After I finish my current read for book club, I plan on getting my hands on The Vacationers. NPR dubbed it as a "frothy beach read" and Preston Davis gave it the thumbs up, so you know it's a good pick.
Slim on Inspiration
I've been perfecting my French Press techniques the past few mornings and as a result, I have consumed more caffeine than necessary. Busy days and early rises have left little time for channeling my inspiration for posts, so today, I leave you with Slim Aarons (again). Hotel Belair, circa 1991 (as if the bikini didn't give away the 90's vibe...). That pool looks like a good time.
On the Coast: Rugged Beauty
I've been captivated by the Oregon Coast for quite some time and it remains on my bucket list of domestic travel destinations. This home in Cloverdale, Oregon will be up for auction in two short weeks. Although there are several things I would do differently with the property, you can't ignore her rugged beauty & bliss - all 25 acres! See more here.
I'll Have What She's Having...
Paris Vogue's June/July editorial features Natasha Poly and her "perfect summer" which is just about the equivalent to my perfect dream. Sea breezes in the Maldives, fresh seafood platters, the scent of pine trees and paralyzing coastal views in the Mediterranean...Natasha knows a thing or two about summer. Not only did she steal the spotlight in the editorial, but she also stole the cover, clad in a red bikini, just months after having a baby, mind you. See the full feature here.
A Tuscan Marvel
Welcome to Monteverdi. I read about this property a little while ago and my mind keeps coming back to it. Perhaps you can understand why after looking at the photographs - the mere sight of that 18th century copper soaking tub made me swoon! Located in the heart of Tuscany, a midway point between Rome and Florence, the property offers both private villas for rent and hotel accommodations.
The conceptual vision for the property, however, goes further than just offering handsome accommodations among an idyllic landscape. The idea, was to draw from the intellectual and artistic prosperity of the 15th and 16th centuries in Tuscany. As we know, scientists, poets, artists and the like were responsible for their contribution to the Italian Renaissance, and today, Monteverdi wishes to carry out that prosperity in a modern world on a smaller, intimate scale. Thus, the property is an oasis for arts and cultural events, often hosting artists and scholars to lead seminars and performances for guests. Interestingly, Castiglioncello del Trinoro, the 900-year-old village that the villa calls home, happens to be the site of the only privately sponsored archaeological dig in Tuscany. (Learn more here).
With an adequate supply of Chianti, I could camp out at Monteverdi for weeks!
Office Inspiration: Grégoire's Gem
One of the perks of now working at an interior design firm is the sheer joy of being surrounded by tangible inspiration all day long. I am deeply affected by the landscapes in which I live and work in, and my new work environment makes me truly happy. Instead of the interior rigidness of a financial institution, I am now surrounded by a flood of rich fabrics and textiles, architects drafting elaborate blueprints, a sea of French antiques, and, a library full of auction and design catalogues. Thus, I bring you my latest obsession. If I could jump in to this landscape, I would. The images come from the French design publication Côté Sud and depict the most idyllic residence on the French Riviera. The vacation home belongs to Grégoire Gardette, legendary photographer, designer, publisher and graphic designer. Now all I need is a new white bikini, my Bain de Soleil and a tall glass of Pellegrino - dreamy!
In addition to salivating over the serene scenes above, be sure to view Grégoire's portfolio, here: http://gregoiregardette.com/fr-en/
Dear Slim,
Those close to me know that there is one man that will forever make my heart pitter patter. The man of course, is none other than photographer and King of the jet-set era, Slim Aarons. I suppose it's his photography that captures me, rather than Slim himself...Given that it's a Friday and I'm on vacation, I thought I'd share a few of my favorites. Bon Weekend!
Sea & Sea
It seems everyone is getting away for a little escape lately. Mark Sikes has been posting about his musings from Punta Cana, and this recent article in the NY Times had me thinking about photographs of the iconic Veruschka often with the sea as a backdrop.
Above, my own tribute to the sea and the pleasures that come with its seduction. Whether it may be enjoying a paperback read, fresh summer fruit or a revitalizing swim, I find myself yearning for my own escape with the sea (and salt! and sand!).
Images via
More Than Just Margaritas...
NET-A-PORTER's THE EDIT does a fantastic job of showcasing new travel destinations. The latest? A nod to Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño who is behind the vibrant beach resort in Mexico called Las Alamandas. The private suite-only resort is painted in a palette of tropical sorbets, the property dotted by palm trees, jasmine and lush gardens. The property lends to vitality in spirit and landscape - one that will certainly make my "Mexico Must" list.
Below, a few packing options to get you on your way (all available on NET-A-PORTER, naturally)...
Oscar de la Renta's Embellished silk kaftan via 
Kenneth Jay Lane Hammered gold-plated earrings via 
Alexander McQueen Punk Skull embellished satin clutch box
Charlotte Olympia's Triton embellished metallic leather sandals via 
Karla Colletto Rosettes appliquéd underwired swimsuit via 
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato tote via 
Hervé Van der Straeten's tiered hammered gold-plated brass necklace via
Lisa Marie Fernandez's Poppy Bandeau swimsuit via 
Marni gold-tone tassel clip earrings via