Brennan Wesley
As style director at Garden & Gun, Haskell Harris comes across thousands of products. In the weekly Talk of the South newsletter, she highlights some of her favorites. Take a look at (and shop) what has recently been featured and sign up here to get next week’s edition in your inbox.
I think the trick with Valentine’s Day, or any gift giving, is to really think about the recipient. What does the person collect, for example? Many Southern women (my mother included) treasure silk scarves, and this exclusive design by South Carolina artist Susan Carson for Fieldshop by Garden & Gun is truly wearable art—and a lovely gesture for someone who adores the medium. $350; ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on January 28, 2020
This denim, leather, and cotton rug instantly reminded me of my childhood in the Blue Ridge mountains and the resourcefulness of generations of folks there who make beautiful rag rugs from remnants by hand. It also brought to mind the denim culture of the South. But most important, I just like how this rug feels underfoot: cozy and soft. It makes me feel like a kid at our farmhouse again. $258-$1,298; serenaandlily.com
The ritual of nightly tea is a 2020 resolution for me, but I’m not crazy about traditional curvy kettles. When I found this Clyde teapot by a company called Fellow, I fell for the design—and for its delightful whistle. I like that it’s iron, too, because it reminds me of Southern cast iron, and even when not in use, it looks like a little art object on the stove. $99, amazon.com
From newsletter on January 14, 2020
I first fell for the festive burgundy-hued leather and beautiful brass hardware on this structured Parisa Wang bucket bag. But what really sold me is that it comes with a removable crossbody strap—because as the mother of a two-year-old, I need all the hands-free convenience I can get. $325; tnuck.com
From newsletter on December 17, 2019
I thought I had mastered the art of the buttermilk biscuit at breakfast until I tried one with butter and Red Clay Hot Honey, a savory/sweet combination dreamed up by Charleston chef Geoff Rhyne. I also swear by it to upgrade my desk lunches (my favorite combo: sourdough bread, turkey, arugula, whole grain mustard, and a drizzle of this sweet, spicy goodness). And I love a hint of it in hot chocolate. $10; ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on December 10, 2019
Leave it to Nashville confectioner Olive & Sinclair to raise the bar on brittle. The company’s Smoked Nib Brittle uses cacao beans that get an extra dose of flavor thanks to a stay in the smokehouse of famed Madisonville, Tennessee, ham curer Allan Benton. Sweet and savory, it’s the perfect match for all manner of festive beverages. $15, ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on December 4, 2019
Modern Snifter by Terrane Glass
I’m always on the hunt for standout barware, both for G&G readers and my bourbon-loving husband. One of my favorite finds is this snifter from the folks at Terrane Glass in North Carolina. It’s equal parts modern and old-school—and an ideal Southern holiday gift. $55; ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on November 19, 2019
This jacket by Everlane makes the perfect throw-on-with-anything layer for the South’s milder fall and winter seasons. The cut is beautiful and flattering, and I plan on dressing mine down with vintage jeans and boots. $180; everlane.com
From newsletter on October 22, 2019
Stockholm Salt & Pepper Grinder
I’ve never liked the pepper grinder we’ve been using at my house for years, so I’ve been researching new ones. After lots of testing, I’ve finally found my favorite, by a company called CrushGrind. The grinder is easy to turn, you can adjust how fine or coarse you’d like things, and it doesn’t catch or stop up or generally behave badly. In addition, I love the super simple silhouette. $35-$45; food52.com
From newsletter on October 16, 2019
Southern Starter Kit by Sean Brock & Butter Pat Industries
The first cool mornings of fall are just starting to arrive here in Charleston, but I’ve already dog-eared all kinds of fall and winter recipes to make from a few new cookbooks. And I can’t wait for chef Sean Brock ’s latest deep dive into Southern food culture, South: Essential Recipes and New Explorations , which comes out next week. G&G ’s Fieldshop has put together a bundle that includes a signed copy of the book along with a package of heirloom Jimmy Red Cornbread Mix, which Brock worked with Geechie Boy Mill to cultivate and produce, and a cast-iron skillet from Butter Pat Industries. I think I know which recipe I’ll be making first. $245; ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on October 10, 2019
Summer Botanical Garden Wrapping Paper
When I find a winning wrapping paper, I’m a faithful devotee (so much so that I’m known as something of a wrapping paper hoarder). This botanical design is my new favorite. The colors are strikingly beautiful, and I love the thickness of the paper. It’s almost too pretty to use. Almost. Five sheets for $12; society6.com
From newsletter on September 24, 2019
Symbols of the South Map by 42 Pressed
Jackie Robinson runs the design studio 42 Pressed, based in Charleston, South Carolina, and her work reflects an appreciation of the South with a decidedly modern bent. This month she debuted an exclusive decorative map with Fieldshop by Garden & Gun that includes distinctive symbols for every Southern state, from Maryland to Texas. I collect maps of different places I’ve lived, and this would look great as part of a collage or leaning on a mantel. $115, ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on September 17, 2019
Raise the bar with this gorgeous tray for cocktails or bottles. I fell in love with classical tumbling block patterns on a recent trip to Portugal. This sturdy tray is made up of individual wood, bone, and resin tiles to create both a beautiful and practical object. $295-$395; jaysonhome.com
From newsletter on September 12, 2019
One great way to cut down on the deluge of plastic is to invest in a reusable beverage bottle. This design by Kinto features a lid that keeps hot beverages or ice from rushing out too quickly, plus a clever handle for toting. Another bonus: It’s double-walled steel, so it will keep things cold or hot for up to six hours. $38; food52.com
From newsletter on August 27, 2019
I love the artistry and utility of Southern quilts. I still own two from my paternal grandmother that I would rescue first if my house were on fire! I also love the look and feel of this quilt that was created by North Carolina designer Jamie Meares in partnership with artisans in India. It’s lightweight, which is perfect for the South’s warmer nights, beautifully stitched, and feels like a quilt that’s been worn soft over the years. $185; furbishstudio.com
From newsletter on August 20, 2019
When I was introduced to linen bedding a few weeks ago, I was skeptical. It’s a beautiful look, but would it really be practical in summer? The answer has been an overwhelming yes. Even with the AC on, our house in South Carolina runs hot, but these sheets are a welcome reprieve, and they even look gorgeous rumpled. My favorite colors are blue chambray and white, both of which would be right at home at a beach house—or any house in the South in the summer. $298-$398; serenaandlily.com
From newsletter on July 30, 2019
The Beachcomber’s Companion by Anna Marlis Burgard
I grew up going to Cape Lookout, North Carolina, and I was always the first one off the boat to go shell hunting. Even now I’m the same way! I also enjoy reading about shells, particularly The Beachcomber’s Companion by Anna Marlis Burgard. Now Burgard has a 1,000-piece puzzle to go along with the book, so even on a rainy day at the beach, you can still get your shell fix. I love the idea of both as a summer gift. Editor’s Note: The puzzle-book combination is now sold out at ggfieldshop.com, but signed copies of the book are available for $19.
From newsletter on June 28, 2019
I am obsessed with these classic sandals by Emme Parsons that go with anything and will outlast trends. I love that Parsons spent her junior high years here in Charleston, South Carolina, so she totally gets the need for comfort in the heat of Southern summers. My favorite hue in her collection is this slate blue. $395, nordstrom.com
From newsletter on June 4, 2019
Smithey 10-Inch Cast-Iron Chef Skillet
The minute I saw the new 10-inch cast-iron chef skillet by the artisans at Smithey Ironware, I knew I would win Father’s Day. My husband is an omelet pro, and this will be his go-to on lazy Sunday mornings. $140, ggfieldshop.com
From newsletter on May 29, 2019
Looks weird, feels great. Say what you will about whether the mystical healing properties of jade actually smooth away facial wrinkles. This roller definitely smooths away stress at the end of a long day and puffiness at the start of one. Good enough for this Mom (and my husband likes it, too). $28, shopbop.com
From newsletter on May 7, 2019
Mother’s Day is just a week-and-a-half away, and the only thing better than letting Mom sleep in is letting her sleep in in a new pair of super-soft pajamas. I love this 100-percent linen set in summery blue stripes from Serena & Lily. $148, serenaandlily.com
From newsletter on May 1, 2019
I recently did a full spring cleaning of all my beauty products, with the goal of replacing conventional items with natural ones. This undereye roller, which distributes a soothing, healing chia oil serum, is my new secret weapon against sleep deprivation. I also love that the company that makes it, Maya Chia, is Southern (based in South Carolina) and female-led. $70, freepeople.com
From newsletter on April 2, 2019
I continue to be blown away by the designs coming from the female-led, Texas-based label Mirth, including this richly-hued wrap dress called the Lisbon from the company’s spring line. The cotton feels like air, and the cut is universally flattering and feminine. It also reminds me of one of my favorite things: blue and white Portuguese tile. $215, mirthcaftans.com
From newsletter on March 19, 2019
Furbish Dog Collar
Braided dog collars are my favorite for their durability and because the collars are so easily adjustable. Most designs play it safe with solid hues, but I love the look of this particular collar, which is woven by hand in every color of the rainbow and has a real joie de vivre. Available at North Carolina’s Furbish Studio. Collar, $48, furbish.com.
From newsletter on February 27, 2019
Conway Electric Extension Cord
I’m always looking for items that blend function and beauty, and though I never thought I’d say an extension cord was chic, the designs by Conway Electric are. I love this one’s colors, old-school wrapped cord, and vintage look, but it’s also thoroughly modern, with two fast-charging USB ports. Think of it as a functional art object for your desk or anywhere that you need an extra outlet. $159; needsupply.com
From newsletter on January 23, 2019
This lamp from North Carolina’s Furbish Studio is a design miracle: It’s cordless, the LED bulb is golden and ambient (not blue), the simple shape fits any style of decor, it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and it comes in multiple colors. It’s the perfect light for tricky areas such as mantels, bookshelves, or alfresco dinner tables. I could use an army of them. $225; furbishstudio.com
From newsletter on January 15, 2019
I’m trying to cut down on plastic everything these days, including straws. I love these copper versions because they’re durable, naturally antibacterial (something you want in a reusable straw!), and they look beautiful, too. I keep a few of them in my glove box in the car, at my desk at work, and at home. $15; amazon.com
From newsletter on October 3, 2018
Farm from Home, by Amanda Brooks
One of my favorite sources of inspiration is the Instagram account of Florida native-turned-Anglophile Amanda Brooks. Anytime I’m having a harried day, I click over to see if Brooks is making jam or arranging flowers, and my blood pressure lowers. Brooks debuted a cookbook that brings her Instagram life to print. It’s also a memoir of sorts, detailing her experience of going from the fashion world in New York City to a simpler existence on her husband’s family farm in England. That slower pace and connection to the land is something many Southerners will relate to. My favorite recipe? Her raspberry muffins. Easy, beautiful, and sort of like Southern cornbread studded with fresh fruit. $75; amazon.com
From newsletter on September 6, 2018
Bamboo dinnerware has been stealing the spotlight from patterned melamine and other indestructible outdoor tabletop goods. It’s just as fun and beautiful but better than plastics for the environment. These plates from designer Xenia Taler are dishwasher-safe, and the line is fun-loving and spirited—just like any tailgate or picnic should be! $50 for set of 4; nordstrom.com
From newsletter on August 21, 2018
Looftlighter Electric Firestarter
For those who worship at the altar of charcoal grilling, this genius Looftlighter charcoal starter takes the tedious waiting time out of firing up the coals (no lighter fluid required). Translation: Even if it’s Tuesday and you’re in a rush after work, you can still get that amazing flavor in half the time. $80; williams-sonoma.com
From newsletter on August 15, 2018
Little Barn Apothecary Bath Milk
I am not someone who lusts after lotions and potions. In fact, most apothecary items give me hives just looking at them. But about a year ago I fell in love with Little Barn Apothecary out of Atlanta. Their products use simple ingredients, and I am so obsessed with the bath soak I preach about it to anyone who will listen (thank you, patient friends and colleagues). Seriously magical and relaxing. $34; thedetoxmarket.com
From newsletter on August 8, 2018
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