PENELOPE BIANCHI ~ AGELESS STYLE

January 31, 2019 85 Comments

Let me introduce MY FRIEND who I found from THIS THING CALLED BLOGGING!

I do NOT recall how I found her BLOG BUT SHE WILL!

I DO RECALL, I posted a comment on her blog about a cup I bought in ITALY; GREVE if you want to know WHERE as she had the same pattern PLATES and CUPS as MY singular CUP which I loved!Only hers came from the ESTATE of the Owners of THE MARK HOPKINS HOTEL in San Francisco!By the way I have some wooden BALUSTRADES that came from their GARDEN!!!Which are suppose to be made into MY ISLAND KITCHEN TABLE!!!!!!!!!

HELLO MISTER ITALIAN are YOU reading this!!!

This WOMAN is ANYTHING but NASTY!

SHE has a HEART of GOLD and has created a CHARMING HOME filled with TREASURES.

The stories she has are INCREDIBLE!

Never mind she lives next door to OPRAH!

Plus, she knew my AUNT KATHARINE so that is BOND I CHERISH!

Penny as she is called is an INTERIOR DECORATOR!

TO SEE HER WEBSITE GO HERE!

TO FIND HER ON INSTAGRAM Search for penelopebianchi.

Here she surveys a client’s Future Home.

Here she is in her OWN HOME!

IN A YUME CAFTAN !!!

Which matches her DOORS!

Penelope, is ANOTHER ANIMAL LOVER!

I think The total Now is THREE DOGS, TWO CATS and MANY CHICKENS!

SOUND FAMILIAR………………are you picking up on DETAILS?

Do you see WE share a FEW THINGS IN COMMON!

Shall I tell YOU how WE MET?

MY AUNT had passed and we were traveling down to her area for the funeral.I told the ITALIAN I was going to call this woman to see if we could POP over and say HELLO!

AND THE ITALIAN gave me a FUNNY LOOK”!We are going to stop at a woman’s house you have never met ?”YES, I explained SHE IS JUST LIKE ME!!! A TAD BIT OLDER;I want to say HELLO plus she lives down the street from MY AUNT KATHARINE!

SO WE ARRIVE TO THIS MAGICAL ABODE!

EVERYTHING HAS A STORY!

(SOUND FAMILIAR?)

ADAM & PENELOPE BIANCHI

GORGEOUS HUSBAND TO BOOT who is from the San Francisco Bay Area!

HE WEARS COLORFUL CLOTHING JUST like THE ITALIAN!

They have been married for 41 years come February!

THE LOGGIA off of Penelopes kitchen!

LOOKS LIKE A PAINTING!

This is her OFFICE during The Spring and Summer when weather is PERFECT!

SEE that basket under the table?

The year I visited a bird had made a nest in it!

That is an OPEN WINDOW To the OUTSIDE!

OPRAHS’ driveway is on the other side of all that GREEN!

LOTS of GREEN IN BETWEEN!

THAN the FIRES and MUD DEVASTATION HAPPENED in JANUARY of 2018!

The COTTAGE you see behind her is MY GUEST QUARTERS!

The MAIN house is to the LEFT HERE.

THE BIANCHI’s House was the only house left standing after this terrible MUD INVASION.

They were OUT of their home for 9 months!

AS Of TODAY they are the only people living on their STREET!

Penelope in her UNIFORM as SHE CALLS IT!

With her daughter on the Right and GrandDaughter on the LEFT!

BEAUTIFUL FAMILY!

Penelope & HUTTON WILKINSON

I TOOK THIS PHOTO!

Penelope and STEVEN STOLEMAN!

ANOTHER PHOTO TAKEN BY ME!

THIS photo NOT TAKEN BY ME but its a GEM just for THE STORY!

DONNA KARAN and PENELOPE in the MONTECITO BOOK SHOP!

There is even a BETTER story to go with this PHOTO as PENNY is wearing a VINTAGE Anne Klein RED JACKET which MS. KARAN SPOTTED A MILE AWAY!

WHICH SHE DESIGNED when she worked for Anne Klein along time ago!

More GRAND KIDS!

LETS SEE HOW PENELOPE RESPONDS TO OUR QUESTIONS FOR

AGELESS STYLE!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

I am not good at describing myself. I think I have a very simple style….but that is my “uniform” style. Oversize turtleneck in grey, camel and black from CUYANA with simple black or white trousers.

I love Hermes large cashmere and silk scarf-shawls to add interest. I have 6 black, 10 camel and 3 grey of these turtlenecks.

They are baby alpaca.

I love them.

In the evening, I like a more exotic look.

I have a couple of vintage jackets.

One Chinese and one Moroccan.

I wear those a lot for special occasions.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR STYLE?

I like simple because I deal with prints and colors every day in my decorating work.

Don’t want it in my closet in the morning.

I used to wear only black and white in the day time. Black or white.

My closet looked like a newspaper. Now I have expanded!

Camel, grey, even some red.At night I can get more creative.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ACCESSORY?

Probably my vintage jackets and my “festivity crowns”!

I wear them every chance I get!

They start to fall apart!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE COLOR COMBINATIONS?

I love all colors and most together.

Neutrals for day. I love white. I also love jewelry.

My favorite color is periwinkle blue. The color of my adored sapphire and diamond ring. I lost it in my house for almost 5 years. I just found it in October. I had hidden it the zipper inside pocket of my husband’s shaving kit. I knew it wasn’t stolen, I missed it every day.

DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE PIECE THAT DEFINES YOUR STYLE?

I have too many looks.

I guess for evening my jackets.

And for day my turtlenecks. (the photo of my releasing the hawk is one.)

WHAT ARE YOUR STYLE STRENGTHS?

I couldn’t tell you. Someone else would have to. I like timeless clothes. And timeless decorating. I loved meeting Donna Karan and wearing the coat she designed for Anne Klein when she was the head designer after Anne Klein died. Donna recognized it immediately! And it was 35 years old!

She signed my book “I wish we had aged as well as your coat!.”

She looks fantastic!

DO YOU HAVE A STYLE MUSE?

There are lots of people whose style I admire, but I cannot say I have a muse.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS,AND WHY CAN’T YOU LIVE WITHOUT THEM?

Lipstick is my favorite beauty product.

And I get really cross when they discontinue my favorites!

MY FAVORITE of the moment is DRY ROSE by LAURA MERCIER.

DO YOU HAVE ANY STYLE RULES THAT YOU LIVE BY,OR DO YOU CHOOSE TO BREAK THE RULES?

I do not wear jeans.

(I wear black denim pants and white ones; not with jean stitching or style.) I just don’t.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE ONLINE AND OR BOUTIQUE SOURCES?

I love 1st dibs for vintage clothing. I love Cuyana for classic timeless simple day clothes. I also wear their things at night for dinner out. (not parties)

I like all their classic clothes.

DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR DIET AND OR EXERCISE REGIME THAT YOU FOLLOW?

Pilates and walking.

My favorite is walking!

DO YOU HAVE ANY ANTI AGING FOODS AND OR SUPPLEMENTS THAT ARE YOUR GO TO’S?

My dermatologist Karyn Grossman is a genius. She has a great skincare line. I follow it religiously. I do not believe in much plastic surgery for myself. I have seen too many really scary sad things. (losing one’s smile for example) I had a neck lift. When I was 54. Might have another. We’ll see. I just didn’t need 3 chins!

WHAT ADVISE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN OVER 50?

Don’t follow trends, don’t dress too young, stick to things that are becoming.

AND GET SOME BABY CHICKS!

Well, that was added by me Your CONTESSA but I’m Positive PENNY would AGREE!

Chickens are THE BEST PETS!

I want to THANK YOU for all commenting on my last TWO POSTS!

WE HAVE A DIAGNOSIS thanks to one BLOG READER who happened to mention the word POTS!

WHAT IS POTS?

HERE is a SHORT DESCRIPTION of what I have!

Your blood usually flows at a steady rate, whether you’re sitting, standing, lying down, or hanging upside-down from a tree branch in the backyard. But if that rate changes when you change positions, that’s a condition called orthostatic intolerance, or OI.It can make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when you stand up after lying down.Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a disorder that has OI as its most common symptom. When you have POTS, most of your blood stays in the lower part of your body when you stand up. This makes your heart beat faster to try to get blood to your brain. Your heart rate can go up by 30 beats or more a minute after you stand up. As that happens, your blood pressure is likely to drop.Scientists aren’t sure exactly why, but women between 15 and 50 years old are more likely to have POTS.

Symptoms

When your heart has to work that hard and your blood pressure falls, that can throw other body functions off balance. You might:

Feel dizzy or faint
Have blurry vision
Feel nauseous or shaky
Throw up
Sweat a lot
Have brain fog

Feeling extremely tired is a symptom, too. Easy tasks can make you feel like you’ve just run a long race or are coming down with the flu.

WELL I am HAPPY to SAY WE HAVE CRACKED THE CASE after THREE YEARS of the MEDICAL INDUSTRY NOT BEING ABLE TO HELP ME!

THERE IS NO CURE!

IT SUPPOSEDLY will just GO AWAY!

There are medications that can HELP!

HOWEVER, One will deplete my CALCIUM & POTASSIUM.

(Remember I have OSTEOPOROSIS of the spine!)

The Other may interfere with other heart meds I’m on and make my HEART BEAT TOO SLOW!

Which would YOU PICK?

(THE DOCTOR ASKED ME TO CHOOSE!!!!!!!)

I have chosen NOT TO TAKE A PILL FOR POTS!

LET’s HOPE IT GOES AWAY!!

Enough of this let’s move on to the DRAWING of the WINNER for the PINK EYEBOBS SPECTACLES!

AS YOU know ALL people who left a comment on MY LAST TWO BLOG POSTS have been entered into THE TOP HAT to BE TIPPED by MISTER BANKSY to announce THE WINNER!

Below is BANKSY’s ATTEMPT Of TIPPING the TOPHAT!

NO SUCCESS THERE……..perhaps if I had put some CHEERIOS INSIDE THE HAT WE WOULD HAVE HAD BETTER LUCK!

SO, YESTERDAY with MY COFFEE I DIVED DEEP AND SWIRLED THE NAMES TO COME OUT WITH

THE WINNER!

HER NAME IS ALEXANDRA!!!!

Alexandra will you please send me an email with your snail mail ADDRESS!

MY EMAIL:iolacontessa@gmail.com

I THANK ALL OF YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!

I MAY PICK A RUNNER UP AND SEND SOMETHING ELSE AS I FIND THIS JUST PLAIN FUN!

HAPPY FEBRUARY and don’t forget to HOP over to CINDY HATTERSLEY’S BLOG to SEE HER VICTIM THIS MONTH! WE hope YOU enjoy OUR WOMEN………….LEARN SOMETHING and enjoy hearing about other LADIES OF A CERTAIN AGE!

LET’S ALL SHARE AND LEARN FROM EACH OTHER AOUT THIS THING CALLED AGING!

85 Comments

Leave your reply.

Juliet
· Reply

February 13, 2019 at 7:48 PM

Penelope has fabulous style . . . and a fascinating life. I’ve followed the story of her home on Instagram. What those poor people in Santa Barbara have gone through. Ugh. I was excited about the drawing and hoped Banksy might tip the hat in my favor BUT I see he and Winston are having none of it! :-} xo
Marianne
· Reply

February 6, 2019 at 11:02 PM

Hi Contessa!

Love Penelope!
Also, don’t know if you are familiar with The Wiggles (I am American but had kids in Sydney at the time). One of the Wiggles had Orthostatic Intolerance (OI) related to POTS: https://www.medpagetoday.com/blogs/celebritydiagnosis/31891
He had to stop touring but I believe is back now.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2019 at 6:29 AM
  
  THANK YOU VERY MUCH for this ARTICLE!MY READERS have been a MEDICAL LIBRARY FOR ME!!!!!XX
Pipistrello
· Reply

February 5, 2019 at 3:37 PM

Ciao Contessa!

Ho, I am a little late to the party! And yes, I do see you and Penelope would share a thing or two in common!! That pic of her in a caftan with a Winston lookalike on a brick floor could be one of your own lovely interiors shots, for a start. It’s lovely of you to be sharing your kindred spirits around with your series. But I am a little shocked at how quickly they roll around. Where are the months going??

So glad your diagnosis is in. Never heard of POTS before but it’s good to hear there are still things we can grow out of….think of it like pimples!!!

Baci xx
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

February 5, 2019 at 7:46 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Love it! So interesting! Your life amazes me its like something I dream of! ?? Nancy
Leslie Harris
· Reply

February 4, 2019 at 11:42 PM

What a wonderful post! I loved hearing all about Penelope and admire her elegance and style. And of course as a fellow animal lover I appreciate her big heart. Also Elizabeth I’m so relieved you finally got a diagnosis after all this time. I hope you don’t need to go on the meds, praying the symptoms go away soon. Love to you!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 5, 2019 at 5:48 AM
  
  GLAD TO SEE YOU ARE SURFING THE NET!!!!!
  BIG HUGS,
  XO
Candy Manioudaki
· Reply

February 4, 2019 at 10:59 AM

We absolutely love both you and Penelope!!!
You have such an amazing and unique style and so much energy!! Loved the interview and the article itself. So inspiring, so interesting!!!
I must say Penelope looks so elegant in her YUME caftan

thank you xxxxxxxxx

Candy
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 5, 2019 at 5:51 AM
  
  HAPPY YOU were able to visit here!Since, Penelope is a GROWN UP version of ME it was only RIGHT she FOUND YOU!
  YUME CAFTANS like I did!!!!!
  I can NOT WAIT FOR YOUR NEXT CREATION!!!!!
  XX
Lisa the Sequinist
· Reply

February 3, 2019 at 2:59 AM

I loved reading Penelope’s profile on here; she sounds like my kind of lady. I know you’ve mentioned her a few times before. I could lose myself in that outdoor room of hers where the bird nested in the basket. I’d spend my life in that room writing novels, I think!

I am thrilled to hear about your cracking the code on your health issues. Even if it isn’t ideal, at least you KNOW what it is now and you can help yourself with the guidance of some good doctors, even if you need to root out a specialist or two.

Kisses to Banksy, he really is a doll.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 5, 2019 at 5:58 AM
  
  THE DOLL is at my FEET demanding a BELLY RUB!!!!!!
  Which I of course will happily GIVE!
  YES, I NEED TO FOCUS NOW and find a good doctor or THREE……
  FIRED THE HOMeopath last week as she yelled at me in a TEXT because I had an EPISODE!I told her I was “EATING CLEAN”which she replies….”I don”T KNOW what that means and I don’t know what you have been eating or doing!”
  WHERE DO I FIND THESE PEOPLE…………????
  Because their REMEDY is NOT WORKING FOR ME IT IS MY FAULT?!!
  I’m about ready to go into HIBERNATION……….
  HUGS TO YOU beautiful LADY!
  XX
DA Squires
· Reply

February 2, 2019 at 3:28 PM

ADORED reading this… you and Penelope are two sides of the same GOLD coin. And I am certain these are very rare, valuable (vintage : ) coins. Penelope is beautiful and inspiring and sparkling… champagne comes to mind… I just loved everything about her, how could one not? Even the name of her favorite lipstick, Dry Rose… they should bring it back just for the name. If I could live in one room, it would be the loggia. DIVINE… I think I could see the fairy dust. And to have a bird nest in the basket!! Most of all, I love that she takes care of wild birds and has chickens and a coop…and dogs and cats… her world is the stuff dreams are made of. XO’s to you both and merci beaucoup for allowing my birds to deliver the books to such an enchanted place…
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 5, 2019 at 6:02 AM
  
  Speaking of BOOKS I spoke to BOB about YOURS this past weekend…………
  OF COURSE YOU SAW THE FAIRY DUST!!!IT ABOUNDS at PenELOPe’s HOUSE!
  HER WORLD IS MY WORLD SHE JUST DOES IT BETTER!!!!
  HUGS TO YOU,
  XOXO
Rae Ecklund
· Reply

February 2, 2019 at 6:42 AM

Hello, Elizabeth and Penelope!
What a pleasure to wake up to this blog on PENELOPE! I wanted to jump in and agree with all the accolades that have been posted. To have survived the mudslides is beyond comprehension and to come out joyful and thankful is a continuation of her beautiful spirit and style.
I think my big take away is that aside from a fascinating personal style of dress and home the take away for me is the humility and gratitude that allows for all of these glowing compliments.

You two stylish ladies are kindred spirits especially in style of homes. You share what you love and if a little bit rubs off on some of us then you have made our day. Thank you, Elizabeth, and keep on healing because we need and love you.
Rae Ecklund
· Reply

February 2, 2019 at 6:34 AM

Hello, Elizabeth and Penelope!
What a pleasure to wake up to this blog on PENELOPE! I wanted to jump in and agree with all the accolades that have been posted. To have survived the mudslides is beyond comprehension and to come out joyful and thankful is a continuation of her beautiful spirit and style.
I think my big take away is that aside from a fascinating personal style of dress and home the take away for me is the humility and gratitude that allows for all of these glowing compliments. A genuine joy that attracts so many admires.

You two stylish ladies are kindred spirits especially in style of homes. You share what you love and if a little bit rubs off on some of us then you have made our day. Thank you, Elizabeth, and keep on healing because we need and love you.
Mithra Ballesteros
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 8:36 PM

Penelope is a vision in blue. Loved her caftan! I just ordered a sweater from Cuyana. Had never heard of it.

And what a trip that she found her ring after all those years!

Also I’m very relieved to hear that you have answers to your symptoms. May this bizarre problem leave you alone soon!

And lastly many thanks for all the Instagram advice. I shall endeavor to be better!!
Lillian Plummer
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 6:01 PM

OMG evacuating again!! Penny what is going on? you have had so many scares, more than a gal can take. Those poor animals being moved again.

Lovely post Elizabeth, I have been following Penny for a few years and just adore her style. Saw the segment on Oprah when she spoke of the chicken lady next door and again when oprah returned from Italy with a ceramic chicken gift for her neighbor. Wonder if Penny still has it? Imagine my delight when I came across Penny’s blog and realised one and the same person. I live on the other side of the world but feel like I am close by. Like you say an approachable, down to earth, elegant, gracious, beautiful, creative and passionate woman. No many like Penny, a Woman For All Seasons.
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 2, 2019 at 12:54 PM
  
  Oh thank you!!
  Yes i love the chickens from Oprah!
Dion
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 4:52 PM

Ma Chere Contessa,
Your friend Penelope has a wonderful name and a lovely house to match.
I enjoyed her impeccable taste.
On another note, I’m happy to hear you have a diagnosis after 3 years.
Sorry there’s a glitch re interaction with other meds. I’d also pass on treatment that might be harmful to your other problems.
Happily you continue to persevere in spite of it all!
Blogging must be good medicine!

Adieu,

PPP
lisa thomson
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 4:45 PM

Penny is so beautiful! I love her style. I’m surprised about her no jeans rule. Not sure what I would do without mine but then I rely on them too much. Great photos with this one, Contessa. I love how you two met through blogging. When you said The Italian looked confused I had to laugh because mine would say the same thing.

So glad to hear the health mystery is solved, Contessa. Although it is perplexing that there is little to do for treatment. I think you made the right decision to not take the pills. Just taking it easy and knowing what it is might be enough to help you cope with the episodes. And it may go away!! Let’s hope.

Oh, Banksy, thanks for choosing my name out of the hat—NOT!! 😛 😀
CHERIE
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 4:01 PM

I adore Penelope and her wonderful style! What a beautiful feature Contessa. On another note of your health, I had no idea you were so ill, I’m so sorry. It sounds like you have gotten some relief though. We need to catch up, I’ve been swamped these last few months, trying very hard to stay engaged in the blog world. Take care, and let chat!!! XOXOXO

cherie
http://www.stylenudge.com
STYLE NUDGVE
cherie
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 3:56 PM

I love this post, and Penelope is wonderfully stylish. Love her taste. On another note, I had no idea you were so ill Contessa, I’m so sorry. It sounds like you are getting a bit of relief though. We need to chat very soon. I’ve been swamped with all kinds of things and haven’t been as engaged in the blogging world as late. XOXOXO

cherie
http://www.stylenudge.com
Rosemarie
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 3:19 PM

Hi there CONTESSA

Great blog. The pics and writing always open up our senses.
kim
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 2:47 PM

Elizabeth, You know I just LOVE this series and was so excited to see Penelope on here. Can I just say I adore the way she lives? I love her style- those white glasses are especially chic, and how she has a kind of uniform for day! Most of all, like you she seems to have a passion for life, is kind and cares. What a treasure she is and I aspire to be more like you ladies who live life everyday with style and panache. Penelope sending good thoughts to you today. I hope all is okay with your home and the rain. It’s gorgeous. Take care!

Elizabeth so glad you got some answers finally. Have a good trip for the book- and share pics. Hugs to you. Hoping to see you soon.xx Kim

p.s. Does Oprah know what a treasure her neighbor is? She should interview her!
Sheila-Merle Johnson
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 12:09 PM

What a lovely post! I love being introduced to women with such different styles than I have. And both posts this month did that. Penelope’s is so elegant and classic. She is tres elegant! I too wear signature jackets but they are more casual tribal and I wear them often with jeans and leggings. How ironic that you have POTS and I have POT – Primary Orthostatic Tremor. Another condition without a cure. We can’t stand still for more than a brief while without leg tremors coming on, sometimes quite severe. And it doesn’t go away. Meds have helped me some though, so sometimes I can stand for 10 minutes or so. Keep up your WONDERFUL posts just as they are. I LOVE how you emphasize things with caps. I imagine you talking that way too. And I agree. Your voice on the video is so soothing.
Cara in S. FL
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 11:43 AM

Dearest Elizabeth:
I continue to believe an excellent classical homeopath could help you recover. No medication, just the correct remedy for the total you, including your symptoms.
Best!
Penelope Bianchi
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 11:18 AM

I am completely overwhelmed! I haven’t had a chance to comment! We are having to evacuate again!
What a lovely, and flattering article! And the comments! Lordy! Thank you thank you all! I will answer all questions!

Elizabeth, you are such a great writer!

Parnassus! You are a favorite….why can’t you find my website! GRRRR!!!!

I am going to start publishing more blogs. I have stories! Elizabeth gets mad at me for not publishing!
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 1, 2019 at 11:23 AM
  
  AGAIN??
  So SORRY??
  Yes I get MAD at You for Not Sharing The Stories we ALL want to HEAR??
  Be Safe comments Can Wait??
  ??
  - La Contessa
    · Reply
    
    Author
    
    February 1, 2019 at 11:24 AM
    
    Sorry for the question marks that happens when people answer from there phones!Like me Now.
Debra @ 5th and state
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 10:37 AM

a diagnosis!!! dearest friend, I am so relieved for you, finally! and I can see you have lost a lot of weight while looking divine!

Penelope…..I have been an admirer for a very long time. oh to meet her! I can see where the two of you were fast friends

xoxoxo. banksy & winston……cannot wait to meet them!
Debra
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 9:15 AM

Hello, Sweet Friend! I’m already taking a heart med that depletes my potassium, so if POTS is what I have as well… I’ll pass on the meds. Even so just having a diagnosis makes you feel somewhat better although the wondering if we’ll pass out is something else entirely! Loved your piece on Penny. She’s one of my favorites and when I make a trip to her lovely spot of the world, I’ll be knocking on her door as well. Love to you & the Italian, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 9:31 AM
  
  She would LOVE TO have YOU OVER!!!!!!!
  I need to give you an update……..tomorrow morning or later today I can TEXT!
  XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    February 1, 2019 at 11:21 AM
    
    Elizabeth is correct! I would love to have you!
classic casual home
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 8:35 AM

This was so fun. What a classy lady! Love all the color.
Still praying for you, Elizabeth and your health!
Mary Ann
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 9:30 AM
  
  THANK YOU!
  I need ALL the HELP I can get!
  XX
Victoria Thorp
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 8:00 AM

It’s amazing to me that I had saved both your home and Penelope’s home from magazines, many years ago. Who knew that I would actually be in contact with both of you through Instagram one day. And that you would help me get on Instagram. Now a precious “Piggy” of your mother’s, lives in my home. This is the stuff of dreams. I admire both of you tremendously. Your IG friend, Victoria
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 8:22 AM
  
  REALLY???
  ROMANTIC COUNTRY or WHERE WOMEN COOK?WHich magazine article do YOU have?
  I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS………………YOU MADE MY DAY VICTORIA!
  THANK YOU!
  STAY INSIDE PLEASE and do NOT GO OUT INTO THAT VORTEX!!!!!!!!!
  PENELOPE will be thrilled TOO……….XX
  - Victoria Thorp
    · Reply
    
    February 2, 2019 at 8:33 AM
    
    I found your home in Romantic Country. It now resides with Penelope’s home, in a vintage Letters file. The ones with the marbelized looking covers. You have to admit it’s pretty amazing that I found you both on IG. I read something recently about the envy IG is creating in people who see these beautiful homes etc. and live a more modest life. I don’t see it that way at all. IG is like having hundreds of decorating books and magazines delivered to my door and when I see things that inspire me, I just do my take on some of those great ideas. I’ll stay in, Elizabeth. About as wild as I get is a trip to Walmart. XXX OOO
    - Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply
      
      February 2, 2019 at 12:49 PM
      
      I agree about Instagram!! It spreads good taste!!
cindy hattersley
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 7:46 AM

I really enjoyed reading about Penelope. I have admired her home and style from afar for many years since seeing her home on Velvet and Linen many years ago. I tend to find a turtleneck I like and buy several as well. And don’t get me started on lipstick! She is so right. It is so irritating to find one you like and find that it has been discontinued. I believe at one time was working on a home for one of her children that was a Monterey Colonial like ours. Thank you so much, Penelope, for sharing your style with us. You are lovely.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 9:33 AM
  
  YES!
  GOOD MEMORY!!!!!MONTEREY COLONIAL it was and I saw it!!!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 11:19 AM
  
  I am completely overwhelmed! I haven’t had a chance to comment! We are having to evacuate again!
  What a lovely, and flattering article! And the comments! Lordy! Thank you thank you all! I will answer all questions!
  
  Elizabeth, you are such a great writer!
  
  Parnassus! You are a favorite….why can’t you find my website! GRRRR!!!!
  
  I am going to start publishing more blogs. I have stories! Elizabeth gets mad at me for not publishing!
Val
· Reply

February 1, 2019 at 7:20 AM

GORGEOUS color Palette in Penelope’s home. Do you have any idea when the Guest cottage was built? Be STILL my Heart- looks like the 1920’s.I would Research the suggested medications- THOROUGHLY-neither one sounds very good.I read in one of your earlier posts that a Reader suggested a POTS specialist at Mayo- would a phone consultation be possible?
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 1, 2019 at 7:28 AM
  
  I DOUBT IT………..I have a call into STANFORD which is in my backyard.BUT I Need a REFERRAL from that DOCTORESSA of MINE!!!!!
  DAY BY DAY…………..
  PENELOPE’S HOME was built and she can answer better Than me around the 1990’s?
  I think she should sell the FLOOR PLANS too her house as it is PERFECT!!!!!!
  XX
  - Val
    · Reply
    
    February 1, 2019 at 9:40 AM
    
    That cottage with all the mud in front of it was built in the 1990’s????!!!!!!
    Looks like it could have been in a 20’s-30’s Hollywood picture.
    - La Contessa
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      Author
      
      February 1, 2019 at 10:39 AM
      
      Yes!Penelope where are YOU?Give us the FACTS??
      - Penelope Bianchi
        · Reply
        
        February 2, 2019 at 12:47 PM
        
        we built the house and guest house in 1997. But we copied a wonderful cottage in the south of France for the guest
        House.
Ms. Mary
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February 1, 2019 at 5:52 AM

Sweet post. It’s been one year since we went to the Antique & Garden Show in Nashville! I owe Penny for that great experience. 🙂

Did you see that Mary Oliver just passed away? She was such an inspired poet. Have you found a favorite poem yet?

Glad for you diagnosis, but sorry for the “no cure” part.

Please be kind to yourself…take it EASY!

Sending hugs. <3<3<3
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 1, 2019 at 6:11 AM
  
  I KNOW!I Keep seeing photos from the SET UP and DEALERS who I follow and GOSH wish I could be THERE AGAIN!However, the BAGS are packed for Los Angeles to attend THE BOOK LAUNCH PARTY of ADVANCED LOVE!!!!! I am Terribly EXCITED to be in L.A. this weekend and see FRIENDS and FAMILY!
  AS for a FAVORITE POEM………….it came via email!!!
  I will study YOUR BOOK FOR ONE!I have NOTHING ON for the coming MONTHS……..
  BUT HERE A READER wrote this about ME!!!
  
  Auntie mame!
  The greatest dame
  Living her life with a spirit untamed
  Circling the globe with her jewels in tow
  Layered upon her black velvet bow
  And we can’t forget Banksy
  Her grandpiggy baby
  Who grunts and snorts when approaching her
  The charming, magical pig whisperer
  Her lovely abode is a sight to see
  With decadent fixtures waiting for thee
  Lit up as she boils her imperial tea
  In her blue and white chinoiserie
  Over yonder the Italian cries out,
  “Banksy’s wreaked havoc!
  Where is my chocolate? He surely must have it!”
  Laughter ensues over the poor little pig
  He has made a mess all over the bed!
  Auntie mame loves her kin
  And an award she should win
  On the merit of being royally and regally herself
  Inspiring others to find the dame in oneself
  
  THIS IS HARD TO BEAT!!!!!!!
  HUGS TO YOU MS MARY!!!!!!
  XOXO
  - Ms. Mary
    · Reply
    
    February 1, 2019 at 7:32 PM
    
    On the merit of being royally and regally herself
    Inspiring others to find the dame in oneself
    
    These lines are GOLDEN!
    Enjoy the launch part! <3
D.A. Wolf
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February 1, 2019 at 4:54 AM

What fun, and fabulous style! Personally I love the turtle necks, by the way. And that loggia! Sooooo cool.

xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 1, 2019 at 6:03 AM
  
  I’m A TURTLENECK GAL TOO….LOVE!
  THAT LOGGIA is off her KITCHEN!!!!!
  XX
Celia Becker @ www.AfterOrangeCounty.com
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January 31, 2019 at 1:29 PM

Dear Contessa, what a classy, classy lady she is and what fascinating friends you have. A delightful read as always. Her home is stunning, so sad it was devastated by mud but at least it didn’t burn down. Glad she was able to return. I do hope it survives this next round of rain. Stay dry and warn ya’all.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 4:15 PM
  
  THEY WERE SO LUCKY ON SO MANY LEVELS!!!!!
  THE RAIN IS HERE!!!!!!!!
  HOPPING OVER TO YOU NOW!
  XX
Ellie's friend
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January 31, 2019 at 12:09 PM

If there were one person I really wanted to read about, it’s Penelope Bianchi. Like Parnassus, I’ve come across links and references to her many times. She is so beautiful and with classic style. I love the pale blue doors. I envy her the loggia. If I win the lotto, I would build a loggia type room.
I was so sorry to hear about the mud. glad her house survived.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 4:13 PM
  
  MUD Only got in her GUEST HOUSE not the main HOUSE but she can tell you MORE!Everything was REMOVED and CLEANED………
  OH ME TOO AS THEY BUILT IT and it is THE PERFECT HOUSE!NOT TOO BIG, ONE STORY with the LAUNDRY ROOM off the CLOSET AREA!!!!!!NOW THAT’s SMART!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 11:30 AM
  
  I hope you can get to my website! Thank you!
Parnassus
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January 31, 2019 at 11:16 AM

Hello Contessa, I am glad you featured Penelope Bianchi. I have come across links and references to her thousands of times, but for some reason her blog will never display on my computer. Just tried it again and same result.

Her interiors are the kind in which I like to look closely at everything because there are so many interesting objects strewn about. I think that I had those identical dining chairs in Ohio–I got them when my aunt moved and my mother has them now.

I guess that Banksy must be excited about Chinese Pig Year coming up next week!
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 4:11 PM
  
  Those chairs were her MOTHERS!!!!!!SHE just gave them away as they were NOT STURDY enough anymore!LISTEN TO THIS PENELOPE……..
  YOU have to wait a minute or two for it to load……..even from MY LINK??
  OH THAT IS SO FRUSTRATING!THESE COMPUTERS!!!!!
  OH YES that must be WHY he is getting into MY closet and pulling clothes off shelves!!!!!!!!
  IT’s HIS YEAR!!!!!!!!
  # I CAN MAKE MY BED WHERE I WANT MAMA!
  THANKS for CHECKING IN JIM………XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    February 1, 2019 at 11:28 AM
    
    My dining chairs were my mother’s and I have had them for 45 years! She had a black tie dinner party every Friday for her whole life, almost. Then I have entertained a lot! They finally gave up the ghost, and couldn’t be made sturdy again. I have new black Chinoiserie ones (they are not new, just new to me!) My website was being redone, and you should be able to get it by clicking on Elizabeth’s link she provided.
    Parnassus, you are one of my favorites! If you can get to my website you can subscribe to my blog! And you can look at the past ones. I have blogged for 8 years or something!
    
    These comments make me so happy! You have no idea!
Loree
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January 31, 2019 at 11:11 AM

Winston and Banksy are just too cute and you have the most magical voice I’ve ever heard. Age is something we all have to accept. When I was 25 I thought 40 was ages away. I can’t believe I’m now 48 and my ‘little one’ will become a teenager next week. Where did it all go?
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 4:06 PM
  
  YOU made MY DAY LOREE as ALL MY LIFE people have teased me about MY VOICE!
  I do not hear it the way it sounds so it SHOCKS me too sometimes!
  VERY HIGH PITCHED!
  I KNOW………..I’m 10 years ahead of YOU!
  Just know the 30’s and 40’s were MY BEST YEARS SO ENJOY THEM!!!
  YOU are LUCKY to have a TEENAGER as it will keep YOU YOUNG!!!!!!
  XX
michele@hellolovelystudio
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January 31, 2019 at 11:02 AM

What a lovely and talented woman she is! Her breathtakingly romantic pink bedroom spied in a magazine is where I know that beautiful name. And no bluejeans for Penny means my casually barefoot chambray lovin’ self can be her opposite over on Cindy’s blog…ha!

What a relief to have a diagnosis! Re: your spine…I have osteopenia in my hip and scoliosis, and reflexology not only relieved my pain but wiped it out.

This human freezepop in polar vortex-land says MERCI for celebrating ageless style and recognizing it simply cannot be delicious in just one flavor! 🙂

-michele
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 4:02 PM
  
  YES, I JUST HAD REFLEXOLOGY done and it will become another SELF CARE MAINTENANCE BUILDER!I do not have pain in the SPINE YET!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU FOR THE TIP!
  One would NEVER know you suffer from these things!!!!!!!
  XX
tara dillard
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January 31, 2019 at 10:44 AM

The POTS will go away. Assuredly and blessedly.

Glad we never have to have Penelope Bianchi go away !!! She’s the bomb of bombs.

Will enter some of the details Penelope gave into my phone for next time shopping. Too fun.

Much going on in Georgia/Texas for me…..not done yet but easing.

Garden & Be Well , XOT
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 3:58 PM
  
  THE BOMB is THE BEST!!!!!
  TO bad we cannot turn the POTS into GORGEOUS GARDEN POTS!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU for your POSITIVE THOUGHTS!!!!!!
  BUSY IS GOOD!
  XX
Lisa White
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January 31, 2019 at 10:42 AM

Lovely interview! I love how you unwrap a story and a friendship…the gift is even more special once it is revealed. Penelope’s style is gorgeous and I enjoyed studying her outfits and decor. Of course, the two of you were destined to be friends. I think your Aunt Katherine had a guiding hand in that…a parting gift…which you shared with us today. Thank you for another enchanting post!
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 3:55 PM
  
  I LIKE THE DETAILS!!!!!!!
  IS IT TOO MUCH?
  THANK YOU for READING and STAY HUNKERED IN NOW since YOU are a CHICAGO GAL PLEASE!!!!!!!
  XX
  - Lisa White
    · Reply
    
    February 1, 2019 at 5:29 AM
    
    The details and easy way you converse with the reader…as if we are sitting across from you in your kitchen sharing a cup of tea. I can visualize your excitement and brimming joy describing an adventure, garden, decorating…. Your posts are ALIVE with details. They are animated and beckon the reader to join in the fun. DO NOT CHANGE A THING! On a side note, temps in Chicago are climbing to 22F, today. Will be in the 50’s my Sunday.
Sandra Sallin - Apart From My Art
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January 31, 2019 at 9:55 AM

Penelope is the best. I’ve already gone over to Cuuyana to check out that turtleneck sweater. Love it. I was fortunate to sit next to Penny at a garden luncheon. We had the best time. Her stories are delightful. I could sit and talk with her all day, make that days. She is a charmer with great spirit and intelligence. She has her own distinctive style. Not many around here with her look. Of course I’m going to check out her Rose Laura Mercier lipstick. She also is a fabulous decorator. All in all a fabulous woman.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 31, 2019 at 3:54 PM
  
  THAT’s RIGHT and the TWO of you were at my PARTY at THE IVY years ago!!!!!
  CAN’t BELIEVE WE DID THAT!
  NO, she stands OUT in a GOOD WAY!!!!!
  I KNEW YOU WOULD BE ON THE HUNT for THE LIPPY!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 11:37 AM
  
  YOU are both fabulous! And I loved seeing you, and can’t wait to see you again!
  
  That Laura Mercier lipstick was Dry Rose, and it was discontinued! GRRRRRR!!!! I can’t find one I like as much!!!
Stephanie Donavan
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January 31, 2019 at 8:39 AM

Penelope is charming, and her home is just as lovely as she is…thank you for the introduction!!
I’m sorry to hear that there is no magic fix for POTS but the good news seems to be that it does get better with time. At least you know what you’re dealing with now. And as someone who is also dealing with bone thinning, may I recommend a supplement that I’m taking? It’s called Bone Builder, the manufacturer is Jarrow and you can buy at Whole Foods or Amazon. I started taking it 3 months ago to help heal my ankle fractures, and my last X-ray showed the breaks are completely healed! Needless to say I will be staying on this indefinitely, and I’ll be curious to see what my next bone scan has to say.
Always enjoy your Ageless Style posts…keep them coming, please!
xx
Stephanie
AKA tendrheart4
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 3:52 PM
  
  THANK YOU STEPHANIE!
  SO HAPPY TO HEAR YOU ARE ON THE MEND AND I will LOOK for that BONE BUILDER!
  XX
Amy Barnard
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January 31, 2019 at 8:34 AM

In addition to being a creative powerhouse, Penny is also one of the most selfless and giving people I’ve ever met. She is one of those individuals who takes affirmative action to make a difference in the world, and I call myself lucky to know her.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 8:56 AM
  
  YOU ARE SPOT ON!
  THANK YOU AMY photographer of THAT TERRACE that could be a PAINTING!
  XX
  - Amy Barnard
    · Reply
    
    January 31, 2019 at 10:32 AM
    
    Thank you for that lovely comment. I felt like a kid in a candy store photographing that magical home.
    - Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply
      
      February 1, 2019 at 11:00 PM
      
      Sob! I love you, Amy!!! You are such a gifted photographer….and your sensitivity shows in every photograph you take. You are such an artist!
Taste of France
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January 31, 2019 at 8:17 AM

Penelope looks fantastic. Very classy. And classic–as evidenced by a 35-year-old jacket that still is in style. The turtlenecks are a great uniform. Smart woman.
I am most in admiration of that wall of green outside her loggia. More people should think about the view from their windows. Sometimes you don’t have a lot of options–not everybody has sweeping vistas–but this shows that simply planting a wall of greenery is enough.
I am glad you have a diagnosis. Even if you don’t treat it with medication, is it possible to change habits to not feel the effects so much? When I was young, I had very low blood pressure and would often pass out shortly after getting out of bed. The doctor told me to quit leaping out of bed and just sit up for a couple of minutes before walking around. It worked. Perhaps your medically trained reader can advise whether this would help you.
Good luck! And thanks for the feature on Penelope!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 8:25 AM
  
  NO MEDICALLY TRAINED READER!!
  Just a WOMAN in THE KNOW!!!!!!!!She suggested it and I GOOGLED and could NOT stop shaking my HEAD YES, YES, YES!!!!!!!
  FOREVER GRATEFUL TO MICHELLE!!!!!SHE RECEIVED A BOUQUET OF FLOWERS FROM ME!!!!!
  I AGREE about THE WINDOW VIEWS!
  YES, SHE IS A SMART WOMAN with a FLAIR and LOVE of ANIMALS!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 1, 2019 at 11:35 AM
  
  Amy, that made me cry. What a lovely compliment. I cannot think of anything that would mean more!
  
  I feel so lucky to know you, and to have your talented self to photograph my house.
  
  And the book of your beautiful photographs brought me so much joy when everything was so devastated. I looked at it almost every day!
  
  By the way, that wall of greenery was wiped out. It is a new view now across the garden! It is replanted, and growing faster than I could have imagined!
  It is such a relief to be home again!
Shannon
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January 31, 2019 at 8:07 AM

I adored meeting Penny after following her on Instagram thanks to you and the San Francisco Fall Antiques show. So so glad you know what you have- POTS. Who knew?!? Xxoo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 8:27 AM
  
  FUN LADY…………..INDEED!
  HER STORIES are INCREDIBLE and she knows EVERYONE!
  A VERY down to earth woman who still has PASSION for THINGS!
  XX
Lindsay
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January 31, 2019 at 8:06 AM

Love Penelope and her style! Great post and interview! How sweet that a little bird made a nest in the basket! What a spirit she has and so sorry that the terrible mudslide did such damage. Adore the video of Banksy, too.
Hoping the POTS goes away soon…
Xoxox
Lindsay
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 31, 2019 at 8:29 AM
  
  ARE YOU BUNDLED UP?
  HOPE SO………….scary stuff going on in your neck of the woods!
  YOU should see THE FAMILY of QUAIL that MARCH BY every NIGHT!!!!!!!!
  IT’s AMAZING!!!!!!
  THANK YOU LINDSAY……….I hope so too!
  XO