edit-carlamcdonald

Founded in 2014 by our friend and fabulous hostess Carla McDonald, The Salonniere takes its name from the women in 17th and 18th century France whose salons were among the most influential gatherings in history. We adore Carla – she is smart, beautiful and knows how to throw a party! ” I saw her in action with the party she planned for Dreamland Theatre this past summer on Nantucket,” recalls Jada. “Carla blew me away!”

The premier and award-winning dossier of all things fête fabulous (and a link we love), The Salonniere is the first and only site dedicated entirely to the art of party hosting. Designed for those who love to entertain, The Salonniere puts in one chic place tips from the world’s most skilled entertaining experts – the preeminent florists, chefs, bartenders, sommeliers, event designers, and party hosts whose expertise is generally accessible only to their clients and close friends. As Carla likes to say: “Grab your gimlet. I feel a party coming on.”

Carla’s picks for fall, clockwise:

  1. These Verdura rock crystal earrings – which can be dressed up or down – will pair perfectly with the season’s deep, rich color palette.
  2. Oxblood is the color of the season and it doesn’t look more glamorous than on this elegant satin gown from Alexander McQueen.
  3. I love tuxedos on women so, this fall, to celebrate the return of velvet, I’ll be splurging for this version from Tom Ford.
  4. Apple and Hermès are two of my favorite brands, so I am over the moon about this collaboration of form and function. On my fall wish list is this double wrap Apple watch in gray.
  5. I’ll be wearing Essie’s “Berry Naughty” polish on my nails this fall. It’s the perfect neutral shade to coordinate with all the rich burgundy hues of the season.
  6. The 70’s are back and so are high-waisted flared jeans. This dark denim version from AG is my favorite and will look super chic with a classic cashmere turtleneck and boots.
  7. Topping my lust list is this python minaudière from Jada Loveless. With its gold tones and smoky quartz and tiger’s eye top lock, it’s the perfect party clutch for the season.
  8. I’m crazy about this black-tie party shoe from Olgana of Paris. It’s both whimsical and elegant.
  9. Saint Laurent’s lipstick print is one of the most fun and festive prints of fall ’15. I’ll be pairing the blouse with black jeans and boots.
  10. Lipstick on a ribbon! It’s pure genius. I’m coveting Christian Loubotin’s lipstick necklace in Eton Moi, a deep plum shade in a matte velvet finish.
  11. I am addicted to Buxom’s Dominique gloss. Layer it over your favorite lip color to transform it into a sparkly, glamorous gloss for evening.