I suppose with the growing awareness of the "Green Movement" it is obvious that one would see an emergence of many products inspired by nature. For a fashion designer the term "natural" implies a pallete of colors that come from nature’s-earth tones. But in addition to color, the textures, shapes and feel of natural elements such as sea grass, leaves, straw, bamboo, rattan, seashells, tortoise, bone and horn and patterns of leopard, tiger and zebra are inspiration for a plethora of product. Incorporating natural elements whether in decoration or setting a table is a sure-fire way to insure a sophisticated look either --alone or combined with an array of colors.

 Two American designers my late friend Bill Blass and the famed interior designer Billy Baldwin have elevated this natural pallete and all of the elements that comprise this look to the height of style. The world has followed their unerring eyes.

I remember buying my first antique tortoise boxes in the early seventies. I shall always cherish a 19th century ivory box that Bill gave me one Christmas. While the use of ivory is no longer desirable bleached bone gives a similar look and feel. The bone insects and crustaceans in the Bill Blass Collection follow the 19th century designs originally made out of ivory.  Finding an Italian manufacturer that made real bamboo flatware was a big “ find” for me in the early eighties.  Now with the wide range of real and faux product in the market the collecting of these classic natural elements is easy and affordable.   Thirty years ago it was a thrill to have a touch of Billy Baldwin and Blass in your home --now with a click of the mouse we all can emulate their inspiring styles.