Style

In the Bag
Incredibly durable and surprisingly lightweight, Built NY’s SOHO Stripe Market Tote stretches to accommodate just about anything –– except maybe the kitchen sink. Thanks to its extra-thick neoprene composition, it has the ability to insulate and protect belongings as delicate as a loaf of bread or a glass bottle of mineral water. Whether used as a lunch sack, picnic basket or plastic bag alternative, this multifunctional tote keeps contents stylish and safe. Rapp’s Luggage & Gifts, 3250 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-6536, or go to www.builtny.com.
Fresh off the Boat
This jewel-toned Chinese garden stool seems to reflect the emerald waters it traversed while en route to New Orleans. Hand-selected by designer Joe Morrow, the piece was one of many purchased directly from an importer. The stool’s distressed glaze offers the appearance of age to exude the elegance and exoticism of the ancient Orient. Ashley Hall Interiors Ltd., 832 Howard Ave., 524-0196. 

Back to the Future
Chicago artist Frederick Cooper was ahead of his time when he began creating chic lamps in 1923. In the beginning, his exquisite designs reflected the spirit of the Roaring ‘20s and the evolving American architecture of the day. Today, Cooper’s legacy lives on in fabulous vintage finds, such as this towering pair of Carnival lamps, as well as stunning contemporary pieces. lüm vintage lighting and accessories, 3806 Magazine St. (by appointment only), 939-1474, or go to www.shoplum.com.
Suite Slumber
Drawing inspiration from the Provence region of France, the A La Provencale Bed features both clean lines and subtle curves. Hailing from French Heritage’s De Bournais Collection, this heirloom-quality reproduction is masterfully crafted of cherry and alder and then washed in one of five soothing finishes and trimmed in soft white. Williamson Designs, 3646 Magazine St., 899-4945, or go to www.frenchheritage.com.
Bronzed Beauty
Inspired by the soft glow and patina of bronze sculptures and fixtures, Jenn-Air’s Oiled Bronze Cabinet-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator offers a warm alternative to stainless steel. It’s the latest innovation to come from one of the most notable names in kitchen appliances and the newest addition to the stylish collection that includes a dishwasher, microwave, ventilation hood and warming drawer, as well as wall ovens and gas and electric cooktops. Comeaux Furniture & Appliances Inc., 415 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 831-1365, or go to www.jennair.com.
X Marks the Spot
Graceful curves and flowery carvings are among the well-known hallmarks of Louis XV period pieces. But what sets this pair of 19th-century fauteuils apart is the delicate lattice design hand-painted in pale blue and trimmed in a cheery turquoise. Bremermann Designs, 3943 Magazine St., 891-7763, or go to www.bremermanndesigns.com.
Furniture: World Styles from Classical to Contemporary (DK Adult, $50)
From priceless Baroque cabinets and glittering Venetian mirrors to the elegant modernity of Philippe Starck, Judith Miller’s Furniture: World Styles from Classical to Contemporary provides a unique global perspective of the history of furniture design from ancient times to the present day. Beautifully produced and lavishly illustrated, Furniture boasts 12 information-packed chapters containing 3,000-plus color images, each accompanied by a brief description including date of manufacture, dimensions, provenance (when known) and price. 

Spec-tacular
European designer Kris Van Assche has teamed up with Oliver Peoples to help the Los Angeles-based eyewear brand celebrate its 20th anniversary. Van Assche, an emerging force on the fashion scene who was recently appointed artistic director for Dior Homme, embarks on his first venture into the eyewear market with sophisticated yet quirky limited edition styles. Oliver Peoples, Saks Fifth Avenue, 301 Canal St., 524-2200, or go to www.oliverpeoples.com.