As the weather turns warmer, the spring/summer 2019 looks are showing up in stores and on the street. Woven leather is fast becoming the ubiquitous trend.

• 

The April 2019 issue of Architectural Digest features a wonderful “Object Lesson” article by Simon Upton of the origin of the iconic banana leaf/jungle wallpaper. The wallpaper used to be the only way to enjoy this tropical feast, but now you can purchase an iPhone case, robe, or beach towel with this iconic design at https://www.dorothydraperfw.com

We have all heard of Marie Kondo and her KonMari method. Some people have more of a hoarding tendency than others. Some are natural purgers. They see an item in their home that isn’t being used and feel no attachment to it. Out it goes to goodwill, the garbage or to a friend. I like to think that when I bring an item into my home, a corresponding one is removed. It doesn’t work perfectly (I do share my home, so it’s hard to make an unanimous decision.) I was very tired of my laundry room painted yellow walls and harsh fluorescent lighting. A little freshening was in order.

I am on the hunt for a shoe like the above Gucci which is past season and sold out. The one below is an available Sam Edelman and will have to do.

Tretorn, the simple Swedish canvas sneaker I knew first from the 1970’s tennis courts of summer camp are looking forward.

If I could only stop my own aging so I could actually find out if any of the skin care regimes I have been following throughout the years have been at all helpful in staving off wrinkles and/or gravity. The incessant movement into the future is preventing any perspective to judge the efficacy of my long term use of Tretinoin, microdermabrasion, serums and masks. What would my skin look like without all this crap– er, I mean, intervention? That being said, I welcome the Gua Sha to my tool box.

I am sensing an overalls trend– not your usual farmer kind but of elevated fabrics, understated or devoid of hardware.

Touring a designer show house is the best. So much to take in, so much from which to learn.

It can be overwhelming when other people are around you, commenting, or taking pics. If you go with a friend, you may feel rushed or judged. Agree to split up if need be. Take your time in each room. What may appear to not be your taste may offer a little unexpected gift of an idea you can use in your own home. Or, a quick meet with the designer can inform you of the inspiration or actual labor that went into the room.

Fascinating.

This year, I opted to work as a docent. It has given me more time in each room to simply be: to take in all the textures and details. It has also given me great people watching. Hearing what delights a visitor has given me new appreciation of something I dismissed.

Many bloggers have posted photos of this year’s house. Those photographs are a wonderful way to tour the home if you can’t make it in person. But if you can go in person, GO!!!

Kips Bay Decorator Show House, The Fountain House, 6215 Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach Saturday January 26th-February 20th, 2019. All proceeds from the show house benefit the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club and the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County.