As the blogger brains behind one of the chicest corners on the internet (a.k.a. the Elements of Style blog), we’ve long turned to interior designer Erin Gates for her stylist-grade secrets. Known for sharing everything from her candid thoughts on remodeling to her insights on how to steal Tory Burch’s Paris flagship dressing room look, Erin is a certified expert on virtually everything design—not to mention, we’re obsessed with her youthful, ladylike rooms. So naturally, we did a major hip-hip-hooray when Erin agreed to join us for a round of Playing Favorites in conjunction with her Momeni rug debut here on Chairish. See what made this blogger extraordinaire’s hot list, below!
SHOP ERIN GATES’S CHAIRISH PICKS >>
DESIGN
What do you love about shopping on Chairish?
I LOVE using vintage and antique goods in all my projects and Chairish makes it so easy. I also love that there are a WIDE variety of price points available.
Is there any particular product category where Chairish is your go-to?
When looking for vintage art, mirrors or antique chairs I want to reupholster, I go right to Chairish
Favorite thing about designing with vintage pieces?
The patina and texture it brings to a space. It helps ground a room and make it look very personal and unique
Favorite way to add drama to a room?
Dark paint colors or wallpaper
Favorite source for design inspiration?
Instagram
CFavorite paint color?
Benjamin Moore Wind’s Breath for an all over color—a great neutral that isn’t too tan or too grey.
Favorite pattern (and how you love to use)?
Stripes—I love upholstered goods in stripes- both small scale and bold large scale.
Favorite design rule to break?
Matching bedroom sets—NEVER!
Favorite color combo?
Light blue and olive green.
Favorite way to mix high and low?
I always suggest custom pillows in trade fabrics, they dress up any store bought sofa or chair in the best way.
Favorite way to work a bit of vintage into a room?
I adore using a vintage chest or side tables in a space—it adds gravitas and a sense of history that can’t be produced.
contemporary Living Photo by Michael J. Lee
LIFESTYLE
Favorite travel destination?
Paris
Favorite hotel to check in to?
The Mark, NYC for urban, Round Hill in Jamaica for beachy
Favorite app?
Instagram
Favorite morning beverage (and how you take it)?
Coffee—lots of half & half and two sugars.
Favorite way to treat yourself?
A massage
Favorite thank you/hostess gift?
One of my Elements by Erin Gates candles or my book!
Favorite saying/quote?
“Comparison is the thief of joy”
Favorite entertaining essential?
Fresh flowers! nothing elevates a space like gorgeous fresh flowers or branches!
Favorite artist?
Cy Twombly
Favorite thing to collect?
Blue and white pottery and small paintings.
YOUR CITY: BOSTON
Favorite restaurant?
Mistral
Favorite hotel to recommend to visiting friends?
XV Beacon
Favorite local culture hub?
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Favorite local attraction?
The Esplanade and Boston Common
Favorite local flea market/vintage hunting ground?
Ramble Market
One “must do” thing in Boston?
Walking through Beacon Hill—the shops, the homes, the history! It’s stunning!
Shop Erin Gates’s Chairish Picks >>
Lead photo by Michael J. Lee