The Schelter family skiing in Zermatt, Switzerland for Christmas - 1987. Kate is wearing the little red "bomber" in the middle. I first featured the extraordinary Kate Schelter back in June when I started my ‘style file’ profiles. Kate is one of those amazing women who can mix various looks and styles so effortlessly and always look impeccable.
It was through my connection with Kate that I came to know Tracy Smith (House of Lavande), Amy Lagae and then Victoria Amory. I love the circles that are woven through this wonderful world called blogging. I can’t wait to reflect on all the people I will meet in 2009 at this time next year.
My favorite gift to give this year?
I will give tiny TOMS to all my nieces and nephews as I prepare to go to Argentina in January for a shoe drop to donate thousands of shoes to kids in need.
My favorite gift to receive?
I don't need anything! The cheesy clichés is true: all I need is loving friends and family and colleagues and I'm happy. I get enough free-bees through work so I'm stocked! Or, if I want something I usually just get it for myself.
On a practical note, I want to finally buy myself an apartment in my building this year. Oh, and I want the Tony Duquette coffee table book!
My favorite way to celebrate the holidays?
Go far far far away from anything that's marketing Christmas - Maya Tulum or the Jamaica Inn. Or be with family around a fire.
My favorite luxury in life?
Having my own business. My time. Back rubs. First Class. Comfortable high heels. Finding a great deal. I'm a sucker for a bargain!
My favorite current book?
A Man in Full, by Tom Wolfe. I'm can't wait to read Malcolm Gladwell's new book, Outliers. He's one of my favorite living authors.
My favorite holiday song?
Chopin Nocturnes; Mozart played on a grand piano; Wes Anderson movie soundtracks always have very sweet songs (Mark Mothersbaugh); The Charlie Brown Christmas Special soundtrack (Vince Guaraldi)
My favorite party clothes?
Wolford fishnets, Alaia heels, sequined Gryphon jacket, lots of House of Lavande jewels, Cecelia stingray clutch.
My favorite cookie?
Cookie Dough (is yummier), but I prefer pie a la mode.
My favorite city?
NYC!!!! (Paris and Istanbul a very close second)
My favorite place to shop?
eBay and sample sales—straight from my favorite designers.
My favorite movie to watch again and again?
Sixteen Candles and Flight of the Concords DVDs
