Tinsley Mortimer, a New York socialite, handbag designer, and most recently, author – will be visiting Neiman Marcus NorthPark in Dallas this Friday on her book tour for Southern Charm. My friend, Auna Jornayvaz, just hosted the event in Denver last night! “Dallas is lucky to have Tinsley stop by… not just a fashionista, but an author too,” she said, “We had such fun in Denver sipping on Hypnotiq cocktails, which is my new favorite drink and mingling with fabulous women. After reading her book, I have a new appreciation for pink dresses and southern drawls. Most definitely a can’t-miss beach read.”

Tinsley’s first novel is based on her own experiences in the New York social scene as a southern belle who always remained true to her own style.  In fact, I was always in love with “The Tinsley” hairstyle (as it was deemed by Vogue) which was a full head of long loose curls and a side part pinned to one side. It was exciting to have the opportunity to ask Tinsley a few questions regarding her signature style and her new book.

N/S: Have you always known you wanted to write a book? How did Southern Charm come to be?
Tinsley: I think each of us has a book in ourselves! Columbia University required so many papers that I started to be very comfortable writing and came to really enjoy it. I originally planned to write a style guide about how to dress like a girly girl, but it was the suggestions of several publishers that I write a novel instead. They thought that the backdrop of the world I know so well in New York would be perfect for a great story.

After the suggestion was made, everything just clicked! Southern Charm’s inception was my experience growing up southern. When I entered the social scene in NYC, over and over again I was told that I had southern charm. I think that by taking what was natural to me, being myself, not trying to fit into a mold is what ultimately opened up possibilities for me. Since the editors wanted me to write a book about my world, I thought to myself, how did this all happen, what was it that made me noticed? After thinking about it, I realized that growing up in the south, having southern charm was probably was the defining factor…..thus, my book Southern Charm.

N/S: What was the most difficult aspect of writing the book? The most rewarding?
Tinsley: The most difficult aspect was keeping a balance between writing an entertaining and believable story, but not making my characters too snarky or vile. The most rewarding aspect of writing Southern Charm was seeing the characters I knew so well in my imagination come to life on the pages of the book.

N/S:  Who are your own personal style icons?
Tinsley: I love the classic style and beauty of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to Kate Moss and Sienna Miller. I think I fall somewhere in between.

N/S: How will you be celebrating summer style? What key essentials are you looking forward to- from dresses to shoes to trends?

Tinsley: After the book tour, it will be so nice just to relax in really casual clothes. I am totally loving colored jeans for summer! Alice and Olivia have the most amazing ones!!! I want them in every color. I will probably be wearing tennis shoes this summer, since I plan to play a lot and work on my game.

Aside from those, I will be wearing high wedges with cute little dresses, like those from Juicy Couture, Tibi, Milly, and Shoshanna.

N/S: I remember reading Vogue and you switched styles with Florence Kane in “Trading Places” – was it difficult to stay true to your signature feminine style in NYC?
Tinsley: Honestly, I have never had a problem staying true to my girly style, though I might sometimes like to rock a little different look with an Herve Leger dress and edgier shoes. I have never consciously tried to stand out. I am just more comfortable wearing color and pretty clothes, particularly dresses. Black is not good on me!

N/S: Would you compare your novel to Plum Sykes‘ Bergdorf Blondes in any way? Do you think it would appeal to someone who enjoyed that book?
Tinsley: I believe Southern Charm would appeal to Bergdorf Blondes’ readers since both books allow peeks into the inner social world of New York.

N/S:  What’s a day in the life like for Tinsley?
Tinsley: Most days my schedule is very hectic. I do not have a personal assistant, so I am constantly on my blackberry. And, creative chaos is the perfect description of my life!!!

N/S: What has been the most exciting and enjoyable aspect of your book tour?
Tinsley: I have loved meeting all the uber stylish and beautiful ladies who have been so kind to come. Everyone has been extraordinarily nice to me, and we have been having such a blast in every city. Every signing is like a little celebration, complete with delicious Hpnotiq Harmonie cocktails - they have created the most femimine, beautiful party settings I have ever seen with amazing signature cocktails like the Southern Charm and the Minty Julip! So girly and yummy!

N/S: What are some of your top 3 tips for summer beauty? Do you have a signature fragrance?

Tinsley: I wear Diorrisimo by Dior all the time…..such a light feminine scent.

Top three summer beauty tips would be:

1. never leave the house without sunscreen

2. Dior Blackshow Mascara

3. Klorane dry shampoo.

N/S: What are you most excited about for summer? Any travel plans other than your book tour?

Tinsley: I plan to visit my sister and her fiancee in Switzerland and France this summer, so I’m really excited.

N/S: How would you describe your own personal style to someone who’d never met you?

Tinsley: Colorful femininity!!!

N/S: Is there a particular quote you live by or just a favorite in general?
Tinsley: There is not particular quote, but I believe in positive energy and that what you put out there in the universe comes back to you! I also believe in being true to yourself. I think if you don’t let others affect you and can feel confidence in yourself there is no end to what you can do!

MEET TINSLEY THIS FRIDAY IN DALLAS! Purchase her book “Southern Charm” here.

* “Trading Places” from January 2007 Vogue magazine

with Jonathan Adler at his new Dallas boutique!

“I actually asked my parents if I should open a store,” he said, “They told me it was a terrible idea so I went ahead and signed the lease.”

I had the amazing opportunity this morning to meet Jonathan Adler at his new Dallas boutique on McKinney Avenue and his husband, Simon Doonan, the creative ambassador-at-large for Barneys New York! Jonathan’s interest in interiors first began with pottery. In fact, above all else, he considers himself a potter.

He said if he had to eliminate every category from his collection but one- he’d choose to leave the pottery. Jonathan describes his line to be full of style, craft, and joy.  His new Dallas boutique is the 18th store to open and the 19th will be in Austin, Texas.
 

 
“I’ve always been drawn to the eclectic spirit,” he told me, “Craft base with earthy, twinkling glamour.” And, how did his stores come to be?  “I actually asked my parents if I should open a store,” he said, “They told me it was a terrible idea so I went ahead and signed the lease.”

Jonathan is excited to open his new store in Dallas because he has many friends in the city. “I love visiting with friends here.  Dallas has incredible art and museums like the Nasher Sculpture Center. And, I really love Mexican food and Dallas does it right,” he said, “Also, I’d never pass up a nice lunch at the T Room at Forty-Five-Ten.”

So, what’s a typical day like in the life of Jonathan Adler? “It’s really much more fun than work should be,” he said, “I go to the office, the studio – make a few pots, design some furniture, then go to meetings.  The DNA of my work is pottery – it all starts in the studio.”
 

 
Shop Jonathan Adler here and learn more about the new store here.
Jonathan Adler -  Dallas
4525 McKINNEY AVENUE
DALLAS, TX
75205
email us
map
214.484.9726
Mon-Sat 10am – 7pm
Sun  Noon – 6pm
 

 

 

 

Hermès inspired Save the Dates from Fête NY

I have always been a fan of One Kings Lane and I loved getting a message from my friend Natalie that alerted me of an upcoming Tastemaker Tag Sale & Wedding Edition from husband and wife Jung Lee and Josh Brooks – the team behind the event planning firm Fête in NYC. It’s actually the first ever “Tastemaker Wedding Event” on One Kings Lane and it begins with Jung Lee and Josh Brooks! Fête is one of the most sought-after wedding and event design productions in the world.  Their hand picked items will be featured on One Kings Lane’s “Wedding Expert Tastemaker Sale” that begins tomorrow (Wednesday, May 16th) and runs through Friday, May 18th. I’ve included some images from their event portfolio below – incredible and some of the items that will be featured in the sale tomorrow.

So, be sure to peruse and shop the Jung Lee and Josh Brooks Tastemaker Tag Sale and Wedding Edition on One Kings Lane here! There are some truly eye-catching and one-of-a-kind items!

Hand-carved  Mushrooms, Set of 3

MSRP $700 OKL price: $475

Jung and Josh say: “These mushrooms stools are truly one of a kind.  While they are made out of wood, their likeness to actual mushrooms is really amazing.  I love when objects are great looking and whimsical, but still useful at the same time – both kids and adults can sit on them!  I can see these mushroom stools in a beautiful garden or even inside your home, as sculpturally, they are so interesting.”

Jung Lee

Wrought Iron Candleholders, Pair

MSRP $250 OKL $175

Jung and Josh say: “This pair of angels is truly unique.  The beautiful aged wrought iron candleholders are great either with or without candles.  I love the substantial and weighty quality of the pieces and think they make a great addition to both indoor and outdoor parties; and gives a lot of character to the table.   I like using the pair of angels to create frames around objects – on opposite ends of an arrangement or the table.  These candleholders caught my eye while on a trip to the Netherlands, from a small company with some truly unique finds.”

Nickel-Plate Champagne Urn

MSRP $500 OKL $349

Jung and Josh say: “This nickel-plated champagne/ wine urn is not only beautiful itself, but makes your presentation of bottles look clean and organized.  It can hold 5-9 bottles and because of the sectioned piece on the top, it allows the bottles to stand up straight in the ice.  This is a great piece to have at your bar or on a counter for a dinner or cocktail party – as it is both a beautiful presentation and a functional service piece.”

Shop the sale here!

Capture Reese Witherspoon’s style in This Means War – from top left: DKNY Gathered Jersey Dress, J.Crew Bellflower Earrings, Miu Miu pre fall 2012 glitter pumps, J.Crew Feather Comb, T By Alexander Wang Black Dress, Mulberry Del Ray bag, J.Crew Palma Suede and Cork Wedges

I love the sweet feminine southern style of Reese Witherspoon (in real life) and she certainly replicates this in her latest upcoming film release This Means War. I’m so excited to share this sponsored giveaway today from the film which stars Reese Witherspoon, Tom Hardy, Chris Pine, Laura Vandervoort, and Til Schweiger. I enjoyed seeing the film with my friend Walker earlier this spring! This week, we are giving away two copies celebrating the upcoming release of This Means War to DVD and Blu-ray on May 22nd. In celebration of the film, I’ve pulled together a Reese style board inspired by her feminine attire in the film.  From flirty dresses with super sleek cuts to the perfect high heels, you won’t go wrong with her sophisticated girly summer style.  And, it’s a great time to purchase the new Mulberry Del Ray bag - inspired by Lana Del Ray of course! I think Reese would certainly approve.

GIVEAWAY: how to win a copy of This Means War: Comment below on why you are most excited to see the film OR why you enjoyed the film in theaters and if chosen, we’ll send one of the two copies your way!

Contest begins: Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Contest ends: Tuesday, May 22, 2012 – the launch of the movie on DVD and Blu-Ray!

Winner announced: Wednesday, May 23, 2012

This Means War to DVD and Blu-ray on May 22nd

Contest Rules & Details: Contest is open to US readers only.  No purchase is necessary. Free participation.  The two giveaway winners will be contacted via email at the close of the giveaway.  One entry per person. Two screening copies of This Means War will be mailed to two different winning entries. Please be sure to include your name and email address with your comment entry so that we may contact you via email if you are chosen as the winner. The two winners will be announced on this post shortly after the close of the contest.

Contest sponsored by ThinkJam and Fox Publicity.

Greenhouse Design Studio – Carpe Diem mugs

“make your home beautifully green, one step at a time”

Green for Good: Several weeks ago,I had the pleasure of staying at El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas with my friend photographer Colleen Duffley.  Colleen informed me that there would be a Greenhouse Design Studio trunk show during our visit.  And, in fact, that weekend, Greenhouse Design Studio from San Francisco parked their airstream in the front of El Cosmico and set up an adorable eco-friendly pop up shop.  It was an amazing experience to be introduced to this company! I absolutely loved every one of their products!  From vintage dishes, to eco-friendly fabrics, and sustainable design and products- Greenhouse Design Studio truly has it all!  And, their pieces are so beautiful – one is certainly further enticed to take care of them and hold on to them forever!

Greenhouse Design Studio is owned and operated by Laurie Furber and JP Furber. They work to “turn your home into a healthy haven” and hope to assist you to invest in materials that last.  They work towards beautiful sustainable home goods that are great for your own home and make perfect gifts.  With bread bags, vintage pillowcases and flatware, custom hand embroidered linens, and fragrant soy candles- there’s truly something for every taste and personality! The Greenhouse Design Studio uses sustainable materials as often as they can and attempts to generate as little waste as possible in production.

And, on top of it all, 1% of the company’s sales are donated to For The Planet - which assists and promotes environmental agencies all around the globe.  Comfortable, clean, chic, and eco-conscious- I’m certainly a new fan of Greenhouse Design Studio.

Follow them on Facebook – info. on the traveling pop up shop and check out more of their goods on the website here.

Daily Bread Bags

Greenhouse Design Studio Soy Candles

Lovey Dovey Hand Towels Set

Soy Candles

Pillows Vintage and Custom

you wash- I’ll dry – The Perfect Kitchen Table

Dessert Plates

Natural Soaps

Photographer Colleen Duffley in front of the Greenhouse Design Studio trailer parked for the weekend at El Cosmico in Marfa, TX

Greenhouse Design Studio pillow cases – Lovey Dovey pillow cases

Happy Weekend! I’m so excited to be in Chicago for Annie Sturgis and Kathryn Deppe‘s bachelorette party (above)!   I attended DePauw with both of these lovely girls and I can’t wait for our cooking class tomorrow evening.  It’s such a fun group and it will be amazing to catch up with everyone.  Anyway, have a wonderful weekend and I can’t wait to share snapshots from Chicago with you!

White Wine Wine Flight at Bin 36, Chicago

Italian Cheese Plate at Bin 36 Chicago

I think I need this dress for Memorial Day Weekend!

Yes, friends, just as I was blogging before blogging was trendy and t-shirts reading “what’s your blog called?” existed, I also wrote about the Australian fashion label- Easton Pearson. Way back from 2009, you can find my feature on the designers and brand here.

And, last night, I was browsing New Arrivals on Net-A-Porter and fell in LOVE with the dress above.  After a few clicks and stares at this bright off-the-shoulder-number, I quickly found that it was a piece from Easton Pearson.  To think, I’d almost forgotten about them until I saw these new pieces and wow- it’s like falling in love all over again.

Read my 2009 article here.

Easton Pearson -  Striped Cotton and Lace Dress

Easton Pearson – Printed Silk Satin Top

We just had to share this note from one of our sponsors: MADEWELL. Right now, on their website, you can enter the most fabulous giveaway: win 5 years worth of Madewell DENIM JEANS! That’s right, receive a $1,500 gift card to purchase the equivalent of 5 years of denim jeans.  Is this a joke? Absolutely not.  ENTER HERE…..  I did!

Today, I’m excited to share this sponsored giveaway from Del Mar Designs! Del Mar Designs is a ceiling fan and light distributor offering some of the latest and most innovative designs and products on the market at an attainable price.  I’m so excited to introduce this giveaway to you today from this Florida based company.

In celebration of the coming summer heat wave, Del Mar Designs will be giving away this F817-3-BN EOS Brushed Nickel Flush Mount Ceiling Fan to one lucky reader- a $457.80 value!

And, seriously, for the summer months – who wouldn’t want to switch out their light fixture for this gorgeous number?  I know that in Texas- I wouldn’t survive without ceiling fans!

HOW TO ENTER- 2 WAYS:

1.) SOCIAL MEDIA: (OPTIONAL ENTRIES)

A. “like” the Del Mar Designs Facebook page - before you press the like button, please hover over the button with your mouse and be sure that the “show in news feed” box is checked.

B.) Follow and Tweet @DelMarDesigns and tell them why you love their fan!

2.) BLOG COMMENTS: (FREE ENTRY)

Please share with us on this post: why this fan would be an asset for your home!  It is different & eye catching after all!

Contest begins: Tuesday, May 8th, 5pm ET

Contest ends: Tuesday, May 15th, 5pm ET

Winner announced: Wednesday, May 16th, 2012

* However, if you choose to enter by social media: be sure to include your name and email address on this post via comment so we can contact you if you are the winner! Just let us know you entered!

So, until the end of the contest, feel free to share this giveaway with friends and family!  And, see other great products from Del Mar Designs on their Facebook page and Twitter!

Contest Rules & Details: Contest is open to US readers only.  No purchase is necessary. Free participation.  The ceiling fan is a $457.80 total value. The giveaway winner will be contacted via email at the close of the giveaway.  Please be sure to include your name and email address with your comment entry so that we may contact you via email if you are chosen as the winner. The winner will be announced on this post shortly after the close of the contest.  Del Mar Designs: 301 Division Avenue, Unit 17
Ormond Beach, FL 32174

More Information on the Ceiling Fan in the Giveaway:

Minka-Aire F817-3-BN is an Eos Fan. This ceiling fan has Seven Fan Speeds, Forward/Reverse & Light Dimmer Wall Mount Control in the Brushed Nickel motor finish. The Eos combines wire formed spheres with a unique curved blade accent. This fan has been approved for Indoor Locations.

-          60” Blade Span

-          Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Approved for Indoor Locations

-          Wall Control Included

-          20” Height, Top to Bottom

-          Hugger Mount

-          Downlight Included

j’adore!

When it comes to the Met Gala, Nonsense & Sensibility loves the ladylike gowns and attire.  This year, favorites included: Christina Ricci in Thakoon, Claire Danes in J. Mendel, L’Wren Scott wearing her own design (the back of her gown- incredible), Brit Marling wearing Valentino, Lily Colins wearing Valentino, and Claire Courtin-Clarins, Prisca Courtin-Clarins, Jenna Courtin-Clarins, and Virginie Courtin-Clarins, all in Mugler – certainly received double (triple) takes.  And, I really did love Florence Welch’s Alexander McQueen gown – there’s something about her entire look that’s always beautiful and otherworldly. Of course, again, I absolutely do love the clean lines of the J.Mendel gown Claire Danes wore- simple, elegant, glamour.

Enjoy!

see more images on style.com here.

Christina Ricci with Thakoon – wearing Thakoon – style.com –

LOVE LOVE LOVE this gown!

L’Wren Scott wearing her own design with Mick Jagger – style.com

PURE glamour.

Back of L’wren Scott’s dress (her own design) shared by Lucy Sykes Rellie

elegant sophistication….

the gorgeous backs of gowns (and those that were backless) reigned last night at the Met Gala – stunning!

Claire Danes, in J. Mendel, with Van Cleef & Arpels jewels and Christian Louboutin shoes; with Hugh Dancy, in Prada. – style.com

simple elegance- lovely.

A few favorite gowns and favorite people.

From Top Left: Grace Coddington wearing Prada, Florence Welch wearing Alexander McQueen, Lily Collins wearing Valentino, Scarlett Johansson wearing Dolce & Gabbana (from style.com)

Loving the “old world elegance” of these looks

From Top Left: Sarah Jessica Parker wearing Valentino Haute Couture with Valentino Garavani, Mary Kate Olsen wearing the Row, Linda Fargo wearing custom Naeem Khan (from style.com)

Flowers at the Met Gala 2012 – shared by my friend, Travis Paul Martin