July Favorites ~ 2026

Hello Friends,

I’m back from my fourth work trip, and it was hot! I’m truly enjoying this season of my life. Traveling so much has given me a new perspective on life and on people.

Recently, while sitting on a plane, I found myself reflecting and quietly confessing a few things to myself. One realization stood out: I’ve been craving different kinds of relationships and experiences.

I want to be around people who inspire me—people who are well-traveled, kind, spiritually grounded, confident, and generous with their knowledge, stories, and experiences. I want to share beautiful conversations, meaningful moments, and unforgettable places with people who appreciate the richness of life.

I’m not entirely sure why this desire has grown so strong, but I know it’s real. Maybe travel has expanded my perspective, or maybe I’m simply evolving. Whatever the reason, I’m grateful for this new season and excited to see where it leads.

Now on to things I have enjoyed the month of July:

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

First up is a little vanity luxury. I recently ordered the Iris Pressed Glass Vase from Anthropologie, and it has become the perfect home for my makeup brushes. It looks absolutely beautiful on my bathroom vanity and instantly elevates the space with a touch of elegance. The vase is available in three different styles, and each one is just as lovely as the next. If you’re looking to add a little beauty to your vanity, I highly recommend collecting all three.

Next up is a new perfume I’ve been enjoying from Caudalie, the same company that created the gorgeous facial mist I absolutely love. This fragrance features notes of raspberry grape, neroli, and patchouli, creating a scent that is light, fresh, floral, and subtly fruity. It’s the perfect fragrance for spring and summer—effortlessly elegant and ideal for everyday wear.

I can’t believe I’m still finding peonies at my local grocery store. These blooms were incredibly fragrant and opened into the most beautiful, full blossoms. Having them in my office throughout the week was such a simple luxury and brought so much joy to my workspace.

Another delightful surprise was the arrival of a new book on the interiors of Bunny Mellon. Written by Charlotte Moss and beautifully illustrated by Snowy Campbell, it is both charming and whimsical. The pages are filled with timeless inspiration, making it a wonderful addition to my growing collection of design books.

Next is a little scarf elegance. I decided to wear my chinoiserie scarf with a coordinating scarf tie, draped gracefully over my shoulders, to the office. The combination felt effortlessly elegant, and I received so many lovely compliments throughout the day. It’s amazing how a simple accessory can elevate an entire outfit.

Then another exciting package arrived! I decided to order the Garden Bag from Holland Cooper, and it is every bit as charming as I had hoped. I adore the delicate frilled edge and the fresh green-and-white color palette. It’s the perfect blend of timeless style and countryside charm, and I know it will be a beautiful companion for the greenhouse seasons ahead.

Then I stumbled upon this glorious find! I’ve been wanting a pair of the Lily of the Valley Dior teacups for quite some time, but they are so expensive. A single teacup costs $240! I found a seller on eBay offering a set of two for just $288, and I even managed to negotiate an even better price by making an offer.

This set is absolutely beautiful and the epitome of elegance. My family and I will be heading to New York soon, and I’ve already scheduled an afternoon tea at the Lowell Hotel. I’ll be sure to share all about the experience once we return!

Aside from my David Austin roses, I feel like this is my greatest gardening accomplishment! I finally have sweet peas growing in my raised beds, and I can hardly believe it. After almost two years of waiting, I got my first blooms this season.

I don’t have many flowers yet, but they are so fragrant and beautiful that I wish I could keep them forever. Seeing them bloom after all this time has made the wait completely worthwhile. I am so proud!

Okay, I know I’m on a teacup kick! I recently purchased another teacup and saucer that has been on my wishlist for quite some time: the Ginori 1735 mug and saucer.

Once again, these pieces are certainly an investment, but they are crafted from fine porcelain and are truly works of art. The craftsmanship and timeless design make them feel just as much like collectibles as they are functional pieces for enjoying a cup of tea.

And lastly, the Manor Candle by Nabela Noor restocked last week—and sold out again! Thankfully, I was able to purchase it this time in the White Musk scent, and I couldn’t love it more.

This candle is the epitome of elegance. From its beautiful design to its luxurious fragrance, it feels like such a special addition to my home. In my opinion, it is absolutely worth the price. If you’ve been hoping to get one, keep your eyes peeled for the next restock—they don’t stay in stock for long!

I hope you found inspiration in this month’s finds! I hope to share some new elegant adventures from our NYC trip soon.