The Edit
The Edit
Your Outdoor Styling Guide — Coastal Edition
You don't need to live by the water to feel like you do. Coastal outdoor design is all about capturing that easy, breezy feeling — the soft blues, the warm wicker, the light that seems to move differently on a well-styled patio. It's relaxed without being lazy, beautiful without being fussy, and honestly? It's easier to pull off than you might think. We put together five of our favorite styling tips, inspired by the season and the pieces we love most — so your garden, terrace, or balcony corner can feel like your own little slice of the coast this summer. The 5 Styling Tips 1. Start with a Coastal Color Palette Blues, aquas, whites, and sandy neutrals are the foundation of any coastal space. You don't need to repaint anything — a few well-chosen outdoor pillows, a rug in a soft stripe, or a planter in sea-washed white can shift the whole mood of a space. Think of color as the conversation your outdoor space is having with the sky above it. 2. Layer in Natural Textures Rattan, wicker, weathered wood, and woven materials are the textures that make a space feel organically coastal — grounded, warm, and connected to the natural world around it. The beauty of these materials is that they look better together. A rattan lounge chair next to a teak side table next to a woven pouf creates exactly the kind of effortless layering that makes a patio feel like it was styled rather than simply furnished. 3. Choose Furniture That Invites You to Stay Coastal living is about slowing down — and your outdoor furniture should make that feel natural. Deep-seated lounge chairs, generous sofas with plush cushions, adjustable loungers that follow the sun. The right outdoor chair isn't just beautiful; it's the reason you spend an extra hour outside on a Tuesday evening when you hadn't planned to. That's exactly the kind of furniture worth investing in. 4. Bring in the Botanicals No coastal space feels complete without greenery. Potted plants, trailing botanicals, clustered planters in varying sizes — these are the details that soften a space and make it feel genuinely alive. If you love the look but not the upkeep, our faux drop-ins are designed to look completely real through every season, no watering required. Style one in a beautiful ceramic planter and you're done. 5. Finish with the Right Accents Striped outdoor pillows. A woven basket. An outdoor rug that grounds the whole scene. The finishing touches in a coastal space are the ones that tell the story of the whole look — and they don't need to be literal (no anchor motifs required). The best coastal accents simply feel light, natural, and at home beneath an open sky. A little goes a long way, and the right piece in the right spot makes everything around it look better.
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Istanbul, Again — And Better Than Ever
This was my second trip to Istanbul. The first time, we traveled the Mediterranean — a sweeping, sun-drenched journey with Istanbul as one stop among many. This trip was different. This time, we stayed. We gave the city our full attention, and it gave us everything in return. Istanbul is one of those places that doesn’t let you go easily. It is layered in a way that takes time to appreciate, ancient and alive at once, generous in its beauty, and genuinely warm in its people. If you’ve been, you understand. If you haven’t, I hope this gives you a reason to go. Getting There: Turkish Airlines Let’s start at the beginning, because the journey matters. Turkish Airlines is, genuinely, one of the best airlines I’ve ever flown. The service is attentive without being intrusive. The food, and I say this as someone who has lowered their expectations considerably when it comes to airline meals was outstanding. From the presentation to the quality, it felt like a restaurant at 35,000 feet. If you’re flying to Istanbul from the US, I can’t recommend Turkish Airlines highly enough. It sets a tone for the whole experience before you’ve even arrived. Where We Stayed The Harem Suite, Çırağan Palace Kempinski There is staying somewhere, and then there is this. The Harem Suite at Çırağan Palace Kempinski is housed in a genuine Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus, with views of the historic Yıldız Park — once the private hunting forest of the Sultans. The suite itself is a maisonette-style duplex: two bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a kitchenette spread across two floors. Generous, calm, and impossibly beautiful. But what made the stay extraordinary wasn’t the architecture. It was the butler service. You have your own dedicated butler for the duration of your stay, available around the clock. They escort you wherever you need to go — on foot or by golf cart, depending on the distance. During our stay, they came to our door twice with carts, each time with something that stopped us in our tracks. The first visit: a cart filled with handmade soap samples in every scent imaginable. We were each invited to choose our own, which would then be placed in our room for the rest of the stay. The second visit: an assortment of perfumes and fragrances. We chose our favorites lavender and vanilla, and within the hour, diffusers had been set up throughout our two-story suite, filling every room with exactly the scents we’d chosen. It was just amazing. Our Airbnb We also stayed in a wonderful Airbnb that had everything a home base in a foreign city should: beautifully designed, immaculately clean, and perfectly located. The concierge service was genuinely exceptional, they arranged drivers, organized dining, brought in food, and responded to every message with warmth and speed. It gave the whole stay a feeling of ease that made exploring feel effortless. What We Did Hagia Sophia No trip to Istanbul is complete without standing inside Hagia Sophia. It is one of those places that refuses to be summarized. Built in 537 AD, it has been a cathedral, a mosque, and a museum, and today it stands as all three layered on top of one another. The scale is humbling. The light is extraordinary. You walk in and immediately understand why it has been considered one of the great buildings of the world for nearly fifteen centuries. The Basilica Cistern Just steps from Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı) is one of Istanbul’s most atmospheric and surprising experiences. Descend underground into a vast sixth-century Byzantine cistern — a forest of 336 marble columns rising from still water, lit in low amber light. It is quiet and slightly otherworldly. Don’t skip it. The Grand Bazaar On my first trip to Istanbul, I had several gorgeous rugs shipped home from the Grand Bazaar. I still love every single one of them, and returning felt like visiting an old friend. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world — over 4,000 shops across 60 streets, with a history stretching back to 1455. It is easy to get wonderfully lost in. For anyone who loves rugs, Istanbul and the Grand Bazaar in particular — is one of the finest places in the world to find something truly special. Take your time. Have conversations. The craftsmanship here is extraordinary and the vendors know it deeply and share it generously. What I Wore & Packed A few things that made the journey easier and the airport altogether more bearable: Lululemon Be Calm Oversized Boatneck Long Sleeve — Shop here This is my travel uniform. Comfortable enough to sleep in, put-together enough for the airport and beyond. On Running Shoes — Shop here I’ve been wearing On to the airport lately and I don’t see myself going back. They walk the line between athletic and elegant in a way nothing else quite does. Travel Pillow — Shop here On a flight as long as New York to Istanbul, a good pillow is not optional. This one was genuinely wonderful. The Playlist Every trip deserves a soundtrack. Listen to my Spring playlist here — the one that played on the way there, on the way back, and in quiet moments in between. Istanbul has a rare quality: it stays with you. Both times I've left, I've been thinking about the next visit before I've even reached the airport. There is still so much to explore, so many corners I haven't found yet. From the grandest hotel suite to the smallest shop in the bazaar, the hospitality was remarkable. Beautiful people, inside and out. There is a warmth to the city that is not performance; it is simply how people are. I hope this inspires you to go — or to go back. With love, Rachel
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Love is in the Air
My love language is quality time. What’s yours? Slow mornings. Good music playing in the background. And filling our home with pieces that make everyday moments feel warm and meaningful. For me, love has always shown up in the simplest ways — lingering at the kitchen table, sharing a dessert, or just being together without rushing to the next thing. Especially around Valentine’s Day, I’m reminded that love doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Sometimes it’s just about making space for the people you care about. When it comes to dessert, strawberry shortcake is always a favorite in our house. I use the Bisquick shortcake recipe, but I do it my way. I like my strawberries freshly sliced, no sugar added. I place the shortcake in a bowl and pour just a little milk or half-and-half over it to add moisture. Then I layer on the fresh strawberries and finish it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. So simple. So good. And somehow, it always feels special. ♥️ Here’s to slow moments, sweet treats, and celebrating love in the ways that matter most. Xx, Rachel
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Starting Fresh in January
Rachel's Favorite Way to Reset at Home The cozy little changes that make a big difference. January always inspires me, not in a “new year, new everything” kind of way, but to start fresh in a way that actually feels good. For me, that always starts at home. I’m not talking about a full renovation or a massive clean-out. I mean the small changes that quietly shift how you feel day to day — a bedroom that feels peaceful when you wake up, a bathroom that feels like a mini spa, or a cozy scent that instantly makes the whole house feel calm. Every morning, I use my Joovv light therapy as a quiet moment to myself. It’s when I set my thoughts for a positive, grounded day ahead. I also use my sauna about three times a week, it’s become one of my favorite ways to unwind, reset, and feel restored from the inside out. This month, I pulled together a "Shop the Look" inspired by what I personally crave in January: soft layers, warm lighting, simple organization, and a few beautiful pieces that make everyday life feel just a little more special. I’m also sharing two wellness items I actually use at home — they’ve become part of my own self-care routine and something I really look forward to. If you’re feeling the pull to start fresh too... in a way that feels comforting and doable, you’re definitely in the right place.
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Setting the Mood for the Holidays
Every family has that one holiday dish—the one everyone looks forward to, the one that feels like celebration, the one that doesn’t taste quite the same unless it’s made during this season. For Rachel, it’s her famous once-a-year appetizer, the Caviar Pie. In true Rachel fashion, it wasn’t just about the dish. It was about the moment: the music playing, the table set with intention, the feeling of a home filled with warmth. It’s the kind of tradition that lingers long after the last bite. This season, we’re sharing her beloved recipe so you can bring a little of that same magic to your own celebrations. Whether you’re hosting New Year’s Eve, gathering with friends, or simply creating a cozy night at home, this festive dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Ingredients: 6 hardboiled eggs, chopped 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 ½ cups of Bermuda (red) onion, chopped very small (about 1 large or 2 medium onions) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened ⅔ cup sour cream 4 – 5.5 ounces of black or red lumpfish caviar, rinsed and drained well Oil or cooking spray for pan and small knife Optional garnish – parsley and lemon Equipment: Pot Cutting board Medium knife Small sharp knife Small strainer with wire mesh & paper towels Large and small spoon Spatula Measuring cups Measuring spoons 2 medium bowls 8 or 9 inch springform pan Foil or plastic wrap Optional – handbeater to mix cream cheese and sour cream Instruction: Lightly oil the springform pan or use cooking spray.- Hardboil the eggs, peel them, and chop them into small bits.- Mix the chopped eggs and the mayonnaise (basically egg salad without seasoning) and place that mixture on the bottom of the greased pan as the first layer of the pie.- Sprinkle the finely chopped onion as the 2nd layer and spread it evenly over the eggs.- Blend the softened cream cheese and the sour cream. Especially if the cream cheese is not softened enough, you may need to whip them together with a beater. I did that this time, but don’t always find it necessary. - Using a knife or spatula, gently spread that cream cheese/sour cream mixture over the onion as the third layer, being careful not to mix the layers together.- Cover the pie with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 3 hours, up to a day. - At the last minute, carefully place the caviar in a small strainer, rinse it under softly running cool water, drain it well, and gently pat the caviar in the strainer with a paper towel on the top and the underside to remove any residual moisture. This step is important. It rinses salt off the caviar and prevents the color from running in to the other layers. Be gentle and take your time!- After the caviar is rinsed and dried, delicately dot small amounts over the sour cream/cream cheese mixture. Then spread it evenly over the pie with the back of a teaspoon.- When you are ready to unmold the pie, have a plate at hand that is at least 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the springform pan. After placing a bit of oil or cooking spray on the blade of a small knife so that it will glide, gently run the knife around the pan sides to loosen the pie. You may need to do this in several steps, cleaning the knife a couple of times. Then, holding your hand on the bottom of the pan, gently release the spring on the side so the ring around the pan enlarges and comes off. - Put the bottom of the pan (on which the pie is sitting) on the large plate and garnish to hide the springform bottom on which the pie sits. I use a combination of parsley and lemon. - Serve with Sasanian Caviar French Mini Blini Read the full, beautifully detailed recipe on Mother Would Know, complete with step-by-step photos and tips that bring this festive appetizer to life. A Once-a-Year Recipe Worth the Wait: The Caviar Pie
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The Sweetest Tradition: Rachel’s Famous Apple Pie
There’s something about Thanksgiving that brings us all back to the table. The scent of cinnamon in the air, the sound of laughter echoing through the kitchen, and the comfort of gathering with loved ones — it’s one of those moments where time seems to slow down, even just for a little while. For our founder, Rachel Dow, Thanksgiving has always been about creating memories around the food that brings people together. And one recipe, in particular, has become something of a legend in her family — her famous apple pie. When we asked Rachel about the story behind it, she laughed and shared: “There came a point in life in which I realized that I was an adult and I needed to learn to cook. Clearly not thinking, I went to the grocery store and picked up Gourmet Magazine and started my intro into cooking haha. I became obsessed with creating these complex and challenging meals and it became my passion for a season ... until I found tennis :-) Anyway, so enthralled with the magic of the kitchen, I took a deep dive into cooking classes next. I fell in love with The Chopping Block in Chicago. We met in this little old white house with creaky wood floors. Walking into this adorable house with the fall leaves turning yellow, orange and red was amazing enough, but entering into this small home full of the amazing aromas of a true cook's kitchen was an overload of the senses. It was here that I took a four-hour Thanksgiving class and learned the apple pie that I became famous for. This pie only appears in November and December and never disappoints. Unsalted Plugra butter is a must! I have a million little notes on my recipe full of all the tips and tricks that create this masterpiece. I hope this pie becomes a favorite for your loved ones as well!!” Rachel's Famous Apple Pie Ingredients: 3 1/2 pounds Apples (Granny Smith Apples), peeled, cored and quartered (6-8 cups)6 tablespoons flour1 cup sugar1 teaspoon of cinnamonPinch of salt1 recipe pie dough2 tablespoons unsalted Plugra butter, cut into piecesHeavy cream and sugar for garnish Instructions: Toss together the apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then let the mixture sit. Roll out the bottom crust and place it in a pie dish. (When making the crust, divide it into two unequal parts — a larger portion for the bottom and a smaller portion for the top.) Add the filling and sprinkle small pieces of butter on top. Roll out the top crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork. Brush the top of the pie with heavy cream and sprinkle generously with sugar. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 1 to 1½ hours, until the filling is bubbly and the apples are tender. Allow the pie to cool before cutting.
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The Heart Behind Gorgeous Living
Originating from a vibrant background in the arts and entertainment industry, Rachel always imagined continuing her creative passions after embarking on the rewarding journey of motherhood. As her two daughters gained independence, she found herself rediscovering the creative energy that had always defined her. This transition sparked her passion for design, as she delighted in shaping a warm, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing home for her family. For Rachel, homes extend beyond four walls—they’re backdrops to our lives, filled with the potential to inspire joy and creativity. Gorgeous Living was born from this desire to transform living spaces into luxurious sanctuaries of comfort. Q: One memorable trip from this summer? I went to southern California with my youngest daughter this summer. I love one on one with my girls. Since home, I feel we are closer than before we went. I try to take advantage of all the moments we have together before they get busy raising their own families. Family is one of my favorite parts of this life experience. It is everything to me :-) Q: What kind of music have you been loving lately? My taste in music is so broad. I have Sonos speakers installed in the ceiling of all the rooms in my house, so there is always something playing in the background, especially in the kitchen. Bossa nova in the spring and Sinatra in the fall, I love seasonal shifts. I cannot imagine this world without music. Q: What have you been reading lately? A cup of strong coffee, a stack of books, and a pen for annotating is one of my morning highlights. I’m a non-fiction girl, always wanting to learn more than time allows! Recently, I found my diary from middle school. My two daughters and I had the best time reading it, it was hilarious! How can I not remember who “Junior” is? He called after school all the time, haha. Q: Beauty must-have you can’t stop using this past month? I’m more of a lip balm girl than lipstick. I’ve used Dior Addict Lip Glow Balm 001 for as long as I can remember. It’s so hydrating, my everyday essential! Q: What do you love most about hosting? I love preparing my favorite foods for those special in my life. Setting the tone for the evening throughout the house is part of the fun for me. Everyone gathered around a beautifully set table. Lights dimmed, candles lit, music playing, yummy wine poured. It's even more fun if people stay over and gather for breakfast the next morning. No excess cleaning while guests are there for me. Just enjoy and have fun! Q: Your top 5 favorite Gorgeous Living pieces right now? 1. Voyage et Cie. These candles are so amazing. They hand pour these organic candles made with amazing fragrant oils once the order is placed. Simply divine. 2. Sweater Weave Fireplace Basket. I have a beautiful banana palm tree in mine that I keep near my foyer. 3. Shell Square Mirror. I love natural elements like shells mixed with organic textures and crisp upholstery. A beautiful coastal vibe that I enjoy. 4.Moss Home- Oh boy!! This company, I love the Avery Bed! They are really expensive $$$$$!! I hope to carry their Basics by Moss Home collection soon which would allow more people to buy this luxury brand at a lesser price. 5. I love my Normandy Surya rug that I have in my bedroom. I own several Surya rugs and they never disappoint.
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The Art of Spring Tablescapes: Hosting in Bloom
Spring is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to create the perfect spring tablescape. Whether you’re planning an intimate brunch, a lively garden party, or a celebratory dinner, a beautifully curated tablescape sets the tone for a memorable gathering. 1. Start with a Color Palette Spring is all about soft pastels, vibrant greens, and pops of floral hues. Think sage green, blush pink, sky blue, or sunny yellow. Combine these colors to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. For a more sophisticated look, pair soft neutrals like ivory or beige with one bold accent color. 2. Layer Textures and Patterns A well-layered table adds depth and personality. Mix crisp linens with woven placemats or textured chargers for an organic touch. Incorporate patterned napkins or plates featuring botanical designs to echo the blooms of spring. Don’t be afraid to combine different textures and prints—just keep the palette cohesive to maintain balance. 3. Incorporate Fresh or Faux Florals No spring tablescape is complete without flowers. Arrange fresh blooms like tulips, daffodils, or ranunculus in low vases for a lush centerpiece that won’t obstruct conversation. If fresh flowers aren’t an option, high-quality faux florals can deliver the same charm without the upkeep. 4. Choose Seasonal Serveware Spring-inspired serveware elevates your tablescape. Opt for delicate glassware, pastel-colored plates, or bowls with floral motifs. Add an elegant flourish and tie the theme together beautifully cutlery for a refined touch. 5. Personalize the Details Small, thoughtful touches make your tablescape truly special. Consider handwritten place cards, petite floral bundles tied to napkins, or spring-themed favors like seed packets or mini potted plants. These details show your guests how much you care and leave a lasting impression. 7. Keep It Functional While aesthetics are key, functionality should not be overlooked. Ensure your table has enough space for serving dishes and that the decor doesn’t overcrowd the dining experience. A well-designed tablescape strikes a balance between beauty and practicality. With these tips, you’ll create a spring tablescape that celebrates the season’s beauty and invites your guests to relax and enjoy. It’s time to set the table, embrace the blooms, and make memories that last long after dessert is served. Photography: Flying Sheep Country
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European + New England Influences Merge In A Hamptons Abode
As featured in Luxe: "All of our design work is based on historic precedent,” says architect Elizabeth Dillon. Get Inspired! Photographer: Nicole FranzenInterior Design: Winter McDermott Design
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Aman Giri at Home: Mastering the Art of Desert Chic
If you've ever laid eyes on Aman Giri, you know it's not just a hotel—it's a whole vibe. Nestled in the stunning Utah desert, this luxury resort blends rugged landscapes with minimalist, serene interiors that ooze sophistication. But here's the best part: you can channel those same desert-chic vibes right into your home without booking a plane ticket or hiring a design guru. Here's how! 1. Neutrals Are Your New Best FriendThink warm, earthy tones that reflect the desert landscape. Go for soft beige, sandy taupe, and warm terracotta. Mix in some stone-gray accents for that cool, laid-back vibe. It's all about keeping things calm and cohesive. Bye-bye, neon throws, and hello, serene color palette! 2. Play with TextureAt Aman Giri, it's not just about what you see, it's about what you feel. Soft linens, natural wood, and smooth stone are a must. Bring in those textural elements through woven rugs, wooden coffee tables, and linen throw pillows. Don’t be afraid to mix textures—rough meets refined for that ultimate desert-luxe look. 3. Sculptural SimplicityAman Giri’s interiors are all about clean lines and sculptural pieces. Swap out your overly fussy decor for simpler, statement-making items. Think about an abstract ceramic vase or a sleek, modern chair that makes a bold yet minimalist statement. Less is more, but make sure the “less” is stunning! 5. Let the Light InNatural light is everything at Aman Giri, and it should be in your home too. Maximize your windows, go for light, sheer curtains, and if possible, open up your space to bring the outdoors in. Can’t add more windows? Consider oversized mirrors to reflect natural light and make your space feel airy and open. 6. Get Cozy with FirelightChannel that magical Aman Giri fire pit by adding some cozy firelight to your home. Whether it’s an indoor fireplace, a fire pit in the backyard, or even just candles on your coffee table, firelight creates that warm, intimate ambiance that’s perfect for relaxing evenings. And voilà! With these tips, you'll be channeling that Aman Giri chic right in your own home. All images via Aman.com
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It’s Time to Add This Portuguese Resort to Your 2025 Bucket List
As featured in Elle: There’s some kind of magic present in the Algarve, the southern region of Portugal known for its stunning coastline, filled with white-sand beaches and towering rock formations. Get Inspired!
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La Tartane Saint-Tropez is an Unpretentious Take on French Hospitality
As featured in The Spaces: Reopened after a full renovation, this Cote d’Azur resort offers five ‘hamlets’ – each designed as a tribute to 1920s Riviera life. Get inspired!
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