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Personal Shopper – Summer Holiday
I think I could be a personal shopper in another life. It’s like my day job, but
with clothes. And with the social calendar of summer in full swing, there are a
bevy of opportunities for crafting looks that suit the occasion. The coming holiday
weekend alone could demand a half dozen “fashion-scapes”. With that in mind,
I have styled four summer looks for my Luxe & Lucid readers. And although my
own ensembles typically consist of a mix of labels and price points, each of the
outfits below has been culled from a single source or shopping district to make your
purchase all the less painless. That’s what summer is all about – easy and breezy.
Happy 4th of July!
– Urban Fireworks –
Look by Urban Outfitters
– Martha’s Vineyard Cookout –
Look by J.Crew
– Lounging in Palm Beach –
Look by Vivre
– Cocktails & Canapés –
Look by the shops of Georgetown
* Intermix, Karen Millen, Charm, Zara, Relish, Kate Spade & Hu’s Shoes *
Tricia xo
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Tricia’s 10: The Find
Depending on what type of designer (or consumer) you are, the thrill of decorating
can be found in various stages of the process. If you are the inquisitive type, then
“the hunt” probably tops your list. Scouring dusty secondhand stores, upscale
antique shops and the multitude of online resources is time-consuming, but almost
always exciting. And to find that special something you need patience, focus and
a dose of good luck. Below are ten great “finds” from the Huntley & Co. archives.
Some of the items required a substantial amount of research. Others were a matter
of serendipity. In either case, they all have one thing in common. Finding the right
piece is just leg work. What you do with it is what really counts. Happy hunting!
1. shell-encrusted torchiere | lounge
2. early 19th c. English bookcase | den
3. vintage faux tortoiseshell table | den
4. 1940s leather bench | office
5. vintage print duck illustrations | sunroom
6. antique octagonal clock | foyer
7. hand-painted silk screen | bedroom8. marble-topped metal quatrefoil table | living room
9. 1950s Italian wall lanterns | dining room
10. antique giltwood mirror | bedroom
Tricia xo
* photos by Kevin Allen, Tricia Huntley & P.Cole
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Tricia’s 10: Before & Afters
Everyone loves a makeover. It’s no wonder shows like What Not to Wear, The
Biggest Loser and Extreme Makeover – Home Edition are so popular … “bettering”
and “beautifying” are America’s favorite pastimes. That’s probably why interior design
has such a following these days. It’s certainly the main reason I became a designer
myself. There is nothing more satisfying than transforming an ugly duckling into a
swan and I do it for a living. I’m a pretty lucky girl. And with this fortuitous career
comes a bevy of photos recording my redesigns over the years. You can’t always
get that perfect before-and-after shot, but when you do, what fun it is to see!
1. Powder Room | Washington Design Center Showhouse
2. Foyer | Arizona Retreat
3. Den | Arizona Retreat
4. Foyer | Georgetown Pied-à-Terre
5. Kitchen | Georgetown Pied-à-Terre
6. Living & Dining | Penn Quarter
7. Dressing Room | Harbor Penthouse
8. Dining Room | Virginia Manor
9. Foyer | Maryland Countryside
10. Family Room | Maryland Countryside
Tricia xo
* photos by Kevin Allen and Tricia Huntley
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Tricia’s 10: Skincare
Lately I have been giving a lot of skincare advice to friends. Most of it has been
by request – which I take as a huge compliment – but I do admit to the occasional
unsolicited tip as well. I really just want to be of service. I’ve spent a lifetime (and I do
mean from my grammar school days) reading articles about skincare, testing products
and seeking my own advice from professionals. I’m by no means a guru and I certainly
don’t understand the science behind most of the products on the market, but I do know
what works*. It’s taken a long time for me to find the right skincare regimen and heaven
knows that the trial and errors along the way have been expensive at times. So why not
share my knowledge and save all my girls the effort. Enjoy … and take care of that skin!
1. Cleanser
Lemon Oil Cleansing Balm – Fresh
Cleans but doesn’t strip and leaves skin wonderfully soft.
This is the product for anyone with combination skin.
2. Serum
C E Ferulic Serum – SkinCeuticals
Skincare professionals always recommend that you exfoliate. The acids
in this serum do so in a gentle way while providing antioxidants. I alternate
throughout the year between this formula and the Hydrating B-5 Gel.
3. Eye Cream
The Eye Balm Intense – LaMer
If you have to splurge on one item, this is it. The skin around my eyes
takes a beating because I wear concealer everyday (dark circles are a
true curse!). This cream is a lifesaver and subtracts years from my face.
4. Skin Cream
Flawless Repair Day Crème with SPF 15 – Laura Mercier
A newer product and recent discovery. It’s pricey, so I can’t always
fork over the dough for this moisturizer. But when I do, I see an
immediate difference and receive compliments galore a la “Your
skin absolutely glows.” What could be better than that?!
5. Facial Scrub
Sweep – Remède
This super fine exfoliant won’t scratch delicate skin.
6. Mask
Kanitc Mask – Alchimie Forever
Besides softening skin, this mask also calms redness with luscious
blueberry. It smells good enough to eat! If you live in DC, schedule a
facial appointment at the Alchimie Forever spa. My beautiful friend Ada
is the brains behind this brand, so it’s worth the wait for an appointment.
7. Blemish Treatment
Baume Purifiant – Darphin
This balm (a consistency that’s not for everyone) is effective
in that it gets to the root of the problem vs. drying out the surface.
8. Sunscreen – chest & hands
Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sun Protection SPF 55 – Neutrogena
It’s easy to forget the skin on my chest and hands. Plus I don’t
like to apply heavy cream on these areas. This sunscreen is
strong but lightweight enough that I don’t even know I’m wearing it.
9. Sunscreen – body
Daily Mosturizing Lotion with SPF 15 – Aveeno
I’m a big fan of Aveeno; I use a lot of their products. This one
is a no-brainer. I just slather it on after toweling off at the end of
every shower and I’m protected and moisturized for the day.
10. Hand Cream
Hand Relief – Aveda
The skin on my hands is significantly drier than any other part of my
body. I give it extra care with a rich hand cream morning and night.
I like this formula because it’s not greasy and has a nice light scent.
Plus, it’s a Minnesota brand ; )
Tricia xo
* Caveat: I’m not a skincare professional!
All recommendations are based on personal use and my own specific skin type. Always
take your personal skin and medical history into consideration when selecting products.
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Lighten Up
I had a few inches chopped from my mane this week. My hair usually reaches the middle of
my back, so now that it’s skimming my collarbone, I feel lighter, brighter, better. I’ve embraced all
things cumbersome the last several years – heavy fabrics, chunky jewelry, pattern on pattern – and I
think I’ve had enough. I’m ready to streamline and elevate my fashions, my interiors, my entire sense
of style. The layering, the eccentric colors; I’ve loved it all. But it may be time to move on … for now.
Tricia xo
row one: Mathias Dahlgren, Aerin Lauder, Hotel Claude Passart, Plaza Tower Atlanta
row two: Loop Candelabra, Katie Leede & Company, Chris Benz resort 2011, Sills Huniford
row three: Lady Grey, Loewe Fall 2010, Nestor Santa-Cruz, Koton Fall 2010
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A Love Letter to my Mother
As we all know, Mothers’ Day is Sunday. An important day despite those who chalk it
up to a Hallmark fabrication. What could be more valuable than honoring the woman
who brought you into the world? For me, that woman is Bonnie Dickinson Huntley.
AKA, Bonnie Lou. In terms of mother-daughter similarities, there aren’t many. She is
a petite five feet tall, has dark hair, blue eyes and a sweet, effervescent demeanor. Me,
not so much. I’m 5’-7”, fair, brown-eyed, feisty and ambitious. She would tell you that
comes from my father (and she’d be right). But because of our differences, I think we have
a more dynamic perspective of each other than if we were alike. As we grow older, that view
grows more lucid as does our appreciation (well, mine certainly), for each other. I was just
with my parents in Arizona for the Easter holiday, and I can sum up my visit in one word:
entertaining. My parents’ interactions and idiosyncrasies had me in stitches. So much so
that I started taking notes. Which got me to thinking. Our visits are fewer and our time
together is diminishing … I should be “taking notes” more often. But more importantly, I
should let my parents know how much I love them and value them – despite our differences.
– Twelve Things I Love About My Mother –
1. Her name suits her to a “T”.
2. She has no idea how beautiful she is.
3. She has retained a sense of innocence and sweetness despite inconceivable losses.
4. She worked full-time to put my father through college while having twin infant sons at home.
5. She somehow survived the insanity of raising three wild boys and one high-strung daughter.
6. When faced with a snarky checkout clerk at the local grocer, my mother will make the effort
to cheer her up and turn her mood around rather than returning the hostility in kind. Of course
the people behind her in line would prefer a little more indifference and a lot less kumbaya.
7. Despite being a devout Christian, she posts notes like the one below on her fridge.
8. She found our relatives in Norway. But not on the internet. She flew to Trondheim, researched historical
records in a half dozen libraries, took a ferry to the island of Averoy and then knocked on doors until she
happened upon a local teacher/historian who knew my mother’s relatives. So excited and charmed by her
efforts, the man drove my parents to the home of our second cousins and introduced my mother to her extended
Norwegian family. Our cousins have since visited us in the U.S. and many of us are connected on Facebook.
9. She loves everyone and everyone loves her.
10. She doesn’t swear, thought Pat Boone was cool and couldn’t care less about fashion.
Our DNA connection is definitely questionable sometimes.
11. She has always stood by me – even when I made decisions that were hard to accept or painful to watch.
12. Being her only child without a child of her own, my mother asks about Nina whenever she calls
me, refers to her as her “grandpup” and always mentions her in the annual Christmas card.
Thanks Mom. Happy Mothers’ Day!
Daughter xo
Bonnie Lou’s first mothers’ day
with her daughter (me!).
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The Princess Bride
Today is one very important day for one very lucky girl. If becoming a princess is lucky that is.
Kate Middleton weds Prince William today and much of the world will be watching. Brits, Royal-enthusiasts
and wedding aficionados will be tuning in by the millions to see what the bride has in store for us. I do like the
princess-to-be. She’s pretty and polished and seems to have a gracious sensibility about her. But fashionable?
Let’s not get carried away. If I could, I would love to give her a makeover and style her on her wedding day.
Plausible? No. But that’s what you gotta’ love about a blog. I can indulge my fantasies right here on the internet.
Below I’ve pulled together what I think would be the perfect look for Ms. Middleton on her wedding day. Guess it’s
time to add a new title to my resume … “Tricia Huntley: Imaginary Stylist to HRH Princess Catherine of Wales”.
– The Dress –
A perfect fusion of traditional elegance and youthful modernism. This mermaid-style, lace dress
would be a stunner on the thin, brunette bride who likes simplicity and form-fitting silhouettes.
Elie Saab Ceres dress
– The Veil –
Considering the formality of the occasion, I would recommend a floor length veil. But if
the bride were more comfortable with tea length (and royal protocol allowed for it), then
the veil at left would look just as beautiful with the Elie Saab dress as the one at right.
Homa Bridal spring 2011 collection veils
– Shoes & Bag –
Intricate handiwork and one-of-a-kind details are what make these accessories fit for a
[future] queen. I love the idea of these pumps peaking out from beneath the hem of
the ivory lace gown. And the beading and stonework of the bag is just incredible.
Manolo Blahnik heels and Larissa Barrera evening bag
– Jewelry –
Jewelry is very personal and much more of a moving target than the dress. What would I suggest
for a young bride on the cusp of royalty? Pieces that are exquisite, but simple. And I would keep
it to a minimum. The bride’s look will live in infamy, so nothing flashy. A pair of platinum, diamond and
coral pendant earrings along with an antique cameo brooch pinned in the hair at the chignon. Beautiful,
unique pieces that complement the sapphire engagement ring that is at once impressive and sentimental.
Lalique Salome Brooch (1904) and Cathy Waterman earrings
– Makeup & Hair –
For Kate’s makeup, I would suggest rosy cheeks, pale lips and soft eyes. And absolutley no black
eyeliner! For hair, a low sideswept chignon is a chic and contemporary alternative to a traditional updo.
makeup by Estee Lauder
Congratulations go out across the pond to the royal couple on their wedding day.
Keep calm, BE HAPPY and carry on.
Tricia xo
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Tipping the Scales
What happens when you take the Caribbean sun, add a weeklong sailing trip and throw in a
pasty lass of northern European* decent? You get one crispy chic. My trip to Guadeloupe
and Isle des Saints was fabulous. We had gorgeous weather - cloudless skies, bright blue
water and gentle breezes. Just what the doctor ordered. But maybe not the dermatologist.
I often mention how much care I take with my skin. I wear sunblock everyday and haven’t
spent dedicated time in the sun since I was twenty. The problem? When I do go in the sun,
I fry up faster than bacon in a skillet. So although I do have a healthy glow about me, I’m
also starting to peel. Unhealthy and gross, but not without some humor. In light of my flaky,
peeling appearance, I figured I would feature all things scaly and reptilian this week. I love
texture – I just prefer to see it on stilettos and handbags and not so much on my face.
– Handbags –
left: vintage (top), Temperley London (bottom)
middle: Alexander McQueen (top), Bottega Veneta (bottom)
right: Amber & Babzoe (top), Lanvin (bottom)
– Footwear –
clockwise from top left: Dior, Roberto Cavalli,
Elizabeth & James and Fendi
– Fashion –
left to right: Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Zara
– Furnishings –
top left & bottom right: Huntley & Co. custom collection
bottom left: David Iatesta
top right & bottom middle: R&Y Augousti
Wishing you (and your skin!) a safe and festive season of sun.
Tricia
* Norwegian, German, English & Irish ; )
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Swan Song
My vacation officially starts Wednesday at 9:30AM. Hallelujah! I’ve heard
“You need a vacation” a little too often lately, so clearly it’s time to get the
hell out of Dodge. Luckily, my partner-in-crime has a good friend with a Swan
51 sailboat currently docked in Guadeloupe that’s just waiting for some guests.
Drift around, sip cocktails, eat good food and explore the island. BRING IT ON!
So in the spirit of checking out physically, mentally and socially – all you’re going
to get from me today is a hello and goodbye … and, of course, a couple of teasers.
Guadeloupe
Swan yachts gather in the Caribbean.
Me in T-minus 24 hours.
See ya!
Tricia xo
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Quips and Quotes
This week I stumbled upon several meaningful quotes while thumbing through newspapers
and magazines. It was like finding water in the desert. I dedicate so much time to visual
consumption that I have neglected one of my first passions … the written word, I love a well-
crafted phrase. The right combination of words can be truly magical – evoking sentiment, laughter,
insight or inspiration. I may produce a blog about “all things design” – that I admit is 85% photos –
but I do consider the words as important as the images. Hopefully I engage my readers with each
opening paragraph by delivering a thoughtful, humorous and/or compelling statement that reaches
them as much as the subsequent eye candy. I guess I’ll find out when I review the stats for this
post since it’s heavy on prose and light on pics. With that in mind, I should probably cease typing
my amateur novella and bring you the words of those much wiser, wittier and emboldened than I.
– Career / Success –
“By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail.”
– Benjamin Franklin
“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes of your goals.”
– Henry Ford
“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”
– Jim Rohn
“Nothing bothers me more than people who suck up and scream down.”
– Katie Couric
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”
– Winston Churchill
– Humor –
“Behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes.
– Jim Carrey
“Guilt, the gift that keeps on giving.”
– Erma Bombeck
“Great ideas often start on cocktail napkins. Especially when you consider a large vodka martini a great idea.”
– Advertisement for The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas ; )
– Love –
“If you press me to say why I loved him, I can say no more than because he was he, and I was I.
– Michel de Montaigne
“Love does not dominate; it cultivates.”
– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence.”
– H,L. Mencken
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
– Lao Tzu
– Life & Wisdom –
“Common sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom.”
– Samuel Taylor Coleridge
“Be polite to all, but intimate with few.”
– Thomas Jefferson
“Wise men make more opportunities than they find,”
– Francis Bacon
“I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.”
– Lucille Ball
– Writing That Inspires –
My taste in writing is about as random as my taste in movies, music and art. If there is a
common thread among the writers below, I don’t know what it is. They’re just all so good!
Jane Eyre was the first book I read that made me sob aloud uncontrollably.
I love a good fright and Poe knows how to build suspense and fear like no one else.
Quite possibly the funniest !@%$#% person alive. Just looking at the bookcover above makes me laugh.
I have devoured his first three books – The Tipping Point, Blink and Outliers – so What The Dog Saw is a must read.
And since we're on the subject of writing …
Thank you to the following blogs for their recent accolades and mentions.
Bijou and Boheme c/o Breakfast at Toast,
for the "Stylish Blogger Award".
Thrilled to be recognized by such talents! Tricia xo
THE MUSINGS OF DESIGNER TRICIA HUNTLEY
