Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at the Gracious Living Celebration, the Costume Institute’s Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion, and TEFAF New York. Written by Natalie Aldridge.
The Gracious Living Celebration
Dive into the extraordinary legacy of Phyllis Hoffman DePiano alongside her sons, Brian Hart Hoffman and Eric Hoffman, at this year’s Gracious Living Celebration in Colonial Williamsburg. The first-of-its-kind is hosted by editors of Victoria, Southern Lady, TeaTime, and Classic Sewing.
This event invites aficionados of refined living and décor to step into Phyllis’s world. Set amidst the historic charm of Williamsburg, VA, the four-day affair ensures captivating conversations with luminaries such as cookbook author Brenda Gantt, Lady Carnarvon of Highclere Castle, Wendy Kvalheim from Mottahedeh Company, and the insightful Nancy Grace.
Participants can immerse themselves in intimate Small Group Creativity Sessions, where they can refine skills in calligraphy, explore watercolor painting, master the art of floral arrangement, and enhance tabletop decorating finesse. They can also enjoy the timeless tradition of afternoon tea at the historic Williamsburg Inn, wander through the captivating streets of Colonial Williamsburg, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for beauty and artistic expression.
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Inspired by her passion for cross-stitching, Phyllis established Hoffman Media in 1983, beginning with just $500 each alongside her sister Janice Norton Ritter and best friend Barbara Cockerham.
From the triumph of Just CrossStitch magazine blossomed a collection of cherished brands including Southern Lady, Taste of the South, TeaTime, and Cooking with Paula Deen. Phyllis also orchestrated the resurrection of Victoria magazine in partnership with Hearst. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Phyllis held her roles as a mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend dear to her heart.
Scheduled for November 10th to the 13th, bookings for this wonderful celebration can be made here.
And click here to see more of designer Heather Chadduck’s special partnership with Colonial Williamsburg!
Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion
Each year, fashion enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of the theme for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s annual spring exhibition. The excitement commences with the highly anticipated Met Gala, graced by notable celebrities from diverse fields, stalwarts of the fashion industry, designers, socialites, and patrons of the Costume Institute. This event brims with anticipation and stands as a splendid celebration of the artistry within fashion.
The Costume Institute’s spring 2024 exhibition, titled “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” breathes new life into the treasured masterpieces within the Museum’s collection. Through meticulous research, conservation analysis, and a blend of innovative technologies, ranging from cutting-edge artificial intelligence to traditional methods like x-rays and video animation, the exhibit revitalizes these dormant artifacts of clothing too delicate to be worn again.
When a garment becomes part of the Costume Institute’s collection, it undergoes a transformation, transitioning from a once vibrant piece of personal attire to a static ‘artwork’ devoid of its former sensory presence. This exhibition breaks that stillness, allowing viewers to reconnect with these objects in all their original vibrancy, dynamism, and vitality without even wearing the garments.
The exhibition showcases around 220 garments and accessories, spanning four centuries, all united by themes of nature, symbolizing the fleeting nature of fashion. Visitors will be immersed in an interactive experience, from smelling the fragrant histories of floral-patterned hats to feeling the texture of embroidered walls that echo the designs of selected garments.
Throughout the galleries are “sleeping beauties”—fragile garments unable to be displayed on mannequins. These delicate treasures remind us of fashion’s ephemeral beauty. The Glam Pad cannot wait to see the exhibition first hand in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more!
TEFAF New York
TEFAF New York is back, gracing the elegant and storied halls of the Park Avenue Armory. Prepare to be enthralled by a spectacular range of treasures, from ancient artifacts dating back to 2700 BCE to cutting-edge contemporary art and design of the 21st century. The excitement begins on Thursday with an exclusive preview, followed by a grand opening to the public on Friday, running until May 14.
Situated in the heart of New York City, the world’s most vibrant art hub, this prestigious event marks the tenth installment of TEFAF’s renowned showcase, extending its legacy beyond its native Maastricht. From captivating ancient artifacts to timeless antique furnishings, from cutting-edge contemporary masterpieces to exquisite jewelry, an enchanting array awaits every palate and passion. There is truly something for everyone. Additionally, TEFAF will be hosting a lineup of panel discussions and lively events throughout the show’s duration. Tickets can be purchased here.
Read our favorite articles of the week!
Go Inside a ‘Cotswolds-Meets-New Orleans’ Home in the Big Easy written by Alice Welsh Doyle for Frederic.
This Colorful Charlotte Retreat Is Inspired by the Homeowners’ China Patterns and Gardens written by Lauren Wicks for Veranda.
Shop this week’s inspired finds!
