Coast to Coast

What is American Style? Can it be characterized as one form, one look, one “style”? Or does American Style embody a variety of designs? As we travel the country attending trade shows, the answer is clear: Americans are not a homogenous bunch. Regional variety is the rule.

Just as regional variety affects attitudes about everything from soda pop to politics, American attitudes toward decorative accessories vary across the country. From region to region, the American people are diverse, interesting and unique. And so are their design styles, including beach, southern, country, western, southwestern and urban — each with its own distinct character evoking the local flavors of different regions of the country.

In the following pages Gifts & Decorative Accessories takes you on a tour of America. We'll visit the coast, the country, the beach, the desert and the city with a selection of product vignettes. From giftware to fashion accents, America will showcase all of its distinctive styles.

The Southwest boasts breathtaking landscapes, vibrant colors and wonderful folk art, making the decorative accessories and jewelry inspired by this region truly special. Whether it's warm earth tones or rich turquoise, the stylish designs of the Southwest are sure to bring some caliente to the home.

On a warm summer day, you might like to find yourself sitting on the front porch, sipping lemonade before preparing a casual dinner for family and friends. Dinnerware with a country motif is perfect for serving up tasty barbecue, and pitchers and planters are ideal for displaying fresh-cut flowers from the garden.

When looking for a balmy getaway, Americans don't even have to leave their own backyard. Florida is our tropical paradise. From the Everglades to the Keys to sizzling South Beach, an equatorial haven is just hours away. Kick back with a cool drink and a good book, and watch the tide come in.

Tropical it's not, but the New England coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Seashells, distressed woods and seagulls are perfect notes for a coastal home. Serve the catch of the day on ocean-colored plates and enjoy an evening by the shore.