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With Memorial Day weekend upon us (crazy!), I thought it felt like the right moment to put together a resortwear edit. Partly because summer is beginning to shimmer on the horizon, and partly because this is one of those holiday weekends when the sales roll in and the price is, at least in theory, a little more right. For anyone who has a trip coming up, a beach weekend on the calendar, or simply a desire to dress as though they might be swept off to the Amalfi Coast at any given moment, this one is for you.

But I didn’t want this to be just any resortwear roundup. I wanted it to have a little mermaid edge, though perhaps in the more restrained, grown-up sense. Less obvious seashell bra, more sea-swept glamour. This is an elevated edit of neutrals, soft shades, inky darker tones, solids, and classic pieces that can be mixed and matched easily when you want to feel polished without overthinking it.

Think gauzy coverups, crisp whites, sandy linens, liquid silks, pearly little details, netted textures, raffia, shell-like shimmer, barely-there sandals, and the occasional darker piece that feels like the mysterious deep end of the lagoon. Pieces that belong in the suitcase of someone who spends half her time at a beach club and the other half being mistaken for a mermaid with excellent taste. Lots of high-low energy, with some vintage accessories added in, of course. I also own several of the pieces included here, so this is not just me admiring from the shore. You can also shop the entire edit and so many more spring and summer wears on my ShopMy.

Let’s dive in!

1. Pearlized Conch Shell Necklace / 2. Zara Crochet Sleeveless Top / 3. Metal Shell Pendant Necklace / 4. Palorosa Small Basket / 5. Dalma Wide-Leg Balloon Pant / 6. Bondi Born Mackinley One-Piece Swimsuit / 7. Montce Draped Satin Beach Cover-up / 8. Zara Flat Leather Sandal / 9. White Leather Anabel Sandals

1. Zara Embroidered Top / 2. Mayamar Bold Shell Bangle / 3. Frame Crochet Boxy Top / 4. Iraca Palm Handmade Bag / 5. Tory Burch Gemini Link Jelly Flip-Flops / 6. Mango Wide Leg Trousers / 7. Large Tassel Pendant Necklace / 8. Rumored Tidal Short / 9. Thaikila Evanescence Bag / 10. Staud Natural Willa Flat

1. Destree Pink Mini Bag with Passementerie Detail / 2. Chan Luu Scallop Twist Cord Necklace / 3. Leset Barb V Neck Shell / 4. Hyacinth House Pearl Shells Disco Tank / 5. Reformation Imogen Flat Sandal / 6. Doen Lavon Fringe Pant / 7. Leset Barb Slip Skirt / 8. Mango Strappy Heeled Sandals / 9. Organic Freshwater Pearl Pendant Necklace

Small gestures are also the most meaningful: tap the heart, comment, or share. Thank you for reading!

1. Mango Textured Crop Top / 2. 1960s Pink Faux Pearl Clip Earrings / 3. J.Crew Claudia Scrunchie One-piece / 4. J.Crew Freshwater Pearl Anklet / 5. COS Crinkled Satin Dress / 6. Vintage Vivant by Sarne Mini Bag / 7. Aritzia Lodge Satin Short / 8. 1960s Mantessa Italian Summer Handbag / 9. Reformation Pina Flat Sandal

1. Zara Fringed Knit Top / 2. ZW Collection Vented Midi Skirt / 3. Vintage Beaded Evening Handbag / 4. Julietta Nacre Shell Necklace / 5. ZW Collection Flowy Oyster Shirt / 6. Lizzie Fortunato Gala Bag in Sunburst / 7. Dolce Vita Jam Mocha Jelly Flats / 8. Doen Iona Short

1. Vintage Brass Triple Fish Hair Clip / 2. TKEES Foundations Matte Flip Flops / 3. Zara Mirror Rib Top / 4. Velvet Canyon Heirlooms Sunglasses / 5. Mango A-Line Linen Dress / 6. Vintage 1960s Raffia Purse / 7. Maison Magdalena Cruise Trousers / 8. Hunza G Sadie One-Piece Swimsuit / 9. Brinker + Eliza La Mer Bracelet

1. Lisa Marie Fernandez Seersucker Bikini / 2. Julietta Brown Asty Necklace / 3. Zara Round Neck Beach Bikini Top / 4. Zara Paper Woven Hat / 5. Sam Edelmen Shira Woven Ballet Flat / 6. Chan Luu Capri Crocheted Wrap Skirt / 7. Mango Beaded Bag / 8. Zara Long Linen Beach Sarong / 9. Skall Edgar Shorts / 10. Anni Lu Gold-Plated Golden Shell Pendant Necklace

1. Margaux Wrap Sandal / 2. Ben-Amun Exclusive La Isla Silver-Plated Necklace / 3. Merlette Josette Top / 4. Aqua Shell Embellished Bag / 5. Massimo Dutti Flowing Midi Dress / 6. Chan Luu Dupioni Straight Leg Pant Taupe / 7. Mango Spiral Necklace / 8. Vix Alexa Vivian Bikini / 9. Elisa JohnsonLyna Gloss Sunglasses / 10. 1940s Crochet and Floral Frame Purse

Whether you’re packing for an actual trip, refreshing a few warm-weather pieces while the sales are swirling, or simply romanticizing the idea of becoming someone who spends the summer near water, I hope this edit brings a little inspiration. A few easy classics, a few pearly details, a little linen, a little shimmer, and perhaps just enough siren energy to make even the most practical suitcase feel slightly enchanted. Here’s to dressing for the season ahead like the ocean might call at any moment.

Ta ta,
Natalie

ShopMy | Design Studio | Instagram | Pinterest

Worth Noting is a newsletter devoted to beautiful things, interiors, design, and curated collections rooted in all that I love. Entirely reader-supported. No sponsors, no ads. If you enjoyed, please like, comment, share, or subscribe if you have not already. Thank you endlessly for reading!

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Readers, if you were to take even the quickest little peek into my closet, you’d find a sea of white embroidery, lace frills, and crochet weaving. I am, admittedly, not one to shy away from buying one too many tops or dresses that someone else might claim “look exactly the same.” To which I say: how dare you. After all, each piece, while some lovely shade of white, cream, or soft ivory, is entirely its own creature. A different floral embroidery. A slightly sweeter scallop. A more romantic sleeve. A daintier woven detail. These are important distinctions, people.

And should you open the drawers of my curio cabinet, you’d find stacks of gorgeous antique and handmade white table linens, embroidered, crocheted, and laced within an inch of their lives. I absolutely adore using them to set the table for dinner parties throughout the year. They are the sort of classic, heirloom pieces one can and should carry forever, then eventually pass down to someone who will hopefully understand the gravity of a good napkin.

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There’s just something fantastically romantic about anything of this nature. Slipping into something feminine and intricate makes me feel instantly more alive, as though I should be frolicking through a field of flowers, wandering the English countryside, or at the very least dramatically carrying a basket somewhere. These pieces have a way of making the everyday feel a little more storybook. A white eyelet blouse with jeans. A crochet bag tossed over the shoulder. A lace-trimmed pillowcase waiting at the end of the day. Tiny details, yes, but tiny details are often where all the magic lives.

You may remember that I’ve devoted an entire post to last summer to The Romance of Whitework Embroidery, because apparently I am nothing if not consistent in my devotion to tiny white stitches.

This one dipped more into the history and charm of white-on-white embroidery, from crisp cottons and linens to the whole pastoral, Jane Austen-adjacent fantasy of it all. Today’s post is a bit more of a free-for-all shopping round-up of all the delicate white things currently fluttering around my brain like a very well-dressed ghost.

Let’s indulge the obsession properly: white embroidery, lace, crochet… oh my. A roundup of pretty pieces for wearing, carrying, hosting, nesting, and generally romanticizing one’s life with the sort of delicate little treasures that make spring and summer feel instantly softer.

And naturally, we must begin in the closet, where this obsession is perhaps most delightfully unruly. White embroidered dresses, little lace-trimmed tops, crochet bags, sweet summer shoes, scalloped shorts, gauzy skirts, cotton pants, and all the tiny details that make getting dressed feel like an occasion, even if the occasion is simply “I would like to feel pretty while running errands.”

These are the pieces that instantly soften an outfit and make the whole thing feel a bit more considered. A white blouse with denim, an embroidered dress with sandals, a crochet tote tossed over one shoulder like you’ve just returned from the market with peaches and flowers. Easy, romantic, and just a little dramatic in the way all the best summer pieces should be.

I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of this Noa Skirt from Sézane, which feels like exactly the sort of piece this entire post was made for. It’s a long embroidered linen skirt with placed ecru embroidery along the front, a belted gathered waist, and the sweetest scalloped hem. Very “I packed one perfect skirt for the countryside and somehow became the main character by lunch.”

I also love the idea of using a pretty crochet or lace collar appliqué to breathe new life into an otherwise simple top. Imagine this stitched onto a plain white tank, layered over the front of a cotton blouse, or even added to the back of a basic tee for a little unexpected “oh, this old thing?” drama. It’s such an easy way to make something feel more personal and one-of-a-kind, like a tiny bit of antique-shop magic sewn straight into your closet.

This hand-crocheted tunic makes my brain start rearranging an entire imaginary vacation wardrobe. While it may have once lived a very different life, I can so clearly picture it reworked as the most romantic swim coverup: thrown over a simple white or black suit, sleeves catching the breeze, openwork crochet doing all the hard work. Very “I’ll be down by the water if anyone needs me.”

A small call-out to embroidered pouches, lingerie bags, and pretty little travel cases, because even the tiniest chaos deserves a lovely place to land. I love these in particular from Heimāt Atlántica for tucking away underpinnings, swimsuits, jewelry, nightgowns, or all the small things that usually disappear into the abyss of a suitcase. They feel like the modern version of a trousseau piece: practical, personal, and sweet enough to make packing for even one night away feel a little more cinematic.

Small gestures are also the most meaningful: tap the heart, comment, or share. Thank you for reading!

And of course, the obsession does not stop at the closet. It spills quite happily into the home, where white embroidery, lace, crochet, and cutwork feel especially at ease. I love a tablecloth with a an intricate edge, a stack of embroidered napkins, a lace placemat tucked beneath a dinner plate, or a doily doing the very important work of making a wine glass, candle, dish of butter, or bowl of strawberries look instantly more considered. So many affordable pieces across Etsy to be found!

And then there are the pillows: little lace-trimmed cases, embroidered shams, crochet-edged cushions, and all the soft white details that make a bed, sofa, or reading chair feel like it belongs in some sun-dappled guest room with the windows cracked open. These are the pieces that make a home feel tender and intentional. A little old-fashioned, perhaps, but in the best possible way.

This little tablecloth deserves its own spotlight. It’s vintage from the 1950s with hand-embroidered flowers, crochet edges, and threadwork detailing… essentially the tabletop equivalent of a very pretty white blouse. Small enough for a bistro table, card table, breakfast nook, or layered over a larger cloth, but special enough to make even a casual glass of wine and a bowl of olives feel like an occasion.

If you find yourself helpless in the face of a scalloped edge, I’ve gathered everything featured here, along with plenty more, into one big roundup on my ShopMy. Consider it a little treasure chest for anyone craving a softer, prettier, more romantic summer.

What I love most about these pieces is how transformative they are. None of them ask for much, really. A little texture, a little threadwork, a flutter of lace, and suddenly the whole mood shifts. The table feels more cared for. The outfit feels more personal. The suitcase feels less chaotic. So here’s to the pieces that make the everyday feel sweeter, slower, and more considered. And to opening the good drawer whenever possible!

Enjoy your Sunday,
Natalie

ShopMy | Design Studio | Instagram | Pinterest

Worth Noting is a newsletter devoted to beautiful things, interiors, design, and curated collections rooted in all that I love. Entirely reader-supported. No sponsors, no ads. If you enjoyed, please like, comment, share, or subscribe if you have not already. Thank you endlessly for reading!

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In a twist I truly did not see coming, I had jury duty and was actually selected for a criminal trial. Fascinating? Absolutely. A genuinely valuable experience? Yes. But also wildly disruptive to normal life and mentally exhaustive. Trying to juggle that, then come home and immediately catch up on work, emails, deadlines, and the general machinery of everyday life has left me completely drained. So today feels a bit like resurfacing.

For more virtual antiquing see…

I’m finally free to slip back into my usual rhythm, ease into a proper workday again, and start feeling like myself. Which means I’m keeping things intentionally simple today with a fresh Curio Cabinet filled with 20 newly dug up treasures for under $200. A little antique browsing, a few beautiful finds, and something pleasantly low-pressure while I gather my thoughts and slowly piece my routine back together.

Honestly, it feels like exactly the kind of day for it. Enjoy the browse!

A silver-tone Art Deco calla lily candle holder ($20) with such an elegant, elongated silhouette. The sculptural flower stem gives it that perfect balance of softness and glamour, like something lifted from an old Hollywood dressing table. Beautiful with tapers and a little candlelight.

Delicate filet lace and hand-embroidered tulips make this vintage runner and placemat set ($36) feel timeless. The ivory cotton and intricate drawnwork have that heirloom quality that instantly softens a table. The sort of piece that makes an everyday meal feel just a little more special.

A 1960s Walborg raffia handbag ($80) in the chicest deep black weave. The braided detailing and little gold feet give it such polished charm, striking that perfect balance between ladylike and slightly bohemian. I can so easily picture this with linen in the summer or an oversized coat come autumn.

A vintage Hutschenreuther porcelain pedestal bowl ($70) with the prettiest curled handles and classic proportions. The crisp white finish keeps it feeling fresh, while the pedestal base gives it that elegant, old-world presence. Beautiful styled with fruit, moss, or simply left empty to let the silhouette shine.

This petite pair of basket weave ceramic lamps ($125) is almost impossibly charming. The ginger jar shape keeps them classic, while the woven texture adds just enough sweetness and dimension. They feel very Bunny Mellon to me somehow, polished but relaxed, making a room feel thoughtful and lived in.

This woven metal basket handbag ($110) has that unmistakable 1950s cocktail-hour glamour. The silver-tone weave catches the light beautifully, while the clear handle gives it such a striking, almost futuristic touch. I can instantly picture it with satin, lipstick, and a tiny pair of kitten heels. So chic.

A heavy antique urn ($55) with the kind of beautifully aged patina that simply cannot be replicated. The shape is substantial enough to make a statement whether filled with flowers or even sea life (like the ones in my apartment) or left entirely on its own. Pieces like this always make a space feel more storied.

A sterling silver shell cameo bracelet ($100) with beautifully graduated panels that feels timeless. The delicate carvings and soft patina give it that old-world romanticism I never tire of. This type of jewelry instantly makes an outfit feel more collected and personal.

This nineteenth-century Napoleon III pyrogène ($98) is the sort of little antique object I completely lose my mind over. The lacquered papier-mâché, gold stars, and dark finish feel celestial, almost like a miniature piece of old-world theater. Small, yes, but overflowing with charm and character.

A pair of vintage Baroque-style brackets ($175) with all the scrolling acanthus detail I love. The crisp alabaster finish keeps them feeling fresh rather than overly ornate, and I adore the idea of just using them as decorative hangings (similar to the two on either side of my mantel). Architectural details like this make a room feel instantly more layered and collected.

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I’ve been absolutely aching to put together another dinner party guide, and this one may be a new favorite. There’s something about spring that makes me really want to lean in and get social. As always, I wanted this guide to feel inspiring but still approachable, with a bit less brainstorming on your part, since I’ve already fallen down the rabbit hole of inspiration and moodboards for us both.

Grab your coffee, settle in somewhere comfortable, and let’s dive into a little spring dinner party planning together. Press play for Be With Me Always, a favorite from the new Wuthering Heights soundtrack, as you read to set the mood a bit.

If you’re not currently a paid subscriber, upgrade now for $5/month to access the full dinner party guide, including downloadable and customizable invitation and menu templates, tablescape and décor sourcing, playlists, recipes, a grocery list, and all the inspiration needed to bring it to life yourself!

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This gathering feels like a gentle drift into another time… somewhere between a sunlit drawing room and a countryside afternoon. Inspired by the romance of the 18th century and the beauty of early spring, it borrows from the softness of Austen, the indulgent charm of Marie Antoinette, and the kind of storybook settings where everything feels just a touch more magical than real life.

But rather than leaning fully ornate, this is a quieter interpretation… a pared-back, modern take on Rococo and neoclassical beauty. The silhouettes remain, the romance lingers, but everything is softened, simplified, and made a bit more livable and modern. Less grandeur, more ease. Less opulence, more intention.

The palette leans light and luminous: ivories and soft dusty pinks, layered with subtle greens if desired. Texture plays an important role… cool silver, stone, and delicate fabrics working together to create depth. Florals feel softly romantic, sometimes painterly rather than perfectly arranged, with an emphasis on ease. The overall effect is gentle and considered.

Every beautiful gathering begins with an invitation, and for this one, it should feel like a small composition… something that nods to the past while still feeling fresh and light.

The design draws from neoclassical ornamentation… delicate flourishes subtle architectural motifs. But rather than leaning fully ornate, it’s all brought into the present with a few thoughtful contrasts. A modern, playful script lends a handwritten feel… slightly imperfect, a touch whimsical, and just relaxed enough to keep the design from feeling too precious. Beneath it all, a plaid backdrop adds an unexpected layer of charm… a bit of structure, a bit of playfulness, and a gentle nod to something more current.

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Readers, I am indeed alive and well. Though my recent silence may have suggested otherwise, I’ve taken a couple of weeks away… first unintentionally, and then quite deliberately. I slipped down to our Vero Beach home “just for a few days” and, as these things tend to go, found myself unable to leave. The weather has been impossibly beautiful, and with work easily done from here, I saw no real reason to rush back. I changed my flight.

And truly, there is something about stepping away from the constant hum of screens that feels restorative. My free hours have been filled with books, sun, salt air, dining alfresco, and the occasional languid nap out on the lanai. Long walks beneath the palms, a rotation between sea and pool, and that particular ease that only comes from having nowhere urgent to be. It’s been heavenly… I shan’t brag any longer.

As ever, there comes a moment when the pull of home returns. My own bed in DC, my own rhythm, a bit of solitude again. I adore my family, of course, but I’ve never been one to resist the charm of my own company. So tonight, I head back to the city, and it feels like the right moment to return here as well. A new month, the first Sunday, and with it, a fresh Worth Noting.

I have a particularly lovely mix to share this time, a plethora of home tours (as per usual), a few articles I’ve been mulling over, and other delights gathered this past month. Settle in and enjoy this month’s beautiful things worth noting.

Keeping this personal update brief, as a few more hours of relaxation are calling and I intend to answer!

San Francisco Decorator Showcase House
I always love seeing what designers do for the various showcases, and this year’s SF home is especially beautiful. There’s a thread of blue woven throughout that really caught my eye. The entryway by Kendall Wilkinson stopped me in my tracks! Such a striking moment, layered and inviting, setting the tone in the loveliest way. And the blue bedroom by Chantal Lamberto is a masterclass in fabric on fabric. SO CHIC and so much inspiration to soak in.

Moda Operandi with Molly Kidd
I loved this spring feature with Molly Kidd for Moda Operandi, set inside a charming 1930s Maryland cottage she thoughtfully restored. Her approach to spring feels so intuitive, opening windows, bringing in flowers, and letting everything feel a bit lighter and more breathable. I especially loved her philosophy that the outfit, table, and food should all feel connected, like they’re speaking the same language. And her kitchen is very cute!

Les Thèmes
I’ve followed Les Thèmes, curated by Rebecca Goddard, for quite some time now and am endlessly inspired by the beautiful mix of antique and vintage pieces she sources. Everything feels so thoughtfully chosen, but it’s really the styling that sets it apart. Elegant, a little unexpected, and full of character. The kind of shop that makes you want to rethink every corner of your home. Her drops are all themed and so incredibly intentional.

The Happiest Women in Their 70s Are Single
As a single person at 36, I have to say I love reading pieces like this (mom, don’t freak out). It explores how singlehood, once something to fear, is now being embraced as a genuinely fulfilling way of life. What stayed with me most is the sense of ease these women describe. Lives shaped on their own terms, full of friendship, freedom, and real contentment. Not to say I’m swearing off partnership, but I love seeing women redefine what it all can look like. The unbothered peace really resonates.

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But recently, after sharing a Cabana piece on legendary hostesses in my Worth Noting newsletter, I found myself thinking about it again. It felt like something worth returning to. Something worth dusting off and giving the attention it deserved from the start. I also like to weave in newsletters that are simply meant to be enjoyed, with no shopping links in sight (although a very appropriate one is included below). So today, I am bringing this back as a fresh installment, with many more fabulous tastemakers, creators, and designers in mind for the future.

Let me properly reintroduce this series, The Art of Aesthetics, and begin again with Deeda Blair…. revisited.

Most scientists are astonished by Deeda Blair’s style, and the style mavens are surprised by her scientific expertise. That is obvious to even the most casual observer of her life. If one penetrates those disparate worlds, however, one soon finds that neurobiologists credit her with helping them think through difficult questions, and that fashionistas must employ metaphors from 18th-century France to describe the impeccable way she dresses and entertains. — T Magazine

In the realm of style and sophistication, few names carry the weight and grace of Deeda Blair. A luminary in the worlds of philanthropy, interiors and style, and entertaining, Deeda has established herself as a beacon of timeless elegance with an unparalleled eye for beauty and refinement.

In fact, “elegance” seems to be THE word to describe Deeda. With a life steeped in art, culture, and diplomacy, she has cultivated a legacy that transcends mere aesthetics, embodying a philosophy that celebrates understated luxury and refinement both in how she decorates and lives her life.

Deeda’s background is as rich and storied as the elegant spaces she creates and occupies. Born in 1935, she would later marry diplomat and philanthropist William McCormick Blair Jr., immersing herself in a world of high society. Her early years were marked by a deep appreciation for the finer things in life, cultivated through exposure to the vibrant, high-powered social scenes of Washington, DC, prestigious medical-research gatherings, and her travels around the world.

Today, Deeda’s name is synonymous with timeless grace, her influence extending far beyond the walls of her meticulously curated homes to inspire tastemakers everywhere. What feels especially striking now is just how effortlessly she bridges worlds. The fashion set has long admired her for her impeccable, luxurious style, but she speaks with equal fluency on gene sequencing, neuroscience, and the future of mental health research.

Deeda’s approach to decorating is characterized by a discerning eye for detail and a deep respect for history and culture. Her interiors are a testament to the art of curation, where each piece, whether antique or new, finds its place in a carefully orchestrated symphony of design. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for incorporating personal touches, each room in her homes is a testament to her unique aesthetic sensibility.

Whether it's a cozy sitting area with plush furnishings and rich fabrics or a grand dining room with fine china and crystal, Deeda’s residences epitomize understated luxury with an air of simplicity adorning every room (a decorating style I can get behind).

Her Manhattan home, designed in collaboration with architect Daniel Romualdez, carries that same balance of restraint and refinement. The living room, washed in a soft, iridescent gray, reflects light in a way that feels almost shell-like, quiet but luminous.

In a 2022 interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Deeda spoke candidly about her preference for simplicity. She described beginning with collections, porcelain among them, and slowly refining what remained. A guest once remarked on how serene and peaceful her living room felt. Another pointed out the empty walls, suggesting space for more art. Her response was simple. She does not hang pieces unless they are exactly what she wants. And so, she leaves the space open. She loves the emptiness.

It is a philosophy that feels increasingly rare. One rooted in patience and conviction. One that I have certainly tried to adopt myself.

Across the many images of her homes, one detail appears again and again. Her floral arrangements.

There is an artistry to the way she approaches them. An understanding of color, proportion, and movement that transforms even the simplest stems into something extraordinary. Some arrangements feel abundant and expressive, others restrained and sculptural. All of them feel intentional.

Whether placed at the center of a dining table or tucked into a corner of a sitting room, her flowers bring a sense of life and lightness into the space. They are not decorative afterthoughts. They are part of the composition. For anyone who finds themselves pausing at a well-set table or a perfectly arranged bouquet, her work offers endless inspiration.

With an innate sense of hospitality, Deeda transforms gatherings into something far more memorable than a simple meal. Whether hosting a small dinner for close friends or a larger evening for a wider circle, she approaches entertaining with the same attention to detail seen throughout her life.

She once described entertaining as an art form. An opportunity to create moments of joy and connection. And that sentiment feels evident in every image and story that surrounds her. The table settings are thoughtful without feeling rigid. The menus considered without being overcomplicated. Each element works together to create an experience that lingers.

Her gatherings are not just beautiful, they are intentionally assembled. She has often spoken about the importance of “mixing” a table well, bringing together writers, scientists, artists, and thinkers, those with what she calls a kind of intellectual zig-zag, able to move between subjects with ease and curiosity.

There is a warmth beneath the refinement. A sense that the beauty of it all is meant to be shared.

Her sartorial style reflects much of the same sensibility.

Whether attending formal events or simply spending time in her garden, Deeda embodies an understated kind of chic. Her wardrobe leans toward tailored silhouettes, refined fabrics, and a palette that remains soft and controlled. Nothing feels excessive, yet everything feels complete.

There is a consistency to her style that makes it feel entirely her own. A silent confidence that does not rely on trend or excess, but on understanding what works and returning to it again and again.

Her look has remained remarkably consistent over the decades. The same softly sculpted bouffant, tailored silhouettes, and an instinct for what we might now call “quiet luxury,” long before it became a phrase. She is as likely to appear at a medical conference as she is at a dinner party, often impeccably dressed for both.

While her aesthetic life is endlessly inspiring, it is only one part of a much larger story.

Deeda’s philanthropic work is both extensive and deeply impactful. She has supported initiatives across healthcare, education, and the arts, with a particular focus on medical research. Her involvement with organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (NIH, speaks to a lifelong commitment to meaningful work.

In more recent years, her focus has turned even more intently toward the brain and the complexities of mental health. Following the loss of her son in 2004, Deeda directed her efforts toward advancing research in psychiatry and neuroscience, founding the Deeda Blair Research Initiative for Disorders of the Brain at the Foundation for NIH. Through this work, she has funded emerging researchers and championed new approaches to understanding mental illness.

She speaks about it with clarity and urgency, often describing mental health as one of the most pressing global public health challenges of our time, and insisting on the importance of acting now, not later.

Her actions add a layer of depth to everything else. A reminder that a beautiful life is not only about what is seen, but what is done.

In fact, all proceeds from her book Deeda Blair: Flood, Flowers, and Fantasy benefit the charitable initiatives Deeda cares about most. It offers a closer look into her world and is, quite honestly, one of the most beautiful coffee table books I have in my collection. Not just for its imagery, but for the way it invites you into her way of thinking. A blend of entertaining, storytelling, and lived experience that feels both aspirational and personal.

Deeda’s life reads like a carefully composed collection of moments. Travel, conversation, interiors, flowers, philanthropy. Each element contributing to something cohesive and considered.

There is also a subtle resilience that runs through her story. She has spoken about the way life reshapes itself after loss, how one chapter gives way to another, different but still meaningful. That sense of continuation, of purpose evolving rather than ending, feels central to the way she moves through the world.

The chicest thing about Deeda Blair is not simply how she lives, but perhaps what she has chosen to devote her life to! She is, simply put, a source of endless inspiration. A reminder to pay attention to the details, to move through the world with intention, and to create a life that feels as thoughtful as it looks.

And truly, what more could we ask for than that.

Hope you enjoyed the read!
Natalie

ShopMy | Design Studio | Instagram | Pinterest

Sources and further reading:
Deeda’s Book: Deeda Blair: Flood, Flowers, and Fantasy
Deeda Blair Is Still the Chicest Mind in the Room from Harpers Bazaar
Deck the Tables! 5 New York Tastemakers Share Their Seasonal Settings from Vogue
Deeda Blair: The Reigning Doyenne of American Taste from The Grand Tourist
Philanthropist and Socialite Deeda Blair Shares Her Philosophy on Style and Entertaining from Harpers Bazaar
Deeda Blair, Medical Philanthropist and Warhol Muse, Is Ready to Entertain You from Vanity Fair
At Home with Deeda Blair from Air Mail
Deeda Blair’s Elegance of Conviction from T Magazine

Worth Noting is a newsletter devoted to beautiful things, interiors, design, and curated collections rooted in all that I love. Entirely reader-supported. No sponsors, no ads. Only thoughtful finds, words, and inspiration, gathered with care. If you enjoyed, please like, comment, share, or subscribe if you have not already. Thank you endlessly for reading!

Subscribe now

I’m fully leaning into the splendor of spring at the moment. The city is washed in that soft, luminous green that arrives with new leaves, everything blooming, everything waking up. People are out again and there’s a buzz of energy that makes the whole place feel alive.

I won’t lie, I’ve been doing a fair bit of shopping lately as I clear out pieces that no longer fit and make room for what’s next. This is such a fun time of year to get dressed. Soft colors, airy fabrics, feminine details, flats and sandals, and those easy layers that still feel polished. It all feels lighter, in every sense.

I also spent a good portion of my weeknight evenings reworking my ShopMy wardrobe section, filling it with warm-weather finds and organizing everything a bit more thoughtfully. You can now browse by style, from everyday basics to more elevated pieces, resort, evening, and even lounging. I’m excited to keep building it out as the season unfolds. There’s so much goodness out there right now.

For today’s Linger List, I’ve gathered a mix of pieces that have been catching my eye lately. Think soft greens, delicate textures, a few shell accents, and plenty of easy, feminine additions for early spring. Happy browsing.

1. Alohas Naira Green Leather Ballet Flats • Spring shoes are on my mind, and these immediately stood out. I love the soft, unstructured shape and that easy, barefoot feel. The green leather adds something a bit unexpected, while the metal ring detail gives a subtle finish. Relaxed, simple, and just enough personality.

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I’m looking forward to catching up more on Sunday, but for now, a fresh Curio Cabinet awaits. A new round of antique finds, thoughtfully gathered and especially good this time. And all under $200.

As mentioned last month, I’ll be keeping part of these Curio Cabinets reserved for paid subscribers. About half of the finds will live behind the paywall going forward, with a selection still available here and on ShopMy as a little glimpse into the cabinet, if you will. You may also notice a new way to browse the collection below 🙌🏻. Enjoy!

Tall and sculptural, this polished trumpet-form vase ($53) makes a striking statement. The fluted lines catch the light beautifully, giving it movement and a subtle shine. At 24 inches high, it has real presence whether filled with branches or left empty to let that silhouette speak.

A vintage mid-century Greek key serving set ($20) that brings a bit of neoclassical polish to the table. The aluminum fork and spoon have a satisfying weight, and that classic motif adds just enough structure to elevate even the simplest salad moment.

A vintage Italian marble candleholder set ($42) that leans perfectly into that neoclassical charm without feeling overly themed. The weight, the stone, the neutral tone all give it a sense of permanence. Styled with simple tapers, it feels festive in the most understated, enduring way.

A striking French Daum glass lamp ($146) with that sculptural cross-foot base that immediately catches the eye. The glass has a soft clarity that feels both refined and modern, while still carrying that mid-century elegance. A beautiful way to add light with a bit of artistry.

Ornate and softly luminous, this Venetian-style etched mirror ($185) has that romantic, light-catching quality I’m always drawn to. The delicate detailing gives it presence without heaviness. Perfect for layering or letting it be a perfect dainty moment on its own.

Delicate and full of charm, these antique hand-embroidered muslin panels ($48) feature the sweetest simple floral motifs. Light, airy, and softly timeworn, they feel perfect for framing, layering over a table, or repurposing into something entirely your own, perhaps a spring top!

A handmade metal bird and flower wall sconce ($130 sale) with a wonderfully whimsical, almost storybook feel. The mix of florals and perched bird adds softness and movement, making it feel less like lighting and more like a small piece of wall sculpture!

Sleek and distinctly modernist, this set of vintage Italian knives ($44) has such an elegant, elongated silhouette. The gentle curve of the handles feels almost sculptural, while the polished finish keeps them crisp and refined. A beautiful way to elevate even the simplest table setting. Love.

A pair of decorative urns ($30) with a faux-stone finish that brings instant European grandeur without the weight. The garland detailing and fleur-de-lis finial give them that classical, slightly romantic feel. Perfect flanking an entryway or styled indoors for a bit of architectural drama.

A striking mix of lucite and silver plate gives these vintage candlesticks ($42) that perfect mid-century balance of lightness and shine. The clear columns keep them airy, while the reflective tops and bases add just enough polish. Clean, sculptural, and endlessly versatile across styles.

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Friendsss. Spring has arrived. Huzzah!

It’s Saturday evening as I write this and I feel, for lack of a better word, renewed. The kind of renewed that only comes from a perfect early spring day. Low seventies, bright sun, that impossibly pleasant kind of air that feels like a reward for surviving winter. It’s just turned dark and I…

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Thanks to the mysterious ways of the algorithm, I’ve recently been served an endless stream of extraordinarily beautiful beauty tools after searching for a few upgrades myself. And naturally, this sent me tumbling down a bit of a rabbit hole. What began as a practical search quickly turned into a small archive of wonderfully designed vanity objects.

From beautifully structured hairbrushes and sculptural combs to lovely cosmetic accessories, elegant grooming tools, and chic little cases to house them all, each thoughtfully made and far lovelier than your average bathroom drawer inhabitant. Consider this a small collection for the well-appointed vanity: pieces that elevate the everyday ritual, tame the countertop clutter, and make even the most ordinary routine feel just a touch more glamorous.

After all, these are the sorts of objects we reach for every single day. And if something earns that much use, it might as well be beautifully made, something classic, lasting, and a bit more satisfying than the usual pharmacy standby.

Few tools feel as satisfyingly precise as those of the manicure set. Nail clippers, glass files, and delicate cuticle instruments may be small, but they carry the subtle authority of well-made tools, designed to perform their task cleanly and beautifully. Whether tucked neatly into a case or resting on the vanity, these instruments turn routine upkeep into a small act of care. Don’t forget to browse the vintage tools across Etsy. They’re good.

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I’ve been wanting to share the kind of inspiration that sticks with me. Not necessarily a read, a brand, or a full home tour, but a single image. An outfit, a room, a detail, an item, a graphic. Th…

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Time and again I’ll stumble upon some exquisite antique… a perfectly worn console, a delicate mirror, a little side table with whimsical legs, or perhaps a neoclassical bowl… only to scroll down and see a price that makes my eye twitch. And lately? It’s not just the rare …

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Yesterday, how…

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Hello, readers! Happiest Sunday. I hope your weekend has been treating you well. I feel like I’ve been a bit MIA from the interwebs lately. Maybe it’s emotional exhaustion (I know I’m not alone), or maybe it’s because DC has been locked in its longest freezing streak since ’89. Snow followed by hours of icy rain, then temperatures so cold nothing ever f…

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