Hats, dresses, finger sandwiches, champagne and flowers. What more could one ask for? Before you invite your friends over and start preparing your menu, consider the details you want to focus on for your celebration. Flowers, candles and tea cups are quick way to set up the ambiance. If you want more inspiration, accent pieces like Rosenthal’s Butterfly Garden series (and the smell of roses)  will help you be your way to a successful garden party in no time!

Garden Party Musts

 

Table linens can change the entire look of any occasion. Consider the overall feel you want to achieve before selecting your table linen. Whites are a classic choice but any neutral, solid or patterned table cloth could take your party to the next level.

For more great Party Ideas click here!

 

Planning a wedding is a wonderfully joyous process, but one that can seem overwhelming at times. Luckily, the registry can be one of the most enjoyable parts of starting your lives together.  If you’ve never thought about registering, or are nervous you’ve committed a registry faux pas, read below for some insight.

Why Register

Some couples shy away from registries. However, guests generally want to celebrate special 0ccasions with a  gift, so the registry is a really helpful tool. Also, registries are organized so that gifts are not duplicated and they allow the registrants to keep track of all the items coming their way. If you would prefer to not receive any presents, many couples now register for events on their honeymoon, or even a charity to donate to.

Registry Do’s & Don’ts 

Do register ahead of time.  Complete your registry at least six months ahead of the event.  This will give guests plenty of time to select a gift for the wedding, as well as engagement parties and showers.

Do mix it up. While registering for formal items is a special tradition, there are so many unconventional items that can be fun to request. This makes the registry much more accessible for guests with a range of budgets and interests.

Do register for enough gifts. Register for more gifts than you have guests, so there will be plenty of items to choose from.

Do think about your future needs. For example, registering for a serving platter for your first Thanksgiving as a married couple is a wonderful way to include loved ones in special occasions.

Do write thank-you notes right away. In the best-case scenario, thank-you notes are sent promptly after receiving a gift. Aim to have all of your thank-you notes sent within one month of returning from your honeymoon.  Thank-you notes don’t have to be very long, but they should identify the gift, explain why you appreciate it, and how you plan to use it.

Don’t have too many registries.  While it’s okay to have more than one registry, draw the line at three. You want to be helpful by offering your guests variety, but you shouldn’t come across as self-indulgent.  Also, it is thoughtful to register at a national store so guests who don’t live nearby can easily find your registry.

Don’t advertise your registry. Registry information should never be included with wedding invitations.  Let your family and wedding party know where you are registered, and let them spread the word.

Don’t forget about your fiancé.  Be sure to include your future spouse when you are registering for gifts. You two will both be enjoying these items, so be sure to make selections that will work for you as a couple.

Don’t ask for money.

And most importantly, have fun!

 

Congratulations on your engagement!  Registering is a really unique and enjoyable opportunity to select some of the things you’ve always loved, but it’s best if you come prepared. To help you out, here’s a list of our most frequently asked questions.

When should I register?

At least six months before your event.  It is important to register early on, because some people may want to get you a gift as soon as you are engaged. And since registries can easily be edited, you can always start with a few items and make changes later.

Where should I register?

Select two or three stores that you love, but make sure that at least one is a national department store or chain that is easily accessible for your guests. Online registries also make selecting gifts easy, especially for guests that may not live in an urban area.

What are the registry essentials?

Since couples often entertain frequently, common must-haves include kitchen appliances, dinnerware, glassware and flatware. As this is the start of your new life together, it is also customary to register for new bedding and bath items. From there, other ideas include art, sports equipment and vacations. Remember to select items in a range of prices.  Think long term; register for high-quality, durable pieces that will stand the test of time.

Do couples still register for fine china?

Absolutely!  Fine china is still the centerpiece of most wedding registries.  It is a favorite present for most family members, as they know it’s something that will be used over and over again (especially when you entertain them).

To start, it’s a good idea to register for twelve five-piece settings, including dinner plates, salad plates (or rim soup bowls), bread and butter plates, cups, and saucers.  From there, add platters in a variety of sizes, serving bowls, and a coffee set (coffee or tea pot, creamer, and sugar). For more tips on how to select the dinnerware that is right for you, take a look at our guide here!

Still have questions? For additional support, please contact Gracious Style customer service via email, at service@graciousstyle.com.

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.

 

New babies are a cause for celebration! Baby showers are a wonderful occasion for the mommy-to-be to stock up on all the essentials but what if you want to get a special off-registry gift?  An unexpected token could be one of the most memorable gifts a new mommy will receive. We’ve put together a five gift ideas for that baby who already has the essentials covered.

Receiving Blankets:
Blankets are a great gift for a new baby! They can be used to swaddle the baby to sleep, as a soft and clean surface for baby to play on, and to cover a nursing mother.   Click here to see more baby bedding ideas.

 

Floor Pillows:
It won’t be long before baby is crawling around! Pine Cone Hill makes durable, patterned pillows meant to be used on the floor and are safe for babies and pets alike! These pillows make for a perfect gift for that baby with a four-legged “sibling”.  Click here to see more floor pillows.

Herend Figurines:
These classic, hand painted figurines are a fun way to begin a lifetime of cherishing a timeless collectible. Herend has a figurine to fit practically any themed nursery.  Click here to see more Herend figurines.

Tableware:
The best kind of gifts are ones that we can grow to enjoy, and tableware is no exception. We offer a variety of brands and items that are sure to match or compliment the style of your friend’s already existing flatware collection. We think the only thing better than a set of sterling silver flatware is a baby set of sterling silver flatware. So adorable!  Click here to see more baby tableware.

Just for Mommy:
We can’t forget about the mommy to be! Sure, the spotlight is on the new bundle of joy but Mommy needs to be taken care of too! Items like a luxurious robe, a picture frame to commemorate her growing family or a traveling nap kit (because sleep will be a precious commodity soon!) are perfect, unexpected gifts for your friend, family member or loved one during this milestone.

Like this?  We’ve got many more baby gifts here, including baby bath items and rugs that are perfect for every nursery.

 

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:

Presentation Plate	12″ diameter
Dinner Plate	10.5″ diameter
Dessert Plate	8.5″ diameter
Salad Plate	7.5″ diameter
Bread/Butter Plate	6.75″ diameter

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.

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