would you rather?

I recently read a humorous "would-you-rather" article published in The Cut that prompted me to think about how I would choose to spend a large sum of money. One example: Would I splurge $2,000 on a Phoebe Philo pillow scarf or a Delta Premium Select round-trip ticket from JFK to London Heathrow? Without hesitation, I’d go for the trip! I’ve been to London a dozen times, but I’d still choose to go because the experience is an adventure I would genuinely appreciate, learn from, and remember for the rest of my life.

When I recently told my friends what I wanted for my birthday group gift—a gift certificate to West Elm or CB2—they retorted, “that’s no fun.” But the truth is, instead of splurging on extravagant bags, shoes, dresses, and whatnot, I’m currently gravitating toward comfort and practicality. With winter just around the corner, I feel an increasing urge to lounge on my couch with Netflix, light-read coffee table books, and enjoy the art on my walls. So, if had $2600 to burn, I’d rather buy the Anthropologie dining table, above, rather than a pair of statement-making (albeit forever-chic) Alaia boots.

Let me be clear though: I want utility in its chicest form! So, if I need a reading lamp, it’s an antique burnished Kelly Wearstler with a conical-shaped shade.

And if I’m going to sit around and pour over a coffee table book, it’s one that is rare and stunning, like my recent find, Laura Gonzelez Interiors, below. The renowned Parisian designer recently opened a boutique just a stone’s throw from my sister’s apartment in Tribeca, showcasing her signature style—a bold profusion of color, texture, and patterns that radiate elegance and creativity. Her work inspires me to think of my home not just as a place to relax, but as a curated, vibrant space that reflects personality and artistry. If I’m going to invest in decor, it’s going to be pieces that feel like small luxuries, bringing both style and function into my everyday life.

Among the other luxuries I’d love to bring into my space that also happen to make for perfect holiday gifts for yourself or loved ones:

A Calder lithograph! I was given a Calder for my birthday, and simply looking at it delivers a vibrant dose of zest to my daily life. This one can be had for $150 here! I also love the vintage Roland Garros posters 1981 and 1984 from Etsy, and the Pablo Picasso lithograph, all below.

I’d like to take a seat and look at all the art in these vintage sheepskin dining chairs, sourced at Vintage On Point, my favorite off-the-beaten-path furniture store in Los Angeles. (I almost wanted to gate-keep this treasure trove for myself, but there’s enough greatness to go around!) This set of six chairs sold for $900!

Fear not, this plush leather-trimmed armchair from Temps is still in stock.

Let’s stay home and eat in with Zara’s new ceramic handle cutlery, below.

With delicious-looking La Double J plates!

I’ve decided the secret to aging gracefully is surrounding myself with fresh flowers, because they’re the ultimate mood boosters! I’ve been stockpiling great vases at great prices from Hawkins New York.

If the wild flowers I pick during my morning hikes aren’t enough to fill a vase, I love the exotic assortment at Hudson Grace at the Brentwood Country Mart. The trick is just to stop myself from indulging in the invite-everyone-over party ware!