Erin Gates’s Favorite Things

Photograph by Joyelle West, hair and makeup by Paula Voisembert/Team

Having grown up among the mannequins at her grandparents’ department store and the drafting tables of her father’s design firm, Erin Gates has always had a knack for style, fashion, and home décor. Since graduating from Connecticut College in 2001, she created the popular design blog Elements of Style; founded her interior, fashion, and event-styling firm, Erin Gates Design; and earned a spot on the New York Times bestseller list with her first book, named after her successful blog. And recently, Gates released her own home collection, “Elements,” which includes modern-meets-traditional accessories, all under $150. “I like to incorporate trends—like the Greek key–trimmed pillow—that are really popular with customers, all at an affordable price,” she says. If that wasn’t enough, the style maverick and new mom will share her tips for family-friendly home design in a new book, slated to be released in May 2018. Ahead, the design expert shares some of her most enviable essentials.

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Farmhouse Pottery

I love the work of these craftspeople in Woodstock, Vermont. I have a few pieces, and they’re substantial and modern, yet rustic.

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“Modern Cross” Collection for M. Flynn

I designed the stud earrings using diamonds from an old bracelet my mom gave me. We were so obsessed with how they came out, we created a whole collection based on the design. I never take the studs off—they have such a classic look.

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Kate Spade “Carima” Flats

Leopard is sort of my signature print, and these loafers are so comfy and stylish. I wear them with everything.

Kate Osborne Photography

Holly Addi Paintings

I love the minimalist nature of her abstract works. I would kill for one.

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Lisa Fine Textiles

There’s such life to traditional-meets-bohemian patterns produced with a handmade sensibility.

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Cassina “Utrecht” Armchair

I’m currently dying over this incredible chair with its whipstitch detail on the modern frame. I’d love it in rich wool upholstery in a traditional space.

ON FILE

What I’m Reading
Small Great Things, by Jodi Picoult. It’s a really interesting story reflecting on race relations in our country.

What I’m Drinking
Meiomi pinot noir. I love a good, rich red in the chillier months.

What I’m Watching
Old reruns of 30 Rock. After months of depressing nonstop election coverage, I needed something that was guaranteed to make me laugh.

What I’m Eating
Whatever my husband cooks for dinner. Life is so insane for us right now, we’ve come up with a routine, and cooking is not on my task list!

What I’m Listening To
NPR on my five-minute commute to work. I try to keep myself somewhat informed on what’s going on in the world.

What I’m Wearing
Usually my uniform of Citizens of Humanity “Racer” jeans and a striped three-quarter-length T-shirt.