
Yesterday I was a Barnes & Noble finishing up my Christmas shopping when I came across Mary McDonald’s new book “The Allure of Style”. I opened it up and looked at a few pictures, very familiar to me since I’ve been a fan of hers for a while now, and without hesitation (or price tag check) went to the counter to buy myself a little gift. I am SO glad I did because this book is now my favorite design book by FAR, trumping Kelly Wearstler’s Modern Glamour easily (sorry Kelly). I literally want to bow down to Mary- she is clearly a genius when it comes to design. Her book is such an incredible example of the signature, elegant, fun yet timeless look she creates. I am totally in awe after seeing it all together in one place. I know I’ve posted these before, but here are some favorites. This book is a great gift for any design aficionado- and you can enter to win it here (along with many other amazing things) on our 12 Days of High Gloss Giveaways!












Who could forget Mary’s office in Domino??



How about her new office done ALL in leopard. I love me some leopard, but this might be a bit more than even I can handle!

But man, can she pull it off.



































Yes, the book is FABULOUS!! When I was buying it for my sister, I had to get one for myself as well. Not only are McDonalds designs beautiful but they are so layered that you can (and I have) go back and find something new in each shot many times over. A really gorgeous book!!
This is gorgeous! I’m happy she is now a favorite. I was never into Kelly W. I feel as though I appreciated Kelly’s vision, but I don’t think I could live in some of her designed rooms.
Mary = genius.
Yes Yes Yes!
I love this book. Actually i’ve kept most of her interior images, some in which you posted, since i found many of them in magazines throughout the years, so i can basically say that i have her “book” too. Love her work. Drama in every room.
About Kelly W. I wont compare the two designers but I once admired Kelly’s glamorous style that up until, well, she got too much publicity. One tent to lose it sometimes you know what I mean?
Sorry I spelled tend wrong. I meant “tends”. Thank you.
i will never tire of seeing her work! her use of color is beyond amazing. glad you treated yourself to the book!
ok YES YES & YESSSSS!
I totally agree about this being the top design book out there right now.
You guys can still enter to win a copy of the book through the “12 Days of High Gloss”! You have until Friday to enter for your chance to win Mary McDonald’s book and many other fabulous prizes!
http://www.highglossmagazine.com/happenings/
OOOOHHH- gorgeous. The room with the orange, pale blue and zebra- so yummy!
that office is insane. in. the. membrane. must have that book!
Thank you for sharing.Teresa
i asked for this book for christmas…if santa knows what’s good for him, he’ll get it for me.
hopefully, i will be enjoying this book christmas morning with a slice of quiche and some hot chocolate!
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I love Mary’s style. I think I first heard about her through you and have admired her ever since! I do think the leopard office is a bit much though. I need a more serene workspace to get things accomplished!
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Love love LOVE these interiors. I just saved almost all of them to my inspiration folder. =)
The very definition of style. Thank you.
Where can I find a duvet cover like this one:
http://www.elementsofstyleblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/gasl_mary_mcdonald_09.jpg