The Playlist

Half the fun of running around the house putting scarves and necklaces on your brass animals is simultaneously listening to Ella sing her jazzy 1960 rendition of Jingle Bells.

Initially I planned to share House Beautiful's suggested playlist from the late 60s. I assumed it would be loaded with tunes that today are considered iconic. Surely Bing, Nat, and Louis would be mentioned.

But the compilation is actually kind of sedate. More serious than my grandparents' beloved Perry Como. Well, perhaps sober isn't the best description; clearly the editors were trying to create a timeless, sophisticated list devoid of anything too pop. So the offerings encompass the latest recordings from symphonies and choral groups around the globe: folk songs from Britain, Ceremony of Carols by the Copenhagen Boys Choir, Bach's Christmas Oratorio.

There is this month a collection of old, popular vinyl Christmas recordings at Providence. The albums aren't for sale -- just part of the ambiance -- but you can examine them. Whatever style of holiday music you prefer, I hope these vignettes (also from Providence) boost your spirit. I know children enjoy embellishing all kinds of existing things.

If you are having a party, these pale aqua pagoda lanterns would look great clustered on a sideboard or hung in a tree.


Just a little more global-chic: Providence also has a selection of Dori Csengeri's hand-sewn, leather-backed jewelry. You may have seen it in this month's domino.


The image above is via Charm and Chain, where you can find more of her work