For those who aspire to effortlessly elegant entertaining and sophisticated home styling, Kimberly Schlegel Whitman stands as a beacon of inspiration. A celebrated lifestyle and entertaining expert, Whitman possesses an innate ability to transform any gathering into a memorable occasion and any space into a reflection of refined taste. While setting a festive table or curating a beautiful home may come as second nature to her, she understands that for many, these endeavors can feel daunting. This insight fueled the creation of her innovative new venture: TRUNK Curated.
Launched as a meticulously-edited online destination, TRUNK Curated offers a thoughtfully assembled collection of designer home goods, exclusive vintage pieces, and unique artisanal finds. It’s more than just a retail platform; it’s a window into Whitman’s discerning eye and her philosophy of creating spaces that tell a story. Her expertise, honed over years of experience in the lifestyle industry, is now accessible to everyone seeking to infuse their homes with beauty and personality.
Discovering the Art of Curated Living with Kimberly Schlegel Whitman
Kimberly Schlegel Whitman’s passion for curating extends beyond mere aesthetics; it delves into the art of storytelling through objects. “Curating brands and table schemes is one of my favorite things to do,” she shares. Her approach is a masterful blend of the past and the present, the grand and the intimate. She explains, “Some of them are world-renowned luxury brands with rich histories, others are new entrepreneurs with small businesses making handmade artisanal treasures.” This philosophy forms the very foundation of TRUNK Curated, offering a diverse palette that caters to both established connoisseurs and those discovering their personal style.
The true magic, or as Whitman calls it, her “secret sauce,” lies in the harmonious blending of these disparate elements. This isn’t about simply accumulating luxury items; it’s about creating a dialogue between them. “Mixing them together lends a richness to the new brands and a unique take on the established ones,” she elaborates. Imagine a timeless antique piece artfully paired with a contemporary handcrafted item – the result is a layered, dynamic aesthetic that feels both fresh and enduring. This approach empowers individuals to create homes that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal, reflecting a sophisticated appreciation for both heritage and innovation.
TRUNK Curated stands out by offering a collection that is both highly exclusive and remarkably accessible in its inspiration. It’s about discovering pieces that resonate, whether they are centuries-old heirlooms or modern artisan creations. Whitman’s selection process is rigorous, ensuring that every item on the site meets her exacting standards for quality, craftsmanship, and unique appeal. This commitment to excellence ensures that customers are investing in pieces that will be cherished for years to come, transcending fleeting trends and offering lasting beauty.
Signature Finds: A Glimpse into TRUNK Curated’s Exclusive Collection
TRUNK Curated is a treasure trove of exceptional pieces, each handpicked by Kimberly Schlegel Whitman for its distinct character and ability to elevate a space. Her discerning eye uncovers items that are not just decorative but possess a story, a history, or an undeniable charm. Consider, for instance, a rare vintage Gucci silver and enamel pen cup – a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and enduring style. “It’s the perfect gift for a gentleman to keep on his desk,” Whitman suggests, highlighting its blend of practicality and luxury. Such pieces speak volumes, making a statement without uttering a single word.
Beyond rare vintage finds, the collection celebrates collectible pieces from other esteemed luxury houses like Hermès, Porthault, and Cartier. These brands represent the pinnacle of design and artistry, offering items that are not merely functional but veritable works of art. Whitman’s curation ensures that even within these iconic brands, customers discover pieces with unique allure and lasting value. These are investments in beauty, history, and impeccable taste.
But TRUNK Curated isn’t solely about established luxury. Whitman champions new artisans and small businesses making exquisite handmade treasures. Shandell’s hand-marbled match sets, tissue box covers, and pencil cups, for example, offer a fresh take on traditional craftsmanship. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors bring a whimsical yet sophisticated touch to any surface. Similarly, handcrafted Ines Olympe Mercadal trinket trays provide elegant solutions for organizing small treasures, blending functionality with sculptural beauty. These items exemplify Whitman’s philosophy of supporting emerging talent while introducing truly unique accents to the home.
No curated home collection would be complete without the sensory delight of a fine fragrance, and Whitman enthusiastically recommends Rigaud candles. “They’re so classic and elegant,” she affirms. Known for their sophisticated scents and long-lasting burn, Rigaud candles are more than just candles; they are an essential element in setting an ambiance of luxury and tranquility. Their presence signifies attention to detail and a commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere, proving that even the simplest pleasures can be elevated to an art form when chosen with care.
Exclusive Discoveries: TRUNK Curated’s Virtual Trunk Shows
True to its name, TRUNK Curated offers an engaging experience through its virtual trunk shows, providing exclusive access to special collections and limited-edition items. These shows are a dynamic extension of Whitman’s curatorial vision, allowing her to spotlight specific brands and themes with deeper dives and richer narratives. We recently had the opportunity to ask Whitman to elaborate on two particularly captivating current collections, showcasing the breadth and depth of TRUNK Curated’s offerings.
Christofle: A Legacy of Silverware and Sophistication
The esteemed French luxury brand Christofle was the focus of TRUNK Curated’s inaugural trunk show, an ideal choice given its rich history and reputation for exquisite craftsmanship. Whitman’s collaboration with Christofle centered specifically on their giftware, highlighting pieces that embody timeless elegance and thoughtful giving. “We focused on giftware for our first trunk show,” she notes, emphasizing the brand’s enduring appeal as a purveyor of cherished gifts.
Whitman expresses particular delight in a significant detail: “I love that the brand has brought back its original signature green packaging. It brings the same smile to a recipient’s face that the well-known orange box does!” This attention to heritage and presentation underscores the luxury experience that Christofle, and by extension TRUNK Curated, aims to deliver. The iconic green packaging is not just a box; it’s a promise of quality and a symbol of a cherished tradition, evoking a sense of anticipation and joy.
Her enthusiasm also extends to the versatility of the collection. “I also love that they trusted me with a wide variety of price points, ranging from $70 to $15,500,” she added. This broad spectrum ensures that the luxury of Christofle is accessible across various budgets, allowing a wider audience to experience the brand’s distinguished quality, whether through a charming small gift or a magnificent heirloom piece like the famed 24-karat golden cutlery egg.
El Shoppo x Esencial Hogan: Celebrating Modern Artistry and Innovation
In a vibrant contrast to the established legacy of Christofle, TRUNK Curated also shines a spotlight on innovative contemporary brands. The collaboration featuring El Shoppo x Esencial Hogan is a testament to Whitman’s commitment to fostering new talent and showcasing fresh perspectives in home design. “Both of these brands – founded by amazing young women who worked in the design industry – are filled with amazing treasures,” Whitman proudly states. This partnership not only brings unique products to the forefront but also champions female entrepreneurship and creativity within the design world.
Among the standouts from this exciting collaboration are stunning table linens that offer “a fresh take on a traditional craft.” These aren’t your grandmother’s tablecloths; they are contemporary masterpieces that infuse modern patterns, textures, and color palettes into time-honored weaving and embroidery techniques. They transform everyday dining into an artistic experience, demonstrating how traditional artistry can be reimagined for today’s discerning tastes.
Another captivating feature of this collection is the series of three-foot-tall flower candles. These striking pieces are far more than mere candles; they are sculptural works of art designed to make a dramatic statement. “It’s impossible not to see the beauty in the work,” Whitman comments, emphasizing the intricate craftsmanship and visual impact of these magnificent creations. Their impressive scale and artistic detail ensure they become immediate focal points, adding an element of grand charm and sophisticated whimsy to any room. This collaboration perfectly encapsulates TRUNK Curated’s mission: to bring together a diverse range of exquisite items, each telling its own compelling story and contributing to a richer, more beautiful living space. You can explore all these unique finds and more at TRUNK Curated.
Expert Insights: Kimberly Schlegel Whitman’s Timely Holiday Advice
As the holiday season approaches, the pressure to create memorable experiences and find the perfect gifts can often feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, with her wealth of experience in entertaining and thoughtful gifting, offers invaluable advice to navigate this busy time with grace and joy. We seized the opportunity to glean some of her timely holiday wisdom, covering everything from table settings to guest hosting.
On Setting a Beautiful and Welcoming Table:
“I love to pull holiday decorations from around my home for the middle of the table to make it more festive,” Whitman advises. This simple yet effective tip encourages creativity and personal touches. Instead of buying new centerpieces, look to existing ornaments, cherished keepsakes, or natural elements like pinecones and branches. The key is to create a cohesive and inviting narrative on your table, allowing your personal style to shine through. Consider layering textures, incorporating varied heights with candles or decorative objects, and using unconventional color schemes – a signature Whitman touch – to surprise and delight your guests. A beautifully set table isn’t just about food; it’s about crafting an atmosphere where memories are made and conversations flow easily.
On Finding the Perfect, Heartfelt Gift:
“Gifts are my love language, so I love to find unique pieces for everyone in my life,” Whitman shares, revealing the personal philosophy behind her meticulous curation. She advocates for gifts that truly resonate with the recipient, going beyond generic choices. “I think so many people write off the simple pleasures like scented candles or matches,” she laments. This is a crucial insight: often, the most cherished gifts are not the most expensive, but those that bring comfort, beauty, or a moment of sensory delight. A high-quality scented candle, a beautifully crafted set of matches, a luxurious hand soap, or a personalized trinket tray can be deeply appreciated gestures of thoughtfulness. Focus on items that elevate everyday experiences, showing that you value the recipient’s well-being and personal space.
On Mastering the Art of Holiday Hosting:
Whitman’s approach to holiday hosting is holistic and deeply empathetic, focusing on engaging all five senses to create an unforgettable experience. She encourages hosts to “think of all five senses” from the moment guests arrive:
- Sight: “What guests will see when they first arrive.” This includes not just the table but the overall ambiance of your home – festive decorations, soft lighting, and a tidy, welcoming environment.
- Touch: “The touch of the cold glass of champagne in their hand as they mingle.” Consider the tactile experience of your serving ware, linens, and even comfortable seating arrangements.
- Sound: “The sound of holiday music.” A carefully curated playlist can instantly set a joyous or serene mood, without being overpowering.
- Smell: “The smells coming from the kitchen.” The aroma of baking, a simmering potpourri, or a fragrant candle can evoke powerful memories and feelings of warmth and comfort.
- Taste: “And finally, taste, as they create memories around the table.” Of course, delicious food and drink are central, but Whitman reminds us that taste is part of a larger sensory tapestry that defines the experience.
Beyond these sensory considerations, Whitman imparts a golden rule for hosts: “And remember, smile through the mistakes and let your laugh come easily. It is contagious!” This emphasizes the importance of a relaxed, joyful host. Even with the best planning, minor mishaps can occur. Your positive attitude and ability to enjoy the moment, despite any imperfections, will ultimately set the tone for your guests and ensure that everyone has a wonderful time. After all, the true spirit of holiday hosting lies in connection, warmth, and shared joy.