On a Spring Reset

And what's catching my eye

We had some seasonal whiplash this April in Connecticut and it was unclear from one day to the next whether we’d need winter coats or shorts and tees. May is looking like it will level out to a proper Spring and it feels like a new beginning.

I’ve been culling inspiration for the season ahead, with construction projects, lots of events, and travel on the horizon, and wanted to share some of it with you:

• If you can find twenty minutes to watch the Chanel Cruise 26/27 show, it is worth it. I was inspired by my friend Julia to watch it this weekend, and I’m so glad I did. It all feels joyful, layered, a little undone, and designed to actually be worn. All of the individual looks are linked here.

• The show made me nostalgic for Marbella Club Hotel, where we stayed last June. It is my favorite hotel I’ve been to. Marie-Caroline Willms struck the perfect balance of polish, ease and whimsy. That combination is a tricky note to hit, but she does it again and again across the property.

Marbella Club Hotel

Marbella Club Hotel

• I loved this Paris apartment by Laura Gonzalez. I first noticed it because of a straw marquetry credenza that stopped me mid-scroll, and was so happy to see the full project published. She has a real ability to mix styles and eras in a way that never feels forced. We stayed at Saint James Paris, also designed by her, a couple of years ago, and I still think about the pool during a surprise June heatwave.

• We have been slowly chipping away at landscaping at home with our landscape designer Gabrielle Daly. Every time I start a garden project I am reminded of how much there is to learn. Kathryn Herman is speaking at a fundraiser I am attending this week. I have long admired her work, including a neighbor’s house that is currently on the market, and I am looking forward to her new book.

• I’m heading on my first safari next month and trying to be thoughtful about what I bring, sticking to things I’ll actually use there and at home. Indagare recommends a hands free bag, so I ordered this one from Lindquist, along with an insect repellent shawl that I think will end up being useful all summer.

• I sadly missed the Ticking Tent in New Preston, but managed a full day of antiquing nearby at Michael Trapp and Plain Goods, followed by a delicious lunch at Smyth, just a few steps from R.T. Facts. A perfect Friday and a great reminder of what time away from your desk can do for your eye, and your brain.

  

  Michael Trapp

• After some damage from the winter storms we’re in the beginning stages of a kitchen and primary bath refresh. This kitchen by Jeannette Whitson has been on my mind because the layout works so well for living inside and out. It’s exactly how we host once the weather is finally nice.

  

  Kitchen by Jeannette Whitson

I also put together a little shopping edit inspired by everything I’m seeing:

• Now that it’s finally patio season and my garden is shaping up, I realized I’m in need of some updated outdoor-friendly tableware. I thought this flatware set from Zara was very chic, hoping the color leans more citrine, less pistachio.

• I own and love these plates from Ark Elements (part of their spring sale) and use them often on my patio. I also love these striped napkins.

• These marbled edge terracotta pots can be hard to find but Litten Tree Antiques has a good selection! I own a few in different sizes and they always spark joy.

• A screened food dome is often a total after-thought - this one has beautiful woven details. Attractive + practical.

• I went looking for some new lanterns and found these nice looking ones from Ikea that I think I’ll order.

• Lastly, if you’re in the mood for some spring clothing shopping, I linked a few pieces I’m ordering in the edit. You can shop everything here!

x Lilse