Category Archives: Accessories

Feb 08, 2016

I was thrilled to take a walk through the “Unveiled” exhibit at the Charleston Museum. The exhibit showcases a series of wedding dresses and accessories beautifully restored starting all the way back to the early 1800’s. It’s just fascinating to see how things have changed (and what hasn’t) throughout the years. If you are in town, or planning to be in town, you must get by to see it.

The history of this dress from the 1865 was actually recorded in a recovered diary of the bride. She was married in Columbia, and after the civil war the organdy used for this dress was the only piece of white fabric available in the city and at a shop that was Yankee owned. The cost being $10.00 (which at the time was exorbitant), so in order for the family to purchase the dress, they sold off the last piece of carpet in their home, chairs from the mother’s bedroom, and some lard and butter from the family’s plantation.

How fabulous is this ostrich feather fan??? Fans were one of the most commonplace accessories (obviously due to our climate here), but if you had to carry and use a fan, this one is fabulous!

The tradition of the “garter” is a long standing one, and these silk tie on versions date to the mid 1700’s. It’s amazing the condition they are still in!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this idea… This family gifted the married couple a silver tray engraved with all of the details and wording from the wedding invitation. Totally want to see this come back en vogue.

In the mid 1880’s darker fabrics became fashionable due to new dyes and techniques available. This particular dress was actually made by the brides’ mother. I see that there was always a space for the brides wanting to be daring and different.

This dress was worn by a bride in the 1930’s for her wedding at my church, St. Philips. Even though the wedding was in September, I love the beautiful sleeves on this dress.

I love this selection of men’s vests- great to see what was fashionable for both!

This was another handmade dress. This one from the 1960’s had the sweetest cording detail!

My favorite detail on this dress- the sleeves! Can you tell, I like sleeves????

2.08.16 | TARA GUÉRARD
Accessories, Art, Bridal, Bridal Style, Charleston, Dresses, Fashion, Uncategorized, Weddings | Comments >>

Dec 14, 2015

First Christmas as Mr. and Mrs.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, your first Christmas together as husband and wife! Look no further, we’re giving you some quick and easy ideas for last minute gift ideas if you’re spending the holidays with your new family- the “in laws”. For the mother in law, we’ve given some gifting suggestions along with a couple of hostess gift ideas.

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I’m a big fan of this cotton cashmere herringbone blanket (I have one of my own I received as a gift) from Elizabeth Joyce Monograms. There are so many custom monogram designs to chose from, so you can make this such a personal piece that will add to her home.

61Rqw2HYQ9L._SX380_BO1,204,203,200_ Another option I’m gifting this year is the Southerner’s Cookbook from the editors of Garden and Gun magazine. A hugely popular magazine based here in Charleston. This book is full of classic dishes and not overly fussy recipes. This is a must have for any hostess and cookbook collector.

Gift collage

For the sister or brother in law- create a custom scent from Candlefish, gift the softest and stylish pj’s from Lake, local cocktail crafters, Bittermilk have a variety of hand crafted mixers, and the Mophie keychain juice pack reserve offer everything for the dweller, to drinker, to techie.

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I always find men much harder to shop for, but these items are bound to please the dads that already have it all. The Concave cutting board keep meat resting in it’s own juices to retain maximum flavor, a MUST have for the grill master.

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Follow Bill Murray’s Oscar worthy lead and gift a Brackish Bow Tie… definitely not the traditional dodgey ties that dad’s don’t want under the tree!

12.14.15 | TARA GUÉRARD
Accessories, Charleston, Entertaining, Fashion, Food and Drink, Gifts, Shopping, Uncategorized | Comments >>

Dec 07, 2015

Secret Santa Roundup

It’s that time of year again, offices and friends are hosting holiday get togethers, and Secret Santa and White Elephant gift exchanges come with the territory. We rounded up our favorites for these occasions and ALL are under $25! Click on the links to purchase.

1. The Gray Malin Airport cocktail carry on set. Pop this in your bag for your flight home, and then enjoy once you’re settled in your seat. Brings some cheer to what can sometimes be a frightful travel experience.

2. The Yeti Rambler Lowball tumbler- perfect for bourbon or hot chocolate by the fire pit, and then for drinks on the beach in warmer weather…

3. The High as the Moon coffee mug and the Masala Chai Tea from Anthropologie. Time to clean out all of the old mugs with random logos on them, and drink out of something that’s actually pretty! And their Chai is divine…

4. The Truffle Clarity Pouch small- perfect for keeping all of the small random items in your bag organized and in one place, clear so you can easily find them too. Also, could be great for your carry on toiletries for your holiday trip home.

5. The Stainless Steel garden scissors from Terrain. These are a beautiful addition to have around the house- multi purpose for your garden, flower arranging, gift wrap, food prep, endless options… Comfy and sleek.

12.07.15 | TARA GUÉRARD
Accessories, Entertaining, Etiquette, Food and Drink, Gifts, Shopping, Travel | Comments >>