.0 ” $80

“Out of the Limelight” by Latisha Yates, Archival Ink Jet Photograph, 16.0 ” x 20.0 ” $35

The Thomas O’Brien Bryant Chandelier I ordered for my dining area has finally arrived and it’s installed. Here’s a little peek! 

And here’s a closer look. I absolutely love it. It really finishes off the space.

_{Thomas O’Brien Bryant Small Chandelier}

So after much debate I finally landed on a light fixture for my dining room! I chose the Thomas O’Brien Bryant Small Chandelier, pictured above. I think the silhouette balances nicely with the curvature of my dining table and chairs and really love its delicate feel. It’s totally classic and the hand rubbed antique brass finish will develop a nice patina over time. It wasn’t one of the options I was originally considering but I’m really happy with my choice. It’s getting installed next weekend and I’ll be sure to post pics!

This is the first of a new series of monthly posts where I’ll be highlighting my top 10 picks for the home that I’m obsessed with right now! Hope you enjoy!

1. Pottery Barn Grand Embroidered Duvet Cover & Shams

Crisp white cotton percale with three-stripe embroidery detail make this bedding chic and timeless. I just ordered this duvet set for my bedroom with monogrammed shams and I LOVE it! The best part? The collection is on sale! $79.99 for a full/queen duvet and $19.00 for a standard sham.

2. Nate Berkus Dhurrie Rug with Fringe from HSN

Nate Berkus can do no wrong in my book! His fabulous dhurrie rugs for HSN are stylish and affordable. I also ordered this rug for my home and can’t wait to receive it! Prices start at $74.95 for a 2′x9′ runner. Available here.

3. High Street Market

High Street Market is one of my absolute favorite Etsy shops and offers chic vintage finds for the home. I’ve been browsing their goods for a while and recently made my first purchases – a stylish brass pineapple box and a crystal Wedgwood paper weight. The customer service couldn’t have been better and my pieces arrived quickly and very well packaged. The inventory at High Street Market is updated often so visit the shop here to see what’s new and be sure to also visit the fabulous and inspiring High Street Market blog!

4. Jonathan Adler Greek Key Letterpressed Note Cards

A bright pink and blue color scheme add a modern twist to these classic letterpressed note cards with Greek key motif. $14.95 for a pack of six cards.

6. Greek Key Nut Bowl from Williams Sonoma Home

Can you tell I have a thing for the Greek key motif? This stylish glass bowl has a brass Greek key base and is perfect for entertaining! $28 available here.

Love fresh flowers? You can have beautiful floral arrangements delivered to your door as often as you like with this innovative subscription based floral service! I’m so tempted to sign up! Right now H. Bloom only serves the New York area but hopes to expand to other markets in the future. Subscriptions start at just $35/week and you can get more info here.

Mirrors are a great way to add dimension to any space. This stylish option from Ballard Designs features a quatrefoil pattern with an antique gold leaf finished frame. $89.00 available here.

10. Blue & White Tea Jar Lamp from Wisteria

I can never get enough of classic blue and white porcelain and this tea jar lamp from Wisteria is just perfect. The drum shade provides a modern contrast to the very traditional Asianscenic pattern. $299 at Wisteria.

So I really need to get rid of the cookie cutter nipple-looking light fixtures that I inherited when I moved into my rental apartment. There are two in my living room that I need to replace and I’m starting with the fixture above my dining table. Below are the lighting options I’m currently considering. I’m leaning towards the Jonathan Adler Meurice pendant or the Thomas O’Brien Hicks pendant. Which do you like best? Thanks for your opinion! xo

Thomas O’Brien Large Hicks Pendant in antique brass from Circa Lighting

_{Chair no. One Five and Credenza no. Two Twenty Five}

I’m utterly obsessed with The New Traditionalists – a fresh, new home furnishings collection brought you by the team who created the modern childrens furniture line ducduc. I had the opportunity to visit The New Traditionalists showroom in Soho a couple of weeks ago to check out the line and chat with the company’s founding partners and was quite impressed with the thoughtfulness and attention to detail that went into creating this collection.

_{Desk no. Two Eleven and Chair no. Twenty Two}

The New Traditionalists furniture collection is actually made up of two lines – MasonGray, a traditional-with-a-twist children’s line that launched last year and Union House, a more grown up version of MasonGray which officially launched this April. The New Traditionalists collection is inspired by classic silhouettes and blends traditional design elements with a modern sensibility to create pieces which prove that traditional can also be cool.

_{Armoire no. Five Sixty Four, Bed no. Sixteen and Side Table no. Five Thirty Five}

The creative team paid exceptional attention to detail when designing the line, referencing details from bespoke menswear tailoring and ensuring that each piece is highly customizable.

_{The variety of finishes available from The New Traditionalists}

The line is designed in New York City and manufactured in Connecticut using sustainable woods and proprietary water based finishes that are also eco-friendly and available in a beautiful variety of colors as shown above. The finishes are hand rubbed and can be combined to create a completely custom look.

_{Dresser no. Seventeen}

The New Traditionalists definitely fills a much needed void in the market. Finally we have collection which combines style and quality with timeless yet modern furnishings. I’m excited about this innovative new collection and can’t wait to watch how The New Traditionalists continues to extend its brand. I’ll leave you with a few more images of the line and these words which sum up the company’s design approach perfectly:

“If you think traditional and cool are not mutually

exclusive, then you are one of

The New Traditionalists.”

_{One of my favorite pieces in the collection – Cabinet no. Two Seventy – which features dark oil rubbed walnut with embossed leather panels.}

_{Chair no. Sixty Six, Coffee Table no. One One, Dresser no. Nine and the beautiful Sofa no. Two Twenty in navy blue distressed leather with contrasting quilt stitching}.

_{A close-up of Dresser no. Nine}

_{A room vignette featuring the Savanah crib and dresser from MasonGray}

Photos above without the So Haute watermark are courtesy of The New Traditionalists