TRUE BLUE

TRUE BLUE

by | Feb 28, 2020 | 2020 March April, Admire

Pantone’s color of the year, Classic Blue, is bringing a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit. This spring season, you’ll spot the rich blue hue all over the runway, red carpet, home designs…and abroad. Our style guru, Tori Johnson of  ThesTORIbook.com, is sharing all the ways you can incorporate this color into your daily life.

INTO THE DEEP BLUE

Classic Blue took over the season’s runway. From solids to textures, designers showed off their creations highlighting this year’s favorite color. Carolina Herrera’s Spring 2020 collection featured the shade using whimsical florals, plaid, and abstract fabric designs that are must-have additions for every wardrobe. At Neiman Marcus. Photo courtesy of Vogue.

SWIRLS OF SAPPHIRE

These stunning studs from de Grisogono’s Chiocciolina Collection are sure to stand out among the rest of your fine jewels. The earrings feature an 18K-white gold setting along with icy diamonds and brilliant sapphires. $15,600. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

DINNER UNDER THE STARS

As part of their 10th-anniversary collection, the L’Objet’s Lapis round platter takes serve ware to the next level. The design mirrors the infamous Mediterranean skies along with a luxurious, hand-gilded 24K gold trim. $550. Photo and availability courtesy of L’Objet.

SPRING SWIRL

Equal parts flirtatious and irreverent, the Mary Short Kaftan in Jaipur is an airy, festive dress with oversized ruffled sleeves, a flouncy hem, chic scoop neck top, and optional belt.
We envision wearing it to a wedding, luncheon, or special dinner, can’t you? $995. At Ala von Auersperg.com.

PATTERN’S NEW PLAY

This Salvatore Ferragamo silk scarf with baroque-style prints offers the perfect pop for any ensemble. $395. Photo and availability courtesy of Ferragamo.com.

BLUE JINLU

This original oil painting by Cheng Jinlu is the perfect addition to any modern home. Each work is painted by hand, so no two paintings will be identical. $2,770. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

SWIVEL IN STYLE

Looking for that living room statement piece? Haute House’s Gia swivel chair is equal parts functional and fashionable. $3,799. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

CAVIAR, ANYONE?

Transform your skin with natural caviar extract in La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream. Their breakthrough science and ingredients help enhance firmness and elasticity to help turn back the years. $505. Photo and availability courtesy of La Prairie.

FUR SURE THRONE

Pooch sleepovers just got easier with this luxurious trundle pet bed. With crushed velvet upholstery, your four-legged friends will feel right at home. $1,699. Photo and availability courtesy of Haute House.

BLOUSON BEAUTY

Erdem’s Tabetha silk-organza maxi dress is perfect for afternoon spring weddings and garden parties. With a plunging neckline and tiered skirt, this dress is sure to be a crowd favorite. $5,795. Photo and availability courtesy of Net-A-Porter.

RAFFIA SLIPPER

From the office to happy hour, these Malone Souliers Jane raffia loafers can take you all around town. Mix up your typical workwear combinations with this pop of color and texture. $625. Photo and availability courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman.

MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE

Why not get lost amongst the blue domes in Santorini, Greece, this spring and summer? Oia offers breathtaking architecture and celebrity-approved hotels. Popular accommodations include Canaves Oia Suites and Adronis Luxury Suites. Photo and availability courtesy of Conde Nast Traveler.

ALL ABOUT AGATE

Wow your guests the next time you entertain with this pure solid, silver-plated agate bowl from ANNA New York. Use it as an elevated serving dish or as an accent piece in the kitchen. $475. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

CLASSIC CRYSTAL

Baccarat’s magnificent crystal creations make the perfect gift any time of year. This extra-large Eye Vase reflects gorgeous blue shades from every angle. $12,500. Photo and availability courtesy of The Menagerie, Austin.

I WANT CANDY

I WANT CANDY

by | Dec 31, 2019 | 2020 January February, Admire, Style

Just like the song from 1982, we always want candy-colored hues in our world all the time. We’ve always believed that fashion should be fun…and designers agree. Runways have ushered in 2020 with vibrant and delightfully scrumptious candy hues that left us ravenous for more, according to our stylish editor Tori Johnson of ThesToryBook.com

TASTE THE RAINBOW

Elie Saab’s spring Ready to Wear 2020 collection made us all have a sweet tooth with the array of sugary colors. Photos courtesy of Vogue.

LET’S PINK ABOUT IT

This Versace logo quilted leather shoulder bag with textured V center comes in three colors (pink, black, and orange) for the perfect complementary accessory. $895. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

SUNNY DAYS AHEAD

Saffron came in as one of the Pantone 2020 colors of the year as it welcomes spring so brightly and joyfully. This blazer by Escada is sure to be a new colorful staple in your closet. $1,695. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

OUT OF THE BOX

These emerald green decorative boxes by Karis feature a gold leaf trim and removable lids. Photo and availability courtesy of Stowers Furniture.

TOASTING TIME

 

Raise a glass with these lovely sorbet-shaded champagne flutes that are individually hand-painted with a fine gold rim. $38 for a set of two. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

SMOOTH MOVES

Whether you’re at the office or attending a wedding, these Manolo Blahnik satin flats are perfect for the classic fashionista. $955. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

SNEAKING AROUND

The chunky sneaker trend is here to stay, and these iridescent ones from Alice + Olivia take the trend to the next level. $325. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

OVER THE RAINBOW

This 14-carat yellow gold band from designer Jane Taylor’s Cirque Collection features a line of rainbow gemstones: amethyst, iolite, blue topaz, green tourmaline, citrine, and red garnet. $770. Photo and availability courtesy of Lee Michaels.

REALLY, I’M TICKLED PINK

This caftan-inspired silhouette by Oscar de la Renta is stunning with its cape-like sleeves and trailing train. $2,890. Photo and availability courtesy of Net-a-Porter.

A PLACE IN THE SUN

Shield your eyes in style with these sunglasses from Versace. $295. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

POUT PERFECTION

 

Swipe on this Jane Iredale luscious lip gloss for lips that are hydrated and colorful. $26. Photo and availability courtesy of Julian Gold.

ALL THE COLORS

 

A total statement piece–this Hayward handbag features holographic rainbow python snakeskin. $2,450. Photo and availability courtesy of Julian Gold.

MUSIC TO MY EARS

Queue up your favorite playlist on this Bang & Olufsen Beoplay AI speaker that fits in the palm of your hand. $250. Photo and availability courtesy of Bang & Olufsen.

COLOR CHOICES

 

Lancome’s Color Design Eyeshadow Palette includes eight different shades along with a mini primer to ensure an all-day look. $49. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

by | Oct 31, 2019 | 2019 November December, Style, Feature Two

Holiday shopping for those near and dear has never been more exciting than now. Join our team of expert gift givers, led by Jake Gaines, Tori Johnson, Alexandra del Lago, and Lance Avery Morgan, who have gathered the finest of the finest to make gift giving even more special this season.

BALLROOM TO ASCOT

Every gentleman deserves custom suiting and from Texas to London, bespoke clothiers are measuring up so you can look like the lord of the manor. Prices upon request. Photo courtesy of Neal & Palmer

BOXING DAY

This blue embossed Shagreen jewelry box with brass trim is the perfect size for any vanity area. Or, perhaps in the pool house. $850. At Aerin.com

REALITY? REALLY.

Impress even the best gamer teen in your house with this new virtual reality all-in-one gaming headset for breathtaking you-are-there VR experiences. $499. At Oculus.com

DELIGHTFUL & DIVINE

A chocolate truffles gift box is a grand gesture in every way. This package is as sumptuous to view as it is to open and enjoy. Eighty of the finest chocolate truffles are brought together in one extraordinary gift box from Houston’s favorite chocolatier. $165. At Cacao and Cadamon

LET’S STAY IN TONIGHT

For those special evenings at home, this limited-edition lounging robe in the classic Tish Cox style speaks to the glamour of yesteryear that  can be yours right now. The exaggerated kimono-style sleeves give glimpses of the gorgeous colors on the backside of the mint green silk fabric. Go ahead, start the fire. $495. At ShopTheSil.com

SMOOTH OPERATOR

This Angle razor is made from lightweight anodized aluminum, holds a single disposable blade, and will be the coolest thing in your bathroom as you revive the art of shaving. $110. At Mr. Porter

PADDLES UP

For the beachcomber who has everything, these two wooden beach rackets and a leather ball with a pouch, will have you wanting to hit the sand immediately. $810. At Berluti.com

IT’S IN THE BAG

What Texan doesn’t have boots worth preserving? This monogram-able boot bag is a high style way to travel with them. $463. At William & Son

SPEAK TO ME

The Xoundbar Bluetooth stereo speaker is the perfect size to take the music party with you anywhere you go. $40. At X-mini.com

DIVE, THEN DRONE

PowerVision aqua drone is an intelligent water drone equipped with 215° dual-joint rotation 4K camera. Ideal for recording water sports or capturing magnificent seascapes to remember. $799. At PowerVision.me

EVENTFULLY WE’LL KNOW

Special times of your life can now be preserved for you and your loved ones in this Ticket Stub Diary that holds memories from concerts, sporting events, museums, and more. $14. At UncommonGoods.com

WHICH WAY IS UP?

This Voyager Expedition flask with compass in blue mother of pearl will keep your favorite spirit handy in the best of locations. $105. At Dalvey.com

SURF’S ALWAYS UP

With a timeless allure and palpable cool, this decorative art piece captures the spirit of California in iconic style. Made of Russian Birch plywood and finished with genuine surf resin. $8000. At Kelly Wearstler.com

RESORTING TO GREAT LENGTHS

As the winter resort beckons, be prepared in this oversized hat that’s sure to garner shade, compliments—and second glances. $550. At Eliurphi.com

CONVERSATION STARTER

This Michael Aram chess set is the sleekest one we’ve ever seen. Not only  does it look gorgeous on any table, you’ll be flexing your strategic brain muscles as you play. $1800. At Neiman Marcus

ARE YOU BEING SERVED?

Colorize any room instantly with this party-ready wooden lacquer tray with a wave effect metal trim and ball feet for a pretty presentation. $555. At MelissaGoad.com

SILKY SENSATION

 

Texans Brandon Maxwell and illustrator Jules Buck Jones collaborated to create this colorful silk scarf as the perfect accessory to any winter outfit. $295. At Brandon Maxwell

LET’S BE PERFECTLY CLEAR

The clear It bag of the season is one of our favorites. This Valentino Garavani Rockstud purse will see you through anything. $2445. At Neiman Marcus

SAILING THROUGH LIFE

No one captures sun, sport and surf better than photographer Gray Malin. Have an endless summer with  this limited-edition print, The Sailor, Tucker’s Town, Bermuda. $2999. At GrayMalin.com

TWO OF A KIND

These XL Grand Tour God Busts are the perfect accessory for any tabletop in any room. Brightly colored, these glass objet d’art can add a light whimsy to the most serious of rooms. $795 each. At Jonathan Adler.

STANDING TALL

Cowboy boots as style must-haves are back and never have we seen such colorful interpretations as by the West Texan-native designers and sister duo founders of Miron Crosby. With their signature  handmade, perfect fit, you’ll want several pair of these beauties. Prices vary, $1900-$4000 a pair. At MironCrosby.com

CARRY ON, STYLE GURU

The Royal Check Bistro bag is built to go from city to country and back again. We’ can’t resist the multi-print blue that’s always right. $180. At Saks Fifth Avenue

COME ON IN

This witty doormat sets the tone for a fun time ahead. We couldn’t resist the vintage 80s vibe with the cassette tape motif. Personalize with your own message. So, go ahead, stay awhile. $38. At UncommonGoods.com

COASTING TO SUCCESS

The perfect hostess gift  will be a year ‘round visual feast for the eyes in these semi-precious agate coasters that are hand-polished in Brazil. Set of 4. $80. At Saks Fifth Avenue.

TINY TREASURES

Perfect for any last-minute gift, this Original Garden Jewel Succulent Garden will delight any recipient with its presentation box full of green goodness. $35. At LulusGarden.com

SWEET DREAMS

Guarantee the perfect night’s sleep every day of the week. Made from only the finest materials, Savior’s luxury beds help regulate body temperature and improve the quality of REM sleep. Custom made to order at SaviorBeds.com

LET’S WRAP THIS UP

Protect your hair from heat damage, but still create the best curls of the season with Dyson’s Airwrap hair styler. Each set comes with interchangeable attachments to achieve the style you desire. $550 at Dyson.com

CHIC STORAGE

Kick your stainless appliances to the curb. This Dolce Gabbana and SMEG Carretto refrigerator is the kitchen addition you’ve been yearning for. $10,000. At Bergdorf Goodman

SIP & SERVE

Add elegance to any table with this Franco Lapini centerpiece. The top includes six cylinders for serving vodka, surrounding a small container to house caviar. Now that’s a perfect combination. $3,360 at Artemest.com

THE FUTURE IS HERE

Keep the kids entertained without having them glued to a screen.  Codi is an AI-enabled toy that provides children with classic songs and stories, and even encourages good habits (like naps, clean-up, and brushing teeth) to provide developmental support while they aren’t in the classroom. From Pillar Learning. $99.99. At Amazon

BOTTLE SERVICE

Designing a dream wine cabinet is easy with the help of Grandeur Cellars. Create a custom design that’s the perfect display for your home and budget. Price upon request and consultations at GrandeurCellars.com

BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT

Nobody likes to be stressed around the holidays. NuCalm is a safe neuroscience technology that quickly calms you, and naturally brings your body to the pre-sleep states through deep relaxation and idleness. Packages include noise-cancelling headphones, relaxation discs, light-blocking glasses, eye-mask, and more. $4,695 at NuCalm.com

RAINING CATS AND DOGS

Harsh weather never looked so inviting. Shield yourself from the rain in style with this Pasotti umbrella. The enamel brass handles are available in a number of designs. $285 at PasottiOmbrelli.com

SLIP INTO SOMETHING SOFT

Loro Piana’s cashmere slippers are taking loungewear up a notch. The quilted cashmere fabric provides warmth and comfort over an anti-slip suede sole. Pair these with one of Piana’s luxurious cashmere robes as a gift for any loungewear lover. $3,650 for robe and $690 for slippers. At LoroPiana.com.

SCENTED MAGIC

Fill your home with scents of rose and saffron with the Catene Scarlatto candle by Richard Gionori. There are more than 12 different designs to choose from for all your candle-loving friends. $205. At RichardGinori1735.com

SET SAIL WITH REGAL HISTORY

Cruise the Galapagos Islands like a celebrity on Grace Kelly’s honeymoon yacht. This 18-guest cruise will give you a taste of the ship’s history while enjoying activities like kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, stargazing and much more. Starting at $6,900 at Quasarex.com 

Image courtesy of Vogue.com

ON DISPLAY

Setting sail, soon? This Venezia Royal Trunk is the storage piece for any antique lover. The exterior is covered with leather and solid brass hardware, while the soft interior compartments house the trinkets. $40,350 at Artemest.com.

CELESTIAL CIRCLET

Add some sparkle with the Vespera Circlet by Jennifer Behr. This delicate headband features crystal stars and is so lightweight that you’ll forget you have it on. Each circlet is made by hand and crafted to perfection. $575. At JenniferBehr.com

PRECIOUS SCENTS

Inspired by Bulgari’s most precious gemstones, this selection of six perfume scents comprise  the perfect set. These exquisite scents are made in Italy. Que bella. $280. At Bulgari.com

NOW, FOR A ZEN MOMENT

The Buddha Board is a relaxation tool that encourages creative expression, being in the moment, and letting go using only water, a bamboo brush and a clean slate. Each brush stroke transforms your worries into a work of art and then is sent off into the universe as the water dries and the image disappears. Like magic. $34.95. At Amazon

TWO ON THE AISLE

Broadway is better than ever. With a play or musical to suit every taste, the experience of a major league production will stay with you forever. Priceless. At Broadway.com

SERENDIPITOUSLY SATIN

SERENDIPITOUSLY SATIN

by | Aug 30, 2019 | 2019 September October, Admire, Style

As luck would have it, satin is no longer reserved for evenings only. This season you can find it effortlessly added into everyday ensembles from hair accessories to shoes. Our satin style maven, Tori Johnson of ThesTORIbook.com, shares all the ways you can incorporate it into your wardrobe and the world around.

SMOOTH AS SILK

The fabric was previously reserved for the upper class but now transcends across financial barriers and trends are bringing it into today’s mainstream fashion. Giorgio Armani’s Fall 2019 collection intricately draped the textile in imaginative ways creating volume and fluidity. Photo courtesy of WWD.

AROUND THE HOUSE

Wrap yourself up in this luxurious satin robe by Nouvelle Palm Beach as you lounge. Warning: you may not want to leave the house. $232. At The Garden Room.

CREAMY COLOR

This Rouge Pur Couture satin lipstick will keep your lips silky all day long with a slight touch of color. $38. Photo and availability courtesy of Yves Saint Laurent.

SATIN’S SCENT

Say hello to your new favorite perfume. All of your friends will be asking where they can get this Armani Prive’ Lazuli scent. $290. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

JUMPING THROUGH HOOPS

These satin-wrapped Dannijo hoops instantly add wow-factor to any outfit. $170. Photo and availability courtesy of Shopbop.

SMOOTH MOVES

Whether you’re at the office or attending a wedding, these Manolo Blahnik satin flats are perfect for the classic fashionista. $955. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

SLIP INTO THIS

We found your new date night look. This Orseund Iris satin slip dress will turn heads wherever you are, and yes, the 90s are back. $795. Photo and availability courtesy of Net-A-Porter.

TO TOP IT OFF

Bad hair day? No problem. This Eugenia Kim navy wide-brim fedora with a satin ruched band is the perfect accessory to take into fall. $445. Photo and availability courtesy of Eugenia Kim.

THE RIGHT SHADE

This ombre satin mono eyeshadow by Clarins will be your new go-to neutral hue. $25. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

WHILE IN A CLUTCH

Add a pop of color to a neutral outfit with this Titania crystal satin clutch by Jimmy Choo. $995. Photo and availability courtesy of Jimmy Choo.

BOLDLY GO

We’re positive we’ve found the perfect place to honeymoon. Positano, Italy is a trifecta of good food, great people and breathtaking views. Photo courtesy of Italy Magazine.

 

ON THE TABLEAUX

Dinner party at your house this weekend? Dress up your tablescape with these couture satin stitch napkins. $126. Photo and availability courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman.

BACK IN STYLE

The headband is back and better than ever, especially this silk satin design from Jennifer Behr $188. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

FIT TO BE TIED

Tie on a silk scarf by Donni in your hair, on your bag  or around your neck for color and accessorizing prestige. $211 (set of 2). Photo and availability courtesy of Moda Operandi.

RED CARPET READY

Top off your bridal look with this stunning veil in delicate Chantilly lace that offers a breath of fresh air for the blushing bride. $750. Photo and availability courtesy of BHLDN.

THE BIG DAY

THE BIG DAY

by | Jun 29, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Admire, Style

Wedding season is in full swing, which means it’s the perfect time to shower newlyweds with gifts they won’t forget. From home decor to wedding weekend style, it’s no secret that timeless pieces are the answer. Our glam nuptial guru, Tori Johnson, of ThesTORIbook.com, is sharing her curated collection of wedding must-haves.

SOMETHING BLUE

When combining households, it’s often better to start anew. Help turn a house into a home with a roomful of furniture as a gift. Photo and availability courtesy of Stowers Furniture.

FROM DAY TO NIGHT

From engagement teas and luncheons, to parties galore, give them a hint of what’s to come with this darling White Pilar ensemble created by Tish Cox,  featuring an oversized bow that cascades down the back. $895. Photo and exclusive availability at TheSIL.com

THE PERFECT POUR

No table is complete without a statement centerpiece. Every hostess with the mostest will adore this crystal beauty by Lily. $400. At The Menagerie, Austin.

SAUTE IN STYLE

Step aside stainless steel, copper is the new “it” metal taking over the household. This Duparquet copper set is the same cookware used in Neiman Marcus restaurants. $3,875. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus

BIG DAY BLING

These Aquazzura heels will make every bride feel like a star as she walks the aisle in style. $1,350. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

BRILLAINT BARWARE

Want to get the party started? Delight the lucky duo with handmade cocktail napkins that contain uniquely festive messages. $40 for a set of 4. At AugustMorgan.com and The Menagerie, Austin.

LIGHT A FIRE

This set of two candle holders by Michael Aram is perfect for the bridal couple’s new home. The collection was inspired by anemone flowers, which are said to bring good luck and offer protection. $350. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus

IN FULL BLOOM

For the bride who adores her floral, gift this Jay Strongwater handcrafted glass vase with hand-set Swarovski crystals. $450. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

CLASSICALLY CRYSTAL

This Ben-Amun crystal and pearl hair piece will transform any ‘do into a Pinterest-worthy creation. From $240. Photo and availability courtesy of Ben-Amun.

HAPPIEST HOURS AHEAD

Take cocktail hour up a notch with a new statement piece for their chic home like this brass and acrylic bar cart. $1450. At Jonathan Adler.

LA DOLCE VITA

We’re positive we’ve found the perfect place to honeymoon. Positano, Italy is a trifecta of good food, great people and breathtaking views. Photo courtesy of Italy Magazine.

 

FEELING FRESH

Nothing makes a home seem as entertaining-ready as fresh flowers. The Bouqs Company makes life easier with multiple subscription options for a constant rotation of blooms. Photo and availability courtesy of The Bouqs Company.

LET THEM EAT CAKE

From bridal teas to luncheons to the ceremony, the right cake always makes a statement. As individual as each bride, it’s sweetness endures. Prices vary. Photo and availability courtesy of Paiges Bakehouse

MODERN CHECKMATE

Ace game night with this luxe version of a backgammon set that’s perfect for any coffee table. $2,500. Photo and availability courtesy of Michael Aram.

THE FINISHING TOUCH

Top off your bridal look with this stunning veil in delicate Chantilly lace that offers a breath of fresh air for the blushing bride. $750. Photo and availability courtesy of BHLDN.