Tablecloths that could be skirts and skirts that could be tablecloths. I rarely use a tablecloth at home, much like I rarely bring out fabric napkins. But what a difference it makes when I do. Here’s to late summer suppers on gorgeous linens.

I’m a huge fan of Rachel Castle’s aesthetic –– her graphic bed linens, hand-sewn wall hangings, colourful prints and playful cushions. Her fantastic embroidered art works, with charming phrases like, “Sound the trumpets” and “Do the Cha Cha” remind me of a farewell quilt that my friends Stephanie and Polly made me when I moved to Toronto. “We love you Athena,” they hand stitched with felt and love on to huge piece of heavy, cream fabric. It was such a wonderful gift. Take a look at Castle’s website. Even if you don’t buy something, her work is guaranteed to put you in a good mood.

To live in a house that looks like a cake, well, wouldn’t that be grand? Many years ago, we stayed at L’Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz and that really was grand. Our room was enormous, and decorated in the softest shades of yellow and peach and terracotta. We were there just one night, but what a treat it was. I could happily, like Coco, live in a hotel. Fresh linens and fluffy robes, concierge and room service –– oui, merci.