Yes, she designs actual dishes (naughty ones, in fact, see below) but I was referring to the clothing designer, author, girl-about-town and Design Star judge’s answers to the following questions about entertaining with grace, shopping and art. Read them after the jump!
You are quite the hostess—what are your secrets?
Make introductions. Be inclusive. Keep it loose. Be eccentric. Know that everything does not have to be perfect.
Any tips for a novice entertainer? Especially one who may not have the best or biggest apartment, and who isn’t a stellar cook?
When you have a tiny apartment in which to entertain, throw a bunch of small cocktail parties that mix different groups of people together, rather than holding out for one big bash.
If you’re a great cook but have a small space, have a picnic to show off your skills. Or, if you’ve got the dining space but can’t boil an egg, throw a dinner party with takeout from your favorite restaurant.
Is there any signature dish or decoration that you use when entertaining?
I always like to mix ready-made with homemade—like a great homemade corn salad served with preprepared lobsters.
What are your favorite places to entertain in NYC? Do you have any favorite picnic spots or do you prefer to entertain at home?
My husband has a little gallery, and we like to throw casual dinners after the openings at our house. Otherwise the easiest place for us to entertain is at the beach in Montauk, which is so laid-back that even the classics seem impressive–burgers, homemade Chipwiches and corn on the cob.
Where do you like to shop in NYC?
Some of my favorite shops in NYC are the Strand, Global Table and John Derian.
I hear that you’re an avid art collector? Who are your favorite artists?
It’s hard to narrow it down! I’m the president of the Tom Sachs fan club, and I’m also fan of Ryan McGinness, Will Cotton, Elizabeth Peyton and Rachel Feinstein, among others. I highly recommend seeing the new Louise Bourgeois documentary at Film Forum. (Ed note: We missed it! But you can catch a Bourgeois exhibit at the Guggenheim now through Sept 28.)
Tell us about your role on Design Star. What have learned from being on the show?
It’s my third season as a judge and I’ve learned so much from it. You really can redesign a space in a matter of 12 hours with $500. There are tons of original, fresh takeaway tips in every episode, and it makes you feel like anyone can change their decor easily and often.
