The teen and I have been watching the original Gossip Girl as preparation for our upcoming trip to NYC for her 16th birthday. It is a massive mind scramble to watch this show now as a mother, hearing my daughter react to the scandalous world of the Upper East Side. For instance, when I said my favorite couple was Chuck and Blair, the teen was utterly appalled. We’ve only finished the first season, though—she has so much to learn!
It’s also telling that the person I’m most mesmerized by now is Lily van der Woodsen. I remember thinking that hers was a cold and complicated character that obviously cared about money before all else, but I seemed to have forgotten just how marvelously chic Lily was. I’m eating up every single scene she’s in and mentally calculating how I can recreate those looks on a non-billionaire budget.
Note: If you’re not already smitten with actress Kelly Rutherford’s Instagram feed, start following immediately! You know you’re a style icon when your elevator selfies and front row appearances get you a shoutout in British Vogue.
So instead of the regular Mother’s Day gift guide, I thought it’d be fun to do a version based on Lily van der Woodsen’s style. Here’s my luxury picks for mothers who brunch.
Old Money Handbags
Lily’s arm candy is the epitome of the “Old Money” trend. Rumor even has it that Kelly Rutherford used her own Hermes Birkin bags during shooting.
Top handle bags are definitely making a comeback. In addition to the ever-present Birkin, how about Khaite’s streamlined Amelia tote, the lady-like Ferragamo Margot, or the sculptural Bottega Veneta Sardine in this yummy bourdeaux?
Honeymoon Resort Wear
Season One sees Lily marrying Bart Bass (husband number four) and jetting off on her honeymoon. I think these would be in her Louis Vuitton luggage.
This amazing linen dress and Kimono set from Reiss.
And these gorgeous Ayla sandals from Jimmy Choo.
Back to Black
For all of those moms with an edge (think Lily in her Lincoln Hawk groupie stage).
First up is the Ralph Lauren Slim Fit Polo Shirt in black/white combo. An icon since 1972, it doesn’t get more classic than the Polo shirt. Available in 32 color combinations, this updated version is slimmer and is made with a hint of stretch.
Lily doesn’t do mall chocolate. She wants these indulgent handmade chocolates from San Francisco maker Recchiuti. The “Black Box 32” is a mix of classic and contemporary truffles include signature flavors like Burnt Caramel and Force Noir, and new hits like Rosemary Olive Oil and Cappuccino.
Real billionaires have consultants who source their art pieces, but I think Lily would secretly be delighted by these handmade paper flowers inspired by The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s novel.
Statement Jewelry
Every once in a while, a girl needs to sparkle. Lily was not afraid of bling and she had the statement necklaces to prove it.
This Verdura wrist cuff would look amazing with that gold dress and it’s only $35,000.
Pomellato rings are investments pieces, especially this one with regal garnets.
The Swiss luxury brand Chopard has been around since the 1860s and is beloved by celebrities like Julia Roberts, Demi Moore, and Mariah Carey. If you act quickly enough, you can get this vintage Chopard Casmir Yellow Gold necklace at 1stDibs and relive your 1990s glory days.
For more inspiration, check out these Instagram feeds: @townandcountrymag, @sofiagrange, @olympiamarie, @miguellviana, @chloecleroux, @charissa_fay, @laurandnicolas, and @emitaz.
You know you love me. XOXO
