Spectator Chic

Can't get over this inimitably chic photo of Jorie Butler Kent (of Abercrombie & Kent fame) and her son, shot by legendary society photographer Slim Aarons. You've probably seen it before. It's notable/beautiful/inspiring for any number of reasons, and has spawned a few similar shots.

Oddly enough, it got me thinking specifically about the director's chair as a spectator seat. I kind of despise those plastic and nylon camp chairs, and I think a folding director's chair provides a stylish solution for a spring/summer/fall outdoor sporting event. Sure, they might take a little more work, but I can't see Slim snapping a pic of anyone in one of these contraptions.

Instead, I'm picking up a pair of these to throw in the back of the car.

The Perfect Picnic

There's something about coolers that just...irks me. The hard plastic ones are sort of retro-chic but bulky and not so easy to carry, and their softer-sided alternatives are functional but pretty damn ugly. So I was pleased to find this cooler today at an LL Bean shop in Pennsylvania, which deftly combines the best of both (cooler) worlds. Looks just like a classic Boat & Tote, except that it's fully insulated and has a zip top. Sneaky, huh? Comes in a lunch size and a "picnic" size, perfect for a trip to the beach with some sandwiches and perhaps a bottle of rosé.

LL Bean Picnic Tote, $49.50, llbean.com