The Color Purple: stemware

"I think it pisses God off when you walk by the color purple in a field and don't notice it." - Shug Avery from The Color Purple, a Broadway musical

Forget traditional stemware, this season's tables are set in color. So let's raise a toast to this rich jewel tone and the sexy detailing of the best colored crystal stemware. Companies ranging from William Yeoward and Saint Louis to Iittala offer something colorful -- from shot and liqueur glasses to champagne and martini glasses. (Image above: House Beautiful)



Adding purple stemware to your table is a fun way to update traditional china, if you have your mom's or grandmother's old china, you can really punch up your table with colored stemware. (Images above: Matthew Mead)



If purple is your favorite color, you can incorporate purple champagne flutes or other glasses into your collection. Or you can mix it up more than that -- serve a tray of purple juice or liqueurs in a beautiful crystal glass. Using color can be a way of expressing your personality on the table, whether it's a big catered party or a dinner for six. (Images above: Brides.com and House Beautiful)


( above: Purple glass Olivia, Horchow; Amethyst wine glass, William Yeoward)

The bold, vibrant shades of purple flaunted this season by the fashion industry has spilled onto stemware. Purple glasses are available in all price ranges, so start spreading the hues and strut some color on your table this season!

SPLUGE or


(row 1: violet martini ,$550.00; violet flute, $370.00; Saint Louis Crystal; Michael C. Fina)
(row 2: violet goblet , $210.00; violet double old fashion, $225.00; Wiliam Yeoward; Lux Bond and Green)
(row 3: purple double old fashion, $120.00; purple highball, $120.00; David Redman; Gumps)

SAVE?


(above: Kira martini glasses, $5.95, Crate and Barrel; Eclipse 5-ounce martini, set of 2,$194.99; Bed Bath and Beyond; dark lilac mari bowl, Iittala, $48.00, Skandium).

Tablesettings report: Autumn Accents

For many folks, nothing says fall like football. For some, it is a yard full of leaves. For others, it may be picking pumpkins at a pumpkin patch (a reader wrote me yesterday about the pumkins that she grows in her very own patch and boy are they beautiful. Marti, has a green thumb for sure! [click here])! For me, it's the opportunity to decorate with a bounty of reds, oranges and yellows, in a harvest of mums, branches and pumpkins.


(above: Persimmon Dinnerware, Made in France by Jars, set of 4 dinner plates, $110.00, Gumps; image from Country Living magazine).

Those who like to decorate may welcome autumn by changing the colors in their homes and the colors on their table. It could be simply adding a brown and gold table runner on the table or trading the blue and white dessert plates for sage green and bronze or replacing the daisies on the dining table with a cornucopia of gourds.

I've put together a table setting report with some of my favorite table settings that are full of autumn accents to give you some inspiration to dress your table in the gorgeous hues of the harvest.


(above: Milo Charger, $21.95, Crate and Barrel; Tudor and Provence dinner plate, set of 4, $ 29.00, The Bombay Company; Pheasant salad plate, set of 4, $48.00, Pottery Barn).

To dress earthy stoneware for dinner, layer on rich olive green plates with a glowing bronzed rim. For a simple update to the autumn table, add Pottery Barn's pheasant salad plate, a updated vintage copperplate set up against porcelain. For that extra touch, add warm color and organic texture to the table with a handwoven natural rattan charger.


(above: Harvest leaf salad plate, set of 4, $56.00, Pottery Barn; Martha Stewart magazine).

For a splash of style, adorn your table with autumn's brightest accessories: vivd fall leaves. I love the harvest leaf salad plate at Pottery Barn. As an alternative, simply clip leaves from a tree and arrange the clippings at each place setting and top with a transparent glass plate.



(above: Image Country Living magazine; Marrakech Dinnerware, $12.95 - $14.95, Crate and Barrel; Image from Blue Print magazine).

Taking advantage of flowers and produce available at this time of the year is another way to celebrate fall. Pomegranates, colorful dried corn, nuts, berries, citrus and apples in bowls or baskets can add a warm touch as a centerpiece. Place a large straw cornucopia or small bowls on the dining table and fill it with raffia, gourds and pepper berries.


(above: Laque de Chine Gold by Haviland, dinner plate, $90.00, Bloomingdale's; Luxury dinnerware,
16pc setting, $519.90, Horchow).

Depth of color and a golden gleam add a rich accent to a autumn table settings. The gold band
highlights the subtle shaping of the rims of these dinnerware patterns.


(above: English earthenware from Spode® features traditional game and bird studies with a border pattern inspired by the British flower designs favored in the early-19th century. Delamere 5pc place setting, $69.90; Horchow).

There may be plenty of holiday dinner plates to choose from - new and old - in every price range; but to me nothing says Thanksgiving like Spode's Wildlife dinnerware. It's a classic and one of their most recognized patterns. It has a vintage and antique feel. For a more paired down look mix and match it with Delamere.


(shown above: Image for Martha Stewart, Image from Carolyn Roehm, Image from
Cottage Home).

To put more autumn on your table, changing even the simple things can give your table setting a lift. Try spray painting your pumpkins silver as shown in the pictures above. Just look through your house for things that might be in fall colors or metallics and group them together.

Carving out style on your autumn table

Fall is approaching, Halloween is on the way and a small army of pumpkin farms are geared up and ready for seasonal pickers.

As a decorating staple during autumn, the pumpkin often falls into the realm of jack 'o lantern whimsy; but there are so many other great ways to enjoy pumpkins beyond the typical jack-o'-lantern.


(above: Image from Pottery Barn; Pumpkin Candles, $24.00, Pottery Barn; Reception design by Pollen Atlanta).

If you're trying to spice up your Thanksgiving decorating or planning for a autumn wedding, colorful pumpkins offer a wealth of possibilities.


(above: Image from Brides.com; Pumpkin weight by Matthew Mead, Image from Country Living).

Let these images inspire you and prove that the pumpkin is more than mere child's play. From candles, centerpieces to ceramic serving dishes and table weights, these pumpkin-inspired designs show the more sophisticated side of the season.


(above: Image from Country Living).

4Arrange a variety of fresh fall flowers in a urn filled with water. Place the urn in the middle of the table surrounded by pumpkins, use leaves, pinecones and twigs as accents.

4Use smaller pumpkins as place-card holders. Cut a slit in the stem and slide in a name card, or paint your guests' names directly on the pumpkins.

4Use hollowed-out pumpkins as serving bowls. After scooping out the seeds and pulp, line a pumpkin with orange cellophane or a decorative cloth napkin and pack it with chips, crackers or candy.


(above: Countryside Harvest Collection Pumpkin Soup Tureen, $29.99, Mikasa; image from Country Living).

4Use a large pumpkin as a tureen for warm pumpkin soup and smaller pumpkins as soup bowls. If you're having a party, consider using a large pumpkin as an ice bucket or a serving bowl for hot spiced cider or punch.


(above: Wilton Pumpkin cake pan, $27.95, Sur la Table; Pumpkin faces cookies, $45.50, Elenis ).

When creating your autumn table, make sure that your foods and decor embody the season.


(above: Solid Glass Pumpkin, $19.99, Target; Handblow Glass Pumpkins, $185.00, Gump's).

Wedding bells and whistles; ring in your day with a personal statement

(shown above: small bell, $78.00 Juliska; Vera Wang kissing bell, $24.99, Gately's).

In planning a wedding, the main goal today is to have a 'one-of-a-kind' wedding that will stand out in the memories of your guests as being extra special! Many couples are using themes to make their weddings more personal. Themed weddings allow people to bring in their ethnic and cultural backgrounds and to tell the story and embrace who the couple is.



(shown above: Make up Bell by Belleek, it is a tradition in Ireland to present couples with a "make-up" bell… This bell is rung when one partner is ready to "make up" and end any little quarrel., $29.99, Gately's; Wedding Bell, $30.00, Llardo).

On Friday I posted the inspiration behind my wedding theme, "Game Night", a family tradition that is special to Chip and I. Looking for ideas and suggestion to pull this theme together, I turned to my blogging friends and the feedback I received was unbelievable! Vane, Danielle and Natasha provided me with every available option you could think of! Now, all I have to do is pick the ones that I feel most perfectly makes the statement that I want to make.



(shown above: Vera Wang sterling silver love knots bell, set of 4, $65.00, Silver Queen; Silver Wedding bell, $59.00, Gorham; Silver Kissing Bell, $76.50, Lunt Silver).

Wedding theme or not, ring your day in with distinction. Put an end to the utensils hitting the glasswear and kiss in style. These wedding bells are the perfect wedding accessory, which can be rung by the flower girl announcing the bride's entrance, placed on guest tables or given as a cherished favor.



(shown above: african-american bridal bell, $195.00; bridal bell, $180.00, both available at Lladro).

Wedding themes also reflect periods such as Medieval, Elizabethan, Victorian, Civil War, Roaring Twenties, Art Deco, The Fifties or The Sixties. Some are based on locations: Kentucky Bluegrass, Southern Plantation, Western Ranch, the French Quarter. Others reflect a season or a holiday such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, or Mardi Gras.

Are you thinking of having a theme wedding? Do tell and let the amazing group of talent within the blogging community help you with the bells and whistles.

Player's Club: Tableware finds for your next Game Night and the inspiration behind my wedding theme

Chip and I are learning so much from my parent’s, who recently celebrated their 40th anniversary. We are learning that the key to harmony and happiness in their relationship comes from the flip of a card in a game of gin rummy, the sound of dominoes slapping the table and the advancement of the checkers across the backgammon board. I love the fact that after 40 years of marriage my parents still play games together!



(shown above: Kate Spade gin rummy coasters, set of 4, $35.00, Park Ave Gifts; Playing Card dessert plate, $35.00; Playing Card Mug, $35.00; both available at Tiffany & Co).



(shown above: Oscar de la Renta City Collection: Domino Place Card Holder, Domino Frosted Cocktail Shaker, Domino Lacquered tray).

Growing up, “Game night” was the foundation of my family's quality time. The sharing and laughter that occurred when my family played board games or cards together has made for some lasting memories and created a family tradition. Now that I am getting married and starting a family of my own, Chip and I will continue to uphold this "Game Night" tradition because we’re learning that it can do wonders for a relationship. I am even considering having a "Game Night" theme for my wedding.



(clockwise: Chess Bar Collection dof, $70.00, Reed and Barton; Kate Spade Gin Rummy decanter, $125.00, Four-suits-vodka, $550.00, Steuben glass; Dice bottle stopper, $75.00, Ralph Lauren Home; Spice Dice, Unica Home).

What does playing board games have to do with relationships? A lot, actually. As a new couple, it is a fun excuse to meet new neighbors, hang out with old friends or spice up a dinner party. It's also a great way to gain a little insight about those you think you know: Who knew that your soon-to-be, sweet mother-in-law was so competitive or that your future father-in law was a sore loser? (Well, Chip knows now…)



I hope these tableware finds have inspired you to log off the computer, put down the blackberry, invite people over and have a “Game Night”!




( Inspiratation for my wedding reception: Escort cards made out of playing cards; cocktail hour
hors d'oeuvres would consisit of slides, pigs n' a blanket, mini grilled cheese, veggie, etc.; domino and checker filled centerpieces, board games at the children's table, deck of cards for favors, etc. Do you see where I'm going with this? The best theme wedding I've ever seen is "Grade School Sweethearts", check it out at Brooklyn Bride and check out the post Vane did just for me entitled, "For Sarah: Ulimate Game Night Wedding", she's unbelievable and provided me with so much inspiration for my themed wedding! Vane, THANK YOU, these invites are fantastic)!

Board games are hot! Yes, Monopoly and Scrabble are good board games; but look at these luxurious alternatives; they are perfect for the stylish high-roller who takes their play seriously:



(shown above: leather traveling backgammon set, 98 pounds, Links of London; Acrylic backgammon , $625.00, Vivre; Glass dominoes set, $595.00, Polo Ralph Lauren; Medieval Chess Set $2500.00, Lladro; Jonathan Adler Utopia Playing Card Box, $125.00, Barneys; Small Poker Game set, $290.00, Vivre).

Hermes: Where “luxury” is still luxury!

Once upon a time, luxury was only available to the rarefied and aristocratic world of old money and royalty; luxury wasn't simply a product, it was a lifestyle! It meant something - - - a history of tradition, superior quality and a pampered buying experience. Today, the luxury market is less about quality and more about quantity. Well all is not lost; one luxury brand that still has a keen eye for craftsmanship is Hermès.




Hermès was founded in 1837 to produce leather good equestrian products and saddlery. Since then it is a name that has become synonymous with quality and style, bringing to its customers the very best in fashion, leather goods and stunning porcelain. Hermes porcelain is amazing and my all-time favorite collection is Chaine d'Ancre Blue!!!



Hermès have added another new collection of luxury lifestyle products to their plate – literally. Their new Fil d'Argent dinner service range is a 14-piece set that was designed by Henri d'Origny. Longtime Hermès customers will know Henri d'Origny from his iconic designs that have adorned Hermès' neckties for close to five decades. The interlocking chain pattern interacts with the Arabesques, while the muted white and gray colors exude a soothing and modern sophistication.



So what’s the story behind Hermès’s signature color “Orange”? I found this amusing tid bit in Dana Thomas’ new book “Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster”: Orange was the only color widely available during World War II to the money-saving benefits of raw-edge cutting, which had been marketed to the public as a cutting-edge, avant-garde innovation.



I am currently reading Ms. Thomas’ new book and I can’t put it down! Dana Thomas
has been the cultural and fashion writer for Newsweek in Paris for 12 years and she has written a crisp, witty social history on the luxury market that’s as entertaining as it is informative. It is a MUST READ!!!



While most so- called-luxury brands are run by massive corporations that focus only on growth, visibility, brand-awareness, advertising and above all, profits; Hermes is still made to the very highest of standards. I could only dream of a table setting completely adorned in Hermes porcelain; but for me just one teapot will do!

If you’re in New York check out the new Hermes store that opened on June 21. Rena Dumas is the architect of the Hermès store at 15 Broad Street.

Barking up the right tree

Birch, that is. Interested in turning your table into a rustic retreat? It’s easy to create a rustic feeling. Think log cabin, wood on the fire, 20 acres out back and a mountain near-by that reaches up to the heavens. So what if you live in New York City (like me), Florida or California. Pick a theme and run with it. I love the idea of wood on the fire, because it brings about the feeling of my parent's home around the holiday. (l to r: small timber vases , $36.00, Sprout Home; Tree Trunk pedestals, Roost).



But, mostly I love the idea of wood on the fire because it’s low-stress decorating. Try substituting your cake stand with a tree trunk that you could probably pick up from your local nursery or florist. (shown above: nut torte filled with mocha buttercream and chocolate, iced with rolled fondant and decorated with white-chocolate leaves. Cake by Cheryl Kleinman, 718-237-2271.)



My mantra for decorating the table is to use what you have. Mix and match rustic accessories with your existing china, flatware and glasses. You can easily bring warmth to the table with these nature inspired pieces set amidst your china and the glow of candlelight. Here’s how to get the idea of wood on the fire without a fireplace. (l to r: Burl Wood Bowls, Roost; Wood grain table runner, $44.00, Viva Terra).



(clockwise: Birch Bark Candles, Roost; Wood candles, from $12.00, Pottery Barn; Tree slice chargers, $39.00, Viva Terra; Burlwood chip and dip, $78.00, Jayson Home).

Grey's Anatomy

Black and white has always reigned supreme as the base fashion colors and it happens to be one of my favorite combinations, but between the boldness of black and the purity of white lies gray, a mixture of the two. (shown above: Ribbon tablemats, Chilewich; Coupe Collection, french grey, from $25.75, Heath Cermanics).



Grey is the new black - - - move over black the slightly muted counterpart is stealing the show! The popularity of gray is on the rise, fashion loves grey this autumn and now this sophisticated catwalk color is slipping effortlessly onto the table.

From charcoal to heather you can find this color on plates, vases, glasses and textured tableware items. (Shown above: Brushed metal vases,$129.00, Brocade Home; Continential water goblet, $210.00, Michael C. Fina).


(above: Ceramic plate, gravure grey, $63.00, Jars, Michael C. Fina; iittala grey aalto vase, $33.00, Finn Style).

HOW TO GET THE LOOK

Very pale grey is softer and can be more interesting than white.

Start with grey placemats they make a great base to your table, and draws attention to any other piece that you want to show off.



(above: mixed stripe tablemat, Chilewich; grey placemat, $8.95, Cb2).

I love the grey look with metallics - especially silver and bronze.
For sharp chic, add a touch of shiny glass and silver metals such as chrome, steel or aluminum.



(above: image from Zara Home Autumn/Winter 2007)

Use lots of different greys, layering them throughout a room, adding splashes of contrast to get a good color balance.




(above: Hemisphere dinner service, JL Coquet, from $113.38, Artedona; Kate Spade, June Lane, from $38.00, Michael C. Fina; Spirit 16pc dinnerware set, $74.99, Target; ripple plate, Alex Marshall Studio; Globo Salad Bowl, Smoke, $99.00, Lekker).

Thing is, grey is actually a practical and flattering color. Like black and white, it is more of a statement than a color. I would argue that it is not boring; it is neutral and makes for a great alternative to plain o' white when registering for dinnerware.

Gaia & Gino puts "Turkish delight" in tableware!

One of the things I really love about blogging is the ability to meet "new" people from all over the world. She's in Istanbul and I'm in New York City; the ocean may divide us; but this incredible medium brought us together. Please allow me to share an email that I received from Eda Suner from Turkey recently:

"Hi Sarah I'm from Turkey Istanbul. I like your post I see it everyday :) This is for you... This link is about me and my husband (If you want to write it of course you can. :) - xoxo Best Regards, Eda Suner ".

Eda, thank you for visiting Toast and Tables and thank you for sharing the links. Eda's site is fantastic, darn I wish I could read turkish!!! (Eda you're going to have to translate some of your site for me, especially the toasted message and the bandana table runner, smile). - p.s. did you and your husband register at Pasabahce?



(above: The designs of Pasabahce, shows the taste for decoration is alive today. The brand is loved for its affordable finds and limited-edition glassware alike. Their shop is the spot for Turkish brides to register).

I wanted to take some time out to show a lot of love to Istanbul. This city is being reborn as a hot spot for shopping, dining, and modern design and one of the companies leading this rebirth is Gaia & Gino. I saw Gaia & Gino at the New York Gift show this summer and was stopped dead in my tracks, the product is unbelievable!!!! (pictures can not do it justice). Creating future design classics, Gaia & Gino is an award-winning Turkish home accessories brand with unconventional, innovation and emotional products.



(above: CALI - A gestural line that consists of 3 small budvases inspired by Ottoman calligraphy which can be seen in Turkish museums and mosques) .

Gaia & Gino - - - named for founder Gaye Cevikel's nickname and her dog Gino is known for creating gorgeous objects within a traditional context and has resulted in partnerships with some of the world's foremost design influentials.



(above: CEREMONY - Flower sticks made of Pyrex tubes. These sticks help you to have flowers at home at any time, filling the vase).

Designers such as Andree Putman, Arik Levy, Karim Rashid and Yves Behar were asked to translate the turkish forms into a sophisticated, innovative and intelligent product.



(above: LUCKY - Inspired by the patterns of the old Turkish figurative arts. The famous clove shape has been cleverly converted into a beautiful porcelian vase and bowl set. Shown with "Galactica'' centerpiece and "Creemy" tea and coffee set).



(above: WIKKED - A glass encased flame that playfully sits on the table. With its ever changing shape from every point of view it captures the viewer’s attention and radiates within the room. One hole is nice; but two holes are wikked. This candle also comes in black and can't you imagine this on a "halloween" themed table setting! Shown with ''Volcano" glasses).



(above: GIANTS - Created from clear crystal and named after natural crystal formations, take your pick from Herkimer and Heliodor. Heliodor is a yellow variety of beryl found near Rossing, Namibia and is prized as a gemstone. Herkimer is an exceptionally clear quartz crystal from Herkimer County, New York State, USA. The Giant Giants Mega Heliodor 8 shown above is exclusive to Moss. Shown with ''Snob'' glasses).

For more on Istanbul, House & Garden magazine does a incredible profile on the city in this month's issue, click here to check out the slide show and Vivre has also put together a deco guide full of Turkish delight.

Table setting Inspiration Board: Feather Luster

You don't wear fur, even if you could afford one and you would never buy an alligator-skin handbag. I'm starting to think that maybe feathers are the ideal alternative for glamour girls with a conscience? It's tempting to believe so. Designers have staged something of a revival in feather- wearing this year, why look at the feather braclet by Marc Jacobs for Louis Vitton. I was so inspired by the braclet that I created yet another board.

"The feathers are flying" and they're landing on the table. Add some feather luster to your table with these tableware items.



(above: Louis Vuitton feather bracelet, $2,310 at Louis Vuitton, Feather placemats, Chateau X by Jane Krolik; Place setting by Jessica Howard ceramics).

Feathers make wonderful accents for fall arrangements. They are perfect accompaniments for foliage, flowers, fruits, vegetables, cones, and any dried material. Feathers are available at many flower shops and craft stores in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Many are dyed to enhance the hues and to give a wider selection of colors for varied decorating backgrounds. They may be added to a simple pot of ivy, or they can become the focal point in mantel urns. Add some to your fall table decorations or fill an interesting container with a group on a side table.



(above: Large Peacock eye platter, $45.00, Bongenre).



(above: feather napkin,$120.00, Vivre; Artensian salad bowl,$55.00, Tracy Porter; Feather hair clip, K. Autumn; Gold Athena Tray, $79.99, Lunares Home; invitations, boutonnières , bouquets, all images from Michelle Rago).

Even a novice can add a few feathers and achieve a little pizzazz. Working with beautiful bird feathers is certainly an easy way to add a special look with truly a minor amount of effort and time. So go ahead, strut your stuff like a peacock!

For even more "Feather Luster" fly right over to Perfect Bound, prepare yourself for take-off, her post will blow you away!

Table setting Inspiration Board: Prepare for Preppy

Remember the polo shirts with the collars up, slip-on boat shoes, argyle socks and plaid shirts? OK, so I’m dating myself; but back in high school I was all about the preppy look and even over the years, my fashion style has never strayed too far from a “classic style”. So when Jenn asked the question on her blog post yesterday, “What are your Fall favorites”, my reply is “Preppy Chic”!
(shown above: Liria by Oscar De La Renta, 5pc place setting, $250.00, Michael C. Fina; Darcy Skirt, $185.00, J. Crew).



(clockwise: party mats, set of 25, $20.00, The MacBeth Collection; plaid evergreen dinner plates, pack of 8, $5.50, Plum Party; Plaid vase in green, $995.00, Tiffany and Co., 1.800.843.3269; Houndstooth napkins, $25.00, Horchow).

Preppy Chic is a huge trend this fall, and was seen on the fall runways in shows such as Luella and Balenciaga. Watch for preppy looks such as argyle sweaters, polo shirts, knee length shorts and miles of plaid to be high priorities. The preppy look is being mixed with other trends such as metallics and patents, to give it a fun, modern twist.

I created this inspiration board full of great accessories to inspire different ways to add the preppy chic trend to your table. Enjoy!



(row 1: Alyssa Ettinger coasters, set of 4, $39.00; plaid tray, $26.00, Pfeifer Studio)
(row 2: Alyssa Ettinger vase from $120.00, Ralph Lauren Herrington and Glen Plaid barware, from $39.90, Bloomingdale's)
(row 3: Houndstooth coaster, $24.99; Wilton Armetale, Sowers Gifts)
(row 4: Tartan photo flask,$14.99, Urban Outfitters; Garrick tartan throw, $250.00 Polo Ralph Lauren).
(row 5: Large check bon bon dish, $135.00, Burberry; Holiday tartan plaid platter, $55.30, Lenox).
(row 6: Paisley cocktail napkin,$11.99, Gumps San Francisco; Patterned plate set, from $30.00, William Wayne and Co).

Going, Going, GOWN!

By the time the ring's on your finger, the date's set, and you're shopping for “The Dress”; I’m sure he loves you just the way you are, right?



So I’m not blaming Chip for my weight loss frenzy; but from the moment he popped the question, my thoughts went to "The Dress" and the fact that I refuse to buy one until I get down to my “idea size”.


(l to r: Mesu bowls, set of 6 nesting bowls, $49.95, Studio Panepinto; Yum Yum dishes, set of 4, $22.00)

Like many brides-to-be in New York City, I’ve signed up for the “Brides Boot camp class" at New York Sports and hired a trainer. During this time, exercising regularly is never easy but eating right is even harder. That’s why I’m loving the set of Mesu bowls - six porcelain bowls, each marked with a symbol indicating the quantity of food it can hold so you can finally measure your portions. I also think the Yum Yum dishes are great as well.



So rather than popping pills, trying starvation diets and over exercising I think the best thing to do is learn about food choices and portion control to aid me in my beautiful-body quest. Before you know it the pounds will be going, going, gone!

All shook up over Shakers: 101 Salt and Pepper shakers

Some of the most eye-catching designs I’ve seen on a well-dressed table lately involve the humble salt and pepper shaker.

Many of them aren’t even recognizable - at least, not until you see the familiar holes on top. They boast impressive styling (and often, prices to match). Serve up your salt in style and pour on your pepper with panache.

With 101 designs indicated below, I’ve given you plenty of choices that sprinkle with sass. Bon Appetit!



(above: 1-5: Fitz and Floyd Ricamo, 12.50, Macys; Gallus rooster, 195.00, Lladro; Springtime, 125.00, Vivre; Chicken in Basket, 14.95, Surlatable; Birds 50.00, Gracious Style).


(above: 6-11: Clown fish, 75.00, Gumps; Owls, 18.00, Anthropologie; Monkey 7.99, Target, Stags, 22.00, Well Dressed Home, Cats in Garden 10.00, Gifts from a Distance; Frogs, 11.95, Sur la Table).



(above: 12-17: Stacking pots, 25.00, A plus Store; Salt and Pepper set 100.00, Georg Jensen;, Magppie salt and pepper set, 79.00, Home Couture; Salt and Pepper set, Magenta, Alessi Pepe le moko, 118.00, Abitare; Hug, 25.00, Greener Grass Design).



(above: 18-23: Stoneware, 18.00, Le creuset; Sigaliot, 25.00, Etsy; Sea blue baby tagine, 24.00, World Shoppe; Red Berry Bodo Sperlein 46.00 Tart on the Web; Nettuno Coral, 39.00, Vietri; Red salt and pepper, 22.00 Fiesta).



(above: 24-29: Fruit Haven, 28.50, Spode; Artichoke, 125.00, Vivre, Artichoke, 14.95, Sur la table; Florentine, 7.99, Target; Pineapple, L’ Objet; Pumpkin Gourd, 14.95, Online Discount Mart).




(above: 30-34: Chinoiserie gazebos, 30.00, The Source Perrier; Pagoda Pearls and Swarovski, 175.00, L’ Objet, Pagoda, 250.00, The Silver Gallery, Chrysler building, 40.00, New York Library Shop; Beehive 20.00, Kristen Grace).



(above: 35-39: Martha Stewart Everyday Golden Wreath, 5.99, Kmart; Tse Tse Poivriere, 52.00, Fitzsu Society; Crystal Spice, 95.00, L’Objet, Turtle Spice Jewels, L’Objet; Jeweled birds, 595.00, Jay Strongwater).



(above: 40-46: Jeweled ice round, 24.99, Lenox; Magnolia, 29.00, Arthur Court; Lauren Walker, 49.99, Macys; Kalliste, 206.67, Artedona; Waterford 135.00, Saks Fifth Ave; June salt dish by William Yeoward, 130.00 william Bloomingdales; Montana, 10.00, Pottery Barn).



(above: 47-53: Ghost and Skeleton, 7.98, Lillian Vernon, Woodland 48.00, Spode; Winter Greetings, 46.00, Lenox; Kissing Snowpeople 11.99, Yahoo store; Turkey, 49.99, Dinnerware Depot, Christmas tree, 30.00 Spode; Holiday, 45.00, Lenox).



(above: 54-59: Axel mill, 195.00, Fitzsu Society, Fluidform Serene Dusk Dawn Mill, 110.00, Charles and Marie; Empire, 21.50, Pfaltzgraff; Wooden, 12.95, Crate and Barrel; Palm Wood, 9.07, Patina Stores, Shells 450.00, Verdura).



(above: 60-65: Kuchengnomen, 43.00, Cake; Lotus Pod, 56.00, The Home Port; Twist, 79.00, Nambe; Ypsilon, 116.25, Artedona; Cubus, 110.51, Artedona; Define Curved, 14.99 pounds, Barfly).



(above: 66-72: Baby Crocodile, 475.00, Tart on the Web, Vertigo, 160.00, Vivre; Twist, 130.00, Georg Jensen; Stainless Steel Trudeau, 16.50, Klinq; Galet, 157.87, Artedona; Kate Spade Library Stripe, 40.00, Michael C. Fina; Lighthouse, 47.00, Mariposa).



(above: 73-79: Taste of Talking, 22.00, Charles and Marie; Wooden Block, 7.95, Patina Stores; Rack’em Up, 5.99, Wrapables; Coke Contour, 17.50 pounds, Happy Days; Pig, 65.00, Uncommon Goods; Lola Goldstein, 22.00, MoMA).



(above: 80-87: Leaf, 20.00, Michael Aram; Gothic, Magenta, Sea Urchin, 85,00, Tiffany and Co.; Juliska, 49.00, Lille Shop; White salt and pepper set, 14.99, Joanne Hudson; Luminous, 4.00, Pier1, Kate Spade, 88.00 June Lane, Bloomingdale’s; Classic Century Eva Zeisel, 36.95, Crate and Barrel).



(above: 88-93: Studio Cellars, 10.00 Pottery Barn; Birds, 48.00, Jonathan Adler; Artisan, 6.99; West Elm, Shake-a-leg by Perch, 48.00, Velocity; Butlers Pantry, 29.00, Lenox; Natural Capiz, 12.95, Zgallerie).



(above: 94-101: Caddy, 205.00, Match, Arte Italica salt and pepper, 108.00, Bloomingdales; Michael Graves, 159.00, Alessi; Stainless Steel 15.00, Pier1, Mini evolution by Trudeau, 66.00, Klin; Salt shaker and Pepper mill Brilliant, 25.00, Klinq; Acorn, 45.00, Gracious Style; Castors 60.00, Georg Jensen).

It's Fashion Week in New York and did you know...

As many of you know, it's Fashion Week here in New York and the city is buzzing! Fashion week among other things is a global showcase of clothing design and an economic engine for New York City’s hospitality and restaurant industries.



The weeklong fashion extravaganza, began on Wednesday and continues through next Wednesday. It is “Entry by Invitation Only. Not Open to the Public"; however did you know that even though new media only account for 10 percent of the overall media list, New York Fashion Week organizer IMG has issued credentials to more bloggers than ever. To read more on this...click here.

The best part of Fashion week for me is to watch for trends and to observe how they will influence the home design industry. If you missed my "Black and White: Dining by Design" post, check it out and note how fashion even influences tabletop.



What I'm really excited about is next month's Design Week. House and Garden magazine announced that the week of October 15 - 21 will be the first ever Design Week in New York City. The weeklong celebration will include activities in film, shopping, museums, galleries, architecture, tours, workrooms and gardens, highlighting beauty and hidden treasures throughout the five boroughs.



You can buy tickets to the events but who wouldn't love to get an invitation instead? Grace from Design*Sponge will be covering the events I'm sure.... Any other bloggers out there attending the events?

Setting Pretty

O.K. so you’re hosting your first family dinner and can’t remember if the bread plate goes left or right of the dinner plate. Does the knife go inside the spoon or outside? Pretty soon, your dinner table setting looks like a child’s tea party, not the pretty Martha Stewart inspiration you had in mind. The basic table setting does have rules and here are two great tricks to help you remember the order of plates and utensils:


First, picture the word “FORKS”, The order, left to right is: F for Fork, O for Plate (the shape!), K for Knives and S for Spoons. (Okay – you have to forget the r, but you get the idea!)


Second, holding your hands in front of you, touch the tips of your thumbs to the tips of your fore-fingerers to make a lower case ‘b’ with your left hand and a lower case ‘d’ with your right hand. This reminds you that ‘bread and butter’ go to the left of the place setting and ‘drinks’ go on the right.

Some other things to know:
Knife blades always face the plate
The napkin goes to the left of the fork, or on the plate
The bread and butter plate and knife are optional

My table setting would look little like this:



Special thanks to Emily Post and Daisy Chain!

(Place setting above: Plate - Isle of Skye, set of 4, $120.00, home, james!. Flatware - Toursade natural olivewood 5pc place setting , $208.00, Mariposa. Glassware/tumbler - Ella large tumber, $54.00, Juliska. Salad/Bread plate - Jasper Conran casual blue salad plate, $14.99, Bed, Bath and Beyond. Napkin - Liberty of London classic pattern, $35.00, Daisy Hill, Elements of Chicago).

A cut above the rest: Laguiole knives

They're beautiful, feel great in your hand, cut effortlessly and will definitely be on my wedding registry. Table knives by the French firm Laguiole (pronounced "layole") have a handle on the hottest shades, horn or wood. The blades are as elegantly crafted as they are beautiful to behold.


(above: Laguiole steak knife set, $98.00, Anthropologie)

Laguiole is one of the oldest and best respected names in French cutlery. For over two centuries, craftsmen of Laguiole have been making distinctive knives known to the world as Laguiole Knives. Laguiole knives are pocket knives often with a small corkscrew. The style has evolved and led to a range of some of the most handsome cutlery to be found anywhere. There are Laguiole table knives, Laguiole carving sets and, of course, the Laguiole corkscrew, also known as the sommelier knife.


(l to r: Laguiole spreaders, set of 4, $39.00, Williams-Sonoma; Laguiole steak knives, $350.00 Dean and Deluca)

These days, they've become a symbol of uber-style among those who are attuned to such things, due perhaps to the neat bas-relief bee that sits at the point where blade and haft meet and an appreciation of the nifty mechanism which forces the blade to collapse. A Laguiole knife is presented to each president of the French Republic. Sonia Rykiel is said to own one. And Philippe Starke, who seems unable to leave the slightest thing untouched, has refined the design for the 21st century.



(l to r: Laguiole Steak Knives $330.00, Horchow; Laguiole exotic wood handles, set of 6 $570.00, Moss).

Ooohh so many choices, what’s a girl to do?

(image at top: Laguiole Wilmotte, set of 6, $670.00, Moss)

Fall colors: Kkooll’s way of bringing them to the table.

Labor Day has passed. Summer vacations are over. Schools have reopened their doors. September marks the beginning of autumn and with the nights closing in and the end of those wonderful summer vegetables, it is nice to change to the great earthy flavors that encapsulate autumn and winter.

Fall is an idyllic time for comfort food, thoughts of winter soups, stews, my mother’s casseroles and that wonderful aroma of onions and herbs drifting through her kitchen during family dinners.

This holiday try a tagine, a Moroccan stew that requires a little patience, and a bit of the cook's soul. It must simmer for a good long time, until the spices have melded artfully, until the meat is more tender than you guessed it could be and until the dried fruit has begun to melt into the thick, dark sauce.



When the tagine is brought to the table, your guests are greeted with rich, spicy aromas that waft up as you raise the lid. I suggest using one in the Kkooll Collections line. Kkooll Collections imports the highest quality, handcrafted ceramics in Morocco. They are high in design, pure in line, unique and stunning – with the beauty of each piece matched by its practicality. The designs and color ways are new and exceptionally beautiful.



If you’re planning a holiday dinner this season, think about stews. Stews are often overlooked; but take a second glance, because these dishes have many virtues. They can be made ahead, and they take well to either buffet or plated service. Best of all, though, you can add garnishes to transform any stew from comfort food to a stylish party dish.

(above: Kkooll Collections, 212-646-233-3769, Global Table)

Neiman Marcus steps up to the fashion plate

"The cake's on Neiman Marcus" or it will be when you serve on these fashionable dessert plates.

In 1907, Herbert Marcus, his sister, Carrie Marcus Neiman, and her husband, A.L. Neiman, all under the age of 30, started Neiman Marcus with one simple but ambitious idea: to bring the luxury, ready-to-wear fashions of New York and Paris to Dallas.

Neiman Marcus is celebrating 100 years and in true NM fashion they will be providing its customers with only the best high-end fashion by releasing exclusive designs from some of the world’s most celebrated fashion houses - - - handbags by Judith Leiber, shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti and clothes by Monique Lhuillier.

For those not concerned about fitting into a designer label, you can at least eat on one. To me, food is like fashion anyway, with the right accessories, it can look pretty chic. This isn't to say that a luscious dessert can't make a statement on its own. But serving up fare on these gorgeous plates takes it to another level. Exclusively for Neiman Marcus, French designer, Gien, has created these fashionable dessert plates that can give your dessert even more appeal. When they're not showing off your newest recipe, they can make a fashion statement in your kitchen niche.

(above: Fashion Plates, set of 4, Gien, $100.00, Neiman Marcus).

Kitchen Kouture: Aprons strings tie me to my past

Aprons strings, those humble yet powerful domestic symbols, tie me to traditions, evoking memories of all the cooks in my family who have shaped my everyday meals and holiday feasts through the years.

To kick off the fall season, I asked Brooke to draw a new illustration - - - a modern, fresh, stylish woman who embodies the Toast and Table reader. When Brooke finished the drawing and showed it to me, I loved it immediately and loved the fact that she included an apron!



My great-grandmother, Sarah, was a fabulous hostess - - - while stirring, simmering and sautéing she’d wear her “practical apron” and then she’d slip into her hostess version to serve the food and mingle. I swear she probably had a different apron to go with every dress, they were clearly her fashion accessory. These aprons by BellaPamella is a modernized version of her aprons.



The apron's threatened demise has as much to do with changes in fashion as it does with changes in meals. Who needs an apron if you're wearing casual clothes that can be tossed in the washer? And who needs an apron to microwave a frozen dinner or open a Chinese takeout carton? It doesn't matter if I'm ordering takeout or cooking in, when I want to feel sexy in the kitchen, I turn to my apron by Jessie Steele. Great news!!! If you head over to "Life in a Venti Cup" you can enter to win a hip Jessie Steele apron with matching oven mitts.



No longer tied to the concept of a mere uniform for domestic chores, aprons have become a wardrobe essential. The new generation of domestic goddesses demanded stylish aprons and designers were paying attention. Needless to say, some of these aprons, like the ones shown above by Delilah Crown, are more about looking fabulous than they are about keeping sauce off your skirt. And there's nothing wrong with that!



(lst row: camel apron, waffle apron, leaf apron; $65.00; Virginia Johnson)
(2nd row: vintage apron top; $165.00; Camp On Perry)

Fall kicks off the holiday season, so as reach into your drawers or closets for a protective covering to tie around your waist, may you feel a connection with the past, and a kinship with those before you who took pride in the endless details of homemaking. I know I will.



(above: Ivy League apron; $61.60; Kitsch n' Glam)
(1st top photo: Needle Art Apron; $24.00 - $32.00; Anthropologie)