We all have our favorite linen napkins and hand painted dinnerware.  But sometimes you have a lot of guests or a crowd shows up for a last-minute pool party (hey, we live in L.A.), and it’s gracious to never fuss when you entertain. 

Those are perfect times to use paper napkins and acrylic.  The good news is that you can still do it stylishly. We love making our friends feel special, so here are a few of our tried-and-true tips for entertaining with paper:

1. Mix and match your table settings. If your plates have an intricate motif, pick up the colors in your napkins or glassware. Or, if you are using plain dinnerware, choose a festive napkin to commemorate a special occasion.
2. Layer your settings. Whether you lay simple placemats, or chargers, or a tablecloth underneath, layers help bring color and dimension to your table.
3. Don’t skimp on table decorations. Try greenery from your garden or fruit from the market or a few candles sprinkled throughout … it all helps.
4. Use paper napkins effectively. Place them near your beverage and hors d’oeuvre stations, but also use them to line any clear bowls you might have. For example, parfaits served in coupe bowls can be beautifully presented on top of cocktail napkins.
5. The grand finale: make sure your plates complement your dessert. We all look forward to indulging a little at the end, so think about what you’re serving and dress it up accordingly.

Keeps things simple, and get to work on that new drink you are dying to try out. Let’s get the party started.

Click here to see how you can entertain with paper napkins, placemats, and plates.

We hear you … it takes effort to cook meal after meal while quarantining, so why not take the whole family outdoors and do a seaside escape?

Let everyone pitch in … the kids can set the tables, the adults can help carry the plates and the drinks, and uberEats can bring the food. So now all you have to do is choose the music and wear that gorgeous straw hat with your biggest shades.

Carousel of Products

To see more Seaside Escape pieces, click here.

We love working with coffee tables, as they are both beautiful and infinitely practical.  Here are some of our best design tips.

1. Generally, your coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa.

2. A coffee table should either align with the seat of the sofa or be about one to two inches lower.

3. Place your coffee table 18 inches away from your sofa, or any other seating in the room.  If it faces a TV stand or fireplace, leave at least 30 inches from the edge of the coffee table for walking around.

4. In oversized rooms, you can often combine coffee tables to create what you need.  For a large square, place two rectangular ones side by side.  Or get creative and join three triangular ones to form a neat whimsical shape.

5. For a more relaxed feel, an ottoman is a practical option, beloved by kids of all sizes.  For drinks and snacks, you can always add a tray on top.

6. If you have small children, avoid sharp corners by either choosing an ottoman or an oval or round table.  Waterfall edges are also a great choice.  Also, you may want to stay away from glass until the tots are a bit older.

7. In a small space, glass or acrylic coffee tables almost virtually disappear, so they’ll make the room feel lighter.  Plus, you can easily wipe them down, so they’re great for drinks.

8. Mirrored and metal coffee tables are a great way to bring glamour and light to a room.

9. If you have rounded or curved seating, a circular or oval coffee table usually work best.

10. Unusual geometric shapes are appropriate in rooms inspired by foreign travels.

11. “If the room is neutral, a pop of color in your coffee table can serve as the art in the space. (Nicole Fuller of Nicole Fuller Interiors via The Wall Street Journal)

12. Bring the outdoors in with a beautiful wood coffee table.  “We love to offset straight lines of furniture with a natural, organically shaped tree stump coffee table. The irregular, natural shape is a great contrast to furniture and straight lines within the room and is a great way to bring in natural elements inside. (Holly Waterfield, designer for The Brooklyn Home Company via The Wall Street Journal)

13. A stone coffee table can elevate any space.

Ready to pick out your favorites? Check out some of our most popular coffee tables:

.

Want to see more?  See our entire selection of coffee tables here.

Red rooms make a statement.  In deep red, they are rich, elegant, refined, sumptuous, and dramatic.  Brick reds are more earthy, so they’re evocative of country interiors.  And bright reds – like lipsticks – are passionate, powerful, and stimulating.  Here are some of our favorite red rooms.

Red Library: Assouline Paris

Details: Here, the strong orange-red details are lightened by warm beige (in the rug and the limestone walls), but then given a graphic punch by the dark wood cabinetry.  This is a perfect way to balance two dominant colors (red and black).

Carousel of Products

Red Sitting Room: Carolyne Roehm at Weatherstone

Details: The reds in this room contain shades of blue which are expertly picked up by the blue vase, blue matting around the paintings, and blue details in the upholstery and the rug.  To create a warming effect (perfect around a fireplace), this setting is tied together with gold details.

Carousel of Products

Red Drawing Room: Michelle Nussbaumer

Details: While predominantly red and blue, Michelle’s room shows how you can layer different tints of the same color (reds with pinks, blues with light blues) for a foolproof scheme.  The presence of yellow, warm greens, and wood accents warms up the room.

Carousel of Products

Red Living Room: Alessandra Branca’s 2015 Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse

Details: Mixed with lots of ivory, this red room feels fresh and lighthearted.  So if you love red but don’t want a heavy look, just use it more sparingly.

Carousel of Products

And for those who can’t get enough, you can always take it with you:

Red Wheels: Michelle Nussbaumer’s ikat red truck

Carousel of Products

To see more ways to decorate with red, click here.

When Yves Saint Laurent visited Marrakesh for the first time in 1966, it transformed him forever.  The strong sun, lush colors, and intricate patterns you see everywhere left an indelible mark in his mind.  “Marrakech taught me color,” he said.  “Before Marrakech, everything was black.”

Indeed, one of the most important parts of Saint Laurent’s legacy has been the Jardin Majorelle, the garden he restored with Pierre Berge and a must-see on any trip to Marrakesh.  (Tip for visitors: they don’t take credit cards, so bring plenty of dirhams to cover your entry fees.)  The original garden has been joined by the Musee Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech, and plans are now being made to open up Saint Laurent and Berge’s private home (Villa Oasis) to the public.

When it opens, you should think about going to Marrakesh just to see this.  Not only is the house itself spectacular, it captures all the iconic elements of Moorish and Arabesque design, which then fed our favorite Mediterranean, Tuscan, Spanish Revival, and Southwestern styles of architecture and design.  Indeed, there’s literally so much to see at Villa Oasis, it could be hard to absorb in one visit.

Starting from the outdoors, this space is surrounded by a riot of warm weather plants.  Here, fuchsia bougainvillea creates a vibrant canopy in the outdoor patio:

Pink against cool turquoise.  Maybe not a combination you’d naturally pick out in the morning, but it works so well here.

Carousel of Products

A hand-carved and hand-painted cedar door, framed with intricately carved molding.

The darker and cooler colors of the interior walls contrast with the bright door that still hints at the light outside.  Here are some ideas inspired by this scene:

Carousel of Products

Decorated by Jacques Grange, the blue and green furnishings echo the palette of the tiled fireplace.

The cooler colors and lavish yet elegant patterns could work in many interiors:

Carousel of Products

Designed for musicians to entertain visitors, this nook in the entrance hall was frequented by Marella Agnelli, Betty and Francois Catroux, and Loulou de la Falaise.

Party time!  The hot colors suggest fun, and using them consistently inside and outside create one space for indoor-outdoor entertaining:

Carousel of Products

The intricately detailed Moorish library is too gorgeous for words:

There’s simply so much color, pattern, and rich decoration.  It’s as if not just books but the whole world of design is being collected in this one space.

Carousel of Products

Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge’s master bedroom; the hand-carved headboard was painted to match the space:

Isn’t this space a pure work of fantasy?

Carousel of Products

The villa’s top floor, called the Minzah, was designed and painted by Saint Laurent.

This space is at once pure Marrakesh and at the same time gives us ideas that could bring a little fun anywhere:

Carousel of Products

And finally, more shots of Jacques Grange’s custom upholstery:

.
Carousel of Products

Did this transport you to Marrakesh? If so, click here or see below for more Marrakesh picks:

Carousel of Products

Soaring ceilings.  Dramatic windows flooded with light.  Views across Manhattan to the rivers.  Today’s ultra-luxurious penthouses, like those you’ve seen on Million Dollar Listing New York, have a wonderful Master of the Universe feeling to them:

But in fact, they’re quite challenging to furnish correctly.  The angular walls, metal casement windows, and double height ceilings can feel cold, generic, and even a bit too industrial.  These spaces are begging for the right finishing touches to make them soar and feel like home.

To decorate these spaces correctly, you first have to take a step back and study them.  What does a space like this really say?  How do you want to feel when you’re living here?  Imagine yourself standing there underneath 20-foot ceilings.  At the corners you have huge structural columns going up.  Surrounding you are metal windows with rhythmic angular lines.  You look down and see rows and rows of old buildings crammed together.  You look up and see to the limitless horizon.

In a word, it wants you to feel “This Is What I Have Wrought.”  That you have brought this world at the top of the city into being with your own strength.  None of it existed before.  None of it was given to you.  But as you stare out into the distance, the world still beckons with even further opportunities.  There are no limits.

Now what would happen if you filled this space with pastel colors?  Or gilded furniture and damask curtains?  The riot of colors and patterns would quickly take away the views and the strong envelope of the space.  On the other hand, if the space only had the predictable modern furniture, it would feel unimaginative and probably uncomfortable.

This is the basic dilemma of such a space: How do you capture spirit of the space, while lending it the richness of your life?

I found a really great example of this with architect-turned-developer Cary Tamarkin’s newest building on West 29th Street.  The marble walls, hardwood floors, and soaring space really came to life with the right furnishings:

This space came together well because it followed these important guidelines:

– Stay within a narrow, neutral color palette.  The City is a serious place, with glass and steel buildings and people in grey and black.  You don’t see neon signs outside.  Don’t put them inside.

– Reference all the major materials in the space: the marble surfaces, the concrete, the wood floors, and the white gallery walls.  That way your design feels like it naturally belongs here.

– Keep it abstract.  Your space is forward thinking.  Just like you.  And your art and furnishings.

– Do not compete with the views.  Keep furnishings low and sleek.

– Choose objects that are large enough for the space.  Remember, you are working with soaring ceilings, so you want to highlight that.

– Make the space comfortable, but edit yourself.  Choose tailored furnishings.

– Layer in antiques.  You did, after all, exist before this penthouse.   You’ve traveled and collected, and those pieces belong here.  They should just look like they belong in this space, not like there’s been an abrupt turn in your life.

If you’re decorating a space like this, here are a few pieces to get you started:

1. Large, minimalist low pile rug in a neutral color.  The rug defines a comfortable seating area.   It also helps to muffle noise, which could be an issue for such a large space.  The minimalist design, low pile, and neutral color like taupe, grey, or even charcoal are perfect for a space like this:

2. A sofa like this one is sleek, neutral, and comfortable; the low profile maximizes your views.

3. Bring in the various textures of the space in the accessory pieces, like this coffee table with a stone top that complements, but not exactly matches, the marble on the wall:

4. Similarly, echo the warmth of the floors with wood and leather furniture.  Get extra points for finding quirky, sculptural shapes.

5. Add a few, carefully chosen accessories to the space.  Starting with the coffee table, bring in interesting books, layer in dark details (to pick up the soaring metal windows) and add height with sculptural forms.

6.Warm up your sofas with pillows and blankets in cashmere, wool, and faux fur, again in subtle neutral colors:

7. On the walls, add interesting mirrors and artwork with simple lines:

8. For lighting, pick pieces that have clean lines, but are not too contemporary.  The space is already modern enough; a more transitional piece will make it feel timeless.

9. Add greenery or modern florals.  They’ll soften the space.

10. Don’t forget a bit of whimsy.

Shop the Modern Penthouse

.
To see more items in our Modern Penthouse collection, click here.

Bathrooms are the hardest working rooms in every home, so it’s really important to keep them looking fresh.  Here are 7 easy ways to upgrade them:

1) A set of matching bath accessories.

2) A bottle of liquid soap.

3) A scented candle.

4) A set of linen guest towels.

5) A new robe.

6) A new shower curtain.

7) A set of new towels.

To see more bath accessories, click here.

Summer’s here, and although we can’t all be sailing with Beyonce and Jay Z around the Mediterranean, you can definitely live la dolce vita at home.

Here’s how you do it.

Start with takeout salad and sandwiches from your local deli.

Set out a gold charger, to bring in some sun.

Add a marine blue dinner plate.  Notice how the gold detailing along the center rim picks up the glow from the charger.

Now, a napkin.  Which looks good, but a little flat.

So quickly add a napkin ring … gold coral looks good here.

Plate your salad and add a glass.  This one’s acrylic (and super popular onboard megayachts), but feels just like the real thing.

Need flatware?  The plastic forks and knives from the deli definitely won’t do.  So bring out this chic gold flatware set from Herdmar, and pour your ice tea out.  Don’t forget the lemon; it’s what the crew would do for you.

And finally, set out your sandwiches on an gorgeous blue coral tray.

Play some music, and you’re done!  Like what you saw?  Take a look at our “Do Takeout Like the .01%” collection.  Because really, you don’t have to cook to eat well at home.

To see all our Dining Makeover Videos, click here.

Which materials are used in RabLabs designs?

RabLabs designs are created using semi-precious gemstones, combined with pure silver, 24k gold, and rose gold. They also utilize materials like stainless steel, plated metals, and glass.  These materials are chosen to last forever, and to retain their quality for generations to come.  Each piece is unique, because of the materials, and the variation in the designs.

Where do the materials come from?

All RabLabs pieces are designed in areas of the world close to where the gemstones originate, in partnership with multi-generation, family-owned artisanal companies in Brazil and Italy, to produce these hand-made designs.

What is natural variance, and how will it affect my item?

Each of the gemstones used in RabLabs designs is natural, hand-selected, and unique. Therefore, these products will vary in size, shape, and color.  While RabLabs has standardized its pieces to a degree, nature will always dictate some variance.  It is this variation that makes these pieces rare and one-of-a-kind.  Unfortunately, it is not possible to fulfill requests for more or less striations, a specific color shade, or a particular size or shape.

How do I care for my RabLabs pieces?

Most of RabLabs pieces simply need to be wiped clean with a soft, damp cloth. Products with pure silver gilding will require cleaning with silver polish.

SaveSave

Thomas Keller.  Among all the celebrity chefs, he is known as the ultimate perfectionist: The best ingredients.  Flawless technique.  Perfect finish.  This is probably why he has won numerous James Beard awards and is the only American chef with two top-rated Michelin 3-star restaurants: The French Laundry in Napa Valley, which revolutionized fine dining, and Per Se in New York, which took it to a new level.

The secret of his success, though, is not just great cooking. Keller also knows how to make his culinary creations look like art.  He’s such an expert on presenting food, he even designed his own Limoges porcelain dinnerware.

After some studying, we uncovered some of his secrets for showcasing food as art.  Whether you’re a star chef or rely on uberEats, we hope these techniques will take your meals to new levels of sophistication:

1. Make It a Hero

A museum shows each work of art separately, with plenty of space in between to give you time to pause and absorb what you’ve seen. Similarly, you should do this for your food: Break up a meal into its courses and each course into its components. Highlighting each component, with room in between, turns the humblest side dish into a hero:

2.  Frame Your Courses

Every course you serve should be properly framed, just like fine art.  And just like art, the plates that frame your food could either complement it or contrast it for greater focus.

3.  Create a Focal Point

To create a sense of drama, use special dishes that draw the eye to the food being served.  

4.  Follow the Food’s Natural Shapes

Some foods already have strong shapes — a square or oval slice of cake, a round souffle, or an oval quenelle dumpling.  In those cases, naturally follow the shape of the food you’re serving.

5. Create Subtle Contrasts

Some foods, like risotto, do not naturally have any form or shape.  For dishes like that, Keller designed a complementary Checks pattern dinnerware with a subtle checked pattern.  This adds contrasts and interest to the course, without overwhelming it with strong colors or patterns.

6. Use Geometric Shapes to add Contrast

Another way to highlight a course is to use interesting and unexpected geometric shapes, like in these examples:

7. Create a Sense of Rhythm

Set items one after the other, in a regular space and with similar pieces or sizes, to create a sense of rhythm as the person experiences each part of the meal.

8. Unify with a Color Scheme

Every museum or gallery exhibit has a deliberately chosen wall color to tie it all together.  When there are many different color or patterns, white is usually the unifying color. This is exactly what Thomas Keller has done so well.  His pure white Limoges porcelain dishes bring together an entire meal, from dark colored soups to brightly colored meats and vegetables to ivory and cream risottos and desserts.  They are all celebrated like works of art.

Bringing it all together…

…just like a Master Chef!

Shop Thomas Keller Dinnerware

Hommage Dinnerware

Checks Dinnerware

SaveSave

Considering that we use our beds and pillows every day, very few of us think about properly protecting them.  But between the inevitable accidents, allergies, and concerns over dust mites and bed bugs, it’s a good idea to be proactive.  Here are a few simple solutions to keeping your bedrooms clean.

1. Keep your bedroom cool and dry.
2. Eliminate clutter.
3. Choose a hypoallergenic mattress.
4. Use mattress, pillow, duvet, and featherbed protectors (more on that below).  They offer protection against spills and accidents, and reduce the amount of sweat, dirt, hair, and body cells that make it onto your bed.  If bugs are a concern, wrap your mattress, box spring, and pillows in allergen-blocking bed coverings.
5. Air out your bed for 10-15 minutes before making it each morning.  If you have a ceiling fan, turn it on to circulate air.
6. Wash your linens once a week, using your regular detergent or Linen Wash.  Wash your pillows and duvets with Down Wash as needed.
7. Vacuum regularly.  Vacuums with double-layered micro-filter bags or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are best for containing dust.
8. Keep your windows closed, or install screens in all your windows.
9. Keep food and drinks away from your bed.
10. Have your pets sleep on a separate bed.  Even the best behaved pets walk outside, drool, shed hair, and have the occasional accident.

Aside from keeping your room clean, the easiest way to keep your bedding in good shape is by using a protector.  There are different types of protectors available depending on your needs.

The most common protectors are made from cotton.  These are designed to protect mattresses and pillows from light perspiration and stains, and are machine washable.  If you don’t have any other concerns, these are perfect for keeping your bedding clean (see Cotton Mattress Protectors and Cotton Pillow Protectors).

If you prefer to avoid materials that have been treated with chemicals and are grown in a more sustainable environment, go with machine washable, GOTS-certified organic cotton protectors (see Organic Cotton Pillow Protectors).

If you love wool because it is comfortable, breathable, and naturally flame retardant, choose a protector that is machine washable (see St Dormeir Wool Mattress Protectors and Wool Pillow Protectors).

If you’re concerned about bed bugs and dust mites, choose an allergy protector.  Made from 100% cotton, these protectors are designed to help prevent dust mites or bed bugs from getting into bedding.  These products contain no chemical finishes.  They are made from pure, natural cotton that has been specially woven and finished to stay dust-mite proof.  Note: these protectors are not allergen proof; an item has to be almost airtight in order to make this claim (see Allergy Mattress Covers, Allergy Pillow Protectors, Allergy Featherbed Protectors, and Allergy Duvet Cover Protectors).

To protect against spills or incontinence, use a waterproof protector, which have a special antimicrobial finish to keep your mattress clean (see Waterproof Mattress Protectors and Waterproof Pillow Protectors).

TRADITION

There’s an old Scandinavian tradition that when a woman got married, her parents would give the couple a new down duvet and pillows made by her mother, with a coin sewn into the duvet for good luck.  At St. Gèneve, this charming tradition continues.  All St. Gèneve down duvets have a coin sewn in, with the same spirit of good wishes.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR DUVET

Higher quality duvets are more versatile: they will be warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer than lower quality duvets. This is because higher quality down is better at insulation, lightness, and breathability than lower quality down. The table below illustrates how this works.

Duvets are offered in three weights:

Winter Weight – recommended for average sleepers in cool to cold bedrooms. Winter duvets are guaranteed to be warm enough for a period of 10 years, or St. Gèneve will add more down at no charge, providing that the duvet has been properly cared for, and a duvet cover used at all times. Please note that down cannot be removed from a duvet.

Classic Weight – recommended for warm sleepers and heated bedrooms.

Summer Weight – recommended for very warm sleepers, in warm conditions

Dual Zone – St. Gèneve can make duvets with different weights on two sides; for example, a Classic weight on one side and a Winter weight on the other.

SÖVING™  – this adjustable duvet lets you choose how cool or warm you want it to be.

TYPES OF DOWN

Genuine Eiderdown: 700+ Fill Power Eiderdown
– Eiderdown is the softest and highest insulating down in the world.
– It is warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer.
– It is lightweight, and it takes less weight of Eiderdown than any other down to get the same warmth.
– Its advanced insulating capacity allows it to adjust to the temperature of the person under the duvet.
– Hand collected from birds’ nests at Canadian Eider Duck sanctuaries.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– Tests at 700 loft, but its unique high density and cling make it insulate better than a 1000 loft down.

View Genuine Eiderdown Duvet with Silk Cover, Genuine Eiderdown Pillow with Silk Cover, Genuine Eiderdown Duvet with Cotton Cover,  Genuine Eiderdown Pillow with Cotton Cover.

Also view Eider Eider Down/Polish White Goose Down Luxe Pillow, which combines Eiderdown for softness and 1000 loft Polish White Goose Down for support.

James Bay: 700+ Fill Power Wild Canadian Goose Down
– Similar to Eiderdown, James Bay huge down clusters cling together for superb insulating power, so they must be hand sorted and cleaned.
– Collected from wild geese in the Canadian North by Cree First Nations under special license from the Canadian Government; this down is even rarer than Eiderdown.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– While it tests at 700 loft, it has similar cling and high density as eiderdown, so it insulates as if it were a 900+ loft down.

View James Bay Wild Canadian Goose Down Duvet with Silk Cover, James Bay Wild Canadian Goose Down Pillow with Silk Cover, James Bay Wild Canadian Goose Down Duvet with Cotton Cover,  James Bay Wild Canadian Goose Down Pillow with Cotton Cover.

Also view Eider Eider Down/Polish White Goose Down Luxe Pillow, which combines Eiderdown for softness and 1000 loft Polish White Goose Down for support.

Embassy Bay: 1000+ Fill Power White Goose Down
– Highest loft of any down available worldwide.
– Originally developed for the high-end Japanese market, it was first used in technically sophisticated jackets and later in their most deluxe duvets.
– Polish white goose down undergoes additional sorting processes to extract only the largest, most pure clusters of down. This exquisite down has ultra large clusters and some clinging ability like eiderdown.
– It is incredibly soft and lightweight, providing comfort for generations.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– Tests at 1,000 loft.

View Embassy White Goose Down Duvet, Embassy White Goose Down Pillow.

Salzburg: 800+ Fill Power White Goose Down
– Distinctive down because it looks and behaves like a “White Eiderdown”.
– Comes from mature geese and is meticulously hand sorted to obtain the largest clusters with the highest densities and cling factor possible.
– The high density of Salzburg down increases insulation because the center of the down cluster is more complex and traps small pockets of air.  Heat loss is prevented because the down clings to one another resulting in smaller gaps between each cluster.
– This down is incredibly soft and lightweight. With care, it will last for generations.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– While Salzburg tests out at 800 loft, its eider-like properties give it the equivalent insulating power of 900 points.

View Salzburg White Goose Down Duvet, Salzburg White Goose Down Pillow.

Ziegler: 850+ Fill Power Polish White Goose Down
– Poland has a rich history of goose farming and is known for having some of the finest white goose down in the world.
– Ziegler down is among the best Polish downs.
– Raised on special farms, Ziegler Polish White Goose Down is noted for its high loft and warmth.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– Tested at 850 loft.

View Ziegler Polish White Goose Down Duvet, Ziegler Polish White Goose Down Pillow.

Söving: 800+ Fill Power Clear Lake Colony White Goose Down
– Has a special baffle design that lets you choose how warm you would like it to be, just by turning it over.
– Patented breathing channels can open and close depending on how much warmth is required. Plus, the down can also be shifted up and down the channels by simply shaking the duvet. This allows you to perfectly control your sleeping environment.

– In the summer, when the duvet is used with the narrow channels facing up, the breathing zones are opened to allow air to circulate and keep you cooler.
– During the winter, when the duvet is used so the wide channels are facing up, the breathing zones are closed to keep you warmer.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Hand sewn patented design.
– U.S. Patent #8978179

View Söving White Goose Down Dual Temperature Duvet.

Lajord: 850+ Fill Power Canadian White Goose Down
– One of St. Gèneve’s most popular duvets, Lajord is light, cozy and will be cherished for generations.
– Lajord White Goose Down comes from a goose farm in Saskatchewan, where farmers raise free range geese that are more mature than those in other colonies. St Genève purchases their entire production each year.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– With a loft of 850 cubic inches per ounce and extremely large clusters, this down is one of the most prized of all domestic downs raised in North America.

View Lajord Canadian White Goose Down Duvet, Lajord Canadian White Goose Down Pillow.

Montreux: 675+ Fill Power White Goose Down
– Montreux duvets and pillows are filled with hypoallergenic white goose down that has been certified under the Zurguard® system.
– Guaranteed to hold their shape and insulation ability for years and designed to be extremely comfortable.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– This down is exceptional quality with a loft of 675.

View Montreux White Goose Down Duvet, Montreux White Goose Down Pillow.

Estate: 650+ Fill Power Polish White Goose Down
– Polish white goose down comes from free range geese.
– Family-run farms raise mature geese that produce this lovely soft down.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– Tested at a loft of 650.

View Estate Polish White Goose Down Duvet, Estate Polish White Goose Down Pillow.

Laroche: 600+ Fill Power Canadian White Duck Down
– This down is taken from mature white ducks, resulting in large, lightweight and resilient down clusters.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.
– At a loft of 575, Laroche white duck down is superior to many grades of goose down.

View Laroche White Duck Down Duvet, Laroche White Duck Down Pillow.

Altro: Hypoallergenic Daunlon Cluster Polyester
– Down alternative collection filled with hypoallergenic fiber.
– Puffy, soft, and cozy.
– Duvets are hand sewn in sealed baffle box design.

View Altro Down Alternative Duvet, Altro Down Alternative Pillow.

Silk Duvets
– Natural alternative for those who find down duvets too warm during the summer.
– In nature, silk cocoons protect young moths from heat, cold, mildew, mold, and mites, so silk is one of the most perfect insulators.
– Made with Tussah silk from Antheraea moths. These moths feed on oak trees, creating silk that is heavier, tougher, and more resilient.
– 100% hand layered fill.
– Safe, organic, and natural.
– These silk duvets cannot be washed or dry cleaned; always use a duvet cover.

View Silk Duvet.

Heirloom White Goose Down Pillows
– The Heirloom has been designed to be a wonderfully comfortable pillow. It is filled with down blended from different countries in order to achieve a perfectly consistent quality.
– Certified under the Zurguard system to be hypoallergenic.
– This pillow will stay soft and supportive for years.
– Tested at 600 fill power

View Heirloom White Goose Down Pillow.

Hutterite White Duck Down/Feather Pillows
– The Hutterites are a group devoted to a simple agricultural lifestyle who live peacefully in self-sustaining communities. When they emigrated from Europe over a century ago, they brought the farming skills of generations with them, including the raising of geese and ducks.
– St Genève Hutterite products are made with a blend of duck down for softness and duck feathers for spring and durability.
– Tested at 600 fill power

View Hutterite Duck Down/Feather Pillow.

Chateau Down/Feather Pillows

– Designed for firmer support
– Center of 15% down/85% feather, surrounded by a soft layer of white goose down.
– Most comparable pillows use only feather in the center, which flattens too easily.
– This blend of down and feather stays puffy and refluffs easily.

View Chateau Down/Feather Pillow.

TYPES OF TICKING

Ticking refers to the fabric material used to cover the duvets and pillows.  It is very important, as it should be long lasting, down proof, and not processed with any chemical treatments.

St. Gèneve starts with high quality long staple cotton, which is spun into fine, strong threads in Germany and woven to achieve the following unique properties:
– Soft and breathable
– Down proof
– Machine washable
– Long lasting
– Dust mite proof
– No coatings or chemical treatments used
– 300 Thread Count

OKEO-TEX
All of St. Gèneve’s German fabrics have achieved the Oeko-Tex designation.  These fabrics have been rigorously tested to ensure that no harmful chemicals were used.  Fabrics approved by Oeko-Tex are the safest made anywhere in the world.

HYPOALLERGENIC PROCESS

All St. Gèneve ZURGUARD® products are guaranteed to be hypoallergenic.

– In the ZURGUARD® system, the down is sanitized to eliminate all bacteria and odors.
– The ZURGUARD® system treats down gently so that down fibers are not damaged, or become overdried or brittle. This ensures that the original natural resiliency is maintained, and the down does not go flat.
– The ZURGUARD® system does not artificially enhance the loft of down.
– ZURGUARD® down exceeds all government standards for purity and cleanliness.

SIZES

St. Gèneve duvets are made to fit typical mattresses (up to 14″ thick) with about 15” hanging over the sides and foot. This is so that when a person gets into their twin bed, or two people get into their Double, Queen or King bed, the duvet will settle down around the sleepers without too much overhang.
– Twin 72″ W x 88″ L
– Queen 90″ x 94″ L
– King 108″ x 94″ L

For those who prefer oversized duvets to cover their extra deep mattresses (up to 19” thick), St. Gèneve offers two additional sizes:
– Super Queen 100″ W x 100″ L
– Super King 114″ W x 100″ L

BEDDING PROTECTORS

Cotton Comfort Protectors
– Quilted construction
– 100% cotton percale cover; 90% cotton (for breathability) and 10% acrylic (for washability) filling.
– Available as mattress protectors (16″ or 24″ pockets) and pillow protectors.

View Cotton Comfort Mattress Protector, Cotton Comfort Pillow Protector.

Organic Cotton Pillow Protectors
– 100% organic cotton
– GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified
– Available as pillow protectors

View Organic Cotton Pillow Protector.

Allergy Protectors
– Prevents dust mites or bed bugs from getting into bedding.
– 100% cotton imported from Germany.
– No chemical finishes or synthetic components.
– Self-locking zipper.
– If putting covers on existing pillows, clean pillows first to eliminate existing mites or allergens.
– Available as duvet cover protectors, featherbed protectors, mattress covers (10″ or 14″ pockets), and pillow protectors.

View Allergy Duvet Cover Protector, Allergy Featherbed Protector, Allergy Mattress Cover, Allergy Pillow Protector.

Waterproof Protectors
– Completely breathable, so vapor will pass but not liquids.
– Completely waterproof to protect your mattress from marks and stains.
– Special antimicrobial fabric finish keeps your mattress clean and hygienic.
– Dust-Mite-Proof: impedes dust mites from getting into your mattress.  If dust mites are a serious concern, use an Allergy protector, as those completely encase the mattress.
– Made with a comfortable soft cotton knit, with a polyurethane center layer.
– Fabric made in Spain and sewn in Canada.
– Available as mattress protectors (up to 8″, 12″, and 20″ thick) and pillow protectors.

View Waterproof Mattress Protector, Waterproof Pillow Protector.

GUARANTEES

Duvets:
– St. Gèneve down duvets are guaranteed for 20 years against defects in materials or workmanship, provided that the duvet has been reasonably cared for, labels are attached and that a duvet cover has been used at all times.
– All St. Gèneve duvets are sewn in a sealed baffle design. The filling is guaranteed to stay in place, and never shift into another compartment, for the life of the duvet.
– St. Gèneve Daunlon™ Polyester-filled duvets are guaranteed 5 years against any defect in materials and/or workmanship.
– St. Gèneve Winter weight down duvets are guaranteed for a period of 10 years to be warm enough, or St. Gèneve will add down at no charge, provided that the duvet has been reasonably cared for, labels are attached and that a duvet cover has been used at all times. Please note that down CANNOT be removed from a duvet. Lighter weight duvets are NOT guaranteed for warmth.

Pillows:
– St. Gèneve Luxury Style Pillows are guaranteed 5 years against any defect in materials or workmanship, provided that the pillow has been reasonably cared for, labels are attached and that a pillow protector has been used at all times.
– St. Gèneve Cushion Form Style Pillows are guaranteed 2 years against any defect in materials and/or workmanship, provided that the pillow has been reasonably cared for, labels are attached and that a pillow protector has been used at all times.

Click here to view all St. Gèneve collections.

You’d be surprised how often we are asked this question.  And we are happy to say that you can get Thomas Keller’s dinnerware here at Gracious Style.

Eating at one of Thomas Keller’s fine restaurants – like The French Laundry in Napa or per se in New York – is truly a magnificent experience.  People have flown half way across the world just for that experience.  But he has created a set of dinnerware that lets you re-create the experience at home — if you’ll do the cooking.

Well known for being a perfectionist in the kitchen (his book features some of the most exacting recipes I’ve ever read), Chef Keller is equally serious about the service and presentation of his cuisine.  Like many high-end chefs, Keller wanted dinnerware that are perfectly suited to his style of cooking.  So being the perfectionist that he is, he designed a very refined, all-white collection that lets the cooking speak for itself.  The pieces have an architectural elegance and a pure white color that is only possible with Limoges porcelain, so both lines – the Hommage and the Checks – are made by Raynaud in France.  The Hommage is plain white, while the Checks has a subtle checked pattern.

Here is chef Keller’s dinnerware, waiting to be used in the kitchen of per se Restaurant in New York (from the New York Times).  We love that the dinnerware was designed to withstand the rigors of restaurant use day after day, so the entire line is extremely durable.

There are so many great pieces available.  There are plates with round, oval, and square centers …

… oval trays with quenelle indentations …

… risotto plates and covers …

… coffee, tea, and espresso cups and saucers …

… quenelle dishes …

… and many, many others.

And as an added surprise, every piece is stamped with the logo of The French Laundry on the back … an old-fashioned clothespin:

If you want to learn more, click here to view the whole collection.  It is very reasonably priced (starting at just $15) and extremely well made, so you’ll get years of enjoyment.

This is an incredible gift for yourself and the epicure in your life.  We hope it’ll help you become an inspired cook!

Gracious Style is an online retailer of sophisticated, high-quality products for every room in the house.  We love helping others create warm and welcoming rooms for themselves.  To read more, visit our blog.

If you live with pets, we bet you’ve had to part with a rug or two after the why-didn’t-I-see-this-coming happens.  But you’re not alone, and we promise you there’s a way to keep both your adorable pets happy and your home looking stylish.

Here’s our primer on how to pick the perfect pet-friendly rug.

Materials

1. Indoor/outdoor rugs are the best choice.  They’re virtually chew- and scratch-proof, can handle lots of foot traffic, and easily wash up with a little detergent and water.  And don’t worry, the new ones are so soft, you could easily walk on them with bare feet.

2. Woven wool and tufted wool rugs are durable, easy to vacuum, and pretty easy to clean.

3. Woven cotton rugs are lightweight and easy to take outside for a shake.  They’re also durable, but they’re not scratch proof, so keep an eye on younger pups.

4. Cotton chenille rugs are super soft, but they attract more fur so they require more frequent vacuuming.

5. Avoid hooked and looped rugs – claws can get stuck on these, and then you can end up having to remove an entire run.

6. Avoid viscose-blend rugs, as those require professional cleaning.

7. Avoid sisal, jute and other natural-fiber rugs, as they don’t take stains well and cats love to scratch them. If you like the look, get a vertical scratching post made using sisal rope.

8. Stick with low-pile rugs. Not only are they easier to clean, it’s harder for cats to hook their claws into the strands.

Colors/Patterns

9. If you go with an indoor/outdoor or woven cotton rug, pretty much any color will work.

10. Saturated colors and small patterns can work wonders at hiding accidents.

11. If you like neutral colors, go with the flow and coordinate your decor to your pet’s fur.

12. Consider using an inexpensive vintage rug.  As these have already been loved, you’ll find it much easier to deal with it when it’s broken in.

Size

Although we generally love larger rugs, these aren’t easy to move if you need to clean one.  So if you have pets, consider these two options:

13. Use carpet tiles (Flor makes good ones), so you can just replace a few pieces here and there.

14. Get smaller rugs and place them side by side; you’ll still get the same look, but it’ll be much easier to move if you need to take the rug out to clean.

Cleaning

15. Try a Furminator to help reduce shedding.

16. Get a vacuum that’s been tested for picking up pet hairs.  Miele, Dyson, Hoover, and Shark all make good ones.

17. Make sure you have a spot cleaner on hand before accidents happen.  Nature’s Miracle is highly regarded for its deep cleaning properties, and available at most pet supply stores.

My den had a problem.

Even though it had gorgeous views and comfortable furniture, everybody just walked right past it.  This seemed like a great place to spend an afternoon, but nobody — not even I — was tempted to do that:

Fortunately, there’s an easy, step-by-step process to turning a den or family room into an inviting, stay-for-a-while space.  Here’s the recipe:

Step 1: Start with a rug.

The rug is usually the most important accessory in any room.  In this den, the right rug could help define the space better and make it comfortable for lounging.  For this room, I didn’t want the furnishings to compete with the outdoors, so we went with a neutral rug (Dash & Albert’s Marled Grey Woven Cotton Rug) that coordinated with the linen curtains and the furniture.

Before we moved our furniture out, we measured to make sure we got the right size rug.  When you do this, try to include all the large furniture pieces on the rug but leave about 18″ of bare floor exposed all around.

– If the rug is too small, the area will look unbalanced.

– If it’s too large, it will look like wall-to-wall carpeting that just missed.

(For more details on choosing rugs, see our post on How to Choose a Rug for Every Room of in Your New House.)

Step 2: Add comfortable furniture.  If you can, invest in down-filled cushions for your sofas; you’ll be grateful every time you sit down.  But my favorite trick is to use an ottoman as a coffee table.  They’re great for lounging, and if you cover them in a medium dark fabric, no one will mind putting their feet up.  Here, we used a soft brown mohair:

Here’s the room with the loveseat in place.  Before you place your furniture, look at the room and really think about where it should go.  In the picture below, note how well the larger sofa works with the larger patio door behind it, while the loveseat is scaled to fit the smaller patio door on the left.

Step 3: Blend in a dash of your favorite pillows.  Now you have something to sink into …

Step 4: Fill with flowers.  And now you have something pretty to look at.

Step 5: Add a dash of lighting.  On the two side tables, we added reading lamps (on dimmers), which add task lighting and cast a cozy glow at night.  You can also use floor lamps; they’re really important to adding height to your room.

Step 6: Layer with scent.  Next we placed added a diffuser on one of the side tables (scent helps us relax); candles would work just as well.

Step 7: Mix in a stack of books.  In addition to our current books, we always keep a couple of picture books laying about … they’re both beautiful and great for guests to browse through.

Step 8: Fill in with small accessories, like these candleholders or a small sculpture.

Step 9: Arrange a throw artfully on the sofa.  Because you want this handy as soon as it gets a little chilly.

Step 10:  Pour yourself a drink (or two or three or four…)!  Congratulations; you’re all done.

To recap, here are the steps to make over your den:

1. Start with a rug (see more rugs here)
2. Add comfortable furniture
3. Blend in a dash of your favorite pillows (see more pillows here)
4. Fill with flowers
5. Add lighting (see more table lamps here and see more floor lamps here)
6. Layer with scent
7. Mix in a stack of books
8. Fill in with candleholders (see more candleholders here) or small accessories (see more accessories here)
9. Arrange a throw over the sofa (see more throws here)

Walk into any room.  Does it feel comfortable or unfinished?  Does everything tie together, or does it feel jarring?

Chances are, the difference is in the rug.  As one of the biggest items in any room — larger than all the furniture and the art — the rug defines the room.  The right rug can define your space, bring your design together, and warm it up for people to relax and linger.  The wrong rug can look oddly out of place or contrast harshly with the rest of your room.

But choosing a rug could be a bear, with all the materials, sizes, colors, and patterns.  And choosing rugs for a whole new house?  Ugh!  After doing that numerous times, I decided to jot down what I’ve learned, spoke with several rug makers, and looked at how we live today.  Finally, I also read up on what the world’s top designers suggested (which I summarized here).

In the end, I came up with these simple, room-by-room guidelines on how to choose an area rug for your new house.

ENTRYWAY RUGS

Outside the house, a simple weather-resistant floor mat is best.  Choose an oversized one to accommodate multiple guests (and all your UPS packages) at once.

Once you step inside, the foyer should set the tone for what will follow next.  If you have a fabulous handpainted medallion on your floor, by all means show it off and avoid putting a rug on it.  Otherwise, a rug in the entryway will make your home feel more welcoming, especially if you have marble floors or a lot of furniture in the space.  The combination of a soft landing and a warmer texture will instantly signal that you’re now inside private quarters.

Although the outdoor rug has done much of the heavy lifting, go with a durable, low-pile or medium-pile in a forgiving color to handle foot traffic.  You don’t want guests to hesitate before stepping inside; wool is a great choice since it’s the easiest to clean.

Some helpful tips:

• If the door will be opening onto the rug, measure the height of the rug to make sure it will not be in the way.
• If you have a double-entry door, find a rug that covers the width of the entire opening.
• Your entryway rug should be wider than your front door; large enough to feel like a real landing rug.
• If you have a long and narrow space, use a runner, like in the picture below:

• Round rugs look great with double-entry stairways.
• Make sure you use a rug pad under entryway rugs to keep them from slipping.

LIVING ROOM RUGS

In the living room, area rugs are used to either anchor a seating group or delineate a space.  Since living rooms typically feature beautiful flooring, use a rug that shows a nice border on the floor (approximately 18″ all around).

Don’t stint on rug size: make sure all four legs of every piece of furniture can fit on the rug.  The only exception is with sofas that are pushed against a wall; in this case, the rear sofa legs can rest directly on the floor, as shown below:

As they are the most formal reception rooms, get the best rugs you can afford for your living room.  They will leave a lasting impression.

You can either go with a bold pattern (to complement a stunning piece of art), or you can go with a soothing option that either coordinates with your room or the view outside.  See how the rug in the picture below picks up all the colors in the room?

Similarly, the colors of this area rug pick up those of the walls, curtains, and furniture.  The rug’s muted traditional design also matches the classically elegant interior of the room:

Either way, wool is a great choice for the living room, as it holds its shape and resists dirt better than any other fiber out there.  If you’d like something a little fancier, a mix of wool and silk or viscose is a great choice for extra softness and sheen.

For a more casual feel, go with a natural fiber rug like a seagrass or a sisal.  These super-popular neutral rugs add texture and just a bit of color, but be sure to clean them quickly as they will easily absorb stains.  And by the way, did you know they came in lots of patterns and colors?

Some more tips:

• If your favorite rug is not large enough, layer it on top of a larger sisal or jute rug.
• If your living room opens onto an outdoor space and you’re concerned about foot traffic, divide your living room into two seating areas and leave the floor bare in between for walking.
• Remember that your coffee table will probably cover the center of your rug, so a rug with an allover pattern may work best in these spaces.

DINING ROOM RUGS

Dining room rugs can really help cut down on noise from moving chairs to lively discussions, but there are little tricks to make sure you get the right one.

First, you have to get the right size.  The right rug needs to cover the floor when the chair is under the table, when it’s pulled out, and when a person is seated on it.  To figure this out, place (or mark the floor with tape) all the furniture in the room.  This includes the table and chairs, sideboards, bar carts, and large plants.  Ideally, you want a rug that extends at least 24 inches around the table.  And if you can, leave at least 18 inches of floor exposed between the edges of the rug and the wall.

Next, create symmetry by choosing a rug that is the same shape as your table or the same shape as your room.  Here, the larger rectangular rug helps to tie in the size of the room and all the windows spread along the exterior wall:

Whereas here, the round rug really highlights this cozy dining space off the kitchen:

As far as materials, go with a durable wool (easy to clean) so wayward crumbs can be easily cleaned.

If you have a more casual household or worry about rowdy guests spilling wine, consider an indoor/outdoor rug.  These come in beautiful neutral patterns and can be taken outdoors to be washed.

Save the finer silk rugs for the living room or the master bedroom.  Also, know that while they look great, natural fiber rugs like sisal, jute, and sea grass are difficult to clean, so leave those for other rooms.

Select a low-pile rug (like a flat weave) for the dining room, as it will make it easier to pull chairs in and out.

And since dining rooms are used most heavily at night, medium to darker colors look great under candlelight.  They also look great during the day:

BEDROOM RUGS

Master bedroom rugs should be restful.  Avoid disruptive, loud patterns – unless you find zen with fuchsia.  This is your private space (with lighter foot traffic), so you can go with a plusher pile (great for bare feet) and splurge on more delicate silk or cashmere blend rugs.  You’ll be grateful every time you come home and every time you wake up.  And for a more casual feel, go with a simple cotton rug.

As far as size, learn from high-end hotels.  They cover every bedroom completely with carpet for quiet and comfort.  So choose the largest one you can to make the bedroom quieter.  At the minimum, go with a rug that’s large enough to extend 24″ in length and width from the edges of the bed.  That way, when you get up in the morning, your feet will be on the rug.

In children’s rooms, pick something that’ll go with their decor.  Better yet, have them help you choose it and they’ll remember to take good care of it.  Does anyone in your family like rainbows?

In nurseries, don’t worry if the bed is pushed up against the wall: if you use a rug that’s large enough to fit under the front legs of the bed, you’ll be left with a nice-sized play area for the kids on the floor.  Take a look at the picture below:

Guest rooms should have low pile rugs, especially if they may need to accommodate the elderly.  If you’re looking for a traditional look, go with wool.  Otherwise, cotton lends a carefree feel.  Either way, you want to make these rooms as comfortable and practical as you can.

Remember that for those allergic to wool, acrylic rugs are a fabulous alternative.  Although they don’t hold their shape as well (since they’re more easily crushed), they do look similar and are more affordable.

BATHROOM RUGS

To really move your bathrooms to another level, try adding a beautiful rug in the center of the space.  See what the runner did in the space below:

You’ll have something warm to step onto.  If you can fit an ottoman on top of it, it will create a restful seating area in the room.  If you’re planning on washing it often, get a machine-washable rug.

CLOSET RUGS

Could your closet fit a rug?  If so, get one.  It’ll instantly turn the closet into its own room.  And it’ll warm up the space.  Because really, sometimes you just need to sit down and think about what you’ll wear to the party tonight.  With all those shoes to choose from, why not put your foot on something soft while your head’s doing all the thinking?  So choose something clever, like this:

OUTDOOR RUGS

Rugs are a great way to make your outdoor space feel as inviting as indoors.  Outdoor rugs have come a long way from those plasticky things our parents used.  If you’re looking for something super durable, water resistant, and UV-treated for fade resistance, go with a propylene rug.  For something that feels a little more wool-like, look at PET rugs, which are made from recycled plastic bottles and really are quite soft.

In areas immediately next to your home, stay with colors and patterns that harmonize with those inside.  Why?  Because they’ll visually extend the size of your space indoor, and who wouldn’t want a little more room without having to move?

See how easily you can do this, whether your home has more neutral colors, like in the picture below …

… or warmer colors, like designer Justina Blakeney shows us in the porch below:

In uncovered areas, especially those farther away from the house, you can go with stronger colors.  Imagine if you were inside the house, looking at this:

See how the bright rug draws your eye to the outdoor dining area?

If you have different pathways around your garden, dress them up with outdoor runners.

The right rug will take care of you for years. So have fun finding the perfect rug, and be sure to share any tips you have with us!

To see all our rugs, click here.  Or try our rugs suggester to find your rug based on color, size, or room.

After working on hundreds of projects, designers are full of practical advice on choosing area rugs.   As one of the largest pieces in any room, rugs will immediately make or break the space and everything you layer in afterward. That’s why many designers, like Martyn Lawrence Bullard, won’t start working on a space until they’ve selected the rug.

Here’s a selection of their best tips:

On Lifestyle

“An area rug for a single female client is very different from that for a family with 5 kids, 2 dogs, and a cat. I always seek out area rugs that are durable and beautiful. Durability and cleanability are two factors that are always important to me.” (Roderick Shade via Architectural Digest)

“Carpet affects the acoustics of the room: in spaces that need a little dampening, the fullest, deepest carpet will quiet the space.” (Wallace Cunningham via Architectural Digest)

“First of all I look into the climate (tropical, mountain, cold, etc) before choosing material and design.” (Juan Montoya via Architectural Digest)

On Style

“Carpets can state something very personal about a person’s history and interests, as well as making political and religious statements. Carpets also reflect history and culture (one could literally tour the globe and discover its history by looking at carpets). Carpets can be art.”  (Wallace Cunningham via Architectural Digest)

“I look for character when choosing or designing an area rug.” (William Georgis via Architectural Digest)

“My rooms are architectural and spare so I prefer to use antique area rugs as accents. I don’t like to waste them under beds or couches.” (Karin Blake via Architectural Digest)

On Color

“A good rug is the anchor for any room’s decorative scheme. I usually build my colors around the rug, pulling from the most random threads in the rug as accessory colors for pillows and lamp shades.” (Martyn Lawrence-Bullard via Architectural Digest)

“Always a quiet elegance — a shouting rug is never grounding to the spirit of one’s soul.”  (Suzanne Lovell via Architectural Digest)

“The perfect area rug should be of the right mix of colors to sit comfortably on the floor. After all, it is the equivalent of the ground we walk on. Pastels and white carpets should be left to the occasional-use room, and even then feel like any minute a disaster might occur.” (Mariette Himes Gomez via Architectural Digest)

On Materials

“I must confess that we don’t use standard rugs on our projects. Custom rugs are a signature in our interiors. However, we do use sisal rugs, which are not expensive.” (Geoffrey Bradfield via Architectural Digest)

“Wool—not nylon!” (William Hodgins via Architectural Digest)

“I look for area rugs that are high quality hand knotted with both wool and silk.” (Donna Livingston via Architectural Digest)

“Make sure it’s made from natural materials.” (Laura Hunt via Architectural Digest)

On Size

“When choosing your rug size make sure your furniture fits onto the rug.  Sofas always look better on a rug rather than off or worse still half on and half off.” (Martyn Lawrence Bullard via Architectural Digest)

“For bedrooms, a good rule of thumb for size is to leave approximately 12″ of floor space between the edge of the rug and the base molding. For living rooms rugs, we would leave about 18″-24″ off the wall depending on the size of the room and whether or not the room is shaped or if there is a hearthstone.” (Ellie Cullman via Architectural Digest)

“The shape of the carpet is entirely dependent upon the shape of the room and the layout of the furniture. Sometimes you like the carpet to appear as an island in a hard space, supporting the furniture, and sometimes you like it to fill the entire space.” (Wallace Cunningham via Architectural Digest)

To view more area rugs, click here.

As one of the country’s foremost manufacturers of down products, Downright offers many different types of fill, support, and warmth level to meet your needs.  In fact, since they’re based in New York, they can even create custom comforters and pillows (if you’d like one, let us know).

But we understand that sometimes too much choice makes choosing a little confusing.  So we asked our friends at Downright to help us better understand the world of down and guide us through their collections.  As it turns out, it’s quite simple.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT PILLOW?

Choosing the right pillow is essential to a good night’s rest.  Luckily, there are only two main factors to consider:

1. Firmness Level

Your specific sleeping style will determine the firmness of your pillow:

– Stomach sleepers prefer a soft, plump pillow that supports the head and neck gently, while allowing the head to sink into the perfect level.

– Back sleepers prefer a medium pillow that positions the head and neck in line with the natural curvature of the spine.

– Side sleepers prefer a firm pillow that provides more support and positions the head, neck, and shoulders in harmonious horizontal alignment.

2. Preferred Fill

– Down: Because natural down is so lightweight, it’s one of the most comfortable and desirable fills for pillows and comforters.  Down has the amazing ability to breathe, lifting moisture away from the sleeper.  With down, the higher the fill power, the higher quality the pillow.  And within down, the most luxurious pillows are those that are filled with white goose down.  All of Downright’s down is guaranteed hypoallergenic; down products will last longer and hold up better than synthetic fills.

– Down/Feather Blend: Down/Feather-filled pillows are firmer than down filled pillows. They are an excellent choice for those who want a firmer support.

– Comforel Down Alternative Fill: A wonderful hypoallergenic microfiber fill that offers down-like comfort, loft and softness.  Perfect for sleepers who are prone to allergies.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COMFORTER?

Finding a comforter that’s right for you is a two-step process.  Just consider the following:

1. Warmth Level

Think about your season, climate, heating system. and thermostat setting. Most of our classic comforters are now offered in three weights to best suit your needs.

– Summer Weight: Ideal for the warm sleeper, warm climates or when rooms are above 70°F.

– All Year Weight: Our most popular choice. This all-season comforter is perfect for year-round use and for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 60°F and 65°F.

– Winter Weight: Ideal for the cold sleeper, cool bedrooms, very cold climates and for those who prefer extra warmth during the winter season.

2. Quality Level

We have classified our comforters into seven different categories to help you easily select the right comforter for you.

– Introductory: Our most affordable down comforter features a 233 thread count cover filled with 560 fill power white down.  See Mackenza down comforters.

– Classic: These classics feature a soft, 300 thread count cover filled with high loft, 600 fill power white goose down, guaranteed to provide many years of warmth and pleasure.  See Cascada Peak, Cascada Summit, and 3-1 Anytime down comforters.

– Best Value: Opting for lasting comfort and value? The comforters in this class offer remarkable quality and sumptuous softness. A high quality white goose down with large and plump clusters, our 700 fill power white goose downs provide luxurious warmth with minimum weight. A  383 thread count cotton sateen shell gives the finishing touch to this amazing collection.  See Nirvana down comforters.

– Supreme: Exceptional superiority, the 650-800 fill power is one of the word’s finest downs. Premium clusters of down deliver superior loft and maximum warmth with minimal weight. Moreover, our silky smooth downproof fabric is made in Europe using the exclusive SanProCare process-known to enhance temperature regulation, absorption and release of moisture, and superior durability.  See Bernina Hungarian down,  Himalaya Polish down, and Himalaya Siberian down comforters.

– Ultimate: When only the very best will do; our most magnificent comforters offer unparalleled luxury, warmth and craftsmanship. The very largest, softest 920 fill power Canadian white goose down paired with a choice of Batiste lightweight fabric- or our 100% Pure Silk, Flowering Vine pattern cover, introduce you to the incredible lightness of warmth. These opulent comforters result in extraordinary comfort and promise luscious sleep for years to come.  See Logana Siberian down, Logana Canadian down, Eliasa Canadian down, and Eliasa Eiderdown comforters.

– Down Alternative: Filled with Comforel, a hypoallergenic microfiber fill that offers down-like comfort, loft and softness at a more economical price than down. Perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone.  View Sierra and Astra comforters.

– Tencel Ecofriendly: The combination of high quality 650 fill power white goose down and a Tencel® lyocell cover offers you easy-care comfort that’s soft on you and the environment. Tencel® lyocell is a natural fabric manufactured from Eucalyptus wood pulp, which is soft and silky, durable, and lightweight.  See Organa down comforters.

WHAT IS DOWN?

Down is a soft layer of fine clusters found around birds (primarily in the chest area) under the tougher exterior feathers.  Down makes for an extraordinary thermal insulator and because down is so lightweight, it’s one of the most comfortable and desirable fills for a blankets, comforters, and pillows.

Down clusters look like little cotton balls with a round center called a plumule. Each plumule has thousands of tiny fibers emanating from its core. As these fibers link to others, they create air pockets, which keep you insulated by trapping the heat.

The air within the pockets warms you naturally, using minimal weight. Down also has the amazing ability to breathe, lifting moisture away from the body. Far less down is needed in weight than other fillings, which means a much lighter, but warmer product.

WHAT IS FILL POWER?

All down is not the same. Down from larger, mature birds offer more insulating power and a better ability to loft. This means they will have a higher fill power.

Fill power is measured by the amount of cubic inches that one ounce of down will fill once it expands.  The higher the fill power, the better the quality and warmth.  In other words, a higher quality comforter will weigh less than a heavier, lower quality one; yet still provide more warmth, fluffiness, and lightweight comfort.

WHAT KINDS OF DOWN AND FILL POWER DO YOU OFFER?

At Downright we offer high quality downs with a variety of fill powers.

White Goose Down

920+ Fill Power – When only the very best will do, 920+ Canadian White Goose Down is made up of the largest uniform clusters, hand selected from mature, specially bred Canadian geese. This down delivers optimal warmth with minimal weight.

800+ Fill Power – 800+ Siberian White Goose Down is handpicked from the most premium, specially bred Siberian geese. This down will provide you with exceptional warmth with minimal weight.

700+ Fill Power – 700+ Polish White Goose Down is made from premium clusters that deliver superior loft and a higher degree of comfort compared to the top offerings of other leading brands.

650+ Fill Power – 650+ Hungarian White Goose Down comes from the finest of mature Hungarian geese. It is exceptionally soft and fluffy; guaranteed to yield pure warmth and pleasure.

600+ Fill Power – The fine down of European geese. This 600+ White Goose Down is the best in its grade. Soft, yet resilient, this down is a remarkable product that doesn’t compromise the warmth you crave.

White Down

600+ Fill Power – This 600+ White Down is the best in its grade. Soft, yet resilient, this down is a remarkable product that doesn’t compromise the warmth you crave.

560+ Fill Power – Our most affordable choice for down. This 560+ White Down has been carefully washed, making it one of the select few in this category that are also hypoallergenic. Its soft clusters, durability and light weight make this down a favorite entry level into a world of luxury and warmth.

Eiderdown – Eiderdown is the finest, warmest, most rare down in the world. The down is hand collected from abandoned nests in Eider Duck sanctuaries. Eiderdown’s unique characteristics provide you with the utmost in luxurious comfort.  While the Eiderdown comforter provides you with the greatest warmth and insulation, it is extremely lightweight and will have you feel like you are sleeping on a cloud.

ARE YOUR PRODUCTS HYPOALLERGENIC?

Yes!  OxyD ® is an exclusive Downright process that ensures that our down products are 100% hypoallergenic. All our downs exceed government standards for purity, without compromising volume and uniformity. Our down goes through a unique double-wash and quadruple-rinse program so you can be assured you are getting the cleanest, highest quality down in the market.

WHAT TYPES OF FABRICS DO YOU USE?

At Downright, we search all across the globe for the finest fabrics. We use only the most exquisite down proof cotton and silks. Close attention is paid every step of the way to ensure satisfaction. No matter which type of fabric or thread count you will choose, every Downright fabric is synonymous with breath-ability, softness and quality.

HOW ARE YOUR FABRICS NATURALLY ECOFRIENDLY?

Our fabrics conform to the widely accepted Oeko-Tex, Standard 100. This highly demanding testing process was developed as a standardized certification for textiles. All Downright fabrics have the Oeko-Tex 100-Confidence in Textiles label and are certified to be virtually free of all harmful chemicals.

WHAT IS BAFFLED BOX CONSTRUCTION?

Our baffled box design means an overall better product- with optimum lofting, even distribution, and greater durability. Our three-dimensional baffle box design features interior walls (baffles) that connect the top and bottom fabrics along the stitching lines, for a better look, a better feel, and a longer life.

HOW DO YOU CARE FOR DOWN COMFORTERS AND DOWN PILLOWS?

To ensure you enjoy maximum benefit from your Downright products, please follow these simple instructions:

• Pillows should be used inside a pillow protector and a pillow case or pillow sham.
• Comforters should always be used inside a duvet cover.
• Comforters may be spot cleaned for spills and aired out occasionally.
• While frequent washing is not advised, down products may either be washed or dry cleaned.
• Dry cleaning should only be performed by a company experienced with down products, as dirty cleaning fluid will cause the down to clump, lose its lofting ability and occasionally develop a mild odor.
• We recommend washing only in a front-loading commercial capacity washer. No machines with agitators as these are too rough and will tear the baffles, which would void the warranty. Use a low sudsing detergent or a product specifically designed for washing down products (like Down Wash). Run through the rinse cycle twice to remove all soap. Place in large capacity dryer on lowest heat setting and dry for several hours. This step is very important, because if down is not thoroughly dried, it may develop mold and odors.

Click here to view all Downright products.

Thirty years ago, a group of knife-lovers in southern France were worried that the skills for making their traditional knives were going to be lost.  After all, who still cared about bone-handled hunting knives once used by traveling shepherds in Spain?  Apparently, Philippe Starck did.  As did the French government, which recognized that these were irreplaceable treasures.  So with their help, this little group of artisans started a thriving business making these knives.

In an era of mass-market production, this seemed like an impossible dream, but through the efforts of those folks, today this company – Forge de Laguiole – makes the highest-quality Laguiole implements in the world.  And every piece is completely made, from beginning to end, in the place where it all started: the original village of Laguiole.

If you’re ever in southern France (perhaps to visit Michel Bras’s three-Michelin starred restaurant), schedule a tour of Forge de Laguiole’s headquarters.  Once there, you’ll come face to face with master knife makers, breathe in the scent of the raw materials used to make these pieces, and hear the sound of sandpaper as it’s passed back on forth on each piece.

The building, by uberdesigner Philippe Starck, is unlike any other in the whole region.  Tasked with creating a space which reflected the founders’ goals of combining tradition with innovation, Mr. Starck designed a building which uses glass and aluminum and features a 60-ft tall blade soaring into the sky.

There, you’ll be met by folks just like these; folks who’ve spent a lifetime making knives.

But not just any knives: these are the cult-favorite Laguiole knives, synonymous with French art de vivre and gastronomy.

Inside, you’ll learn that Laguiole is not a brand or even a trademark; rather, laguiole refers to a classic style of knife featuring a slim, sinuous shape common to this area. Each laguiole knife is about 5 inches long when closed, with a narrow, tapered blade, a steel backspring, and high-quality construction.

Laguiole knives originated from the “navajas” used in Andalusian Spain, which were brought over by shepherds and cattle herders moving between Spain and southern France.  In Spain, these navajas appeared around the late 1600’s, when there were increased restrictions on the wearing of bladed weapons by persons outside the Spanish nobility.  So the intrepid locals designed something that could be used both as a utility and a fighting knife.

Over time, the design of the navajas merged with those of local French folding knives, resulting in the classic laguiole.  Later, some models began featuring corkscrews, in response to the introduction of bottled wines and the needs of bar owners to work quickly during mealtimes.

In France, laguiole production is centered around the town of Thiers and the village of Laguiole, both located around 100 miles apart in southern France.  Together, this region accounts for 70% of the cutting tool production in France, so it is deeply steeped in the tradition of French knife manufacturing.

Traditionally, Laguiole handles were made from cattle horn, but now many other precious materials are used, including exotic woods, horn, pearl, and fossilized ivories.  Here’s a elegant version featuring a rosewood handle.

In 1988, French designer Philippe Starck designed a knife for Forge de Laguiole with a polished aluminum handle and a corrosion-resistant steel blade which made waves around the world.  Today, this knife is part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Quality Laguiole knives are very time-consuming to make.  There are approximately 109 production steps required to make a one-piece laguiole (single blade), about 166 for a two-piece one (blade and one other tool), and about 216 for a three-piece model (blade and two tools).

French manufacturers stamp a trademark or signature into the steel of their knives.  In addition, they are often decorated with a variety of motifs.  In 1909, the village of Laguiole agreed that the bee would be their sign.  As the legend goes, the bee was a sign of honor, given to soldiers for their bravery.

For special commissions, other motifs can be carved, like this custom violin.

Laguiole knives are more than just knives: they are handcrafted expressions of a way of life.

When you’re done, get back in your car and head to the nearest bar.  Where, if the service is slow, you’ll be able to open your own bottle of wine!

Kim Seybert’s table settings are so gorgeous that you practically don’t even need food to have a party. Part of her secret is knowing how to add volume to her napkins.

For the lotus layered napkin fold below, all you need are:

1) One organza napkin
2) One regular napkin
3) One napkin ring

And to learn how to put them together, just follow the instructions in the video below. We promise you everyone will be impressed.

Were some people really born with a silver spoon in their mouth?  When it came time to dining, and entertaining, royals didn’t just grab a quick bite to go.  Every meal had to be worthy of a king, right down to the choice of the plates.  But the favorite dinnerware of Europe’s royals and aristocrats might surprise you.

Catherine the Great of Russia

She started out as an impoverished German princess and ended up as the absolute ruler of the world’s largest empire.  She expanded Russia west into Poland, south to the Black Sea and Crimea, and east to Alaska.  She was also a famous patron of the arts and brought the European Enlightenment to Russia.  To her contemporaries, she was as awe-inspiring as a Roman goddess:

Catherine the Great is often associated with Royal Copenhagen’s Flora Danica dinnerware, an over the top, no holds barred collection of over 1800 hand-painted, gold gilded pieces commissioned especially for her:

Sadly, though, she did not live to see its completion.  See our story of Catherine the Great and Flora Danica that’s full of royal-worthy intrigue for more details.

Lord Nelson

England’s hero during the Napoleonic Wars, Lord Horatio Nelson time and again thwarted the powerful French in naval battles from the Nile delta to the frigid Baltic sea.  He gave his life in the decisive victory at Trafalgar that finally saved England from invasion.  For that, the grateful English nation placed him high up in a column in Trafalgar Square in the heart of London.  (The French hadn’t forgotten him either: They protested when the Eurostar train from Paris to London ended in Trafalgar station and got it switched to St. Pancras instead.)

But Lord Nelson is no crusty crude sailor.  After winning the naval Battle of Copenhagen in 1801, he came ashore and bought Royal Copenhagen dinnerware — probably a pattern very much like the traditional Blue Fluted — for his beloved Lady Hamilton back in England:

Empress Eugenie of France

Famous for her beauty, Eugenie de Montijo caught the eye of Louis Napoleon at a ball when he had just become President of France.  “What is the road to your heart?” asked the dashing (and serial womanizing) President.  “Through the chapel, Sire,” she responded.  And when he aspired for an office even higher than President, she became Empress.  During her reign, Paris became the beautiful city that we know today, with limestone mansions lining wide boulevards, elegant couples promenading, and ever grander balls and fetes.

Haviland created a special dinner service for Empress Eugenie and Emperor Napoleon III, which is now displayed at the Haviland Museum in Limoges, Frances.  Closely based on this dinner service is the Haviland Imperatrice Eugenie pattern:

Funnily enough, President Jacques Chirac of France was also a fan of the Imperatrice Eugenie pattern, while his successor Nicholas Sarkozy preferred the more modern Haviland Claire de Lune pattern.

Queen Victoria of England

Victoria became Queen shortly after turning 18 and went on to rule for over 63 years.  England reached the zenith of its glory during her reign, with industrialization, new technologies, and economic growth that lifted the country into the modern age.   Abroad, the British dominions spanned every corner of the globe, until the sun never set on the British Empire.   Personally, she was the personification of prudence and virtue of her time:

In 1851, the first World’s Fair, with its famous Crystal Palace, was organized in London to show off the wealth and progress of the British Empire.  During the Fair, Queen Victoria did a little shopping and bought a large dinner set for the Windsor Castle. She chose a “Far-Eastern” pattern by the Hungarian manufacturer Herend that depicts colorful butterflies and peonies. With this pattern Herend won the Grand Prix award, and the Herend Queen Victoria Dinnerware has been produced ever since:

Baron Rothschild

Prominent since the 1740’s, the Rothschild banking family had the largest private fortune in the world in the 19th century, and some believe it may indeed be the largest fortune in modern history.  They were one of the first international banks, with branches in London, Paris, Vienna, Naples, and Frankfurt all controlled by family members.  They financed the English war effort during the Napoleon Wars, the newly independent country of Brazil, the industrialization of England, and at one point owned most of Mayfair in London.  In 1847 Anthony de Rothschild of the London branch was made a Baronet in England, in addition to being a baron of the Hapsburg Austro-Hungarian Empire by birth:

Twelve different motifs portray a 19th century tale about Baroness Rothschild, who lost her pearl necklace in the garden of her Vienna residence. Several days later it was found by her gardener, who saw birds playing with it in a tree.

One day in the 1850’s, Baroness Rothschild lost her pearl necklace in the garden of her Vienna home.  A few days later it was found by her gardener, who saw birds playing with it in a tree.  Since then, Baron Rothschild and his family developed a special love for birds, which symbolized love and relationships.  He ordered a bird-patterned Herend porcelain dinnerware collection for himself and became important patrons of Herend in the years to come, so the Herend Rothschild Bird Dinnerware is named in the honor of him and his family:

Franz Joseph I of Austria

Like Queen Victoria, Franz Joseph I also became the ruler of a large empire at age 18.  He ruled over the Austro-Hungarian Empire of central and eastern Europe as the one of the last descendants of the ancient Hapsburg family.  He was intensely religious and dedicated his life to doing the best for his subjects.  I have personally seen the small desk in the Schonbrunn Palace of Vienna where he put in 12-, 14-, even 16-hour days reviewing court appeals, city lighting proposals, and all the minute details of his vast country.  For his efforts the diverse peoples of his realm revered him as their father…then grandfather figure:

Even though he could’ve had every extravagance, the Emperor loved the simple yet regal Herend Laurel Garland Dinnerware, which was used by him personally in the Buda Castle of Budapest, Hungary:

Empress Elisabeth of Austria

The wife of Emperor Franz Joseph I, Empress Elisabeth of Austria was exceptionally tall and fit, and she adhered to a regimen of diets and exercises that we would be familiar with.  She felt stifled by the rigors of court life and rituals, not to mention a controlling mother-in-law, so she spent most of her time in Budapest instead of Vienna, where she enjoyed equestrian sports.  

When she was married to Franz Joseph I, their Hungarian subjects gave them the Gödöllő Castle near Budapest.  She would spend most of her time there.  More of a romantic at heart than her husband, she chose a chinoiserie dinnerware pattern named Siang Rouge Décor by Herend.  This pattern, later was named Gödöllő Pattern after the city, is unfortunately not available for sale in the United States.  Here’s what it looks like:

Lady Diana

What more could I tell you about Lady Diana that you don’t already know?

Maybe you didn’t know that the future Princess of Wales chose a set of the Herend Rothschild Bird Dinnerware for her wedding:

She was also a collector of the Herend Blue Garland Dinnerware:

Prince William and Kate Middleton

Most likely, you’ve read more about Will and Kate than I have:

On the eve of their wedding, the Republic of Hungary presented 45 pieces of the new pattern based on Queen Victoria – called Herend Royal Garden Dinnerware — to the couple’s official representative, Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London Sir David William Brewer, who declared that Prince William, like his mother and Queen Victoria, holds Herend in high regard:

So perhaps, in the end, the royals aren’t so different from us after all: They have a love for beauty and tradition that we all do.

Well, maybe they’re just a little fancier.

We’ve just moved into our new house, and although we love our hardwood floors, they are kind of overwhelming.  We feel like we’re living in a showhouse, plus we’re always walking carefully since our footsteps can be heard so loudly throughout.  So we need to start thinking about rugs.  We’re looking to define specific areas, add color to some rooms, and muffle sound/bring in warmth underfoot.

Luckily, we’ve done this many times before, so we know what a change we’ll see once we add rugs.  But for those who haven’t, here’s where you start.

A rug is good for:

• Defining a specific seating area.  The area rug brings a group of furniture together.  It could help smaller rooms look more spacious and turn larger rooms into separate, usable areas.

• Creating a focal point in your room.  If your rug is particularly special, use more muted furnishings so you can really show it off.  Clear tables (like this acrylic coffee table) really let your floors shine.

• Adding comfort and warmth underfoot, especially in bedrooms and family rooms.
• Protecting flooring and furniture.  So next time you hear scraping noises from the constant pulling and pushing of chairs in your dining room, you’ll know how to avoid this.
• Muffling sound.  Especially true when you have people walking on floors above you.
• Covering imperfections.  Perfect for older homes if you just don’t love your floors.

So if you’re ready to look at some rugs, how do you tackle this?

Color

The first thing you should look at is how the colors in the rug coordinate with the existing colors in your room. The colors don’t have to match up perfectly, but they should complement each other. Trust us, when you get the color right everything else becomes so much easier.

Design

Usually, the architecture of your space and the type of furnishings you own will dictate whether you go with a traditional, transitional, or contemporary rug. When in doubt, transitional designs are a smart choice because they’ll work with most interiors.

Texture

Design and color may define a rug to most onlookers, but the visual effects of texure should not be underestimated. Not only are textured rugs visually intriguing in themselves, they offset the solid surface of your floor, drawing your eyes into the dimensions of the rug.

Information courtesy of Loloi Rugs.

Should I Get a Rug Pad?

Area rugs can be pricey, so many of us have wondered if we can just skip the rug pad in order to save a few dollars.  Here’s the quick answer: nope. And here’s why.

Rug pads prevent your rug from sliding, buckling, and wrinkling.  They also protect your rug from uneven wear patterns, and keep dirt and moisture trapped between the floor and the rug from damaging the rug’s underside. In a similar vein, they prevent your floors, especially wood floors, from getting bits of latex backing or thread stuck to or ground into in them. Also, vacuuming is easier with a rug pad.  And who doesn’t want to keep their floors in their best shape for years to come?

If you’re ready to take the rug-pad plunge, here’s a quick guide to explain which types work best on which floors, and which types of rugs they work best with. Note that radiant-heat floors can melt rug pads and rugs with latex or plastic backing, so you’ll want to choose a rug weave—sans rug pad—that’s compatible with these floors, or forgo the rug entirely on these surfaces.

Outdoor Floor Rug Pads

Made of tough, no-slip PVC-coated polyester, these rug pads are perfect for the porch or patio and designed to work with indoor/outdoor rugs.  Note: outdoor rug pads are not always suitable for vinyl, lacquered, acrylic, Saltillo tile, terra-cotta, and unsealed surfaces, so if you have any of these types of floors, check with the manufacturer before using.

Floor-Lock Solid Pad

These pads, made of needle-punch plastic with a latex backing, offer cushioning, insulation, and slip resistance in one washable, microbe-resistant package. Use with any type of indoor rug, especially micro-hooked cotton and wool.

Rug-Stop Rug Pad 

This thin, durable, washable pad offers support and promotes even wear. It’s ideal for low-profile rugs, like woven wool and micro-hooked wool, and works well in stair runner installations, where too much height can actually encourage stumbling on the stairs.

Solid Extra-Grip Rug Pad        

In contrast to thinner pads, like the Rug-Stop, this pad in thick and cushy and enhances the foot-feel of high-pile rugs, like hand-knotted wools and jutes. Its higher loft also prevents liquids from leaking onto the floor beneath—a plus if you have pets or small kids in the house.

Information courtesy Loloi and Dash & Albert Rugs.

Getting the Right Size

The best rugs don’t just look great — they enhance and complement the entire look of your interior space. With that said, it’s interesting how the size of a rug, not just its appearance, can influence the dynamic of a room.

Tips

• Get a measuring tape and measure your room.  Then, outline the area where you want your rug (try this with blue painter’s tape).  Don’t forget to check every door and see how it opens.  If you’re in between sizes, go for the larger rug.

• Keep at least 18 inches of bare floor exposed around the rug. This is a classic rule that works for most rooms. If your room is smaller, you can leave less space. The key is to get the proportions right.

• Legs on or off?  It can work both ways, but you should be consistent.  Ideally, all legs should be on the rug, but you may want to think carefully before buying a huge rug that will only fit in one space.  We like going with more standard sizes (8′ x 10′ and 9′ x 12′) as they will fit in most rooms.

• Rugs can create an optical illusion — make this work in your favor. An undersized rug makes the room appear small and disconnected. When in doubt, go for a bigger size. It’ll unify the furniture and make the room appear bigger than it actually is.

• If you have a small rug that you love, lay it as an accent on top of a more neutral sisal/jute rug that’s the right size for your seating area.  And as an added bonus, your room will look more collected that way.

Hides work particularly well this way.

RUG SIZE

Living Room (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 9′ x 12′, 11′ x 14′)

In a living room, rugs help to pull a space together, add warmth and comfort, and muffle noise. Selecting a rug size for your living room depends on the size of your room as well as your furniture arrangement.

Tips:

• Any rug you choose should be longer than your largest piece of furniture (like your sofa).
• Whenever possible, choose a rug that is at least 8′ x 10′; your room will feel more pulled together.

Dining Room (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 7′ round, 8′ round)

In the dining room, make sure the rug you select is big enough for the legs of the chair to sit comfortably on the rug — even when they’re pulled out for people to sit at the table. To make this easy, look for a rug that extends at least 24 inches around the table. And remember to keep at least 18 inches of floor exposed around all sides between the rug’s edge and the wall.

Kitchen (common sizes: 2′ x 3′, runners)

Many people prefer a small 2′ x 3′ area rug in front of the sink, which looks fine.  But if you can, a longer runner will look even better, especially in larger kitchens.

Hallways (common sizes: runners)

Rugs are great for warming up hallways.  Used near console tables and beautiful artwork; they will create small resting areas and unify the space.

Bedroom (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 9′ x 12′)

In a bedroom, the size of your bed and the floor area that surrounds it will dictate what size you should select.  Place a large rug under two legs of the bed and make sure the floor is visible all around the bed.  The rug should extend at least 24″ in length and width from the edges of the bed.  That way, when you get up in the morning, your feet will be on the rug.

In nurseries, don’t worry if the bed is pushed up against the wall: if you use a rug that’s large enough to fit under the front legs of the bed, you’ll be left with a nice-sized play area for the kids on the floor.

Patio (common sizes: 2′ x 3′, 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′)

Just like selecting a rug for your living room, you must consider the scale of your patio furniture arrangement before selecting a rug. One of the most underrated benefits of indoor/outdoor rugs is their ability to unify an outdoor furniture arrangement, which allows us to create a cohesive look in an open space.

RUG SHAPE

The shape of a rug usually follows the architecture and the furniture arrangement in a room.

Rectangle – these are the most common shape, and they work in most rooms

Runners – great for hallways, kitchens, staircases, or next to beds

Round – these look great under round tables, either in the entryway or in the dining room

Square – generally work best in square rooms under square tables, either in the entryway or in the dining room

Half-circle or hearth – for entryways or fireplaces

Information courtesy Loloi, Safavieh, and Surya Rugs.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our Rugs section here.

Construction

While hand knotted rugs are the most prestigious and best known, the majority of rugs in people’s homes are less expensive constructions, like hand tufted or machine-made rugs.  This will help you understand more about the main construction types, including their durability, defining characteristics, and how they’re made.

Hand Knotted

• Price: $$$$
• Durability: Longest lasting construction. Good ones can last 10 to 25 years; great ones can last 100+ years.
• Manufacturing time: 5-12 months
• Shedding: Minimal
• Hand-knotting is the most intricate, labor-intensive rug weaving process in use today.  A higher number of knots per square inch typically translates to better quality.  An average weaver can tie about 3,000 knots per day.
• Process:  Hand knotted rugs are made on a vertical frame called a hand knotting loom. Columns of threads are stretched from the top to the bottom of the loom; these threads form the foundation and the fringe ends of the rug.  Once this has been done, a weaver sits behind the loom and hand ties individual knots onto the vertical strings. Once completed, the rug is then “sheared” to produce a uniform surface, hand washed for luster, and dried.  Some rugs are dried in the sun for authenticity.

• How to Identify: Individual knots are visible on the back of hand-knotted rugs, making it possible to see the overall pattern and colors used on the rug’s surface. Weaving and knots will be slightly uneven. The fringe of a hand-knotted rug is an extension of the rug’s foundation.
• Best for living rooms, libraries, and bedrooms.

Hand Tufted

• Price: $$
• Durability: 3-6 years for standard rugs; 5-10 years for premium rugs
• Manufacturing time: 4-6 months
• Shedding: Sheds initially, subsiding over time.
• Compared to hand-knotted rugs, tufted rugs are less time consuming to produce, so they are more affordable.  Tufted rugs tend to have a thicker pile height, so they’ll have a more cushiony feel.
• Process: Hand-tufted rugs are produced by pulling yarns through the rug’s backing material using a tufting gun.  When the rug design is completed, the loops are cut to form a smooth cut-pile surface.  The rug is then removed from the frame and a second fabric is glued to the back to hold the yarns in place.

• How to identify: On the back of hand-tufted rugs, you’ll see a canvas backing applied with an adhesive to hold the yarns together.
• Ideal for family rooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.

Hand Hooked

• Price: $$
• Durability: 3-10 years
• Manufacturing time: 4-6 months
• Shedding:  Sheds less than hand-tufted rugs, subsiding over time.
• Compared to hand-knotted rugs, hooked rugs are less time consuming to produce, so they are more affordable.
• Process: Hooked rugs are made like tufted rugs, but instead of shearing the yarns to create a smooth-cut pile, the loops are left uncut, so the finished product will feel more like embroidery.  After the design is completed, the rug is removed from the frame and a second fabric is glued to the back to hold the yarns in place.

• How to identify: A canvas backing is applied to hand hooked rugs with an adhesive to hold the yarns together — similar to hand-tufted rugs.   The surface pile of a hand-hooked rug will appear looped (rounded).
• Ideal for family rooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.

Hand Woven Shag

• Price: $$
• Durability: 2-8 years
• Manufacturing time: 4 to 6 months
  Shedding: wool – moderate for an extended period, subsiding over time; polyester – minimal shedding.
• Process: Hand-woven shag rugs are made on hand-operated looms with hundreds of plush, twisted and slightly felted yarns. A team of weavers uses a long steel rod to shoot the fibers across vertical strings that run the length of the rug. 

• How to identify: Unusually deep pile, giving it a shaggy appearance. May or may not have a canvas backing.

Power Loomed/Machine-Made

• Price: $$
• Durability: 2-6 years
• Manufacturing time: 2-3 months
• Shedding: Minimal shedding. Since most rugs of this type are made from synthetic fibers, the pile will crush with heavy traffic.
• Usually the most affordable rug construction.   Typically made out of synthetic materials like polyester, polypropylene, and nylon, which are great for high-traffic areas.
• Process: Produced by large machines with hundreds of spindles of fiber that are mechanically woven into a thin mesh backing.  A computer dictates the pattern, so the chances for error are minimal.
• How to identify: As with hand-knotted rugs, the rug pattern and colors are visible on the back of these rugs. However, a coarse latex backing is used to secure the fibers in place. The back of a machine-made rug will look very uniform and even (in contrast to the back of a hand-knotted rug, which will have slightly uneven knots).
• Ideal in high-traffic areas like entryways, family rooms, kid bedrooms.

Flat Weave

• Price: $$
• Durability: 3-10 years
• Manufacturing time: 4-6 months
• Shedding: Moderate, subsiding over time.
• Often referred to as dhurries or kilims, flatweave rugs are woven on a loom rather than knotted. They are typically constructed from wool, cotton or synthetic materials. In most cases, the pattern on the front of the rug can be viewed clearly from both sides, making these rugs reversible.
• Process: The material used to make flat-weave rugs is braided onto a loom to create the structure of the rug.  No base material is used , so these rugs are thinner (hence the name “flat weave”).

• Tip: Flat weave rugs are reversible, so you can extend their life by flipping the rug.
• Ideal for high-traffic rooms like kitchens, playrooms, and entryways.

Natural Fiber

• Price: $
• Durability: 2-6 years
• Manufacturing time: 4-5 months
• Shedding: Minimal
• Static resistant, naturally insulating, eco-friendly/biodegradable.
• Process: While not a true construction, natural (plant-based) fiber rugs possess their own unique characteristics. They are constructed of tightly woven fibers such as bamboo, cotton, jute, linen, seagrass and sisal to create a casual and relaxed look and feel. The fibers are often bleached or dyed to increase design options and aesthetic appeal. It is important to keep in mind that, as with other rugs, placing natural fiber rugs in direct sunlight several hours a day can result in the fading of dyed materials and gradual darkening of undyed fibers.

Hair-on-hide

• Price: $$
• Durability: 5-10 years
• Manufacturing time: 3-6 months
• Shedding: Minimal
• Process: Hair-on-hide rugs are handcrafted of natural hides to create a myriad of designs. They may be dyed, or left with their natural colors. Due to the innate differences among hides, variations in dye lot, color and pattern can be expected. Brands and other markings add character to hide rugs—making each a one-of-a-kind piece to create a truly authentic look.

• How to identify:  These rugs typically have a felted backing.

Indoor/outdoor

• Price: $
• Durability: 1-5 years outdoor; 2-8 years indoor.   Leaving the rug in direct sunlight or standing water will significantly limit its life.
• Manufacturing time: 3-4 months
• Shedding: None
• Great durability and toughness.
• Process: Indoor/outdoor rugs are made of synthetic fibers (including olefin, polyester, polypropylene and PVC) that have been infused with UV inhibitors to minimize fading. These rugs are mold- and mildew-resistant and can withstand up to 500 hours of direct sunlight.
• Indoor/outdoor rugs can be hand-hooked  or machine-made and typically have a latex, rubber or  vinyl backing, which enables them to withstand the elements
• Ideal for patios, outdoor dining areas

Information courtesy Dash & Albert, Loloi, Safavieh, Surya Rugs.

To shop our entire selection of rugs, click here.

Materials

When picking the right fiber, you have to consider things like cleanability, durability, softness, shedding, color retention, and more. In fact, sometimes synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyester are better choices than natural fibers because they’re stain-resistant, fade-resistant, and soft.

Understanding the fibers below will help you determine what you should choose based on your needs.

NATURAL FIBERS

Cotton

• Texture: soft and smooth
• Durability: moderate
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Easy to clean and maintain

Sisal

• Natural fiber from the agave plant
• Texture: coarse
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Does not attract dust and is static free

Seagrass

• Natural fiber from the agave plant
• Texture: soft, reed-like
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Does not attract dust and is static free

Jute

• Shiny, vegetable fiber
• Texture: rough, with natural variations in color
• Durability: moderate
• Sustainable/biodegradable

Wool

• Most commonly used natural fiber in rugs (usually sheep’s wool)
• Texture: mildly coarse, very resilient
• Durability: high
• Sustainable/biodegradable

SYNTHETIC FIBERS

Acrylic

• Texture: smooth, shiny
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Most commonly blended with other fibers like polyester (this is called a poly-acrylic blend)

Polypropylene

• Texture: slightly less smooth than most synthetic fibers
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Bold, fade-resistant color
• Commonly used in indoor/outdoor rugs for its UV, mildew, and water resistant qualities

Viscose

• Synthetic, shiny fiber (also known as “art silk”) commonly used as a more affordable substitute for silk
• Texture: soft, smooth, silky sheen
• Durability: low
• Some rugs are made of 100% viscose, but most rugs use viscose to accent a pattern

Polyester

• Texture: smooth, shiny
• Durability: high
• Wears well and feels very soft, especially when used for rugs with a thick pile
• Moisture, stain, and abrasion resistant
• Retains color over time, easy to clean

Information courtesy Loloi and Surya Rugs.

Area rugs can be pricey, so many of us have wondered if we can just skip the rug pad in order to save a few dollars.  Here’s the quick answer: nope. And here’s why.

Rug pads do the following:

• Prevent your rug from sliding, buckling, and wrinkling
• Protect your rug from uneven wear patterns, and keep dirt and moisture trapped between the floor and the rug from damaging the rug’s underside
• Prevent your floors, especially wood floors, from getting bits of latex backing or thread stuck into them
• Finally, vacuuming is easier with a rug pad.  And who doesn’t want to keep their floors in their best shape for years to come?

If you’re ready to take the rug-pad plunge, here’s a quick guide to explain which types work best on which floors, and which types of rugs they work best with. Note that radiant-heat floors can melt rug pads and rugs with latex or plastic backing, so you’ll want to choose a rug weave—sans rug pad—that’s compatible with these floors, or forgo the rug entirely on these surfaces.

Outdoor Rug Pads

Made of tough, no-slip PVC-coated polyester, these rug pads are perfect for the porch or patio and designed to work with indoor/outdoor rugs.  Note: outdoor rug pads are not always suitable for vinyl, lacquered, acrylic, Saltillo tile, terra-cotta, and unsealed surfaces, so if you have any of these types of floors, check with the manufacturer before using.

Floor-Lock Solid Pad

These pads, made of needle-punch plastic with a latex backing, offer cushioning, insulation, and slip resistance in one washable, microbe-resistant package. Use with any type of indoor rug, especially micro-hooked cotton and wool.

Rug-Stop Rug Pad 

This thin, durable, washable pad offers support and promotes even wear. It’s ideal for low-profile rugs, like woven wool and micro-hooked wool, and works well in stair runner installations, where too much height can actually encourage stumbling on the stairs.

Solid Extra-Grip Rug Pad        

In contrast to thinner pads, like the Rug-Stop, this pad in thick and cushy and enhances the foot-feel of high-pile rugs, like hand-knotted wools and jutes. Its higher loft also prevents liquids from leaking onto the floor beneath—a plus if you have pets or small kids in the house.

Information courtesy Loloi and Dash & Albert Rugs.

For more rug pads, click here.

When picking the right fiber, you have to consider things like cleanability, durability, softness, shedding, color retention, and more. In fact, sometimes synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyester are better choices than natural fibers because they’re stain-resistant, fade-resistant, and soft.

Understanding the fibers below will help you determine what you should choose based on your needs.

NATURAL FIBERS

Cotton

• Texture: soft and smooth
• Durability: moderate
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Easy to clean and maintain

Sisal

• Natural fiber from the agave plant
• Texture: coarse
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Does not attract dust and is static free

Seagrass

• Natural fiber from the agave plant
• Texture: soft, reed-like
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Sustainable/biodegradable
• Does not attract dust and is static free

Jute

• Shiny, vegetable fiber
• Texture: rough, with natural variations in color
• Durability: moderate
• Sustainable/biodegradable

Wool

• Most commonly used natural fiber in rugs (usually sheep’s wool)
• Texture: mildly coarse, very resilient
• Durability: high
• Sustainable/biodegradable

SYNTHETIC FIBERS

Acrylic

• Texture: smooth, shiny
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Most commonly blended with other fibers like polyester (this is called a poly-acrylic blend)

Polypropylene

• Texture: slightly less smooth than most synthetic fibers
• Durability: high
• Minimal shedding
• Bold, fade-resistant color
• Commonly used in indoor/outdoor rugs for its UV, mildew, and water resistant qualities

Viscose

• Synthetic, shiny fiber (also known as “art silk”) commonly used as a more affordable substitute for silk
• Texture: soft, smooth, silky sheen
• Durability: low
• Some rugs are made of 100% viscose, but most rugs use viscose to accent a pattern

Polyester

• Texture: smooth, shiny
• Durability: high
• Wears well and feels very soft, especially when used for rugs with a thick pile
• Moisture, stain, and abrasion resistant
• Retains color over time, easy to clean

Information courtesy Loloi and Surya Rugs.

To view our entire collection of area rugs, click here.

The best rugs don’t just look great — they enhance and complement the entire look of your interior space. With that said, it’s interesting how the size of a rug, not just its appearance, can influence the dynamic of a room.

Tips

• Get a measuring tape and measure your room.  Then, outline the area where you want your rug (try this with blue painter’s tape).  Don’t forget to check every door and see how it opens.  If you’re in between sizes, go for the larger rug.

• Keep at least 18 inches of bare floor exposed around the rug. This is a classic rule that works for most rooms. If your room is smaller, you can leave less space. The key is to get the proportions right.

• Legs on or off?  It can work both ways, but you should be consistent.  Ideally, all legs should be on the rug, but you may want to think carefully before buying a huge rug that will only fit in one space.  We like going with more standard sizes (8′ x 10′ and 9′ x 12′) as they will fit in most rooms.

• Rugs can create an optical illusion — make this work in your favor. An undersized rug makes the room appear small and disconnected. When in doubt, go for a bigger size. It’ll unify the furniture and make the room appear bigger than it actually is.

• If you have a small rug that you love, lay it as an accent on top of a more neutral sisal/jute rug that’s the right size for your seating area.  And as an added bonus, your room will look more collected that way.

Hides work particularly well this way.

RUG SIZE

Living Room (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 9′ x 12′, 11′ x 14′)

In a living room, rugs help to pull a space together, add warmth and comfort, and muffle noise. Selecting a rug size for your living room depends on the size of your room as well as your furniture arrangement.

Tips:

• Any rug you choose should be longer than your largest piece of furniture (like your sofa).
• Whenever possible, choose a rug that is at least 8′ x 10′; your room will feel more pulled together.

Dining Room (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 7′ round, 8′ round)

In the dining room, make sure the rug you select is big enough for the legs of the chair to sit comfortably on the rug — even when they’re pulled out for people to sit at the table. To make this easy, look for a rug that extends at least 24 inches around the table. And remember to keep at least 18 inches of floor exposed around all sides between the rug’s edge and the wall.

Kitchen (common sizes: 2′ x 3′, runners)

Many people prefer a small 2′ x 3′ area rug in front of the sink, which looks fine.  But if you can, a longer runner will look even better, especially in larger kitchens.

Hallways (common sizes: runners)

Rugs are great for warming up hallways.  Used near console tables and beautiful artwork; they will create small resting areas and unify the space.

Bedroom (common sizes: 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′, 9′ x 12′)

In a bedroom, the size of your bed and the floor area that surrounds it will dictate what size you should select.  Place a large rug under two legs of the bed and make sure the floor is visible all around the bed.  The rug should extend at least 24″ in length and width from the edges of the bed.  That way, when you get up in the morning, your feet will be on the rug.

In nurseries, don’t worry if the bed is pushed up against the wall: if you use a rug that’s large enough to fit under the front legs of the bed, you’ll be left with a nice-sized play area for the kids on the floor.

Patio (common sizes: 2′ x 3′, 5′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′)

Just like selecting a rug for your living room, you must consider the scale of your patio furniture arrangement before selecting a rug. One of the most underrated benefits of indoor/outdoor rugs is their ability to unify an outdoor furniture arrangement, which allows us to create a cohesive look in an open space.

RUG SHAPE

The shape of a rug usually follows the architecture and the furniture arrangement in a room.

Rectangle – these are the most common shape, and they work in most rooms

Runners – great for hallways, kitchens, staircases, or next to beds

Round – these look great under round tables, either in the entryway or in the dining room

Square – generally work best in square rooms under square tables, either in the entryway or in the dining room

Half-circle or hearth – for entryways or fireplaces

Information courtesy Loloi, Safavieh, and Surya Rugs.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our Rugs section here.

Have you ever worried about serving your favorite wines with dinner because they could stain your tablecloths?  Or inviting your best friends’ children over for a sit-down meal because Joey is (ahem) a little messy?

Well, believe it or not, some genius scientists in Switzerland were listening, and they came up with a solution that did not involve vinyl.  And not a moment too soon.  Finally, we’ll have driverless cars on the road, so it’s high time we found a way to entertain well without worrying about stains.

What’s the big idea?  These scientists went outdoors, studied why certain plants are naturally water-repellent, and developed an invisible treatment that when applied to fabrics, made them stain-resistant but still kept them feeling exactly the same.

This is a game-changer.  Because now it means that you can have friends over for lunch, family over for dinner, and all you’ll have to do is call uberEats twice.

Initially, this technology was applied to outdoor fabrics.  Then, in 2010, Garnier-Thiebaut, one of the best-known manufacturers of French linens (they supply Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Alain Ducasse with linens), became the first company to apply the treatment (which they call Green Sweet) to home linens, and now they offer the most extensive collection available.

If you’d like to learn more about Green Sweet, here are the ten most frequently asked questions:

1) Can you feel the difference between Garnier-Thiebaut’s regular linens and their Green Sweet tablecloths?

No, you can’t tell the difference.  The Green Sweet treatment does not affect either the look or the feel of the cloths.

2) What does Green Sweet mean?

In developing the treatment, Swiss scientists looked to nature to replicate the way some plants always stay clean by ingeniously repelling water and dirt.  Once they were able to come up with a solution, they called it “Green” as it was derived from their studies of these plants.

“Sweet” is an acronym that refers to several important benefits of this treatment:

• S – Simple to clean
• W – Waterproof
• E – Economic: stain-free cloths mean fewer washes, so the cloths last longer
• E – Environmentally friendly: less frequent washing means you’ll consume less water, energy, and detergent to keep the cloths clean
• T – Textile Touch: the treatment does not affect the look and feel of the cloths, so they stay supple and breathable

3) How does Green Sweet work?

When water is applied to fabric, it generally penetrates the surface very quickly.  But scientists had noticed that there were plants whose leaves repelled water, so they replicated a treatment that did the same thing.

Water-repellent leaves may look smooth, but they are actually composed of numerous minute rough surfaces.  These keep water from breaking down into smaller drops and penetrating the surface.

Similarly, during the finishing process, fibers are coated with nanoparticles of the Green Sweet treatment which creates a hilly surface that prevents liquids and soils from penetrating the surface.  Instead, they remain on top, so they can be easily wiped off.

4) Can you show me what happens when there are spills?

Take a look at how these linens react to jam, fruit juice, water, and even red wine!

5) How is the Green Sweet treatment applied?

Each cotton fiber is individually coated with the Green Sweet treatment, so it is deeply embedded into the cloth.  The Green Sweet treatment is applied by Garnier-Thiebaut at their production facilities in Les Vosges, France.  This allows the company to tightly control the quality of the treatment and the finished cloths.

6) How do I clean spills on Green Sweet cloths?

After removing any solid particles on your cloths, simply wipe them with a damp sponge.  The rest of your cloth should remain clean and dry.

7) How do I wash Green Sweet linens?

Green Sweet linens can be laundered as usual in the washing machine, and they will maintain their protective qualities even after numerous washes.  Avoid using fabric softeners, dryer sheets, or abrasive sponges.

8) Can I iron Green Sweet linens?

Yes!  Although you normally would not need to, you can certainly iron Green Sweet linens.  One benefit of ironing cloths is that ironing reactivates the functionality of the treatment.

9) Why don’t you offer Green Sweet napkins?

We want your napkins to be absorbent, so Garnier-Thiebaut only applies the Green Sweet treatment to their cloths, runners, and placemats.

10) Who invented Green Sweet?

The nanotechnology was developed by Clariant, one of world’s leading specialty chemical companies.  This technology had already been in use by manufacturers of outdoor products; Garnier-Thiebaut was the first manufacturer to use it on linens for the home.  Every Garnier-Thiebaut collection that is treated with Green Sweet has been tested and certified by Clariant and is packaged with a Green Sweet label.

So happy that in between all these modern-day technological advances, something came along that truly made life easier for us.  To see all of Garnier-Thiebaut’s Green Sweet stain-resistant collections, click here.

Don’t you love the fresh scent and smooth feel of new linens?

Would you like to keep them looking and feeling fresh year after year?  Here are our favorite common sense tips to help keep your linens beautiful:

Laundering Your Fine Linens

1.  Wash with like colors in cool water using a non-bleach detergent.

2.  Delicate lace and embellished linens should be placed in a mesh laundry bag before washing.

3.  Wash towels only with other towels to prevent pilling.

4.  Never use fabric softener when washing towels, as this could make them less absorbent.

Removing Stains

5.  Treat stains as soon as possible with a stain remover.

6.  Avoid bleaching agents, as they can damage natural fibers.

7.  If white fabrics need bleaching, use an oxygen-based bleach.

Is Dry Cleaning Necessary?

8.  Dry cleaning is recommended for wool fibers such as cashmere, merino wool and alpaca.

9.  Unless the label specifically says “Dry Clean Only”, cotton, linen, and easy care fabrics like polyester could all be machine washed.

How to Dry your Linens

10.  Avoid twisting or wringing out linens before drying.

11.  Tumble dry at medium heat until slightly damp.

Pressing and Ironing Linens

12.  Smooth linens flat and press them with a hot iron while damp.

13.  Spray with a scented ironing water to give it an extra fresh scent each time.

14.  If you cannot iron immediately, roll linens in a plastic bag and place in the refrigerator to keep them moist.

15.  Embroidered linens should be ironed face down on a towel until smooth.

16.  Starch lightly if you feel you need them extra crisp.  Do not put too much starch, or they’ll build up over time and make your linens hard and heavy.

Storing your Fine Linens

17.  Clean and dry linens completely before storage.

18.  Store linens by hanging, or roll linens around a tube to minimize creasing.

19.  Cover with natural fabric or acid-free tissue paper.

20.  Avoid storing in plastic bags or cedar chests for long periods of time.

21.  Store your linens in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

Bonus Tips

Here are a few more tips, based on some of best-selling products for caring for your linens:

22.  Put a thick piece of fabric or a table liner between your tablecloth and your table.  It helps absorb spills, reduce the sound of all those plates and glasses going on the table, and makes your tablecloth feel even plusher.

23.   While commercial detergents usually work fine, here are some cleaners specially formulated for laundering your linens.  They have a neutral pH balance and contain no bleach, making them safe for not just your tablecloths and bedding but also lace, silk, christening gowns, and so on.

24.  Spritz a bit of scented linen water and store your linens with a scented sachet to give them that extra linen fresh scent.

And here’s the cheat sheet:

Do you realize that creating a gift registry is probably your first official act as a married couple?

The ring, the dress, and the thousand details of your wedding are all for The Big Day.  With the gift registry, though, you’re telling the world jointly how you plan to live after you get married.   Unfortunately, it could be hard to see that far ahead.

Here are some common wedding gift registry mistakes we’ve seen, and how to avoid them:

 1.  Not Setting Up a Wedding Gift Registry

Does Aunt Nellie love to knit scarves and give you one every birthday, holiday, and just about any time she thinks of you?  Do you want her to spend ten hours knitting you another scarf?  Just so you could add it to your drawer full of them?

It actually is better for us, your guests, to know what you’d really like — so we don’t run around looking for The Perfect Thing.  And you don’t have to wonder what to do with it — for the next 30 years.

Once you have a gift registry, just put a link to it on your wedding website.  That advice about “not publishing your registry and keeping it word of mouth only”?  So pre-Internet, it’ll make your mother-in-law think you’re old fashioned.

2.  Asking Just for Cash

I once went to a wedding where the couple registered for only cash contributions, for everything from cooking classes to a $10 million island in the Caribbean.  Seriously, guys?

Now, we know it’s The New Thing to register for cash so you could use it to remodel a bathroom, pay vet bills, or just get some groceries.  But after a while it does reduce your wedding to a financial transaction: Hmm, four of us are going, so let’s give 4 * $75 = $300.  This makes your special occasion, if not crass, definitely forgettable.

It’s nice to register for some gift cards for distant acquaintances.  Those closer to you, though, would want to play a bigger role in your future life together.  So give them a chance to be a part of it: think about how you’d like to live with your gift registry.

3.  We Don’t Need Anything

Yeah, you’re not getting married at 18.  You already have towels, dishes, glasses, furniture, maybe even a rug.  But believe it or not, your life will still change a lot in the years to come.  Those IKEA dishes are probably not going to cut it when you’re hosting your fellow partners, investors, or (gasp!) campaign contributors in-laws a few years down the road.

It’s impossible to know what the future holds, but you should still plan for it.   Besides, it’s fun to dream about the future — together!

4.  Showing Off

Yes, you really have come a long way since the days when you mowed the lawn for Uncle Ned or went to the mall with Aunt Peggy and her brood.  But don’t try to wow them even more with a registry full of gold-gilded this and crystal-encrusted that.

It’s more important that you get what you really love.  Otherwise, wouldn’t Uncle Ned and Aunt Peggy still be calling the shots?

5. Not Planning the Same Lifestyle

Is one of you planning to jet off to Pierre Gagnaire’s latest, while the other already looking forward to Thanksgiving with kids and all the relatives?

That’s OK — it’s not uncommon for two people to have different ideas.  Even long-time married couples do.  A planning exercise, like creating a wedding gift registry, would be a great way for you to discover what each of you is looking for and find common ground together.

6. Not Creating a Common Style

Maybe men are from Mars and women from Venus, but do you have to do track-suit-meets-Versace for the rest of your lives?

How we design, decorate, and entertain says a lot about who want to be.  In your early days together, differences might seem unimportant relative to the big events of the first date, moving in together, engagement, and The Wedding.  They might even seem cute — “Aww, he really must like this UFC thing.” — “Huh huh, I can’t pronounce any of these words on her clothes.”

But eventually, a couple would have to merge their tastes to create a common style, or one day you’ll get a “Honey, you know that —- thing you like?”  Registering for china patterns, flatware, and household goods is a good first step to coming up with an “our style.”  So don’t just think it’s her thing or his thing.  Take it seriously and work on it together.

7.  Not Using What You Register For

There is something truly sad about finding a complete dinnerware service at a thrift store, unused and in perfect condition.  What happened to those people . . . and their dreams?

Don’t think what you register for is too nice to use.  Don’t let the years just pass you by.  Dream of a better life, and then go live it.  Celebrate with the best that you have.

In Conclusion…

Getting married is a big milestone (congratulations, by the way!)  It’s also just a step to much bigger things ahead.  Take a moment to think about the life that you’ll be creating.  Make your first decision together thoughtfully.

We recommend that you work backwards with these steps:

1. Use entertaining as an example to talk about your long term plans together.
2. Talk about each other’s lifestyle aspirations.
3. Decide on a design style that makes both of you happy.
4. Prioritize the items you’ll need.
5. Create your wedding gift registry together:

You’ll probably even find it fun with all the crazy planning for The Big Day!

The flowers at the Four Seasons George V in Paris are so stunning, they’ve made the hotel a must-stop for anyone visiting the 8th arrondissement.  Go any time of the year and I promise you’ll be thrilled.

Three times a week, the hotel receives a shipment of around 10,000 fresh flowers from Amsterdam, which are used to lavishly decorate the hotel’s reception areas and guest rooms.  In case you’ve wondered, the masses and masses of chic arrangements are created every week by American Jeff Leatham and his team of 11 florists.

A native of Utah, Jeff originally worked as a model in Paris, and after strolling past a small flower shop, he was struck by the beauty he saw inside.   “I had a flash of flowers as works of art, tiny elements that could be combined to create something amazing,” says Jeff.

A friend referred him to the Four Seasons Los Angeles, which he joined as a part-time florist although he had no formal experience arranging flowers.  But his talents soon became noticed, and after an event in L.A. brought the team from the Four Seasons George V to his hotel, he was offered a position in Paris.  He moved there a week later, and the rest is history.  Jeff is now the Creative Director for Four Seasons Hotels worldwide, and he’s created flowers for Cher, Oprah, and Eva Longoria.

But he remains accessible and down to earth.  For example, here are a few of his flower-arranging tips (via The Telegraph):

– Use simple vases that don’t distract attention from the display

– Never use more than three types of flowers in a display

– Too much water in a vase causes stems to rot – put in a small amount of water and top up as required

– Don’t mix white flowers with other colors (except, if necessary, yellow)

– If using a clear vase, top up the water with Perrier – the bubbles latch on to the stems and add sparkle

If you love Jeff’s style and would love to recreate it at home, here are three simple ways to do it:

1) Get his latest book, “Jeff Leatham: Visionary Floral Art and Design (Rizzoli):”

2) Get a crystal vase from Jeff’s exclusive collection for Waterford, Fleurology.  When it arrives, run and get the prettiest flowers you can find.  Take a look at how he’s transformed a few simple vases below:

3) Reserve a spot in one of Jeff Leatham’s two-hour floral workshops.  They are offered four times a year, and they’re complimentary for hotel guests.  Click here for more information.

Will you be in Paris soon?  If so, we’d love to see your pictures.

To see the entire Fleurology line, click here.

Isn’t it extraordinary when you walk into a hotel that’s so well designed it feels like it was created just for you?  Or when you know instinctively where you need to check-in, or where you could meet friends for a drink after work?  And then, as you walk around, you realize that other people are having the same experience, but they’re speaking Russian?

It’s really hard work to get all those details right, and for them to make sense for very different people from all over the world.  But that’s good design.

Years ago,  I read a book by Isadore Sharp, founder of the Four Seasons Hotels.  And in it he talked about some of the changes he’d pioneered over the years that little by little had created the behemoth it is today.

For example, did you know that he introduced the practice of giving each guest toiletries like shampoo and conditioner (and not just soap)?  Twenty-four hour room service (practically a necessity after those late flights)?  Or twice-daily housekeeping service?  Seems like a small thing, but isn’t it nice to come back to your room after dinner and see that the mess you left behind has all been picked up?

Little by little, each of these innovations have changed how we interact with hotels.  They’re now more than just places to sleep; the best ones deliver full-on experiences ranging from a local weekend away from home to full-on trips with the family to finding a way to connect with a new city while you’re in town for your college buddy’s wedding.

So I was really interested when I saw an article in the New York Times (“Hotels for the Next Generation“) that talked about the newest brand extensions from some of the largest hotel brands in the world: Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.

Were the innovations in these brands significant?  And if so, how could we adapt these ideas at home?

Here’s what I learned.  The new brands are aimed at the Millenial generation (aged between 18-34 in 2015) and at cosmopolitan travelers looking for affordable, modern spaces with a bit of personality.

Moxy (from parent Marriott) is creating spaces for younger travelers who are very connected in social media and enjoy sharing spaces for work and fun.  For these people, free wi-fi is a must, along with open areas (like those featured in our “Billion Dollar Startup” blog) that allow them to connect with other people.  There’s also a 24-hour self-service coffee bar.

Get the look: Here in Los Angeles, all the new high-end houses have this: large kitchens connected to large family rooms, with disappearing glass doors that fully open onto a huge deck.  So this way, parents can keep an eye on their kids, while guests can feel free to pitch in to help.   Need a cup of coffee?  Make yourself at home; our state-of-the art coffee machine is right there in the corner, and milk and cream are the fridge underneath.  Or help yourself to a beer; it’s all there for you.  Make it easy and fun for everyone to feel at home.

AC (also from Marriott) is designed for some of the same people, but these folks are much more design-centric.  The look is very cool: modern, with warm touches of wood, extraordinary lighting, and interesting pieces of art throughout.  This is for the guy who no longer walks around in his college duds; he’s the young agent who’s got his eyes on a pair of Pradas and knows what a Tom Ford suit looks like.  For these, it’s all about clean lines: sofas in neutral colors, curated objects that are arranged just so;  high-tech the whole way.   These places are usually very clean and relaxing.

Get the look: Clean lines and neutral colors are sophisticated and calming.  Try organizing your closet so that all your clothes and shoes are color coordinated.  Swap out your bath accessories for ones in cool shades of white and gray.  Introduce a sense of calm by turning off your cell phone, dimming the lights in your dining room, setting the table, and sitting down to dinner with your family.

From Hilton, there’s a new brand called Canopy.  As the name implies, this is all about a place that wants to take care of you.  In their introduction to the brand, they have a group of cool people drawing out their ideas for a hotel on a blackboard.  So the result is a place that works just for you.  If you’re in Denver, you might find snacks from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory as a welcome treat.  In the evening, there are complimentary beer tastings, and in the morning, you can have free breakfast at the hotel or on the go.

Get the look: How would this work at home?  Start by asking your family members what they need to be happy at home.  Then think about how you can connect more with where you live.  Can you give a chance to your neighborhood trattoria, so that when your sister comes to visit from out of town, you can take her to a place she won’t find anywhere else?  What kind of stories are there for you to pick up?  The finance guy who’s now making wood bowls out of his garage?  And he’s really good at it, so you’ve brought a few home?

Do you have any ideas to share about how hotels have influenced what you do at home?  If so, please share it in your comments.

I’m obsessed with copper.  Sometimes, when you’re putting a room together, nickel is too bright while brass seems too shiny.   In those cases, copper strikes just the perfect balance between something that looks aged but can still bring the room alive.

Here are some amazing ways to use copper in your home:

Inspired?  You’re welcome.

Check out more ways to use copper by following our Pinterest Copper Accents page.

When choosing a rug, always start by thinking about you’ll be doing in the room.  Typically, it comes down to three functions:

1) Entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and mud rooms: easy to clean rugs

2) Family rooms, offices, closets: casual and lightweight rugs

3) Living rooms, bedrooms: thick and plush rugs

After you’ve narrowed it down to which kind of rug you need, here are a few things to consider:

Entryways/Foyers

– In the entryway, choose a rug that hides dirt well and is large enough to cover the width of your door.

– Measure your door clearance so that the rug is not so thick that it gets in the way when you open and close your door.

– In the foyer, rugs can be used to anchor a console table, direct your sight lines forward, or add color.  For best effect, leave at least 6-12″ of bare wood exposed on all sides.

Living Rooms

– The best rugs visually anchor seating groups, so choose one that is large enough to fit all four legs of your furniture pieces.  If necessary, the rear legs of your sofa can be left off-rug.

– If  you want to leave some of your floors exposed, choose a rug that leaves you with 18″ – 24″ of space between the rug and the wall.

– If your living room is very large, pick two or three rugs and lay them side by side.  These can either be identical or complementary.

Dining Rooms

– To make sure that the rug is large enough to cover chairs when they are pulled, choose one that is at least 24″ larger than your dining table on all sides.

– In a multipurpose room, delineate the dining area with its own rug.  However, if there’s already a large rug underneath, then you can leave the space bare.

Offices

– In offices, even smaller rugs will bring in a lot of style.   They’re also great at making work seem more fun.

Take a look at this study room for kids …

… and at this space for adults.  Don’t the rugs just finish up the rooms?

Stairs

– Stairs typically look best with solid or striped rugs.

– If you have heavy foot traffic, go with a darker color; otherwise, a fun rug can really brighten up the space.

– For an easy solution, start with runners (see our instructions for installing a stair runner here).

Bedrooms

– Choose an area rug that is at least 24″ larger than your bed on all sides.  This way, you’ll be able to step onto something soft when you wake up.

– If you use nightstands, be sure the rug ends at least 6-12 inches beyond the edges.

– If  you want to leave some of your floors exposed, choose a rug that leaves you with 18″ – 24″ of space between the rug and the wall.

– If you have a sitting area, you can use one smaller rug between two chairs or in front of a sofa or chaise lounge.

– Here are some easy guidelines for choosing an area rug for your bedroom:

Bathrooms

– Bath rugs are essential for stepping out of the tub or shower.  Pick one that’s washable and large enough to cover the size of your glass door.

– If you have double sinks, matching bath rugs add softness and symmetry to the room.

– Area rugs are perfect for covering up older tile or hardwood.  It’s also great for walking around barefoot.

Closets

– Bold area rugs look fabulous in closets.

Laundry Rooms/Mud rooms/Back doors/Outdoors

– Indoor/outdoor area rugs are perfect for these high-traffic, moist environments.  You can use them to add color and texture to each area, and they are easily cleaned.

– Outdoors, rugs are perfect for delineating specific areas, like this dining space:

– We also love using rugs to guide guests toward special areas in the garden:

To view all our rugs, click here.

So much attention is given to valuations of hot companies that it’s sometimes hard to remember that just a few years ago, all of these were just a fragment of someone’s imagination.  So we thought it would be fun to check in on them and see: what do you do when you’ve outgrown your digs and need to get yourself some real offices?  And what do the best modern offices share in common?  Here’s what we found out.

They definitely don’t look the way they did in the 50’s …

… or even what they looked like in the 90’s:

Today’s offices are much more open, with space for both focused work and collaborative areas.  They feel like playrooms, and they’re filled with all the best comforts from home, like sofas, rugs, pillows, and fully outfitted kitchens.

Designed by Studios Architecture and housed in the New York’s Empire State Building, Shutterstock’s loft-like offices include plenty of comfortable seating and small breakout rooms.

If Airbnb’s San Francisco headquarters feel like home, it’s because it include replicas of popular listings in Bali, Rykjavik, and Paris.

Although very high-tech, Uber’s San Francisco offices feature lots of natural materials, soft rugs, and comfortable communal seating.

Jessica Alba’s The Honest Company is a powerhouse manufacturer of non-toxic products, but their headquarters are anything but industrial.  They are full of natural light, playfulness (notice the wall of positive mantras in the background), and ready for any babies who visit.

Hulu’s architects, Gensler, spent months researching how the Hulu team works, and they concluded that the average team member spends their day doing 50% focused work, 35% collaboration, 6% play, 5% learning.  So for the company’s Santa Monica headquarters, they designed an open space that allows for lots of collaboration (previously known as playing videogames).

Finally, we have Tory Burch’s offices in Manhattan.  Like her stores and her homes, designer Daniel Romualdez has created a superchic set of rooms oozing with Tory’s style and reminiscent of home.

Our takeaway from all these offices?  They no longer look like work!

So whether you work alone or in a huge company, just focus on making your office is as inviting and comfortable as you can.  Start by asking yourself the following questions:

– Does it inspire me?  If you’re working on designing a collection of jewelry, could you display pictures of gorgeous movie stars to get the conversation started?

– How can I make the space more personal?  If you love flowers or just feel happier when you see pictures of your last vacation, bring them in.

– Is my chair comfortable?  Could I make it better with a throw or a pillow?  Would I like it better if it were turquoise like Tory’s?

– Is my desk organized?  Could I use a pencil cup, or a tray?

– Could I add a lightly scented candle?

– Do I have separate zones for focused work and meetings with colleagues?

– Do I have comfortable seating for guests who visit?

– Can I easily tilt my computer screen to share something I found online?

– Could I bring the outdoors in?  Can I add plants or sit near a window with a view to the outside?

– Is the lighting right?  If it’s too harsh, can I install dimmers?  If it’s too soft, can I bring in a favorite lamp?

– Does it feel inviting?  Does it have my favorite colors?  Could I add a rug underfoot so it’s plush when I work?

A successful office is one that is seamless, so you never feel like you’re “at work;” you’re simply working on a project that you love.  So shouldn’t it be the best you can make it?

To be able to choose the right rug, it helps to be familiar with the different kinds of materials and weaves.  Here we break it down for you.

The most common materials for rugs are wool, cotton, acrylic, nylon, polypropylene, and hemp.  There’s also silk and cashmere, but those are rare.

Wool is the finest and priciest.  It keeps its shape and resists dirt better than any other fiber, so it holds up better under traffic and is more easily cleaned once soiled.

Cotton is a good choice because it is natural and lightweight (great if you move furniture often).

Acrylic fibers resemble wool, but they don’t hold their shape as well over the long run.  They are less expensive than wool and they are a great alternative for those who are allergic to wool.

Nylon is one of the most popular, well-priced fibers used for carpeting today.  It wears well and holds up under lots of traffic.

Polypropylyne (olefin) and Polyethylene (PET) are stain and water resistant, so they’re frequently used to make outdoor area rugs.

Sisal, sea grass, coir, and jute all come from the fiber of the hemp plant.  They’re beloved by designers because they’re neutral and add texture without competing with anything else in the room.  If you choose one of these, clean up spills as soon as they happen.

Now that you’ve chosen your material, let’s turn over to our friends at Dash & Albert to give us a primer on the different weaves available.

COTTON RUGS

Woven cotton rugs are durable enough to stand up to the heavy traffic of a kitchen or hallway, but also soft enough for the bedroom, nursery, or family room.  They are reversible, affordable and lightweight, so they’re great if you like to rearrange furniture often.

Woven chenille rugs are made from a combination of cotton and cotton chenille for plushness and softness. Like woven cotton rugs, they’re lightweight and reversible.  Woven chenille rugs are great for low- to medium-traffic areas where you want a little more cushion underfoot, such as guest rooms, hallways, and home offices.

Hooked cotton rugs are hand hooked by skilled artisans from scrap jersey fabric or yarn, giving them a springy, looped construction that feels bouncy underfoot.

With hooked cotton rugs, the size of the hook and fabric loops is important in determining where to place your rug. Chindi large and medium hooked rugs are high-profile and very plush, so they’re well-suited for living rooms, bedrooms, and family spaces.  If you’re looking for that same cushy feel with a lower profile and a more detailed pattern, go with chindi micro-hooked and yarn hooked rugs. These are great in offices, dining rooms, and even stairs!

WOOL RUGS

Woven Wool Rugs

With a rougher hand and a dense, durable construction, woven wool rugs have a natural earthen charm and rustic texture. Woven by hand from 100 percent wool yarns, these rugs work best in low-traffic areas like guest rooms, home offices, and sitting areas.  They are lightweight and reversible.

Soumak Woven Wool Rugs

Sophisticated and unusual, soumak wool rugs are crafted by braiding the weft yarn around an additional warp, so they have a more textured surface than their wool woven counterparts, and feature a dynamic pattern with lots of visual movement. Soumak woven wool rugs are for indoor use only, and work well in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.

Hooked wool rugs require little maintenance and get better with age.  The size of the hook and the yarns will help determine where to use your rug. Micro-hooked wool rugs are made with smaller wool yarns in tight hooks that create a low-profile rug, so they are perfect for high-traffic areas, including hallways, entryways, stairs, kitchens and mudrooms.  Medium-hooked wool rugs, crafted from four to five plies of thick wool yarn in large hooks, feature a higher profile, making them ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.

Tufted & Carved Wool Rugs

Full and lush, tufted and carved wool rugs are a true treat for the feet! Thick wool yarns are hand hooked in intricate designs, and then sheared to create a lush pile. The pile is then hand carved along the design, creating an area rug with a truly luxurious feel. The wool rug weave with the highest, cushiest profile, tufted and carved wool rugs are at home in living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms.

Hand-Knotted Wool Rugs

Crafted by only the most skilled artisans, hand-knotted wool rugs are timeless investment pieces. Because of their unusual weave, hand-knotted rugs can appear lighter from one angle than the other—an optical illusion that’s part of their appeal. Plush and sumptuous, these area rugs are perfect for rooms where the rug is the star: living rooms, bedrooms, nurseries, and playrooms.

Kilim woven wool rugs feature weft-created, geometric patterns; knotting creates an open weave that gives more definition and dimension to the pattern, while interweaving creates a softer pattern with intermingled colors. Durable, bold, and low-profile, these showstopping kilim rugs are natural for any room that could use some pattern, including bedrooms, dining rooms, and family spaces.

INDOOR/OUTDOOR RUGS

Woven Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

Made of nearly indestructible, UV-treated polypropylene, indoor/outdoor rugs are terrific for high-traffic areas: kids’ rooms, sunrooms, decks, and porches; and any floor that gets wet—like the bathroom, the kitchen, or the basement. And of course, indoor/outdoor rugs are ideal for homes with pets.

Small indoor/outdoor rugs are great for shoes, play mats, cargo-area covers in the car, and even  food bowl mats for pets.

There are three types of woven indoor/outdoor rugs: flat weave, diamond, and dhurrie.

Classic flat weave indoor/outdoor rugs are hand-woven, with extruded poly yarns making up the warp and weft. The technique results in an array of patterns and happy stripes that make fun additions to frequent-cleanup areas like playrooms and crafting spaces.

Diamond woven indoor/outdoor rugs are very similar to their flat-weave companions, except that they’re hand-woven on a jacquard loom, with the weft skipping specific warps to create their distinct diamond pattern. The eye-catching geometric is a star performer in areas where you want visual interest but still need durability, such as the entryway, the hallway, or the man cave. Bonus: geometric patterns can help camouflage everyday dirt, so if you haven’t quite gotten around to vacuuming, they’ll still look handsome for a few more days.

 With a tighter, smaller weave, dhurrie woven indoor/outdoor rugs have the lowest profile of all the woven indoor/outdoors. In a variety of preppy stripes and chevron patterns, their ultralight weight make them ideal for spaces where you may want a durable floor covering with minimal height, such as the basement or the stairs.

Woven Rope Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

The thickest of the indoor/outdoor weaves, woven rope indoor/outdoor rugs are the superheroes of high-traffic areas, fighting mud, food, and crimes of spillage at every corner. Poly yarns are knit into sturdy rope that is then hand constructed into a high-profile rug that’s lightweight and flexible, so rolling it up and transporting it is no problem. Their sturdiness and braided texture make rope indoor/outdoor rugs ideal for entryways or mudrooms. Or place one outside your front door as a welcoming doormat. Colorful rope rugs can also brighten up outdoor spaces, such as the patio, deck, porch, gazebo, garage, and even the boat, without having to worry about weather or sun damage.

 

PET (Polyethylene) Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

With their soft, pliable texture that is often mistaken for wool, PET indoor/outdoor rugs are just right for high-traffic areas that require a more sophisticated look. Made of recycled polyester, these area rugs are durable, washable, eco-friendly décor pieces that come in a variety of beautiful patterns and versatile hues. They’re lovely additions to the porch or patio (no need to worry about the sun, they’re UV-treated for fade resistance!), but also blend right in to more formal spaces like the living room, dining room, or bedroom.

Visit us to see our entire selection of solid, striped, geometric, patterned and indoor/outdoor rugs.  Also, don’t forget to pick up a rug pad.

We recently finished building a home, and the most fun (and difficult) part of the whole process was in designing the closets.  We had a long list of requirements: separate his and hers closets, plugs for our phones, iPads, and laptops, windows for natural lighting, seating, jewelry drawers, watch cases, open display for pretty shoes, hidden display for running shoes, the list goes on and on.

Anyway, if you’ve been dreaming about a new closet, you’re not alone.  Closets are now the most important rooms in high-end homes, since many of us can’t cook, but who doesn’t love shoes?  So we went straight to the top and here’s what we learned:

1)  Turn your closet into a sitting room by adding plush seating and a fabulous crystal chandelier.

2) Add pull-out telescoping bars or valet hooks so you can easily preview your outfits.

3) Build your closets to the ceiling; store out-of-season items and suitcases high up.

4) Floor-to-length mirrors are key: the more, the better.

5) Properly lit and displayed, everything can look like an art gallery.  And while you’re at it, an espresso machine wouldn’t hurt.

6) Organize everything by type, and then by color.  And all those shoe boxes you’ve been saving?  Get rid of them … they are taking up too much space.

7) Add clear shelves so you can see all your accessories at a glance: sunglasses, jewelry, watches.

8) Good lighting is key: LED hanging rods and backlit displays for a modern feel …

… or picture lights for a classic look.  And while you’re staring at Nate’s closet below, do you see how inviting that yellow ottoman looks?

9) Layer in your favorite accessories: these could be fashion books, pictures of your family, or vintage hats.  And how cool is the helmet in this closet?

10) Keep a pair of laundry baskets handy: one for dark clothes, one for light.  And if you have room, also keep a bag for items to be donated or repaired.

11) Borrow a tip from the pros: keep a locked safe for jewels, cash, and important documents.  You can hide this behind a mirror.

12) Place gowns and special clothes behind glass doors.

13) Add a vase of fresh flowers, fragrance, and a tray for keys, wallet, and phones.

14) Replace all your old hangers with slim, velvet-colored hangers.  You’ll fit more items, and they’ll all hang at the same height.  And while you’re at it, remove all dry cleaning bags.

15) Edit, edit, edit.  If you haven’t worn it in five years, donate it.  If you haven’t worn it in one year, try it on to make sure it fits.  Trust us: you need to clear space so you can go shopping again!

We love Colin Cowie’s and Carolyne Roehm’s over-the-top gorgeous parties, which are all about layering flowers, color, and heights.  But you’d be surprised to know: they both keep their napkin folds surprisingly simple.

1) Roll the napkin and thread it through a napkin ring.

2) Fold the napkin with a point at the bottom.

3) Fold the napkin into a rectangle.

4) Fold the napkin into a rectangle, but leave a fold out so you can tuck in a gift or a menu.

5) Pull the middle of a napkin through a napkin ring.

Inspired?  We’d love to see pictures of your tables.  And if you’ve got a party coming up, click here to see our  napkins and napkin rings.

So you’ve been dating for a while, and you’d like to show her your place.  Great idea, but there’s more to preparing your home than just throwing everything in the dishwasher. Read on for the 10 key points that can make or break her visit.

1. Curb appeal. Initial impressions mean a lot. Still have those Christmas lights up from last year? Swap them out for a clean, new welcome mat. If the mailbox is overflowing with junk mail, go through it now.

2. Clean up! This might sound obvious, but you need to get it done. Start by removing clutter from all surfaces (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living room). Once these are clear, wipe everything down and only put back essentials like your coffee maker or remote control.  Also, don’t forget to vacuum your floors, wash all your linens (sheets and towels), and make your bed.

3. What’s in your fridge? Yup, she’s going to look. If you only have beer and hot sauce in your fridge, at least wipe down the shelves so they’re nice and clean. Toss out all leftovers and anything past its expiration date. A good rule to live by: if you have to smell it to remember what it is, it’s too old. Extra Credit: Surprise her with a bottle of bubbly for a romantic nightcap!

4. Bathroom necessities. Your bathroom should be spotless. Always (and we mean always) close your toilet, have lots of toilet paper available, refill the hand soap, and place towels next to the sink. Extra Credit: Clean up your medicine cabinet. In case she takes a peek, this is not the place to hide anything you took off the countertop in step 2.

5. The TV. If you have dusty equipment or a maze of wires surrounding your screen, tidy them up. Video games and movies are fun for certain occasions, but don’t really scream romance, so store these in a drawer or basket. Extra Credit: Go through your DVR. Are you really ready to explain to her that you secretly love watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta?

6. What’s on your bookshelf? Books can be an excellent conversation starter, so start that conversation off right. If you have a passion for poetry or an extensive library of Russian literature, this is the perfect way to show her. But be careful: don’t put lofty books there just to impress her. If she asks about the influence of neo-realism on 20th Century Italian film, you’d better have an answer!

7. The dog. Find out beforehand if she is comfortable around pets. A well-mannered dog is the sign of a devoted trainer, so be sure your best friend’s on his best behavior. If she’s afraid of animals or just a bit shy, be respectful of her boundaries and keep your pooch behind closed doors.

8. Take out the trash! Empty out all trash cans in the house and check surfaces for old receipts, empty beer bottles, ashtrays, or anything else that should say sayonara. Extra Credit: Light some candles or pick a handful fresh flowers to clear the air. These subtle details will not go unnoticed!

9. The Ex. There should be absolutely zero evidence of any other woman ever entering your home. Exceptions are your family, your housekeeper, and me, in spirit (see all other steps).

10. Show your personality. Your home is a reflection of you, so keeping it tidy will allow your favorite pieces to shine. If you play a musical instrument, love to surf or have a knack for painting, showcase your interests and talents through your home. Extra Credit: Invite her further into your world by playing her a romantic tune or cooking a sweet treat. Whether you have a passion for wine, sports or astronomy, show her how much you care through an outlet where you thrive.

We love indoor/outdoor rugs because they won’t fade and they really add warmth underfoot.

But did you know they’re also super easy to clean?  We’re really grateful for this video our friends at Dash & Albert prepared to show us how to clean our indoor/outdoor rugs.  It will just take minutes and make your house feel fresh all over.

Don’t have your own?  Click here to view our selection of indoor/outdoor rugs.

Holiday season is just beginning, and picking the right table linens is an essential step for all hosts. To help you make the perfect choice, we’ve broken down the five basic questions to ask before making your decision:

1. What material should I choose?

Because they are strong and absorbent, we recommend natural materials like cotton and linen.   But if you are short on time, there are great easy-care table linen collections available which are either stain-resistant or wrinkle resistant.

2. What size tablecloth should I buy?

For formal settings, we recommend that tablecloths should hang down 10″ to 12″ evenly around the table. In contrast, casual events call for cloths that have 6″ – 8″ drops.

To calculate the size of tablecloth you need, measure the length and width of your table and add twice the desired drop to each dimension. For example, if your table measures 48″ wide and 84″ long, and you would like a 12″ drop on each side, your tablecloth should be:
48″ + 12″ + 12″ = 72″ wide
84″ + 12″ + 12″ = 92″ long

For round tables, measure the diameter of your table and add twice the desired drop. Following the example above, 48″ round tables would require 70″ round tablecloths.

3. What shape should my tablecloth be?

On square and rectangular tables, we suggest using the same shape tablecloth. On round tables, either rounds or squares may be used, while on oval tables, either oval or rectangular tablecloths may be used. If you have several tables that you use often and your budget is limited, a nice alternative is to use placemats and napkins, which will work in any situation.

4. What should I consider in choosing linens for a special event?

There are several important factors to take into account when choosing table linens for a special event:

– Location: Choose colors to complement the existing décor of your dining room. For outdoor events, let the setting be your guide. Generally, bright colors look better in sunny locations, while pastels are wonderful in garden settings.

– Season: Spring and summer colors tend to be lighter, while bolder colors are more appropriate during the colder fall and winter months.

– Theme: Colorful linens are one of the most effective ways to set the mood you want to create. Vibrant colors add drama, while soft colors evoke a more refined atmosphere.

5. Do I need a table liner?

Although designed to last a lifetime, fine table surfaces are often exposed to excessive wear and tear. To help protect your tables, thick felt table liners are designed to reduce noise and protect your tabletop against heat and scratches. Unlike ordinary liners, these are plush and generously sized (approximately 5″ larger than your table) to extend over the edge of your table in order to create a softer drape underneath your fine linens.  To read more, see Protecting Your Table with Felt Liners.

For more information on Choosing Table Linens, click here!

With the crisp autumn air reminding us that winter is on the way, now is the perfect time to prep for this chilly season. Using one of nature’s best insulators, down comforters and pillows are some of the warmest and most luxurious ways to snuggle up and stay warm all winter long. Here are the essentials every bed should have:

– Start with a mattress pad or featherbed; this will help keep you both warm and comfortable.

– Every bed should have a down comforter. Whether you live in the brisk northeast, or the sunny California shores, there are different weights for down comforters, so you’ll be sure to find a perfect one.

– Down blankets are the perfect way to keep cozy, and have a lighter weight than comforters. Fold one at the foot of your guest bed for extra warmth, or keep one in the living room for late nights by the fireplace.

– No bed would be complete without the perfect pillows. In a variety of sizes, and three levels of firmness, the right pillow will feel like a custom purchase, and will last you for years to come.

For more information on choosing the perfect down items for you, read our Down Guide here!

Hosting for the holidays? Now’s the time to start planning those parties. And because all custom table linens are made to order, it can take up to 10-12 weeks to complete production, so get out your measuring tape! As these orders cannot be changed or cancelled after they are placed, here are six helpful tips to ensure you order the perfect table linens:

1. Count your expected guests. You may need to add additional leaves to your table for these special occasions, so be sure to measure the fullest length you need. Ordering additional napkins can be a great way to ensure you’re prepared for anything.

2. Consider shape. If you have an oval table, both an oval or rectangular cloth will work. Take a look at Sferra’s Classico, which has elegant long corners draping from an oval table shape:

3. Calculate your desired drop. We recommend a 10-15 inch drop on all sides, so be sure to add 20-30 inches to both the length and width of your table. Casual settings typically require a shorter drop, while some formal linens may reach all the way to the floor.

Not sure how long your drop should be? Place one of your dining chairs at your table and measure the gap between the bottom of the table and the top of the seat, and use this as your guide.

4. Choose your material. While linen shows classic elegance and tradition, you may also consider an easy-care option if you need to use these cloths frequently in a short period of time. Options like Egyptian Cotton allow for a texture with a beautiful, subtle sheen, while a synthetic option may be the right choice for those who need to quickly wash and dry to prepare for the next event. Easy care materials require little to no ironing, but if you opt for linen, try ironing your cloth while it’s still damp, which makes wrinkles much easier to erase.

5. Remember, these may shrink! All of our custom tablecloths are made slightly larger to compensate for shrinkage. If you would prefer to have the cloth cut exactly to your specific dimensions, without any additional fabric, please feel free to indicate this in Special Instructions at Checkout.

6. Have fun! Don’t forget the reason for the occasion: the celebrate with the ones you love! If you want to bring life to a white or ecru tablecloth, try colorful dinnerware or vibrant seasonal flowers on your table. If you love bright linens, choose from over 100 colors in the aptly named Festival Collection. Please note that the Festival fabric cannot be cut in an oval shape, but looks beautiful in round or rectangle.

For all of our custom table linens, click here.

How will you make this Holiday Season shine?

Need a little pampering? Chances are, your girlfriends do, too! Catch up with friends while enjoying some downtime with a relaxing and rejuvenating spa party.

Indulge in comfort and luxury with soft bath robes. We love how Yves Delorme combines the silkiest materials with floral, feminine designs, perfect for girl time.

To view more party ideas, click here.

With proper care, your down comforters and pillows should last many years.

– Comforters should always be used inside a duvet cover.  For additional protection, pillows should be used with a pillow protector.

– Fluff your pillows and comforters every day when you make your bed.

– Comforters may be spot cleaned for spills and aired out occasionally.

– While frequent washing is not advised, down products may either be washed or dry cleaned.  Dry cleaning should only be performed by a company experienced with down products, as dirty cleaning fluid will cause the down to clump, lose its lofting ability and occasionally develop a mild odor.

– Wash in a front-loading commercial capacity washer.  Avoid machines with agitators, as these are too rough and can tear the baffles.

– Use a low sudsing detergent or a product specifically designed for washing down products (like Le Blanc Down Wash).  Do not use bleach or fabric softener.

– Run through the rinse cycle twice to remove all soap.

– Place in large capacity dryer on the lowest heat setting and dry for 3-4 hours. If you’d like, place a couple of clean tennis or dryer balls inside the dryer to help fluff the down.  Dry well beyond the point where the outer fabric feels dry, as you want to make sure that the down clusters are fully dry.

– Allow the comforter to air dry for an additional 24 hours before placing it inside a duvet cover.  If you notice any lingering odors or clumping, place it in the dryer again and continue to dry it.

– We do not recommend cleaning down more than twice a year.

Want to learn more?  Click here to view all our linen care products.  To shop for down, click here to view all our down products.

We have a kitchen shelf full of condiments, but the one I reach for most often is salt.  Now, if you’re ready to move beyond regular table salt for baking and kosher salt for cooking, here are the best finishing salts you need to own.  And remember, since they’re only used on finished food, a little goes a long way.

Maldon Flake Salt – loved by chefs around the world, Maldon flakes have a clean, fresh taste with no bitter flavors.  Amazing on cooked eggs and sprinkled on brownie batter, it brings an explosion of flavor to the mouth.

Fleur de Sel de Guerande – hand-harvested from pristine salt marshes in Brittany, France, this salt is unprocessed, so it’s moist and retains a complex flavor of the sea. Use it on leafy green salads, grilled fish, fruit, and caramel sauce.

Himalayan Pink Salt – hand-mined salt found deep within the Himalayan mountains, these beautiful salts are best appreciated on lighter-colored foods like fish or chicken.

 Truffle salt – sprinkled on fresh pasta with butter, roasted potatoes, and buttered popcorn, this packs a fragrant punch. The truffle aroma is super addictive.

Salts this beautiful should be served in the right container.  For casual meals I love this olivewood container from Williams-Sonoma …

… but for evening there’s nothing more stunning than silver next to candlelight:

Looking for one?  Click here to view all our condiment servers and butter dishes, and here to view more salt & pepper shakers.

It never rains in L.A. in August … except a couple of Sundays ago.  Which could have been a disaster, since we had planned a post-wedding garden brunch for 45 relatives.  At the last minute, we cleared the living and dining rooms to set up the party indoors, and the party turned out to be a big hit.  The smaller, more intimate space got people closer, the guests talked a lot more with each other, and everybody had a great time.  What could’ve been a two hour brunch lasted five hours until the final guest ambled out.

We spent the next few days thinking and talking about our guests and the party, what we learned and what we’d do differently, and here are some tips and lessons from our experience:

Put the Early Guests to Work

Somebody always shows up early.  Relax — they’re usually your best friends (or at least think they are), so put them to work setting out food and drinks or finishing up the decorations.  They’ll feel useful, and you’ll get some help.

Smaller Spaces Make It More Fun

Putting people a little closer makes it easier to talk, so use smaller tables and put some food in the kitchen to encourage mingling. If someone can’t chat easily with the person across the table, then the table is too large.

Make the Food Easy

The food has to be easy to serve, easy to keep, and easy to understand.  Everybody got the grilled vegetables and seafood paella, but the chilled peanut noodles (our personal favorite) was left behind.  The leafy salads also got soggy by the end of the party, so we’ll have to rethink that one for next time.  Avoid foods that require pan searing, deep frying, or chilling — they won’t look or taste so good after a while.

Have Different Food and Drink Stations

Keep people moving around with food and drinks in different places.  It’ll give everyone more chance to walk around, graze, and mingle with each other.

Plan for a Longer Party

A good party keeps itself going, so think about how everything would look if the party went on for longer.  Plan for more drinkware (people ended up using on average two glasses each, even after marking their glasses.)   Have more forks than the other flatware pieces available.  Use paper lanterns instead of balloons.  They can be set up a few days before and will last through the whole day.

Spontaneity Instead of Speeches

Ever sat through a speech or slideshow wondering when it’ll end?  It’s better when people are just having a good time chatting with each other.  Try to move your guests around if the conversation starts to flag.

Get Some Games Started

Checkers, chess, Scrabble, Monopoly, Pictionary.  Set them out, then start a game with a few guests.  If they’re in the mood for fun, they’ll pick up all on their own.  Unusual games (Chinese chess in our case) are especially good conversation starters.

Serve Some Sinful Desserts

When people are having fun, they break their diets, so make sure you have a few desserts they wouldn’t normally eat.  The tres leches cake, which we thought few people would touch, was gone before halftime.  Our guests then went on to polish off a full box of macaroons and half a box of tea cakes.  The fruit salad, on the other hand, was still plentiful at the end.

Have Lots of Trash Bins

Not glamorous but very useful.  Set one near every table.

Old Habits Die Hard

Since it was a brunch in the middle of summer, we’d only planned to serve cold drinks.  But old habits die hard, and guests asked for tea to go with their Chinese food.  Luckily, this was super fast to fix, but next time we’ll be sure to have both tea and coffee ready to go.

Do you have any party planning tips of your own?  We’d love to hear them!

The perfect rug will pull your room together, so many designers start rooms by choosing the rug.  To get you on your way, here are a few practical tips:

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

– Start by making a floorplan.  Measure your room and add all the furniture you’re planning to put in it.

If you’d like a smaller rug, center it under the dining table, coffee table, or main lighting fixture in the room.

If you’d like a larger rug, block out any areas that you know will get a lot of floor traffic and place it in the middle of the space that’s left over.  Sofas and chairs can be placed either completely on top of the rug,  just with the two front legs on the rug, or a mix of both.

– Allow one to two feet between the edges of the rug and the perimeter of the room. For example, if your room is 12 x 14 ft, and you want a large rug to cover the room, go with a 9 x 12 ft rug.  Let the floor frame your rug.

– Larger rugs will make rooms feel larger. They visually embrace the space better.

– Rugs typically come in the following standard sizes: 3 x 5 ft, 4 x 6 ft, 5 x 8 ft, 6 x 9 ft, 8 x 10 ft, 9 x 12 ft, 12 x 14 ft.

– Rectangular rugs look best in rectangular rooms, square rugs look best in square rooms, and round rugs look best in foyers and kids’ rooms.

– In bedrooms, place rugs either completely under the bed or have them cover the bottom 2/3 of the bed. Choose a rug that’s at least two feet wider than your bed so that you can step onto something soft when you get up.

– In kitchens, use 2′ x 3′ rugs in front of the sink.  In larger spaces, a runner can instantly warm up a room.

– In dining rooms, rugs, should always be centered under the dining table.

Choose the Right Material

– Entryways: in high-traffic entryways, choose a flat-weave rug that can easily be cleaned.  For more formal settings, a wool rug sets an elegant tone for the rest of the house.

– Hallways: synthetics and flat-weave rugs

– Living rooms and dining rooms: cotton or wool rugs

– Kitchens and outdoor: synthetics and flat-weave rugs

– Bedrooms: soft textures like wool and chenille

Choose the Right Design

– Solid rugs are more calming, and they work with either solid or patterned furniture.  Choose a color that complements other accessories in the room, like your artwork or your pillows.

– Patterned designs energize a space, and they look stunning with solid furniture.

– In colder climates, go with rich, saturated colors to create a cozy and intimate mood.  Warm colors like yellow, orange, and red add warmth to rooms with indirect light.

– Lighter colors open up smaller spaces and make them feel larger.  In warmer climates, use ivories, blues, and greens to create a soothing atmosphere.

Caring for your Rug

– Use a rug pad.  This will extend the life of your rug and make sure it does not slip around.

– Vacuum regularly.

– Rotate rug periodically to even out the wear.

– Trim any loose threads with scissors.

– Clean spills immediately by blotting with a clean cloth or paper towel.  Test rug cleaners on an inconspicuous spot before using.

– Professional cleaning recommended on wool rugs.

Looking for a rug?  To view our entire selection of rugs, click here.

The key to creating a comfortable lighting environment is to use a mix of general lighting (also called ambient), task lighting (for specific activities, like reading) and accent lighting (to highlight objects or architectural features).

Ambient Lighting

What are recessed lights?

Starting from the ceiling, the most common type of lighting are recessed lights, which are usually installed by a contractor.  Also called can lights or downlights, they look clean overhead and they offer a practical and affordable way to light up a room, but don’t overdo it … you can always add task and accent lighting later.

What are ceiling mounted fixtures?

Ceiling mounted fixtures include chandeliers, pendants, flush mount fixtures.  They can cast light upward or downward, and they add an important decorative element to a room.

– Generally, chandeliers work well in large rooms with high ceilings.  They are perfect for larger spaces like entryways, dining rooms, living rooms.  If you do not have any furniture underneath your chandelier, remember to hang it up high so that the bottom is at least 6’6″ – 7′ from the floor.

Pendants are great for hallways, especially on the first floor.  They light your pathways and add visual interest to these spaces.  Pendants will also make a kitchen feel more like a living space.

Finally, flush mount fixtures are ideal for spaces with lower ceilings.  We love them in secondary bedrooms, mudrooms, large closets, and laundry areas.  But of course, they can look good anywhere:

Where do you use wall lamps?

Wall lamps are frequently used in pairs – to frame mirrors, console tables, and sideboards.  They look smashing in powder rooms and master bathrooms.

As they are installed closer to eye level, it’s a good idea to look for fixtures that look beautiful during the day.  We love ones with mirrored finishes!

Task Lighting

What are good task lighting fixtures?

For task lighting, the two most popular kinds of fixtures are floor lamps and table lamps.  If you are planning to install floor lamps in the middle of a room, remember to ask your electrician to install outlets nearby.  As for table lamps, this is a good way to bring in a bit of color into a room.

Accent Lighting

How do you light artwork?

The most common ways to light artwork is with track and recessed lighting because you have so much control over large areas and they are infinitely flexible.  But for lighting individual pieces, our favorite method is to use picture lights.  They can not only enhance the rest of the lighting fixtures in your space, but they will make your piece look precious.

Outdoor Lighting

What do I need to know about outdoor lighting?

Outdoor lighting is key in creating a welcoming environment as you come up to your home, but it also does something else: it adds an element of security.  Here are a few tips to get you started:

– Lead the way to your front door by using pathway lights that direct the light downward.  Do the same in the back as you move into your yard.

– Add bits of lighting around your flower beds.

– Welcome guests to your front door with a large ceiling mount fixture (pendant lamps are great for two-story homes) or sconces.

– Install sconces around your garage entrance and deck.

– Accent special trees or water features using spotlights.

– Use motion-sensor lights to increase security at night.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

What are LED lights?

LED (light-emitting diode) lights are super-efficient forms of lighting.  Compared to incandescent lights, they consume much less energy, last longer, and turn on more quickly.  As they are becoming the standard in residential lighting, you’ll probably be seeing them more frequently when you shop for lighting.

I’m confused by the kinds of LED lights available.  What should I get?

LED lights are available in different color temperatures so you can choose whether you’d like a warmer or cooler light.  The lower the number, the warmer the light.  Here are some suggested guidelines:

– 2700K (warm white) – ideal for homes, restaurants, and hotel lobbies

– 3000K (warm white, slightly cooler) – ideal for stores, offices

– 4000k (neutral white) – ideal for showrooms, offices

– 5000k (cool white) – ideal for museums, jewelry stores, hospitals

In the home, we usually recommend using 2700K throughout.  If you prefer a slightly whiter light for the kitchen, or if you have  a more modern style, then go with a cooler white.

And this is what they look like:

Lighting Placement

KITCHEN LIGHTING

I’m designing a new kitchen and I’d like to learn how to light it properly.  Where should I start?

The best kitchens have a combination of overhead lighting (such as recessed lights) and task lighting (like undercabinet lights or pendants above the island) so you can avoid having strong shadows.  Aesthetically, pendant lights work well because they fill up the vertical space between the island and the ceiling.

How many pendants should I hang over my island?

Pendants look best in odd numbers, approximately 4 feet are apart.  So, if you had a 6 – 8 ft island, you could hang two lamps above it, whereas for a 9 ft island and above, you’d be better off with three.   For a modern look, choose a cluster of smaller pendants (around 5 in diameter); traditional rooms look best with larger lamps (around 14 in diameter).  Remember to hang them approximately 30 – 36″ above the island so that you can chat comfortably while you are seated.

How many recessed lights do I need in my kitchen?

If there are no tall cabinets in the perimeter of the room, place them 2 feet away from the wall, and every 6 or 7 feet apart.

– You do not need any lights right when you step into a room, so the first one can be placed about 3 – 4 feet inside a room.

– For hallways that are 9 – 14 feet, you’d need two recessed lights; above that, you’d need three or more.  The smaller lights look more elegant, so we usually use 4 in – 5 in diameter lights.

If there are upper cabinets, move them farther away from the wall so they are not shining directly at the edge of your countertop.  We usually center them along the walkway, so they are 3.5 – 4 feet from the wall.

Where do I need additional task lighting?

Under cabinets (to illuminate your countertops) and above the sink.

DINING ROOMS

How do I light my dining room?

We prefer dining rooms to feel more relaxed, so we usually just go with one ceiling fixture (like a chandelier) and two sconces on the wall on either side of the buffet or side table.  We do not used recessed lights unless the room is very large (more than 18 ft along any edge).

BEDROOMS

How much light do I need in a bedroom?

To determine the total number of watts you need in the room, multiply the width of the room (in feet) x the length of the room (in feet) x 1.5.

So for a 14 ft x 14 ft room (14 x 14 x 1.5 = 294), you’d need approximately 300 watts.   This is a lot of lighting, but you would spread this over different lighting sources so you can layer the brightness.  For example in a bedroom, you could do a flushmount ceiling lamp (for general lighting, with 2 x 60 watt bulbs), two bedside lamps (60 watt each), and a desk or floor reading lamp (also 60 watt).  Instead of the ceiling lamp, you could also install recessed lighting.

What size chandelier should I get for my bedroom?

– Add the length and width of your room (in feet), and convert this number to inches.  This will be your diameter.

Example: for a room that is 20 ft long x 15 ft wide, you would need a 35″ rd chandelier.

– Measure the height of your room.  For every foot, allow 3 inches of height for your light fixture.  This will be your height.

Example: for a room that is 9 ft high, you would need a 27″ high chandelier.  But remember, when hanging your chandelier, leave approximately 6’6″ – 7′ clearance from the floor so that you and your guests have ample room to walk under the light fixture.

To view our selection of table lamps, floor lamps, wall lamps, ceiling lamps, bath lamps, and outdoor lighing, click here.

UPDATE: Based on your feedback, we’ve created a Tablecloth Finder to help you find the right sized tablecloth — try it out and tell us if you like it!

Table linens are essential for setting the right tone to your event and they can really transform a space.  Choosing a tablecloth is easy; here are answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Determining Quality

What should I look for in fine linens?

Fine linens are characterized by a combination of beautiful materials, expert construction, fine workmanship, and design. Most fine linens are made from linen or cotton because they are durable, absorbent, and soft.

What material should my table linens be made from?

Because they are strong and absorbent, we recommend cotton and linen. While they do require ironing, they are long-lasting and have the most luxurious feel and appearance.

For ease of care, there are high quality easy-care table linen collections available which are either stain-resistant or wrinkle resistant.

What is the difference between linen and cotton?

Both linen and cotton are natural fibers. Linen comes from the flax plant, which grows in the cooler climates of western and northern Europe. Cotton comes from the cotton plant, which grows in hot, humid climates throughout the world.  Both fabrics are highly absorbent, durable, and become softer with use.

There are some subtle differences, however. Linen feels lighter and crisper and becomes whiter with use. It is also highly absorbent and lint-free. Cotton feels more substantial and is will shrink more than linen.

What determines quality in cotton fabrics?

Quality in cotton is primarily based on the length of the fibers. This is because longer fibers can be spun into smoother, stronger, and much finer yarns, which can then be woven to create fabrics that are softer and more durable.  In particular, Egyptian cotton is prized because the humid weather and rich soil around the Nile delta produce especially delicate and long fibers. Cotton grown in Egypt has a staple length of over 2 1/4″, twice the size of that in generic cotton and 60% longer than Pima cotton.

What determines quality in linen fabrics?

Like cotton, higher quality linen fabrics are made from longer fibers because these produce finer and stronger yarns. In addition, these fibers have a very consistent thickness with almost no coarse knots or uneven slubs, resulting in a smooth hand.  Irish and Belgian linen are widely acknowledged to be among the finest linen in the world.

Determining Size

What are standard table linen sizes?

Formal table linens are generously sized for elegant entertaining. Sizes will vary among different collections, but they are generally as follow:

For more information, view our basic chart of tablecloth sizes and the tables they would fit.

What size tablecloth should I buy?

For formal settings, tablecloths should hang down 10″ to 12″ around the table. More elaborate occasions may call for a drop of anywhere from 15″ to 30″ (all the way to the floor). The longer the drop, the more dramatic the effect. In contrast, casual events call for cloths that have 6″ – 8″ drops.

To calculate the size of the tablecloth you need, measure the length and width of your table and add twice the desired drop to each dimension. For example, if your table measures 48″ wide and 84″ long, and you would like a 12″ drop on each side, you would add 24″ to each dimension:
48″ + 24″ = 72″ wide
84″ + 24″ = 108″ long

For round tables, measure the diameter of your table and add twice the desired drop. Following the example above, 48″ round tables would require 72″ round tablecloths.

What shape should my tablecloth be?

Rectangular table – rectangular tablecloth

Oval table – oval or rectangular tablecloth

Square table – square tablecloth

Round table – round or square tablecloth

My table has several leaves. What size tablecloth should I buy?

If the table is extended and shortened often, purchase separate tablecloths to fit each size. If this is not possible, you can buy a cloth that fits the size of table that is used most often, and purchase more affordable banquet cloths for larger affairs. Another solution is to simply buy a cloth to fit the largest table, and use it at all times. A third possibility is to go with a nice set of placemats and napkins.

Are custom tablecloths available?

Yes. If you can’t find a standard size tablecloth that fits your table, we are happy to offer custom sizes in many collections.

Suggested Quantities

How many table linens do I need?

We recommend that a basic collection of table linens include the following items:

1 Formal Tablecloth
12 Formal Napkins (usually to match the tablecloth)
1 Casual Tablecloth
12 Casual Napkins
12 Placemats
18 Cocktail Napkins
1 Table Liner

Design Tips

What design should I choose for my table linens?

Generally, formal linens are either solid, woven with a pattern, printed, or embroidered. White and ivory are the most traditional colors.  Printed designs and more colorful embroideries, more suitable for informal settings.

What is a damask?

Unlike a print, a damask or jacquard refers to patterns that are woven into the fabric of the cloth, creating a subtle, yet elegant look.  Although it is a common misconception that the term “damask” refers to a heavy cloth, damask patterns may be woven into fabrics of any weight.

What colors should my table linens be?

White is the most popular color for table linens and it is always appropriate for formal dining. Ivory and off-white colors are a popular second, especially in rooms with warmer tones. Beyond these, colors are wonderful for highlighting special elements in your tabletop collections or to celebrate festive occasions.

What should I consider in choosing linens for a special event?

– Location: Choose colors to complement the existing décor of your dining room. For outdoor events, let the setting be your guide. Generally, bright colors look better in sunny locations, while pastels are wonderful in garden settings.

– Season: Spring and summer colors tend to be lighter, while bolder colors are more appropriate during the colder fall and winter months.

– Theme: Colorful linens are one of the most effective ways to set the mood you want to create. Vibrant colors add drama, while soft colors evoke a more refined atmosphere.

Protecting Your Tables

Why do I need a table liner?

Although designed to last a lifetime, fine table surfaces are often exposed to excessive wear and tear. To help protect your tables, thick felt table liners are designed to reduce noise and protect your tabletop against heat and scratches. Unlike ordinary liners, these are plush and generously sized (approximately 5″ larger than your table) to extend over the edge of your table in order to create a softer drape underneath your fine linens.  To read more, see Protecting Your Table with Felt Liners.

What size table liner do I need?

We suggests choosing a table liner that is slightly smaller than your tablecloth (but larger than your table.) Following are our recommended sizes:

Caring for Table Linens

How do I care for my table linens?

Most fine linens can be laundered at home. Cottons and linens should be washed with like colors in cool water using a regular (non-bleach) detergent. Stains should be treated as soon as possible using a stain remover such as our LeBlanc Linen Wash. Bleaching agents such as chlorine, peroxide, or sodium carbonate should not be used.

Linens can be dried, but should be removed from the dryer while slightly damp in order to minimize wrinkles. They should then be spread on a large surface and pressed with a hot iron. When ironing embroideries, place them face down on a towel and press on the reverse side.

Taffetas, silks and laces should generally be dry cleaned, especially if the items are delicate or have decorative fringes.

Are there specialty linen cleaning solutions?

LeBlanc Linen Wash is a specially formulated cleaning solution for laundering fine linens. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula may be used on all natural fibers, synthetics, and blends. We particularly like it because it is concentrated, so it is effective on linens (including vintage linens) without the use of bleach, caustics, or phosphates. LeBlanc Linen Wash has been tested to remove lipstick, jam and jelly, fruit juice, coffee, tea, chocolate, red, wine, grease, cola, ink, and oil stains.

Do I have to iron my fine table linens?

For formal dining, we do recommend that you iron your fine linens. After washing, simply lay your slightly damp linens on your table over large towels or a felt table liner and press with a hot iron. Of course, you may also have your linens professionally pressed for a small charge.

How do I store my table linens?

Preparing linens for storage is easy. Make sure linens are completely clean and dry. Avoid starching them prior to storage. Fold items gently and store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Do not store linens in plastic bags or cedar chests or in basements, attics, or garages to prevent large fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Check your linens periodically to ensure that they are clean and dry.

To view all our collections of table linens, click here.

There are so many exciting choices in flatware, you are probably asking yourself, “Where do I start? Which material should I select, and how many pieces will I need?”  We break down the basics for you, so your table will look fabulous in no time flat.

Understanding Flatware Materials

What are the different types of materials used to make dinnerware?

Sterling: Sterling silver flatware collections are true heirlooms. Sterling is made of at least 92.5% pure silver and an alloy (usually copper for added strength).  Any piece of flatware that meets these guidelines is stamped with the word “sterling” to ensure its authenticity. Sterling silver is very expensive, but it makes the most elegant and formal flatware.  Compared to stainless, sterling has a warmer glow and may require occasional polishing.  When not in use for prolonged periods, we advise keeping sterling in felt pouches to prevent scratches or tarnish.

Silverplate: Silverplate is a dishwasher-safe, less-expensive alternative to sterling that can last nearly as long. A layer of 100% silver coats another metal, usually nickel or brass. Nickel is best, because it’s harder than brass and silver adheres to it well. The thicker the silver layer, the better the quality.

Stainless Steel: Most everyday flatware is stainless steel, which doesn’t rust, tarnish, chip, or wear out. Stainless steel is commonly defined as a metal alloy that contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium. To make stainless steel flatware, chromium is added to steel for strength as well as rust and stain resistance. Nickel, another metal alloy, is also added to the steel for its brilliance and lasting finish.  The grades (18/10, 18/8, and 18/0) refer to the amount of nickel, which prevents corrosion. The best grade is 18/10, because it is the longest lasting.

Why is stainless steel “stainless”?

Compared to other metals, stainless steel is particularly resistant to rust and discoloration because the oxide film in the metal absorbs common forms of discoloration. Keep in mind, however, that while stainless steel certainly stains less, it is not completely stain proof.

Pewter: In colonial America, pewter was prized for its strength and durability. Today, pewter products are sought after by collectors for their rustic feel and beautiful patina. Pewter does not require polishing.

PVD: Is a thin ceramic coating deposited on stainless steel pieces, resulting in colored implements. It is very hard and resists abrasion well.

Acrylic: Acrylic flatware with colored and patterned handles is sold in a rainbow of styles. Fashionable enough for formal events, it’s also great for everyday use. Q Squared’s London Chic collection, and Vietri’s best-selling Aladdin collection, are perfect for adding personality to your table setting.

Suggested quantities

What is included in a five-piece setting?

Five-piece place settings consist of the following: dinner knife, dinner fork, salad fork, tablespoon and teaspoon.

Can I order additional flatware pieces?

Yes. In addition to five-piece settings, additional pieces such as butter spreaders, fish forks and knives, demitasse spoons, salad servers, cake servers and gravy ladles are standard items in many collections.  Please write us at service@graciousstyle.com for further information on any of our collections.

How many flatware collections do I need?

Generally, most people have at least one casual collection for everyday use (usually stainless steel) and one formal collection for selected occasions (usually sterling or silverplated).

What serving pieces do I need?

– Twelve five-piece settings

– One serving set (serving knife and serving fork)

– One salad serving set

– One carving set

– One set of steak knives

– One cake server

Caring for Flatware

How do I care for stainless steel flatware?

Stainless steel flatware is dishwasher safe; it can also can be washed by hand.

How do I care for silverplated or sterling flatware?

The best way to keep sterling and silverplated lustrous is to use it regularly. For optimal care, wash silver flatware in hot water with mild soap and dry immediately afterward with a soft cloth. Do not wash sterling and stainless together, as the steel will scratch the silver. Use a small amount of detergent, and one with no lemon or citrus additives.

To clean individual pieces of silver, you can use a high-quality silver polish or foam (such as Christofle Cream Cleaner with Sponge). To view all our metal cleaning products and storage cases, click here.

However, to clean many pieces simultaneously, we suggest the following quick-clean method:

1) Boil a pot of medium pot of water.

2) Line a pan with aluminum foil.

3) Place your flatware pieces inside the pan, one next to each other.

4) Pour boiling water over the flatware.

5) Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to your pan.  While the solution bubbles up, watch the tarnish disappear from your flatware and onto the aluminum foil.  Try this, it really works!

How do I store my flatware?

We recommend that you enjoy your flatware as much as possible. However, when not in use, flatware can be stored in a kitchen drawer (designated for this use) or kept inside felt bags. Do not wrap in plastic or paper, and do not crowd pieces to avoid scratching.

Miscellaneous

What is the difference between standard and continental sizes?

Standard refers the sizes of flatware commonly used with American table settings. However, for a more formal look, there are “continental” flatware sizes (also referred to as “dinner” sizes) that are larger and heavier than the standard.  These are usually found in European flatware collections.

What is the proper placement of flatware on the table?

A basic five-piece setting is laid out on the table in order of use, in an even line, one inch from the edge of the table. The knife is placed to the right of the plate with the sharp edge pointed in towards the plate. The spoons are placed to the right of the knife. Forks are placed to the left of the plate. In France the fork is placed with the prongs facing down towards the table (the spoons are also placed facing downward); in the United Kingdom and the United States they face upwards.

 To view all our collections of flatware, click here.

We typically spend a third of our lives in our bedroom, so be sure to get a set of linens you’ll love using over and over again.

Understanding Bedding Materials

What should I look for in finer linens?

Finer linens are usually characterized by a combination of beautiful materials, expert construction, and design. Most fine linens are made from linen or cotton because they are durable, absorbent, and they become softer with use and laundering.

Finer linens are smooth and soft (no coarse knots or uneven slubs should be visible); they may also be lustrous, but never shiny. Workmanship is key: all designs must be precisely executed, all colors uniform, and all seams must be finished evenly to ensure they’ll last for years.

What is the difference between linen and cotton?

Both linen and cotton are natural fibers: linen comes from the flax plant and cotton comes from the cotton plant. Both fabrics are highly absorbent, durable, and become softer with use. Generally, linen feels lighter and has more texture, but it requires pressing after use. Cotton, on the other hand, feels more substantial and is better for reproducing printed designs. It is by far the most popular choice for bedding, so it is more widely available and generally more affordable.

What is Egyptian cotton?

Because the humid weather and rich soil around the Nile delta produce especially delicate and long fibers, Egyptian cotton is by far the finest variety of cotton in the world. These longer fibers allow for a finer, more continuous thread, and a higher number of threads per square inch, resulting in a stronger and softer material.

What is sateen?

Sateen is cotton made with a satin weave. Rather than a one-over-one weave like percale, the warp or weft threads passed over several filling threads, creating a fabric with a silken feel and a very smooth and lustrous surface. Sateens can be produced in both light and heavy weights; they should ideally be ironed after washing to restore their luster.

What is percale?

Percale is a closely woven, plain weave, meaning that the warp and weft threads cross each other one at a time. They are a tighter weave with a thread count of at least 180. Percale can be made of any fiber but are usually cotton or a cotton/polyester blend.

Why is thread count so important?

The term “thread count” refers to the number of threads in one square inch of fabric. Higher thread counts mean a tighter weave, a softer and stronger fabric, and a finer quality. For a luxurious feel, we recommend fabrics with at least 300 thread count.

While important, thread count should always be considered in conjunction with the quality of the fiber, workmanship and finishing process used on the linens. Always make sure that the highest quality fiber is used because a high thread count sheet made from lower quality fibers will feel heavy and coarse instead of soft and luxurious.

Choosing a Size

What are standard mattress sizes?

What are the dimensions of your bed linens?

Actual dimensions vary between collections, but they are generally as follow:

Care and Suggested Quantities

How do I care for my bed linens?

You should always wash your bed linens before putting them on your bed for the first time. Be sure to wash your sheets regularly (remember that natural fibers get softer with each wash) in warm water with like colors and tumble dry on medium. Do not use bleach or fabric softener because it can damage fibers and make the sheets less soft over time. For less wrinkle in your sheets, remove them promptly from the dryer and put them on the bed or fold them right away. If you do want to iron your bed linens, take out of the dryer slightly damp for easier ironing, and always press embroideries on the reverse side.

How many bed linens do I need?

We recommend that a basic collection of bed linens include one set for the bed, one set for the laundry, and one set for the linen closet. A full list of recommended items includes:

• 3 Complete sheet sets (flat, fitted, 2 pillowcases each)
• 1 Medium or heavyweight comforter
• 2 Blankets or throws (1 light for summer, 1 heavy for winter)
• 2 Pillow shams in the size of your choice (standard, queen, king)
• 2 Decorative pillow shams (boudoir or neck roll)
• 1 Duvet cover
• 1 Bed skirt
• 1 Mattress pad
• 1 Complete sheet set per guestroom
• 1 Blanket per guestroom

To see all our bedding collections, click here.

You use your bathroom every day, so it’s time to show it some love! Bath linens are an everyday essential, so here are some key factors to keep in mind when making your selections.

Understanding Bath Linen Materials

What quality should I look for in bath linens?

Material is the most important consideration when purchasing bath linens. Almost all fine towels are made from cotton (especially Egyptian and Turkish) because it is very absorbent and strong. Microfiber (high performance synthetic fibers that resist shedding and piling) and bamboo are becoming increasingly popular because they are even more absorbent and lighter in weight.

What is terry cloth?

Terry refers to the looped pile you see on most towels. The longer and more tightly packed these loops are, the more absorbent and durable the towel. Terry cloth towels are absorbent because the looped pile in the terry acts like very small sponges.

What is microfiber?

Microfiber is an ultrafine fiber that naturally resists shedding and piling. Compared with other materials, microfibers are twice as fine as silk and three times finer than cotton. Items made from microfiber are extremely absorbent, soft, and lightweight.

Choosing a Size

What are standard towel sizes?

Sizes will vary among different collections, but they are generally as follow:

How do I select a bathrobe?

When choosing a bathrobe, comfort is key. Pick a material that is soft and absorbent, but not too tight. You want to leave enough room for a bulky sweater underneath during the cold winter months.

Care and Suggested Quantities

How do I care for my bath linens?

You should always launder new towels before using them. Wash with a mild detergent in warm water and then tumble dry. Do not wash with other laundry, as shedding or “linting” almost always occurs with new towels. Avoiding using bleaches or fabric softeners.

How many towels do I need?

• 2 Bath Towels or Bath Sheets per person
• 2 Hand Towels per person
• 2 Guest or Fingertip Towels per person
• 4 Washcloths per person
• 1 Bath Mat per bathroom
• 1 Shower Curtain and Liner per bathroom
• 2 Additional Towel Sets (bath, hand, guest) for each additional bathroom

Congratulations on your big day! The excitement has only just begun. As you begin your journey towards your “I dos”, there are so many stops along the way: the dress, the venue, the cake, and of course, the registry.

With over 90% of couples registering for wedding gifts, your choices are limitless. But in a sea of shopping, it is easy to get lost at the store walking down the wrong aisle! At Gracious Style, we know that starting a registry can be tough to approach. Here, we break down a few of the basics, and help guide you towards the perfect registry.

Fine China: While this timeless classic might seem a bit old fashioned for the modern couple, it is a great essential to have on your registry. Formal dinnerware may be something that you never end up buying for yourself, so your registry is the perfect time to ask for it.

Casual Dinnerware: An addition or alternative to traditional fine china, casual dinnerware is becoming increasingly popular on wedding registries. While the beauty and longevity of fine china have made it a top registry item for decades, many couples in today’s busy world are choosing to register for more everyday dinnerware, either as an addition to fine china, or in some cases, even as a substitute.

For more tips on selecting the right dinnerware for your registry, check out our guide here!

Flatware: Even if you already have a set of flatware, now is the time to splurge on a set that will last you for years to come. Whether choosing collection of sterling silver or stainless steel, stay mindful that this will be placed adjacent to your dinnerware, and should be a compatible style.

To learn more about flatware before making your selection, take a look at our flatware guide!

Glassware: When registering for glassware, keep in mind the number of place settings you chose for your dinnerware. It is always a good idea to register for several extra, especially if you love to entertain, as glassware can be easily broken. If you love wine, register for at least one set of red and one set of white wine glasses. Even if don’t drink a lot of wine, having a beautiful set of stemware will definitely come in handy.

Bath: Most registries will consist of many kitchen items, but it is important not to neglect other great necessities for your new home together. Bath towels are a great registry item because every household needs them, and you can never, ever have too many. When considering household items that you will use daily, it is best to overestimate the quantity. The typical towel count is three per person: one in use, one in the laundry and one on the shelf. The most common combination is bath towel, hand towel and washcloth, but don’t forget to count extras for guests!

Bedding: For most couples, bedding is likely something you already have. However, your registry is not only a good time for a quality upgrade, but also the perfect opportunity to get all the bedding essentials that you may have overlooked. While additional sheet sets are always good to have on hand, remember to also consider such items as a mattress pad, down duvet, and some excellent quality pillows.

For more registry information and inspiration, visit our Wedding Registry Page.

Setting the table with the right drinkware is like choosing the right jewelry for an outfit. The glasses will express your personal style, but they’ll also establish the tone and mood of your event.

Glassware Styles

What kinds of glassware are there?

Stemware refers to drinking glasses with a long stem between the bowl and the base.  Common pieces include wine glasses and champagne flutes.

Barware includes glasses with solid, flat bases, like highballs and whiskey glasses.

In either case, the shape of each glass is designed to enhance the beverage it holds.

Which glasses should I select for everyday use?

Your everyday glassware should feel comfortable in your hand and be durable, dishwasher-safe, and easy to store.  Simon Pearce makes wonderful everyday glasses.

Understanding Glassware Materials

Should I buy glass or lead crystal formal stemware?

It depends on the look you want.  Glass is more affordable, but less brilliant.  Lead crystal, which is produced by adding 24% red lead oxide to glass, is heavier, more clear, and more brilliant.  The addition of the oxide also softens the raw material, so lead crystal can take on more intricate cutwork and designs.  High-end stemware is usually made from lead crystal.

Suggested Quantities

What shapes and quantities should I buy?

At a minimum, we recommend the following:

12 everyday water or juice glasses

12 formal water glasses

12 formal white wine glasses

12 formal red wine glasses

12 champagne flutes

One pitcher

One wine bucket

One wine opener

One ice bucket

What other complimentary pieces do I need?

Other popular options include beer mugs, rocks glasses (like double old fashioned), cocktail glasses (like martini glasses), shot glasses, and brandy snifters.  For cocktail parties, additional pitchers, carafes, and decanters are elegant serving items to stock in your bar.

Caring for Glassware

How do I care for my stemware?

Fine stemware should be washed by hand and dried with a lint-free cloth. Never use steel wool or abrasives on your stemware. We do not recommend using the dishwasher for any crystal stemware.

How do I store my stemware?

Stemware should be stored right side up to protect the rims of the glasses from breakage. We recommend placing fine stemware near the backs of your shelves to protect them from accidental handling.

Completing Your Set

How do I lay out my dinnerware and stemware?

Place the presentation plate directly in front of each guest’s chair. Next, set the dinner plate directly on top of the presentation plate. The bread & butter plate should be placed at a 10:00 angle to the dinner plate. The water glass should be at the 1:00 angle from the dinner plate and just above the knives. The wine glass is then placed directly the right and below the water glass, and the champagne flute then further to the right and above the wine glass (thus forming a small triangle).

To view more bar and glassware collections, click here.

Choosing the right pillow is essential to a good night’s rest.  In order to decide which pillow is right for you, there are two factors you need to consider:

1. YOUR FIRMNESS LEVEL

Your specific sleeping style will determine the firmness of your pillow.

– Stomach sleepers should choose a soft, plump pillow to cushion and gently support the head and neck.

– Back sleepers should choose a medium pillow to position the head and neck in line with the natural curvature of the spine.

– Side sleepers should choose a firm pillow to provide more support and properly align the head, neck, and shoulders.

2. YOUR PREFERRED FILL TYPE

Down: Down is nature’s best fill and insulator.  The most luxurious pillows are  filled with white goose down.

– Because down is so lightweight, it’s one of the most comfortable fills for pillows and comforters.

– Down pillows are shaped for comfort and support and mold to your head and neck.

– The higher the fill power, the higher quality the pillow.

– Down pillows last longer and hold up better than synthetic fills.

– Down breathes well, lifting moisture away from the sleeper.

Down/Feather Blend: Down/feather pillows are firmer than down filled pillows. They are an excellent choice for those who want a firmer support.

Comforel/Down Alternative Fill: A wonderful hypoallergenic microfiber fill that offers down-like comfort, loft and softness, at a more economical price than down.  This fill is perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone.

To view our entire selection of down and down alternative pillows, click here.

Selecting a dinnerware collection is an exciting task! With a myriad of options to choose, we at Gracious Style are here to help narrow your search, and find the style that is perfect for you. Whether you are looking for formal china, or fun, everyday essentials, we break down the basics and answer any questions that may arise.

Understanding Dinnerware Materials

What are the different types of materials used to make dinnerware?

Luxury dinnerware is usually made of either porcelain or bone china. Casual dinnerware is made from earthenware or stoneware because these are usually more durable, easier to care for, and lower in price.

– Porcelain: The key ingredient, kaolin, is what makes porcelain so extraordinary. Fired at a the highest temperatures, porcelain combines a stark white appearance with incredible durability to make timeless pieces that will last in beauty and reliability for years to come. Well-known names to consider include Raynaud, Haviland, and Philippe Deshoulieres. And if you appreciate hand-painted porcelain, Herend and Anna Weatherley make beautiful pieces.

Care: Most porcelain items are dishwasher and microwave safe. We recommend hand washing for larger pieces, handpainted collections, or items with gold or platinum decoration. Items with metallic decoration should not be microwaved.

– Bone China: This is a very fine, soft-paste clay that is made from several key ingredients, including bone ash. The result is a beautiful, high translucency white with warm, ivory tones. Considered by many to be the finest quality of china, it has great strength and very high chip-resistance. Brands we suggest: Pickard, Royal Crown Derby.

Care: Most bone china items are dishwasher and microwave safe. We recommend hand washing for larger pieces or items with gold or platinum decoration. Items with metallic decoration should not be microwaved.

– Stoneware: Ideal for casual dining, stoneware is fired at very high temperatures to produce pieces which are durable and quite chip-resistant. Available in a numerous range of colors, some pieces also have beautiful crackled surfaces. Brands we suggest: Gien, Jars, Juliska, Vietri.

Care: Dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer safe.

– Earthenware: as it is fired at relatively low temperatures, this type of pottery is more porous and less translucent than either porcelain or bone china. These pieces are relatively thick and heavy, and their natural colors range from from buff to red, depending on the clay used. A much-beloved characteristic of earthenware is that it is likely to crackle as the clay expands and contracts, but this does not affect the use of the piece. Brands we suggest: Vietri.

Care: Dishwasher safe; most are microwave safe on low to medium settings. We recommend avoiding sudden temperature changes.

What is Limoges porcelain?

Limoges refers to a region in France where some of the earliest porcelain pieces were produced as far back as 1765. For centuries, the name Limoges has represented the finest quality and craftsmanship in porcelain throughout the world.  Limoges porcelain is very white; most of the best-known producers of French porcelain are based in Limoges.

What are some simple ways to determine quality in dinnerware?

You can determine the quality of porcelain and fine china with a few simple tests:

– Hold the piece up to the light and you should be able to see the shadow of your hand behind the porcelain.

– Flick the plate with your fingers and listen for a resonant ring.

– Examine the color and make sure the glaze is even; the finish should be smooth and lustrous.

Dinnerware Styles

What dinnerware styles are available?

Generally, dinnerware is broken down into casual and formal collections.   From there, you can choose between four major styles: solid (meaning one color throughout, with no pattern), banded, patterned, and handpainted.

If you’re looking for something with a monogram or in a specific color, take a look at our custom dinnerware collections.

And for outdoor entertaining, there are also outdoor dinnerware collections available.

Suggested Quantities

How many dinnerware collections do I need?

In making this decision, we suggest considering the size of your family, the type of entertaining you are most likely to do (formal seated dinners or buffet brunches), and the complexity of your menus. Many people choose to have at least one casual collection for everyday use and one formal collection for selected occasions (usually porcelain).

How many settings do I need?

We recommend registering for twelve five-piece place settings, as these will see you through most dinner parties. These five-piece settings typically include a dinner plate, salad or dessert plate, bread and butter plate, tea cup, and tea saucer. On more casual collections, you will sometimes see four-piece settings available. These normally include a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, and mug. While you may not always be entertaining for twelve, having additional pieces will guarantee that you have spares when items break or unexpected guests show up. From time to time, collections or specific pieces do get discontinued, so if you love a piece, buy it while you can.

What is included in a five-piece place setting? 

A five-piece formal setting consists of a dinner plate, salad plate, bread/butter plate, teacup, and saucer.

What is included in a four-piece place setting?

On more casual collections, you will sometimes see four-piece settings available.  These normally include a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, and mug.

What are standard dinnerware sizes?

Sizes sometimes vary slightly among different collections, but they are generally as follows:

What is a presentation plate?

Also known as chargers or buffet plates, presentation plates are oversized plates (12″ diameter) designed to add color and style to your table setting. These are usually removed before the main course is served, although they are also frequently used as buffet dinner plates since they can hold larger quantities of food.

What kinds of serving pieces do I need?

When registering for dinnerware, it is easy to overlook serving pieces. However, these items are not only great for unifying your collection, they are necessities that will be essential for cooking, entertaining, and everyday dining. We recommend the following as a starting point:

– Two to three serving dishes

– Two serving bowls or salad bowls

– One covered casserole dish

– One cake platter (or better yet, a cake stand for a better presentation)

– One tea and/or coffee service (this should include the teapot or coffee pot, creamer, and sugar bowl)

Caring for Dinnerware

How do I care for my dinnerware?

Most dinnerware items are microwave and dishwasher safe, unless they are decorated with gold or silver.  We recommend hand washing for larger pieces, handpainted collections, or items with gold or platinum decoration. Items with metallic decoration should not be microwaved.

Monogramming

How should I monogram my dinnerware?

If you choose to have your dinnerware monogrammed, consider several different options. Single-letter monograms usually feature the first initial of the last name. On three-letter monograms, most individuals choose to have their first, middle, and last or first, last, and middle initials embroidered. For married couples, a popular choice is the initials of the couple’s first names on either side of their married last name.

Would you like to see more styles?  Click here to view all our dinnerware collections.

Ever wonder why a down blanket or comforter is so warm and comfy on a cold winter night?  It’s because they’re made from one of nature’s best insulating materials.  Tucked safely under the long feathers of ducks and geese, down is actually many soft, fluffy plumules which connect with each other through thousands of strands of fiber.  As these plumules connect with each other, they create little pockets of warm air which provide an incredible amount of insulation without a lot of weight.

If you’re thinking about investing in a down comforter or pillow, here are some basics to keep in mind.

Understanding Down Basics

What is down?

Down clusters, often simply referred to as down, are the three-dimensional plumage found under the belly feathers of ducks and geese. They are nature’s finest insulation, allowing waterfowl to remain warm even in the most frigid environments. Down clusters have a center core with fibers extending outward from the core, but unlike feathers there is no spine. The three-dimensional quality traps air and maintains warmth without a great deal of weight. Down is very breathable and allows moisture to evaporate quickly.

What are feathers?

Feathers are the plumage found on the outside of waterfowl; they have a two-dimensional quality with a shaft running vertically through the feather. The contoured shape of feathers provides a supportive quality which makes them appropriate for use in sleeping pillows, decorative pillow inserts and feather beds. They are generally not used for insulating purposes.

What is fill power?

Fill power is a numerical designation for the volume one ounce of down occupies. The higher the value, the more volume the one ounce will occupy. Fill power also provides an index for determining the lofting, insulation properties and quality of the down.

Fill power is directly related to the size of the down cluster.  Large down clusters occupy more space than smaller down clusters, and they trap more air between the clusters.  This trapped air is what gives down its insulating properties.

The size of the bird and the climate in which it lives determines the size of its down cluster.  The colder climate, the larger the down cluster required to keep the bird warm.  For example, it is colder in Canada than it is in Hungary; therefore, Canadian birds need larger down clusters in order to stay warm.

What kinds of shell materials are used for down bedding?

Like with all bedding, both thread count and material are important for the fabric shell of the duvet and pillow cover, because they determine how the item feels against you.

But for down items, the fabric shell has added importance: this is what keeps the down inside and potential allergens, dust, and bacteria out. A higher thread count fabric shell will protect your down better and keep it cleaner. The most common down covers are made from cotton; silk and eco-friendly materials are also available.

Are there alternatives to down?

If you’re allergic to down, there many options made from synthetic, hypoallergenic material designed to imitate the clusters of natural down.

Choosing the Right Comforter

It’s easy to find a comforter that’s just right for you. For an unparalleled sleeping experience, you should consider these two factors:

1. YOUR LEVEL OF WARMTH

To select the ideal comforter, you should consider such factors as season, climate, heating system and thermostat setting. Most of our classic comforters are now offered in three weights to best suit your needs.

Summer Weight: Ideal for the warm sleeper, warm climates or when the room temperature is above 70°F.

All Year Weight: The most popular choice, this all-season comforter is perfect for year-round use and for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 60°F and 65°F.

Winter Weight: Ideal for the cold sleeper, cool bedrooms, very cold climates and for those who prefer extra warmth during the winter season.

2. YOUR LEVEL OF QUALITY

Comforters are available with different qualities of fills and shells. The most affordable generally feature more common fills and lower thread count shells, while the most expensive use rare, exotic fills and finer fabrics.

Introductory: Our most affordable down comforters features a 233 thread count cover filled with 560 fill power white down (example: Mackenza comforters)

Classic: These classics feature a soft, 300 thread count cover filled with high loft, and 600 fill power white goose down, guaranteed to provide many years of warmth and pleasure (examples: Cascada Summit, 3-in-1 Anytime, and Buxton comforters)

Best Value: Opting for lasting comfort and value? The comforters in this class offer remarkable quality and sumptuous softness. A high quality white goose down with large and plump clusters, our 650 and 700 fill power white goose downs, provide luxurious warmth with minimum weight. Choice of 330 or 383 thread count cotton sateen gives the finishing touch to this amazing selection (example: Nirvana, Continental, and Somerset comforters).

Supreme: Exceptional superiority, the 700 and 800 fill power is one of the word’s finest downs. Premium clusters of down deliver superior loft and maximum warmth with minimal weight. Moreover, our silky smooth downproof fabric is made in Europe using the exclusive SanProCare process, known to enhance temperature regulation, absorption and release of moisture, and superior durability (examples: Bernina, Himalaya, and Cardigan comforters).

Ultimate: When only the very best will do; our most magnificent comforters offer unparalleled luxury, warmth and craftsmanship. The very largest, softest 920 fill power Siberian, Canadian white goose down, or Eiderdown paired with a choice of Batiste lightweight fabric- or our 100% Pure Silk, Flowering Vine pattern cover, introduce you to the incredible lightness of warmth. These opulent comforters result in extraordinary comfort and promise luscious sleep for years to come (examples: Logana, Eliasa, Snowdon comforters).

Down Alternative: Filled with Comforel, Innofil, and other similar fibers, these hypoallergenic microfiber fills offer down-like comfort, loft and softness at a more economical price than down. Perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone (examples: Sierra, Astra, Arcadia, and Anti-Allergy Down comforters).

Tencel Ecofriendly: The combination of high quality 650 fill power white goose down and a Tencel® lyocell cover offers you easy-care comfort that’s soft on you and the environment. Tencel® lyocell is a natural fabric manufactured from wood pulp from Eucalyptus trees, which is extremely silky to the touch, has a very soft finish and is noted for its durability, light weight and strength (example: Innutia comforters).

What are the different kinds of comforter construction?

Comforter construction provides the performance features and aesthetic appearance of a comforter.

– Baffle boxstitch construction utilizes vertical walls of fabric between each box; allowing the fill to achieve its greatest loft and a smoother surface texture.

– Sewn-thru boxstitch construction features end-to-end closed boxes that are stitched closed to prevent shifting of the fill material. The box shape is more visible because the top and bottom layers of fabric are sewn together.

These baffle boxes actually have an important job: In addition to giving the duvet a puffy checkered quilting, they help keep the down remain evenly distributed throughout the duvet cover.  Otherwise, the down feathers may fall to the bottom or sides of the duvet, leaving the center cold and empty.

Choosing the Right Pillow

Choosing the right pillow is essential to a good night’s rest. In order to decide which pillow is right for you, there are two factors you need to consider:

1. YOUR FIRMNESS LEVEL

Your specific sleeping style will determine the firmness of your pillow.

– Stomach sleepers should choose a soft, plump pillow to cushion and gently support the head and neck.

– Back sleepers should choose a medium pillow to position the head and neck in line with the natural curvature of the spine.

– Side sleepers should choose a firm pillow to provide more support and properly align the head, neck, and shoulders.

2. YOUR PREFERRED FILL TYPE

Down: Down is nature’s best fill and insulator. The most luxurious pillows are filled with white goose down.

– Because down is so lightweight, it’s one of the most comfortable fills for pillows and comforters.

– Down pillows are shaped for comfort and support and mold to your head and neck.

– The higher the fill power, the higher quality the pillow.

– Down pillows last longer and hold up better than synthetic fills.

– Down breathes well, lifting moisture away from the sleeper.

Down/Feather Blend: Down/feather pillows are firmer than down filled pillows. They are an excellent choice for those who want a firmer support.

Comforel/Down Alternative Fill: A wonderful hypoallergenic microfiber fill that offers down-like comfort, loft and softness, at a more economical price than down. This fill is perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone.

What are the different kinds of pillow construction?

Sleeping pillows are generally constructed using either single chamber or multi-chambered compartmented shells.

– Single construction pillows place the fill material in one area. The fill options for single chambered construction include down, feather/down blends, and down alternative fibers.

– Multi-Chambered compartmented construction provides multiple internal chambers for housing the fill material.  For example, some pillows feature feather cores surrounded by down exteriors.

Caring for Down

How do you care for down comforters and pillows?

With proper care, your down comforters and pillows should last many years.

– Pillows and comforters should always be used inside a cover. For additional protection, pillows should be used with a pillow protector.

– Fluff your pillows and comforters every day when you make your bed.

– Comforters may be spot cleaned for spills and aired out occasionally.

– While frequent washing is not advised, down products may either be washed or dry cleaned. Dry cleaning should only be performed by a company experienced with down products, as dirty cleaning fluid will cause the down to clump, lose its lofting ability and occasionally develop a mild odor.

– Wash in a front-loading commercial capacity washer. Avoid machines with agitators, as these are too rough and can tear the baffles.

– Use a low sudsing detergent or a product specifically designed for washing down products (like Le Blanc Down Wash). Do not use bleach or fabric softener.

– Run through the rinse cycle twice to remove all soap.

– Place in large capacity dryer on the lowest heat setting and dry for 3-4 hours. If you’d like, place a couple of clean tennis or dryer balls inside the dryer to help fluff the down. Dry well beyond the point where the outer fabric feels dry, as you want to make sure that the down clusters are fully dry.

– Allow the comforter to air dry for an additional 24 hours before placing it inside a duvet cover. If you notice any lingering odors or clumping, place it in the dryer again and continue to dry it.

– We do not recommend cleaning down more than twice a year.

Want to learn more?  To shop for down, click here to view all our down and down alternative products.  To shop for cleaning solutions, click here to view our down and linen care products.

At Gracious Style, we are introduced to some of the most luxurious materials on a daily basis. It’s our job to find the best of the best, whether it’s Giza 45 Egyptian Cotton sheets, or hand-embroidered Italian table linens. Given the quality of the products we love, we know that proper care and cleaning are essential for long-lasting, sumptuous fibers.  We’ve personally tested Le Blanc’s specialty cleansers in our own homes, and here’s what we have to say.

What You Should Know:

• Le Blanc products are environmentally safe. They are 100% biodegradable, contain no bleach, have a neutral pH balance, and are not tested on animals. This makes them safe for cleaning delicate materials like lace, silk, linen, and down.
• The detergents are triple concentrated. 1/4 cup is all that is needed for a full load of laundry. “I love that you only use 2 ounces of liquid per load; my bottle lasted me several months!” – Carolina
• Le Blanc products are energy-efficient. All of the cleansers work with cold water, and can be used in a variety of washing machines.
• Le Blanc formulas have been tested to remove stains caused by lipstick, jam, fruit juice, coffee, tea, chocolate, wine, grease, blood, cola, ink and even certain oils.

Le Blanc Offerings:

Linen Press – designed to leave a silky hand and polished finish on table and bed linens. Press fine fabrics and create a protective layer to guard against new stains. This non-aerosol formula ensures a wrinkle-free sheen, and features an easy spray nozzle.

Linen Wash – Le Blanc’s premium cold-water cleanser is proven to be the safest in the home textile industry. The detergent removes tough stains from fabrics without the use of harmful chemicals. It is mild enough to care for linen, cotton, sateen, and percale, making it ideal for use on bedding and table cloths. “The Linen Wash really works well for pretreating stains. After our Thanksgiving dinner, I quickly poured a few drops on our napkins and tablecloths, and the stains were gone when I did the laundry the next day.” – Carolina

Silk & Lingerie Wash – Designed for all washable and colorfast delicate fabrics. The specialized formula protects elasticity, preserves shape, and gently launders swim and active wear, hosiery and intimate apparel, wool and cashmere sweaters, and silk bedding and table linens. “No need to buy scented sachets to stick in my underwear and sock drawers anymore. The articles smell so fresh after, they scent the whole drawer” – Nicole.

Towel Wash – formulated to clean luxury bath towels, mats, rugs, and cotton terry robes while protecting fibers from drying out. Even after repeated wash cycles, bath linens are guaranteed to remain soft, strong, and absorbent. “Washing my towels in the Summer Verbena Towel Wash made a remarkable difference. They were soft to the touch and smelled amazing, which I expected would happen, but I was nervous they wouldn’t look as clean. I was proven wrong; no makeup stains, nothing! Worked like a charm for my white towels” – Nicole.

Laundry Wash – For use on all types of apparel made from natural and synthetic fibers. Fabrics are disinfected while colors and shapes are preserved. Whites and darks alike will smell fresh and look renewed. “Doing laundry is now more fun, and our linens smell really good” – Carolina.

Downwash – Specifically designed for laundering down-filled, down alternative, and hypoallergenic materials without altering its capacity for natural insulation. This wash protects down’s loft by preventing its naturally resilient oils from becoming brittle. “So nice that I can wash my down comforter at home now.” – Carolina.

Fragrance Infusion – This alternative to traditional fabric softener can be added to the rinse cycle to reduce static cling and add extra fragrance. As this product contains no optical brighteners, and will not stain or clog, it is safe for use in all washing machines. “I’ve been hearing more and more about the disadvantages of using fabric softeners. This is an excellent, safer alternative” – Nicole.

Dryer Sachets – These should be used in place of polyester dryer sheets to prevent pilling of luxury linens. Filled with unique fragrances, the sachets scent articles in the dryer or in a drawer. Each one can be reused for a minimum of sixteen cycles. “I use these in my closets to scent up the whole space” – Carolina.

Linen Waters – Perfect for misting household linens and fabrics like bed sheets, drapery, towels, and more. The formula will not stain and is guaranteed to leave a lasting aroma.

Spotlight on Scents: 

Original: “A very sweet, fruity and floral scent. The apple, hyacinth, and sandalwood are the most prevalent notes” – Eve. “Sweet like candy but charmingly light. The fusion of jasmine, kiwi, grapefruit, and musk are refreshing” – Nicole.

Fields of Green: “Floral, but fresher than the original scent, this one has a slighter brighter fragrance to it, with more of a citrusy garden blend” – Eve. “Reminds me of fresh cut grass, and spring” – Nicole.

Children’s Wash (Pink and Purple): “Light and happy, like a cloud on a spring day” – Si. “This is a milder, lighter version of the Original scent” – Carolina.

Lavender: “Like a field in Provence” – Carolina. “Very classic, herbal scent with subtle notes of mint” – Eve. “Lavender is of course a calming aroma. This fragrance will sooth the senses and coat your linens in a blanket of tranquil freshness. Very ladylike” – Nicole.

Silk Petals Silk & Lingerie: “A signature floral scent, this mixes the sweet smells of rose with gardenia” – Eve. “Floral, feminine, and delicate, the blend of lilac, rose, and gardenia is delightfully sophisticated” – Nicole. “Powdery and feminine” – Carolina.

Blue Violet: “Light, clear, and fresh” – Si. “Clean, crisp, and soapy (in the best way!), with light floral notes” – Nicole.

Summer Verbena: “Primarily citrus, with a hint of floral” – Eve. “After washing my bedding in this scent, my entire bedroom smelled of a lovely citrus, but the scent was never overwhelming” – Nicole.

Portfolio: “My personal favorite! This is a more masculine scent, but the women in our office loved it equally as much. This is a woodsy, musky scent with notes of amber and vanilla” – Eve. “Serious and sophisticated” – Si. “Designed for the modern day male, this scent is universally appealing and alluring. The blend of woods and orange blossom, with hints of vanilla, make it an ideal unisex fragrance” – Nicole.

For more Le Blanc, click here!

It’s easy to find a comforter that’s just right for you. For an unparalleled sleeping experience, you should consider these two factors:

1. YOUR LEVEL OF WARMTH

To select the ideal comforter, you should consider such factors as season, climate, heating system and thermostat setting. Most of our classic comforters are now offered in three weights to best suit your needs.

Summer Weight: Ideal for the warm sleeper, warm climates or when the room temperature is above 70°F.

All Year Weight: The most popular choice, this all-season comforter is perfect for year-round use and for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 60°F and 65°F.

Winter Weight: Ideal for the cold sleeper, cool bedrooms, very cold climates and for those who prefer extra warmth during the winter season.

2. YOUR LEVEL OF QUALITY

Comforters are available with different qualities of fills and shells.  The most affordable generally feature more common fills and lower thread count shells, while the most expensive use rare, exotic fills and finer fabrics.

Introductory: Our most affordable down comforters features a 233 thread count cover filled with 560 fill power white down (example: Mackenza comforters)

Classic: These classics feature a soft, 300 thread count cover filled with high loft, and 600 fill power white goose down, guaranteed to provide many years of warmth and pleasure (examples: Cascada Summit, 3-in-1 Anytime, and Buxton comforters)

Best Value: Opting for lasting comfort and value? The comforters in this class offer remarkable quality and sumptuous softness. A high quality white goose down with large and plump clusters, our 650 and 700 fill power white goose downs, provide luxurious warmth with minimum weight. Choice of 330 or 383 thread count cotton sateen gives the finishing touch to this amazing selection (example: Nirvana, Continental, and Somerset comforters).

Supreme: Exceptional superiority, the 700 and 800 fill power is one of the word’s finest downs. Premium clusters of down deliver superior loft and maximum warmth with minimal weight. Moreover, our silky smooth downproof fabric is made in Europe using the exclusive SanProCare process, known to enhance temperature regulation, absorption and release of moisture, and superior durability (examples: Bernina, Himalaya, and Cardigan comforters).

Ultimate: When only the very best will do; our most magnificent comforters offer unparalleled luxury, warmth and craftsmanship. The very largest, softest 920 fill power Siberian, Canadian white goose down, or Eiderdown paired with a choice of Batiste lightweight fabric- or our 100% Pure Silk, Flowering Vine pattern cover, introduce you to the incredible lightness of warmth. These opulent comforters result in extraordinary comfort and promise luscious sleep for years to come (examples: Logana, Eliasa, Snowdon comforters).

Down Alternative: Filled with Comforel, Innofil, and other similar fibers, these hypoallergenic microfiber fills offer down-like comfort, loft and softness at a more economical price than down. Perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone (examples: Sierra, Astra, Arcadia, and Anti-Allergy Down comforters).

Tencel Ecofriendly: The combination of high quality 650 fill power white goose down and a Tencel® lyocell cover offers you easy-care comfort that’s soft on you and the environment. Tencel® lyocell is a natural fabric manufactured from wood pulp from Eucalyptus trees, which is extremely silky to the touch, has a very soft finish and is noted for its durability, light weight and strength (example: Innutia comforters).

To view our entire selection of down pillows and comforters, click here.

Summer’s here, so it’s the perfect time to celebrate outdoors! Pool parties, barbecues, picnics and brunches are great ways to spend time with friends and family… but what do you do if your indoor/outdoor rug gets dirty? Fear not!  We asked our friends at Dash & Albert, and they shared these easy steps to cleaning indoor/outdoor rugs.

1) Roll up your soiled rug and move it to your cleaning space (showers and tubs are perfect spots!).

2) Fill a bucket with cool water and your favorite liquid soap or detergent (like our Le Blanc Linen Wash).

3) Lay the rolled rug in your cleaning space and unroll enough to access the soiled area; rub in your soapy solution onto the rug with a brush.

4) Rinse the soiled area with clean water.  If the stain has not gone away, keep brushing with your soapy solution until it disappears.

5) Once the rug is clean, roll it up and lean it against a corner so the water can roll off the carpet and down the drain. When it’s dry, roll out your newly clean carpet and enjoy!

Love how easy care these are?  To view our entire group of indoor/outdoor rugs, click here.

Summer.  La dolce vita.  A party by the pool.  Sailing on the water.  Or just a nice lawn barbecue.  Naturally, friends and family will come in droves.  So how do you entertain them in style, without setting up for the high holidays?  Here are our little secrets (shhh….)

– Acrylic stemware from Mario Luca Giusti: From his studio in Florence, Mario has re-created classic Italian stemware in acrylic and polycarbonate. The result?  As cool as a Vespa on the cobblestoned streets of Florence. No wonder it’s become a darling of the European yachting crowd — look for it on Roberto Cavalli’s yacht or in the hands Albert II of Monaco, Valentino, the Missonis, the Ferragamos, and Steven Spielberg.

– Melamine dinnerware from Q Squared NYC Dinnerware: They’re chic, they’re classic, and they’re dishwasher safe! These pieces, created by Nancy (former Glamour editor) and Alaina (color aficionado with an art history background), recreate the ornate designs of antique porcelain on heavyweight melamine, and they’re made to be mixed and matched.

– Easy-care tablecloths fromGarnier Thiebaut and Le Jacquard Francais: Many of our classic French table linens, favorites of everyone from the George V in Paris to the French Laundry, now come coated with an invisible treatment to protect your linens from liquids and stains, while keeping them soft and supple.

Now there’s no reason not to entertain this summer.  Let us know how it went — tweet a picture of your party to @GraciousStyle!  Need more ideas?  Click here to see our Outdoor Entertaining section.

For nearly two hundred years, Garnier-Thiebaut has been creating exquisite linens for the home. But it is Green Sweet, their recent innovation in fabric technology, that is most exciting to the busy, modern family.

What is Green Sweet?

Green Sweet is a revolutionary treatment which makes linens stain resistant.

Does Green Sweet affect the way my linens feel?

No.  Green Sweet does not affect the look and feel of linens, so textiles stay equally soft and breathable.

What happens when liquids spill on my Green Sweet linens?

Liquids will puddle on the surface, so you can simply wipe them off.

How is Green Sweet applied to fabrics?

Each fiber is coated in the stain-resistant treatment before it is woven into fabric to ensure the entire cloth is fully saturated.

Can I wash my Green Sweet linens?

Absolutely!  They can be washed the same way as regular linens, but you won’t need to launder them as often since they will remain clean for longer.

Can I iron my Green Sweet linens?

Yes.  The heat of the iron reactivates the Green Sweet treatment, so it is good for Green Sweet linens to be ironed.

Can you show me what happens when there are spills? 

Take a look at how these linens react to jam, fruit juice, water, and even red wine!

Want to see more? Click on the video below for a demonstration:

Why is it called Green Sweet?

Green refers to the non-stick and self-cleaning process of certain plants. Sweet stands for Simple to clean, Waterproof, Economic maintenance, Environmentally friendly, and Textile touch.

Now, it’s time to try one for yourself! Here are a few of our favorites:

Have you tried Garnier-Thiebaut‘s incredible Green Sweet linens yet?

This is a true story:

In 1989, the British Rail Pension Fund showed the finest Tang Dynasty porcelain horse ever found at a Sotheby’s Hong Kong Auction.  That same night, thieves broke into the Sotheby’s warehouse, held the staff at knife point, and made off with the horse.  The heist made headlines around the world, and the Hong Kong organized crime squad was called in.  They set up a sting operation, pretending to be buyers, and recovered the stolen horse.  It was then transported in a convoy of seven armored cars and sent to London, where on December 12, 1989, it sold for a record-setting 3.74 million pounds, or $6 million ($10.7 million today after inflation) to an art dealer from Tokyo.

Such excitement is just another page in the history of the legendary horses.  During China’s Tang dynasty, horses were loved and revered as symbols of imperial power.  Emperors and noblemen gave them names like “Wind” or “Dragon.”  Poets rhapsodized about them.  Artists created porcelain horses that captured their strong, muscular builds in life-like poses.  Merchants, on the other hand, were forbidden from riding horses — such a noble creature was not to be wasted on the ostentations of the merely wealthy.

Today, Tang horses are among the best-known Chinese art.  Relatively ordinary ones are selling for about $250,000, while a premium pair sold at Sotheby’s in 2013 for almost $4.2 million.  For your collection of Tang horses, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Most Tang horses are only 15 inches tall.
• All Tang horses are made from ceramic.
• They were made to accompany the rich and powerful in the afterlife and buried with their owners.
• Most Tang horses are equipped with full riding gear.
• Almost all Tang horses have highly stylized, combed manes and a short, upturned tail.
• They come in both glazed and unglazed versions.
• The glazed versions usually come in three colors, hence the Chinese term sancai or “Three Color” horse.
• Of the glazing colors, cobalt blue is the rarest and most prized.  Only 5 percent of Tang horses have the blue cobalt glaze, which was more expensive than gold at the time.
• Tang horses have traditionally appealed more to Western than Chinese buyers, who avoided them as burial goods.

As a gallery specialist recently told The New York Times, “You want crisply defined medallions, beautifully articulated, hand-finished faux-fur saddlecloths and harnesses with bells and floret motifs. When all these elements are perfect, you’ve got a home run.”

While you wait for the next one to come up for auction, here are a couple of modern versions to add to your collection.  L’Objet’s unglazed Tang horse in large or medium, has a zen and modern look:

Herend’s limited edition Reserve Collection Tang Horse reinterprets the Tang original in the company’s signature sapphire blue fishnet design, with 24kt gold highlights:

Do you think today’s designers have outdone the ancient masters?

This outdoor courtyard from Traditional Home‘s February 2014 was a major project — just look at the inset of the before picture:

Wow!  An outdoor fountain has become an indoor/outdoor living space.  But for whom?  The matching pillows and cushions makes this space look like a showroom.  Pillows should be the most exciting part of the room, a place where you can really show off your personality and sense of style.

So let’s take our Pillow Personality Test — which outdoor pillow are YOU?

Serious and Sophisticated?

Beach-y and Carefree?

Exotic and Romantic?

Flower Child?

or Flag Lover?

 Submit a suggestion for an Instant Makeover by commenting below or tweeting us @GraciousStyle.

Matelassé (pronounced matt-le-say) is a French word meaning padded, lined or quilted. It is used to describe fabric that appears to be quilted, but actually has no padding within the fabric. Specialty jacquard looms are used to give a matelassé fabric a unique appearance of intricate designs, raised patterns, indentations, and the padded look often associated with quilts.

We love the luxurious warmth and the plush look of matelassé. Here are some of our favorites:

For more Matelassé, visit our Bedspreads and Quilts Shop.

Purchasing fine silverware is an important investment you want to protect, perhaps for generations to come. Since its founding in Normandy, France in 1830, Christofle’s silver creations have been prized for well over a century by serious connoisseurs, gracing the tables of maharajas, presidents, luxurious resorts, and the finest restaurants in the world. With proper care, Christofle silver will stay looking as sublime on your table as it has in royal palaces throughout the ages.

We’ve compiled an easy guide on how to care for your Christofle silver and silverplated items, to keep them pristine and exquisite throughout years of enjoyment.

Cleaning Your Christofle Silver

Wash immediately after every use.

If you are unable to wash immediately, wipe off any remaining food, and rinse in hot water.  This will prevent prolonged contact with acidic substances, which can damage silver.

Hand Washing

Gently remove debris using a soft sponge and soapy water made with gentle liquid dish detergent. Never use a corrosive or abrasive product, and never let your silverware come into contact with bleach. Promptly dry with a soft cloth.

Dishwasher Safe

All Christofle flatware – including sterling silver – can be safely washed in a dishwasher, provided the following rules are observed:

• Use chlorine-free powders or tablets only. Do not use liquid or gel products, which often contain chlorine.
• If you use a water softening product in the dishwasher, avoid washing your silverware during the first cycle. Follow dishwasher instructions concerning the hardness of the water. Water with a high mineral content can be corrosive.
• Knives manufactured before 1968 must be washed by hand only.

Care for Frames

All Christofle picture frames are specially varnished with a protective coating, and do not require any special care.  Do not use Christofle or household cleaning products, which could damage the finish. A soft, dry cloth is all that is needed to remove dust from varnished products.

Tarnish Removal and Polishing

Christofle has created a variety of specially-formulated polishing and storage products to ensure the longevity of your silver. After using each of these products, rinse in clean water and wash as usual.

For daily care of all your silver items, use the Silversmith Anti-Tarnish Polishing Gloves. Infused with Christofle’s signature shine product, these gloves polish silver quickly and effortlessly, while keeping your hands clean. Never wash the Silversmith gloves.

For more detailed anti-tarnish jobs, Christofle recommends using their Cream Cleaner with Sponge, which not only removes tarnish but protects from future oxidation. Follow with the Chamoisine Polishing Cloth for a lustrous shine.

Storage

Proper storage is critical to preventing silver from tarnishing. Christofle’s Anti-Tarnish Cloth Bags are made with a highly effective anti-tarnishing fabric designed to prevent oxidation and maintain shine. These brilliant storage solutions come in a variety of sizes to protect all your precious silver, from a single serving spoon to a large tray.

Have a favorite Christofle piece or collection? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

To see our complete collection of Christofle flatware, holloware, and gifts, please click here.

To view all Christofle silver care and storage solutions, please click here.

A mattress pad is designed to lie on top of a mattress.  It can have an elasticized skirt that is placed over and around a mattress, similar to a bottom fitted sheet. Or it can have anchor bands at the corners that keep it in place.

• Extra cushioning, so you experience the added softness of a pad while still enjoying the support of the mattress.
• An added layer of warmth between the mattress and your body (especially important in colder weather or in air-conditioned rooms).
• Acts as a buffer between the sheets and the mattress, to help protect against stains.
• Protects the mattress, especially the stitching along the seams.

For the ultimate luxury, we love Downright‘s White Goose Down Mattress Pads, which offer both comfort and warmth.

Or, if you are looking for an option without feathers, Sferra‘s Arcadia Hypoallergenic Down Alternative Mattress Pads use Pluma-Fil for that same soft, plush feel.

For more mattress pads, please click here.

Lighting is an important aspect of home design that often goes overlooked. It can make or break your environment, and create an atmosphere full of serenity and visual interest, or lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. Understanding how lighting works, and following some simple rules will not only enhance your decor, but will make every room feel more comfortable.

UNDERSTAND THE THREE TYPES OF LIGHTING

To maximize a room’s usefulness while adding beauty and drama, use all three:

-Ambient Lighting: Main source of light that illuminates the entire room, usually provided by a ceiling fixture.

-Task Lighting: Used for specific jobs like cooking, reading, or applying makeup.

-Accent Lighting: Brings drama and depth to a room, illuminates specific features like art, books, and architectural features.

LOCALIZE LIGHT SOURCES

-Avoid lighting an entire room with a single source, especially one overhead light, which leads to eye strain.

-Multiple points of diffused light that layer well with each other create the most visual interest.

-Use a variety of lamp heights to provide layered pools of light.

ALWAYS USE DIMMERS

-A single light source in the center of the room casts the same shadows throughout the day and night, creating tension. It’s more natural to have variations in light throughout the day.

-Reduce energy consumption and increase bulb life.

SCALE AND PROPORTION

Coordinate the size of table lamps with table height and furniture scale.

-A tall console table with a long piece of art above looks most appropriate with a tall, slender lamp.

-Low end-tables look great with shorter, more squat lamp designs.

Did you find this post illuminating? Begin personalizing your own space with our incredible selection of designer lighting.

Caring for your bed linens can be easy if you follow some simple suggestions. In return, you will prolong the life of your bed linens and preserve their beautiful appearance. While we recommend always reading the care label on each item for best results, here are some other helpful tips that will keep your linens fresh and clean.

Washing – Prewash your linens before first use. Separate your linens from other items in the wash, especially those containing polyester, which tends to create pilling, and items with heavy zippers, which can damage the fabric. Separate light and dark colors. Avoid overloading the washing machine, which can cause fibers to break down from excessive abrasion and agitation. You can wash most linens in warm water on a gentle cycle with a cold-water rinse, but be sure to check the care label.

 Detergent – Use a mild detergent without added bleach, whiteners, or fabric softeners. Do not pour detergent directly on textiles; rather, add it to the water as the wash tub fills or dilute detergent with water, then add linens. Unless linens are very soiled, you only need to use half the recommended amount of detergent. We love LeBlanc‘s Linen Wash in Blue Violet, which has a pH-balanced, bleach-free formula with a soft, floral scent.

Bleaching – Chlorine bleach will weaken fibers and cause the fabric to yellow. If white fabrics need bleaching, use an oxygen-based bleach.

Drying – While line drying outdoors is gentle, safe, and imbues linens with the fresh scent of the outdoors and natural bleaching of the sun, it is not always practical. You can machine dry most linens on low heat, but be sure to check the care label. Shake out damp linens before placing in the dryer. Never use a high heat setting, which will weaken the fibers, damage the fabric, increase shrinkage, and shorten the life of your linens. Remove items from dryer promptly, while still damp, to minimize wrinkles. Smooth and fold, or press with an iron, if desired. For that natural, outdoor scent without the sunlight, try LeBlanc‘s Lavender Dryer Sachets for a subtle hint of fragrance.

Ironing – Check to make sure your steam iron is clean – mineral deposits could cause brown spotting. Iron linens while still damp. To restore the lustrous face of sateen fabrics, iron on the reverse side. For embroidered linens, iron them on the reverse side atop a towel to preserve the three-dimensional effect of the embroidery. Use a press cloth to protect delicate lace and cutwork.

Shrinkage – All natural fibers will shrink to some extent, but in most instances we generously overcut our products to allow for shrinkage. Do not wash or, especially, dry linens on a hot setting, which is most likely to damage the fabric and intensify shrinkage. Always follow instructions on care label.

Storing Linens – Store bed linens in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Linens stored long term should be wrapped in white cotton, muslin (old pillow cases work well) or acid-free paper. Avoid storing linens in plastic bags or boxes, which can cause permanent yellowing; natural fibers need to breathe. Cedar chests can also yellow or streak fabrics. To keep your clean linens fragrant, we love elizabethW‘s Sachets and Drawer Liners.

For more from our Closet Shop, click here.

No.  Chlorine bleach will cause fading and discoloration. In addition, it will break down and permanently weaken cotton and linen fibers.  If necessary, we recommend using an oxygen-based bleach or better yet, a solution specially formulated to clean fine linens, such as Le Blanc’s Linen Wash.

Fabric softener is designed to coat fibers in oils, waxes and fragrances that might make the fabric feel soft, but the build-up of chemicals can damage the fabric over time. In addition, fabric softeners clog the pores of Egyptian cotton sheets, preventing them from breathing and decreasing the luster and gloss of the appearance. High quality Egyptian cotton linens do not need to be treated with fabric softener and, actually, with repeated washings and dryings, become softer naturally.

To view our Fabric Care selection, please click here.

This dining room from the Winter 2013 issue of California Home + Design looks like a work of art.  It features vintage Gio Ponti chairs, wall art made from 1970’s fabric design, and even a Tony Duquette Sunburst chandelier that was literally assembled one spear at a time:

But am I the only one who thinks “Better not touch anything here”?  A good room should not just be a museum, but a place where people feel comfortable.  The right rug could do exactly that for this dining room: Enhance the decor of the room, while letting you kick off your shoes and savor the wine, dessert, and company.

For example, Dash & Albert’s Icelandia Grey Hand Knotted Wool Rug is made from a soft tufted wool and has subtle gradations of grey to channel the modern and sophisticated look of the room:

This Safavieh rug by David Easton has a geometric pattern and colors that play with the pattern and tones of the art on the wall:

Finally, a Safavieh Oushak rug, like this one, could balance the room’s modernism with warmth and history:

 Submit a suggestion for an Instant Makeover by commenting below or tweeting us @GraciousStyle.

Part 2 of Seth and Jenna’s Guest Room.

Jenna: Good morning, Mrs. —

Sharon: Please call me Sharon, dear.

Jenna: OK.  Good morning, Sharon.  How did you sleep last night?

Sharon: Oh it was wonderful!  Bob was out in about a minute.  He just wrapped himself up in that big comforter.  He did manage to tell me that those sheets were heaven after 5 hours on a plane before he went out.

Jenna: That’s great.  I’m so glad you liked them.  Seth got those sheets — he liked how they’re made from bamboo and are good for the environment.

Sharon: Bamboo?  Is that right?  Bob will get a kick out of that one.

Jenna: And how about yourself?

Sharon: I wrapped up in that orange striped throw and read on my iPad for a while.  It was so cozy.  Is it cashmere?

Jenna: No, actually it’s alpaca, you know — those mountain animals from Peru?  But it really feels like cashmere and keeps warm.

Sharon: Yep, it sure did.  And I’m glad you got that rug.  Hardwood is so nice to look at, but I’m glad to have a rug under my feet at night.  Also so I don’t wake Bob up if I get up.

Jenna: That’s funny.  Seth is like that too.  One minute he’s out like a log, and the next he’s wide awake.

Sharon: I can’t believe this place.  Didn’t you just move in?  When did you have time to do all this?

Jenna: Well, it’s been a few months.  And Seth helped a lot too–

Sharon: Seth?  This is my Seth we’re talking about here?

Seth: Hey mom.  What are you two saying about me?

Here’s a look at Seth and Jenna’s guest room:

Jenna: We both liked this neutral bedding.

Seth: And I thought the bamboo fabric was pretty cool.  It’s actually very soft, and bamboo is a very environmentally responsible raw material.

Jenna: This is a great throw: The alpaca wool feels a lot like cashmere, and the color wakes up the room, like “You gotta live a little!”

Seth: Here’s the rug we both liked.  Jenna’s right — you need a rug over hardwood, or any old thing will wake you up at night.

Seth: You got to get a down comforter for those cold nights.

Jenna: Are you really from Wisconsin, Seth?

Seth: Yeah, but I hate cold.   Maybe I’ll move to LA one of these days.

Jenna: OK, I splurged on this candle.  But it does make the whole room smell good!

Seth: Yeah, I was pretty skeptical at first, but now I’m really getting to like it too.

Follow Seth and Jenna’s adventures here and on Pinterest.

While both are luxurious and beautiful, percale and sateen fabrics can be distinguished based on the way the fabric is made. Here, our experts at Sferra Brothers explain this subtle difference:

A percale is a plain weave using a use a one-over, one-under structure. The percale’s weave produces a firm and smooth fabric with no gloss.

The sateen’s structure places more threads on the surface, producing the sheen and softer feel. A sateen uses of a different structure in the weaving process, usually a four-over, one-under.

Love the crisp feel of percale, or the soft sheen of sateen? Take a look at some of our favorites in these two sophisticated fabrics:

And if you’re looking for the highest thread count linens in each fabric, Sferra offers a 1,020 thread count sateen bedding collection called Milos, and an 800 thread count percale bedding line called Sereno.

To view our entire bedding collection, click here.

We’d love to hear what you prefer: percale or sateen?

There’s an amazing house in the December 2013 issue of Veranda magazine:

The owners have achieved an almost perfect balance of traditional yet modern design.  The columns, cornices, and arches remind us of the Spanish Revival style which are synonymous with California, but the doors, outdoor sculpture, and general brightness of the space make it perfect for today as well.

The dining room of the house strikes the same traditional yet modern balance:

So naturally we ask: How do you set this table so that is equally traditional yet modern, in keeping with the rest of the house?

We propose the Anna Weatherley Indigo Blue dinnerware.  Like the house itself, its traditional shape is unadorned in its modern simplicity, and it has an intense indigo blue to match the art:

Match it with Alain Saint Joanis’s Arabesque silver-plated flatware, whose Moroccan-inspired handles pay homage to the house’s Spanish Revival roots:

Finally, Varga’s Nouveau Simplicity stemware completes the traditional yet streamlined look, with carved petals inside the cups which echo the arches of the house:

To submit a room for our Instant Makeover, simply post a comment here or tweet us @GraciousStyle

Classico is one of our best-selling collections, so we asked our friends at Sferra to tell us what makes it so special.  Here is what they said:

Classico is our very finest Italian-woven linen. Each piece is finished with a border of delicate, refined, hand-drawn hemstitching – from the 120” seamless round tablecloths, to the 15” octagonal placemats, to the 6” round doilies! Classico’s enduring pure linen fibers only become softer and more lustrous with each laundering. Heirloom linens such as these are always a worthwhile investment, because they will last for generations.

Classico is the quintessential collection for formal dining, as etiquette dictates setting fine — but simple — linens. Colors and patterns are meant for less formal occasions, so for those who like to adhere to tradition, Classico is a true hero. With that in mind, Classico is stocked in the most expansive selection of shapes and sizes to accommodate all occasions — including the extra-long 160” and extra-wide 88” tablecloths.

Available in Ecru or White, below is a full listing of the Classico line of table linens:
– Square Tablecloths: 54″ square, 70″ square, 90″ square
– Round Tablecloths: 70″ round, 90″ round, 106″ round, 120″ round
– Rectangular Tablecloths: 66″ x 86″, 66″ x 106″, 66″ x 124″, 66″ x 140″, 66″ x 160″, 88″ x 106″, 88″ x 124″, 88″ x 140″, 88″ x 160″
– Runners: 15″ x 70″, 15″ x 90″, 15” x108″
– Napkins: 6″ doilies, 6” x 6″ cocktail, 6″ x 9″ cocktail, 13” x 13″ tea, 20″ x 20″ dinner, 22″ x 22″ dinner, 24″ x 24″ dinner, 27″ x 27″ buffet
– Placemats: 15″ octagonal, 13″ x 19″ rect, 13″ x 19″ oval, 15″ round
– Guest/Fingertip Towels: 14″ x 20″

To see our entire collection of Sferra linens, please click here.

We’re moving into a new house soon, so to make things go faster on moving day, we set aside a day last weekend and headed over to the new place with all our artwork for a marathon day of picture hanging.

When you’re just hanging one or two pieces, it’s fun to play around with different heights, but when you’re doing an entire house all at once, you need to have a system so you don’t spend all day doing math.

Luckily, there’s an easy way to get this right: The Rule of 58. Simply put, if you make sure that the center of each piece is 58 inches from the floor, your entire space will look cohesive and be hung at eye level: the perfect height that most museums and art galleries use in their displays.

Here is how it’s done:

1) Measure the height of your artwork and divide that by two. On our 30-inch tall piece, this number was 15 inches.

2) Measure the distance between the top of the stretched wire on the back of your piece and the top of your picture frame. In our case, this was 4 inches.

3) Subtract the second number from the first number. Using our numbers above, 15 minus 4 got us 11 inches.

4) Add this number to 58. Install your picture hanger on that mark (58 + 11 = 69), and you’re done!

Try it.  You’ll see it’s a breeze …

… and before you know it, you’ll be hanging entire collections like a pro!

Company’s coming?  Why don’t you update your guest room with these essentials … any of them will make your guests feel pampered.

To find more bedding, candles, clocks, hangers, rugs, bath accessories, and lamps, visit GraciousStyle.com.

Wish you could instantly change the look of a room?  Throw pillows are an easy way to transform the way your room looks and make it more comfortable.  Here are some tips to give your rooms that designer look:

– To add interest, the fabric on your pillows should be different from the upholstery fabric on your furniture.

– Tightly woven fabrics (like cotton and linen) in similar colors work well in modern environments.

– Velvets, silks, and jacquards look great in classic settings.

– Fringed pillows are a great way to vary the texture on your pillows.

– Choose feather-and-down fillers over polyester fills. They are more comfortable and look more natural.

– Choose an odd number of pillows: three, five, or seven usually work best.

– Select a matching pair of pillows and place them on the outside of your sofa and work your way in. We like 22- inch squares on the outside, and smaller rectangular pillows in the center.

– Choose colors and patterns that complement your decor, but vary the scale and intensity of the designs.

– Use pillows to introduce a pop of new color to your room.

– Use pillows to brighten up darker spaces.

– Use pillows in your bedroom: they add texture and color and they’re great for reading.

– Spice up your outdoors with indoor/outdoor throw pillows.

– Bring your travels home: pillows are great reminders of places you’ve visited …

… or about to visit.

Inspired?  Come see our entire collection of throw pillows.

A chopstick is a chopstick is a chopstick, right? Well, not quite. There are some subtle differences in these two styles that make them better suited to different uses.

Chinese chopsticks are normally squared-off and blunt at the end, which makes them easier to use. This style of chopstick is usually provided in Japanese as well as Chinese restaurants in America, to accommodate chopstick novices. Christofle’s versions, available in white, red, or black, are elegantly silverplated at one end.  There is also a pair tipped with gold and silver.

The Japanese style of chopsticks are rounded and tapered to a point at the end. They are usually also slightly shorter (although in Christofle’s case, they are all 9.5 inches). The smaller size and ends makes them better for more experienced chopstick users, as they are generally considered more difficult to use. They are ideal for picking up small pieces of food such as sushi, sashimi or rolls, while Chinese chopsticks are better suited for serving larger portions of food from a serving bowl to one’s plate.

Whichever style you choose, a chopstick rest will provide an elegant place for diners to place their chopsticks when not in use – keeping your tablecloth clean and ensuring that your guests don’t need to leave the chopsticks standing up in their bowls (which is considered poor chopstick etiquette.)

Chopsticks are an elegant and traditional way to enjoy Asian cuisines. They are both useful and beautiful, a winning combination for entertaining.

A knife edge is a seam without a decorative finish. It tapers to sharp, crisp edges and corners, creating a very simple, clean, polished look.

A welted edge also tapers, but it includes a piping or some other type of decorative border or trim.

To view our entire selection of throw pillows, click here.

Have you ever wondered about Extra-Long Twin Beds?  If you have, here’s a little primer.

The most common standard bed sizes in America are:

Twin (39″ x 75”)

Twin XL (39″ x 80”)

Full (54″ x 75”)

Queen (60″ x 80”)

King (78″ x 80”)

California King (72″ x 84”)

A regular Twin mattress is the same length as a Full mattress. The Twin XL is 5” longer – the same length as the Queen and the King. If fact, some people push two Twin XLs together to form a King. This is useful for homes with tight staircases that may not be able to maneuver a true King into place. It also allows for varying firmness on each side while allowing for the rotation of the mattresses, minimizing the problem of sagging in the middle.

The Twin XL offers more room through the extra length, perfect for a taller individual that may have trouble sleeping in a regular twin.

The Twin XL is good alternative for cramped living spaces that are too small for a Queen or a King. It is almost universally used in college dorms, in order to accommodate a variety of different body types.

The “Twin” bed is so named because it was originally designed to be placed side by side, allowing two individuals to sleep more comfortably in the same room. Today, Twin beds are often used in children’s and guest bedrooms.

Unfortunately, luxury Twin XL bed linens are not always that easy to find. We carry several Twin XL fitted sheets from Sferra’s most popular basics – Celeste, Fiona, Giotto, and Grande Hotel. They are available in White or Ivory.

Terry cloth is a fabric with uncut loops, or pile, deliberately standing away from its ground base. Terry cloth is usually seen in bath towels and bathrobes. Terry cloth is woven using two warp beams: the ground warp, which forms the base of the towel, and the pile warp, which creates the loops of thread that give the fabric its texture and function.

These loops effectively increase the surface area of the fabric, enhancing its absorbency, while maintaining a soft feel.

Terry cloth is traditionally made from cotton, but it can also be made from different materials such as silk, linen or other natural and artificial fibers.

Most manufacturers choose cotton because, unlike other materials that get weaker in water, cotton’s absorbent fiber gets stronger when wet. In fact, cotton can absorb 20 to 30 times its own weight in water. The loop pile acts as a sponge while withstanding squeezing, pulling, rubbing, twisting and turning.

Because of its absorbency attributes, terry cloth is commonly used for towels, bath robes, beach cover-ups, athletic warm-ups and headbands. Terry cloth can easily be dyed or printed, as well as decoratively embroidered.

One of our favorite terry cloth towels is Sferra’s Bello, woven in Belgium and offered in 31 vibrant colors. Bello towels are woven with shorter loops and greater loop density to make them more absorbent than the average towel.

These shorter loops also help avoid snags. Bello also uses a special dye process that makes it fade/chlorine resistant.

We love having stacks of clean, fluffy towels in every bathroom, so we’ve gotten really good at taking care of them.  Here are a few tips for making your bath towels will look fresher, feel softer and last longer.

1) Wash your new towels before using them. This will remove any dirt, lint and other residue, and make them more absorbent.  Before laundering, separate your towels by color (white, light colors and dark colors) to avoid colors bleeding together. Do not use brightening detergents, as they will affect the towel color. Sferra’s Bello towels have a special dye treatment that resists fading.

2) Do not wash towels with other clothing items. Rough and abrasive objects – buttons, zippers, embellishments, etc. – can pull at the pile and fray the towels. Bath rugs can also wear down towels, so always make sure to wash them separately.

3) Avoid excessive heat in washing or drying as it will damage the fibers and increase the shrinkage of the towels. Wash your towels in cold water to help the colors stay bright and help extend the life of the fibers. Remember not to overstuff the washer.

4) Do not use chlorine bleach, as it will weaken the fibers, cause the colors to fade and create a rough, harsh texture.

5) Do not use fabric softeners.  In addition to harming the fibers, many contain chemicals that coat fabric and the waxy build-up will actually repel water and make your towels less absorbent.

6) Use less detergent.  Detergent residue can make the cloth rough. Most bath linens don’t really get that dirty. After all, they are usually drying a clean body. In that case, when washing, consider using about 1/2 of the recommended amount of detergent. The towels will get clean and remain softer.

7) Remove from the washing machine immediately after washing.  Give your towels a shake when taking them out of the washer. This will help fluff the terry loops that aid absorbency.

8) Tumble dry on low heat and do not overdry.  The heat from the dryer will damage fibers.  Do not iron your towels, as this will reduce absorbency.

9) Hang towels to dry after each use. If you find stray pulled loops on towel, cut them off with a pair of scissors. This will not cause any damage to the towel and it will prevent further problems later.

10) Avoid contact with bathroom cleansers and beauty products, such as items contain bleaching agents and may cause permanent discoloration to your towel.

And finally, never dry clean your towels.

We love LeBlanc Towel Wash for laundering our towels. It’s specially formulated to care for your towels, and it comes in four fresh scents.

The classic stair runner is like an instant facelift for an old wooden staircase. It adds a touch of personality in an unexpected place. Our friends at Dash & Albert have shown us how to recreate this look with just a few simple steps.

What you’ll need:
Woven cotton or indoor/outdoor stair runner of your choice; measure your stairs first to determine the total length needed (see step 1)
2’ x 8’ rug pads; measure your stairs first to determine the total length needed (see step 1)
Fabric scissors
Pneumatic staple gun
3/8-inch to 1/2-inch staples
Tape measure
Yardstick or other straight edge
Double-stick carpet tape
Pencil
Marker
Bolster chisel
A little patience

How to do it:
1. To determine how long a runner you’ll need, measure the depth of the stair tread and the height of the riser. Multiply the total by the number of stairs; this is your total runner length.


2. Measure the width of the treads from end to end, or from end to banisters. Mark the middle with a pencil.


3. Create individual rug pads for each stair tread by fitting the top edge of the pad against the back of the tread and gently straightening it.

4. Mark the cut line on the pad about .5 inches from the front of the stair tread. (Note that the runner will be slightly wider than the rug pad, and thus the edges of the rug pad won’t peek out from underneath.) Cut the rug pad along the line with fabric scissors. Measure and cut as many rug pads as needed to cover all treads.
5. Cut three pieces of double-stick carpet tape to fit the two outer edges and the middle of each rug-pad tread cover. Place them on the rug pad, making sure to align two pieces of the tape with the outer edges of the pad.


6. Fold the cut rug pads in half, preferably tape side out, to find the center.

7. Place the rug pads, tape side down, onto each tread, aligning the center fold with the pencil marks you created in the middle of each tread. Press with your hands to smooth out any bubbles.


8. Subtract the width of the runner from the width of the stair treads; the difference is the amount of space you’ll leave on each side of the runner. You can mark these points to make them easier to follow. Important: As you install the runner, periodically check this measurement to ensure that the runner remains straight all the way down.




9. Align the top of the runner with the bottom edge of the first tread. This creates a cleaner, less bulky look than going all the way over the top of the first tread, and eliminates “floating” pieces at the top of the stairs.

10. Using a pneumatic staple gun, staple the runner in place at its top edge, approximately every 3 inches. Be sure to include staples on both of the outer edges.

11. Use a bolster chisel to pull the runner taut against the corner of the riser and the next tread. Staple against the bottom of the riser approximately every 3 inches, including both of the outer edges. If you’re using a striped runner, step back and check to make sure the stripes are straight before moving on.


12. For a “waterfall”-style installation, which is a bit easier, simply pull the loose end of the runner over the edge of the next stair tread and repeat step 10.

13. For stair treads that have bullnoses, you can also do a “wrap”-style installation. Pull the loose end of the runner over the edge of the tread and use the bolster chisel to pull it taut around the bullnose. Staple underneath the bullnose against the riser approximately every 3 inches, including both the outer edges.


14. Repeat steps 9 through 11 or 12, until you reach the end of your first runner. Leaving about a 2-inch piece for overlap, cut off any remnant of runner, including the finished edge, to reduce bulk.



15. Overlap the 2-inch scrap of runner with the second runner, being careful to align the outer edges of the runners.

16. Begin the stapling process again.

17. When you get to the bottom stair, pull the runner taut against the bottom riser with the bolster chisel, then measure an extra 2 inches of runner. Mark, and cut with fabric scissors.

18. Fold under the extra 2 inches of runner, and staple the double layer of fabric against the bottom of the riser, approximately 3 inches apart, including both the outer edges.



Finished “waterfall”-style stair runner

Finished “wrap”-style stair runner

View our rugs and runners at GraciousStyle.com.

A traditional three-letter monogram for an individual has the initial of the individual’s surname (or last name) set larger in the center, with the individual’s first name initial to the left of it and the middle name initial the right of it. For example, the monogram for John Paul Smith would read:

JSP

Modern convention calls for a married couple to create a three-letter monogram using the initial of their shared surname set larger in the center, with the wife’s first name initial to the left of it and the husband’s first name initial the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:

MSJ

Some references say that for married couples, the husband’s first name initial comes first. It is really a matter of personal preference.

Old school custom, as espoused by Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette, would have the linens “marked with the married initials of the mistress of the house.” This three-letter monogram has the initial of the woman’s married surname set larger in the center, with her first name initial to the left of it and her maiden name initial to the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:

MSB

There is an option to have all the initials the same size (the center initial is not larger.) These monograms do not follow the format described above for location of the surname initial. If all initials are the same size, then they are simply listed in order with the surname initial placed at the end. For example, John Paul Smith would read “JPS,” and Mary and John Smith would read “MJS.”

As part of their extensive quality assurance efforts, Sferra uses a light box to examine swatches of each new dye lot. To ensure color consistency, they compare shade variations under the same light source as in Italy. Once they are in agreement with the weaving mill, they then allow the new fabric to be moved on to the cut and sew facility.

Sferra also uses the ultraviolet features of the light box to examine fabric in detecting the presence of optical brighteners, whitening agents, bleaches, and other harsh chemicals.

Dash & Albert rugs feel homey and cozy, but with a clean, contemporary look. They adapt to any terrain or style, be it a desert ranch in Tucson, an industrial loft in Manhattan, or a Malibu beach dream home. They are very versatile, and come in a variety of materials to suit many different locations.

Cotton Flat Weave: Four to five piles of cotton yarn make up the weft. Hand woven with a basic loom weave. Stripe runs the long dimension of the rug.

Cotton Fine Rag: Made from sheeting, which allows the fabric to be cut thin for a very low-profile rug. Hand woven with a basic loom weave. Stripe runs the short dimension of the rug.

Chenille Braided: Like the basic chenille weave, with the colors braided together to create a marled effect.

Cotton Medium Hook: Hand hooked from jersey fabric using smaller hooks, for a lower-profile rug. Cotton canvas back.

Cotton Large Hook: Made from jersey fabric with large hooks, creating a high-profile rug. Cotton canvas back.

Cotton Micro-Hook: Hand hooked from thin-cut jersey fabric, allowing for more detailed patterns. Cotton canvas back.

Wool Micro-Hook: Three to four plies of wool yarn are used in each hook and hand-guided through a canvas tracing pattern. The small, tight hooks create a low-profile rug. Cotton canvas back.

Wool Medium Hook: Four to five plies of wool yarn are used in large hooks to create a high-profile rug. Cotton canvas back.

Cotton Jacquard: Made from cotton with a jacquard loom construction, with the weft skipping specific warps to create the pattern. A soft, lightweight rug.

Cotton Chenille: From the French for “caterpillar,” this plush weave features a tie-dye pattern. Natural color variations may occur.

Cotton Yarn Hooked: Small yarns of different colors are used in each hook for a marled effect. Cotton canvas back.

Wool Woven: Wool yarns make up the warp and weft of this hand-woven, basic-loom-weave rug. Stripe runs the short dimension of the rug.

Polypropylene Flat Weave: Extruded poly yarns are hand woven with a tight weave in this low-profile rug. The stripe comes from the warp and runs the short dimension of the rug. Can be reversible.

Polypropylene Jacquard: Extruded poly yarns make up the warp and weft of this hand-woven rug, with the weft skipping specific warps to create the pattern. Can be reversible.

Polypropylene Dhurrie: Extruded poly yarns are hand woven with a tight weave in this low-profile rug. The stripe comes from the weft and runs the short dimension of the rug. Can be reversible.

Polypropylene Rope Woven: Extruded poly yarns are knit into a rope, and the rope is hand constructed into this highprofile rug. Can be reversible.

Hand-Loomed Pile: Loom-generated tuft creates the pile. Stripes run the short dimension of the rug. No back.

Wool Tufted and Carved: Yarns are hand hooked to create the rug design, then sheared to create the pile. The pile is then hand carved along the design. Cotton canvas back.