Chances are you have a piece of Mikasa dinnerware or glassware in your home.  Whether you received it as a wedding gift or it was handed down by Mom, the company has become an American classic.  Mikasa started as a dinnerware importer in 1948 and eventually became a wholesaler to department stores such as Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s.  In the 1970’s they expanded their product line to include flatware, glassware and linens.  And in 1978 they opened their first outlet in Secaucus, NJ.  I vividly remember traveling to the outlet store with my mom.  As a kid I gazed at row upon row of plates and glassware while moving so very cautiously through the store. 

These days you can still find Mikasa in Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, as well as a wealth of other retailers.  But, you can also go directly to the source without traveling to Secaucus, New Jersey (and if your clumsy, without the fear of the “You break it, you buy it” policy).  Their online store is simple to search and they can display every pattern they carry, unlike a retailer with limited shelf space.  From crisp blue & white patterns, to earthy handmade looks, they carry a unique blend of the traditional standards along with fresh, contemporary patterns.  They also feature a stunning selection of gifts for weddings, anniversaries and holidays; such as crystal candle holders and picture frames.  You know what they say, “Mikasa es su Casa”!

Visit Mikasa on My Design Secrets!

Searching for some sumptuous new sheets for your bed?  Hunting for the perfect housewarming gift for a friend who likes to entertain?  The Giving Tree Luxury Linens is the place to go when you want to indulge.   

The owner, Carol Teplick, stocks the store with only the best for your bedroom, bathroom and tabletop.  They carry brands such as Peacock Alley and Yves Delorme and help you find what you need with good old Southern Hospitality.  They have a shop in Mobile, Alabama; but if you are shopping online you get the same type of attention you would get in person.  You can request free fabric swatches to make sure you select the perfect item and if you need more details don’t hesitate to call them.  They go above and beyond with stellar customer service.  

I have purchased from the Giving Tree for many of my clients and they love the beauty and quality of what they have to offer.  Also, if you sign up for Carol’s Newsletter, you are in a drawing for a $250 gift certificate each month.  Then you can really indulge!  Happy Shopping!

Shop for Bedding and Table Linens in My Secret Database.

Soft, beautiful bed linens are a luxury that is certainly worth the money. Good quality sheets last a very long time and dollar for dollar get much more use than most of your favorite clothing items. I always encourage my clients to treat themselves to the best sheets they can afford. You deserve it. Luckily, there are many companies out there making beautiful looking and great quality bedding. The sheets above are from Anna Sova and are 460 thread count and come in 3 basic colors and 3 colors with “wow” factor.

http://www.annasova.com/catalog/displaycatalog.asp?cat=60

Many people judge (and brag about) a sheet based solely on its thread count but there are other points to consider. I am going to break it down so you only have three things to look for:

Thread Count - This is how many threads per square inch. The more the better but it really tops out at 500. The companies that are claiming higher thread counts are using other processes with smaller threads so they can claim the higher thread count in their marketing. I recommend 200 or higher.

Materials - Cotton is King! Don’t bother with sheets that have polyester in them. Blended fabrics do not breathe or absorb moisture so they are not as comfortable. They will never be as soft and they will pill. Egyptian cotton is the best you can get.

Finish - The fabric is processed or finished in various ways that will affect its “hand” or the way it feels. The processes can be complicated but you just need to feel it to know what you like.

I am also ecstatic to see that many of our mainstream companies are offering organic bed linens. Cotton is unfortunately one of our most pesticide laden crops so while organic sheets cost more, they are worth it, especially if someone in your family has allergies or chemical sensitivities.

And always, always wash your sheets before you use them for the first time!

West Elm:

http://www.westelm.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?partNumber=WE-PRODb326&storeId=17001&langId=-1&catalogId=17002&viewSetCode=E&parentId=WE-SH1BEDSHE&retainNav=true&cmsrc=WE-SH1BEDSHE