I have to admit—Fall is my favorite season, and for so many reasons. First, I’ve always had a deep love for sweaters. Having spent nearly 40 years in the fashion industry designing and overseeing the production of hundreds of them around the world, I can’t help but feel a special connection to cozy knits when the air turns crisp.

Second, my love for scarves! I wear them year-round whenever the weather allows—from light, silky ones in spring and summer to soft, printed cashmere scarves that become my constant companions in fall and winter.

Another reason I adore Fall is that it gives me a little break from the garden. With tomato and pepper canning nearly done, I finally have time to dust off the stack of books waiting for me. I love sitting on my beautiful Mountain View deck, wrapped in a sweater, and diving into stories about food, romance, travel, gardening, and design.

One book I just finished (and forgot to include in the photo above) is Breath by James Nestor—an absolute must-read!

#1. Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
“Breath” was an amazing read in so many ways. I am so much more conscious of my breathing throughout the day, like I would be just doing yoga or Qigong, which I have recently been practicing with my husband every morning before we indulge in a hardcore workout. It is amazing how much the quality of how we breathe throughout the day and as we sleep is a crucial part of our overall health.

#2. Table for Two
“Table for Two” by Amor Towles, the author of one of my favorite books, “A Gentleman in Moscow”. The book is about six short stories that take place in New York and Hollywood. I am just about to start this one, as I loved his last book!

#3. Wabi-Sabi
I would place this book in my design section since it focuses on Japanese aesthetics. My sweet sister Maureen gifted me this book for my birthday, and I have been enjoying it so much. Wabi-Sabi is all about the beauty of all things modest and humble. Leonard Koren, the author, studied architecture but never built anything. He found love in the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, which he expresses so beautifully in this book. Leonard explores the beauty of space and how it allows us to create a calm, serene, and authentic space that feels natural and welcoming.

#4 Paris
“Paris” by Julian Green is just an amazing memoir by Julian, who takes you deep into his experience of being born in Paris to American parents. First published in French in 1983 and the most recent publication is in French and English, which I love.

#5 The Gardener’s Almanac
If you love gardening, “The Gardner’s Almanac” by Alan Titchmarsh is, as the British would say, absolutely lovely. He also has a fantastic podcast on Spotify. This is actually how I found him

Love to know what you’re reading….