Pack your bags and set sail for The Newport Antiques Show, a three day event of entertainment and enlightenment.   Hilary and I are looking forward to the Gala Preview Party that opens the event on Thursday July 27.   The show runs from July 28 to the 30th and with 40 of the country’s top dealers attending, there will be something for everyone.   But what, you may wonder, is Bob Dylan doing on the invitation!?


As Newport was founded on diverse religious beliefs by early revolutionaries fleeing the conservative bonds of proper Boston, it makes perfect sense that The Newport Antiques Show  would showcase Elliott Landy, the official photographer of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, who captured iconic images of the sixties and the counterculture revolution. (Did you know that Rhode Island Rhode Island was the first British colony in America to formally declare its independence from Great Britain’s rule?)   

Coachella 2017?  It’s 1969 Woodstock.  

Bobby & Ethel looking super stylish. 


Newport Historical Society and its supporters have preserved one of the most historically significant cities in America, whose progress and innovation created a template for the rest of the country’s development.  John Tschirch, the Newport Historical Society’s Visiting Curator of Urban History explains, “The city reads like a colorfully illustrated book on the history of urban planning in the United States with each of its districts a window to an age illustrating the approaches to urban planning of Newport’s builders and inhabitants.”  


The town has been fortunate to count among its current inhabitants, Anne Hamilton, who was essential to the founding of The Show.  We asked our friend and Co Chair, Eaddo Kiernan about her role,  “As you know Anne Hamilton is the creator of the Newport Antiques Show. She literally started it from scratch, bringing her highly honed expertise from having chaired other major Antique shows in Philadelphia, and other places. She is the siren who attracts dealers from all over the country and the proceeds are a huge boost to Newport by supporting the Newport Historical Society and the Boys and Girls Clubs. I’m personally calling it The Newport ” Anne-tiques” Show!!!”

Anne modestly noted  “I’ve been involved with antiques shows for many years, and this one is unique in that there are two beneficiaries. We are so happy to be able to support them.”

Hilary in 2012 New York Social Diary 


Hilary, a  lifelong Newportienne agrees, “Anne has created this amazing event that the town looks forward to every year. Through her magic, the show attracts a great assortment of dealers. There is always an interesting mix of antiques to look at and buy. A fun evening, supporting two great causes make it an event not to be missed. Newport and her inhabitants are always an eclectic mix . . . which makes it so interesting and appealing. I like to dress up for the occasion with a mid length dress and bright accessories. This year I am feeling floral and this dress fits the bill with its flattering silhouette. You can dress it up or dress it down, depending on how you feel that night. I can’t wait to check out what dealers are showcasing while maybe just maybe a little socializing on the side.”

dress: Saloni Rita Ruffled Printed Midi Dress  $595   
accessories: Sequin Drop Earrings  $58  / Simone Rocha Earrings  $265  
Comme Des Garcons Metallic Textured Pouch  $180  
Bottega Veneta Interecciato Satin Clutch  $1580    
shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Velvet And Patent-Leather Sandals  $845  / Chloe Bow-Embellished Sandals  $795

John and I in Nautical Cocktail Attire 

When I think of Newport, I can’t help but think of the sea. It is a destination filled with fond memories of sailing, swimming, side jaunts to the New York Yacht Club, the International Yacht Restoration School and miles of cliff walks.  I went shopping for a little navy and white with, bright gold tones, to mimic the handsome livery of a seafaring naval officer. I call this color scheme “The Eastern Seaboard” for its versatility whether you are packing for Maine to Maryland points of call along the way..  Both of these dresses are classic sheaths, made courant by the shaped sleeves and chic necklines, and flatter a woman of any age and shape. Who can resist a pair of Oscar de la Renta Statement Earrings? As I hope to end the evening strolling along the town’s wharves and cobbled street so steeped in Revolutionary reveries and revelries, I chose a lower and more sturdy heel than I might normally wear.   Bravo to Block Heels!  

dress: Saloni Rita Ruffled Printed Midi Dress  $595   
accessories: Sequin Drop Earrings  $58  / Simone Rocha Earrings  $265  
Comme Des Garcons Metallic Textured Pouch  $180  
Bottega Veneta Interecciato Satin Clutch  $1580    
shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Velvet And Patent-Leather Sandals  $845  / Chloe Bow-Embellished Sandals  $795

While in town, we will be popping in to some  of Hilary’s favorite haunts:

Eat:  

Clarke Cooke House, Black Pearl, Mama Louisa’s, Norey’s, Salvation Cafe, Perro Salado

Shop:  

Boutique Mandarine, Pink Pineapple, The CK Bradley Co-Pop Shop, Sequin Jewelry   

See:  

newportFilm Screening, Newport Jazz Festival,   

Play:

Candy Store, Forty 1º North

 Here is a lovely walking tour video on the town from The Newport HIstorical Society.  


The Newport Antiques Show benefits two non-profit organizations, the Newport Historical Society and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County, supporting Newport’s past and Newport’s future.   For more information, and for a full schedule of events and activities 

 visit Newport Antiques Show.com or call 401.846.2669.  

Saturday, July 29

Diana Bittel from Diana Bittel Antiques will discuss nautical works of art including sailor’s valentines and woodwork ships. Paul Vandekar of Vandekar of Knightsbridge will highlight ceramics

Sunday, July 30

Lori Cohen from Arader Galleries will talk about prints.  Karen DiSaia from Oriental Rugs Ltd will offer insight on Oriental Rugs.   

What2WearWhere helps today’s busy women shop for life’s events, sports, workplace and travel.   The site is a synthesis of the latest looks and trends compiled by Karen Klopp & Hilary Dick: www.what2wearwhere.com  

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