I'll admit it, I have a pretty weird habit. After buying the *most perfect* dress or blouse, I hang it in my closet and admire it for days to come... wondering when the absolute best day to premiere it will be. God forbid I "waste" the outfit on an uneventful outing! And so, I do the same thing with furniture, materials and decor for my clients.

I've had a counter stool crush for close to a year now and I finally got to use it for a kitchen in Lake Norman, NC. I think it was the perfect premiere.

This kitchen was designed with a clean, classic feel to it with high ceilings, tall cabinets, chrome hardware and stainless steel appliances. The warmth comes from natural oak floors and a vintage runner rug close to the sink. Swing arm sconces above the stove work in unison with the globe pendants to bring out the most modest southern charm. The rattan counter stools are the cherry on top with their sweet coastal feel, natural fibers and the organic shape.

3 CUES TO KNOWING WHEN TO "WEAR THE DAMN THING"

· The right audience – it’s like going for a job interview. You’re in a new setting with new people and you want to put your best foot forward. Why not dress to impress and wear the best of the best? They’ll appreciate it!
o In our case, new construction in a lake shore community? It has rattan written all over it.
· The perfect complement – name a more perfect duo – bacon & eggs, tom & jerry, peanut butter and chocolate.
o In our case, Marble & rattan. Metal & rattan. Glass & rattan. You see where I’m going...
· The special occasion – your ten year reunion has been planned for, well, years. It’s time to bring out that outfit you’ve been saving and wear it!
o In our case, this stool isn’t getting any younger… why not just use it!