Born in Milan and trained at Istituto Marangoni, I founded Studio Joelle in New York and launched Joelle Magazine in 2004. My gifts follow the rule of my suitcase: objects with a story, chosen for the hand that made them, a little unexpected, and made to be kept.
Vintage cheetah-print calf hair flap bag.
I’d give this vintage bag to the woman who considers animal print a neutral: beige calf hair, cheetah spots and that classic flap shape. A little wildlife for her wardrobe; I’d add a white shirt and let the bag misbehave.
Gold eye charm with diamonds.
I love this gold charm for its painted eye and diamond accents, a tiny declaration with excellent presence. For someone who has caught your eye, or your own wish list; subtle hints rarely survive the holidays.
Printed safari notebook.
I’d pack this printed notebook for its Wes Anderson animals and palms alone; the blank pages are an invitation to go somewhere. For the traveler whose next chapter deserves better than the Notes app.
White marble pedestal fruit bowl.
Six clementines become an event in this veined marble pedestal bowl, a gift for the host with a flair for the table. Its sculptural shape does the entertaining before anyone arrives, and keeps earning its place long after the decorations come down.
Alabaster and brass table lamp.
Alabaster that glows like a quiet moon, cupped in antique-burnished brass: this alabaster lamp is sculpture first, light second. For the friend who sets the mood as carefully as the table; I’d happily invite myself over.
Silver-plated pitcher.
Even water feels like an occasion in this silver-plated pitcher, all clean silver lines and gleaming finish. For the host whose dinners always deserve a second glass, my kind of everyday extravagance.
Burl wood ottoman with pink bouclé seat.
I’m taken with this burl ottoman: expressive burl wood below, pink bouclé above, and plenty of personality between them. For the design lover who needs one more seat, or somewhere elegant to contemplate what to wear.
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Joelle Maslaton Oster
Founder of Joelle Magazine and Studio Joelle, an interior design practice in New York. She writes on art, design and the places in between.
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