I found myself having a lot of mixed emotions watching Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. Ultimately, I enjoyed it! The costumes, the sets… perfect. It’s fun, beautiful, candy TV. But it was sometimes hard to watch! Were these women (Lee Radziwill, Babe Paley, Slim Keith, C.Z. Guest) that I had placed on a pedestal for so long really that catty? It may be silly as I obviously didn’t know them but I felt strangely protective. A friend likened the show’s depiction to the Real Housewives and I had to agree. I am going to tell myself that drama is what makes television interesting, and no… they were not really that bad! (As an aside, if you loved the show and haven’t read Capote’s Women, it’s a must! I highly recommend listening).
Inspired by The Swans
Today’s post is about their style as I still most definitely have a bit of Swans fever. Becky Malinsky summed it up perfectly in a recent newsletter: “The life of the original swans is no longer the ultimate goal for women (at least any women I know). Are there still women with “means” who perfect every detail? You bet. But today’s swans know it’s not cool to be a lady who lunches. The women we obsess over now are leaning into a life where they call the shots.” So perfectly said.
And while I will never achieve the perfection of the Swans (even when I try my best I always seem to look a little bit rumpled!), I love the look. A kaftan with oversized studs. Monochromatic neutrals. Hefty gold jewelry. Ladylike handbags. And of course, the ubiquitous wine bottle cradle on the table a la La Cote Basque. I hope this inspires you to put on your most elegant ensemble (and call the shots in your own life!).
A few things of note:
- Sofia Richie Grainge did such a great job with her collection for Solid & Striped. I love it all. These pants are so similar to The Row’s Gala Pant and I love the idea of pairing them with a tonal sweater.
- For larger (lightweight!) studs, check out Aureum. They gifted me this pair, but I also really love these. GRACE20 will get you 20% off.
- I have been coveting a pair of Loro Piana’s Rebecca flats. They are classic and elegant and feel like the perfect swan shoe. They are also both expensive and always sold out. As an alternative, I love these! Not exactly a bargain but the best “look for less” I’ve seen.
- This little Kelly-esque bag is just $70! What a gem.
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Crew Neck SweaterClassic and elegant. I love a monochromatic look!Shop
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High Waisted TrouserThese are so similar to The Row Gala Pant (right down to the thin elastic waistband!).Shop
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Ballet FlatseffortlessThe closest “dupe” to Loro Piana’s Rebecca flat that I have found.Shop
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Satin KaftanElegant and luxe.Shop
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Lapis KaftanThis is such a stunner!Shop
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Off-Shoulder Kaftanso specialI just got this and love it!!!! Seems 100% Babe Paley approved.Shop
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Crêpe GownI love the cut. It’s elegant and feels like something an old Hollwood star would have worn.Shop
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Shoulder BagAs you know, I love everything Savette is doing. The lack of branding plus luxe hardware feels like something that would be Swans approved.Shop
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Linen KaftanThis is beautiful – perfect resortwear!Shop
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Round SunglassesFun and oversized.Shop
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Twill Blazernew favOne of my recent favorites. So elegant but easy!Shop
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Sweater JacketTimeless and ladylike!Shop
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Silk ScarfTie it to your bag or around your head.Shop
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Midi Shirtdressj.crew gemThe perfect easy everyday shirtdress.Shop
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Wine Bottle Cradlejust the bestI love mine so much!!!! It’s the perfect hostess gift.Shop
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Stud EarringsLove these earrings – so elegant!Shop
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Mock Neck TopAnother gem from Sofia Richie’s collection!Shop
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Choker Necklacegreat basicChic chic chic!Shop
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Oversized Sunglassesbig and fun. I love the pattern!Shop
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Printed ScarfThis scarf is such a stunner! I love the mustard yellow.Shop
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Structured SatchelThis is somehow both extremely on trend but also very ladylike and classic.Shop
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Textured Circle EarringsI am fairly certain that my grandmother had a pair exactly like these! Love.Shop
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Croc-Embossed Bagonly $70This bag is only $70 and it’s so classic + fun!Shop
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Square Earringshave + loveThese are oversized and cool. I personally own and really love them. And yes – they are lightweight!!Shop
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