IN THE FRAME
AT HOME WITH TORY BURCH
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN APRIL OF 2019
Ever wondered what's it like to dine chez Tory?
Elizabeth Taufield gets an inside look at how the designer entertains at home.
Tory Burch’s home is a true feast for the eyes. It's busy (in the best sense of the word), chock-full of unusual flowers and objects (ranging from iconic collectibles to flea-market keepsakes), and yet her friends would say it's "tranquil". Color is everywhere, though you would never describe it as colorful. Perfectly mismatched prints somehow don't read as bohemian or preppy.
Much like the designer herself, it's not easily put into a box. As is usually the case with great style, it all reads as effortless—and there's that lived-in energy to the space that makes you feel at home even when it's not your own. From feng shui and carnations to the art of being a good guest, here's everything you've wanted to know from the host herself.
ON WHAT "HOME" MEANS TO HER
Home is my boys, my husband, my mutt Hercules...it’s all about family. Our home is happy, lively, unpredictable, chaotic, and, on occasion, peaceful (we have nine children!). I spend a lot of time in our library—I have always loved being surrounded by books, now I just need more time to read them.
Home is my boys, my husband, my mutt Hercules...it’s all about family. Our home is happy, lively, unpredictable, chaotic, and, on occasion, peaceful (we have nine children!). I spend a lot of time in our library—I have always loved being surrounded by books, now I just need more time to read them.
ON WHY SHE LOVES ANTIQUES
My parents were the ultimate collectors of found objects; they brought things home from everywhere they travelled. I’ve always been drawn to unconventional pieces that have a story: They are all over our home. My family laughs at me because I am constantly moving them around—my obsession with pottery and China has become a bit problematic.
ON HOW FENG SHUI CHANGED HER LIFE
We have been working with our feng shui master for the last 15 years and he has helped in many ways. In 2008, he advised us not to sign the lease on a new store which was fortunate—the market crashed two weeks later. If someone wants to change their energy, I would highly recommend working with one.
THE STORY BEHIND HER FAMOUS LETTUCE WARE
Our lettuce ware is in collaboration with Dodie Thayer. She was a true American artist and the ultimate entrepreneur. After teaching herself how to make incredible pottery, she worked with other women during WWII so they could be self-reliant. Our Dodie Thayer pottery has so many uses. After our Lettuce Ware Tureen Candle burns down, it can be used as a vase.
ON CREATING BEAUTIFUL TABLESCAPES
I generally start with the flowers. I love going to the market early in the morning—you can always find the most unusual flowers. I like unexpected and out-of-fashion elements. For instance, I love carnations and the flowers from vintage magazines or Old Master paintings—mixed and un-manicured. I was lucky to have grown up with a mother who would design the most extraordinary tables: The only rule we lived by was to try new things and never be boring in your approach. I like a bit of imperfection…
I generally start with the flowers. I love going to the market early in the morning—you can always find the most unusual flowers. I like unexpected and out-of-fashion elements. For instance, I love carnations and the flowers from vintage magazines or Old Master paintings—mixed and un-manicured. I was lucky to have grown up with a mother who would design the most extraordinary tables: The only rule we lived by was to try new things and never be boring in your approach. I like a bit of imperfection…
ON THE ART OF BEING A GOOD HOST
Be relaxed and easygoing: There is nothing worse than an uptight host. Good lighting is essential and place cards can be extremely helpful. Outdoor entertaining is the best, especially under great-looking old-fashioned umbrellas and comfortable chairs. The playlist is also everything—it sets the mood. My taste in music ranges all the way from Johnny Cash to Wyclef.
... AND GUEST
Keep your cell phone in your bag and send a handwritten thank you note.
ON HER TOP 1O DINNER GUESTS (DEAD OR ALIVE)
My husband and 9 children aside: Gabriel García Márquez, Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Amelia Earhart, Princess Diana, Cleopatra, Mozart, Katharine Hepburn, and Oscar Wilde.
ON WHAT HAPPENS POST-DESSERT
I would like to say a dance party but most likely sleep.