The Best Bet
A sexy surge protector sounds like a contradiction in terms. But the Koppla/Tubba from Ikea ($6.99 at Ikea stores) not only has a surprisingly attractive color and shape, it’s more functional than the rest. Unlike most surge protectors, which usually squash the outlets together too closelyto accommodate larger plugs, the circular design of this beauty means there’s ample space for cell-phone chargers and cable modems.
Photograph by Jennifer Karady.
(1) Peacocks simultaneously evoke Bloomsbury intellectuals, Victoriana, and psychedelia, which makes them the perfect emblem for the eclectic-bohemian fashion and home trend currently gaining momentum. Lucy Barnes takes about a week to hand-embroider peacock feathers on your jeans ($300 if jeans supplied; $425 with Seven Jeans; 212-255-9148).
(2) De Gournay has just opened a New York office; its hand-painted silk paper, like this Chatsworth pattern, makes a room instantly aristocratic (from $500; 212-564-9750).
(3) A dense frosting of tiny peacock feathers adds an unexpected hippie vibe to Judith Leiber’s clutch ($2,295; 212-223-2999 or judithleiber.com).
(4) The feathers’ unusual iridescence also makes for good trout flies ($1.95 and up; orvis.com).
(5) The stately, elegant pattern on this découpage plate from John Derian dates to the eighteenth century ($56; 212-677-3917).
(6) Surprisingly durable, peacock feathers make great place mats: Chateau X by Jane Krolik’s version is felt-backed ($90 at Bergdorf Goodman; 212-753-7300).
(7) Anya Hindmarch’s Constance sandals hit two trends at once—the heeled thong sandal and the feather ($530; 212-343-8147 or 212-750-3974).