The Art of Aesthetics with Deeda Blair
Deeda sightseeing along the Dalmatian Coast in 1960
Most scientists are astonished by Deeda Blair’s style, and the style mavens are surprised by her scientific expertise. That is obvious to even the most casual observer of her life. If one penetrates those disparate worlds, however, one soon finds that neurobiologists credit her with helping them think through difficult questions, and that fashionistas must employ metaphors from 18th-century France to describe the impeccable way she dresses and entertains. — T Magazine
In the realm of style and sophistication, few names carry the weight and grace of Deeda Blair. A luminary in the worlds of philanthropy, interiors and style, and entertaining, Deeda has established herself as a beacon of timeless elegance with an unparalleled eye for beauty and refinement. In fact, “elegance” seems to be THE word to describe Deeda, which I quickly discovered after plenty of article reading and image searching. With a life steeped in art, culture, and diplomacy, Deeda has cultivated a legacy that transcends mere aesthetics, embodying a philosophy that celebrates understated luxury and refinement both in how she decorates and lives her life.
Deeda’s background is as rich and storied as the elegant spaces she creates and occupies. Born in 1935, she would later marry diplomat and philanthropist William McCormick Blair Jr., immersing herself in a world of high society. Her early years were marked by a deep appreciation for the finer things in life, cultivated through exposure to the vibrant, high-powered social scenes of Washington, DC, prestigious medical-research gatherings, and her travels around the world. Today, Deeda’s name is synonymous with timeless grace, her influence extending far beyond the walls of her meticulously curated homes to inspire tastemakers everywhere.
Deeda’s apartment on the East River in Manhattan
Deeda’s approach to decorating is characterized by a discerning eye for detail and a deep respect for history and culture. Her interiors are a testament to the art of curation, where each piece, whether antique or new, finds its place in a carefully orchestrated symphony of design. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for incorporating personal touches, each room in her homes is a testament to her unique aesthetic sensibility. Whether it's a cozy sitting area with plush furnishings and rich fabrics or a grand dining room with fine china and crystal, Deeda’s residences epitomize understated luxury with an air of simplicity adorning every room (a decorating style I can get behind). In a 2022 Harpers Bazaar article interview, Deeda shares…
I don’t like a lot of extra things in my life. Someone said, “What do you collect?” And I said, “I started out collecting porcelain.” That was fun and great. That for the most part has been kept. I remember there was a couple that came over—Washington friends—and she walked in and said, “Oh, this living room is the most serene and peaceful.” And I said, “Yeah, I love this room, and I often read in here.” And a few minutes later, he came in. He said, “Well, you’ve got a lot of space to hang pictures.” But I don’t hang pictures because I don’t have the kind of pictures I want. And I love the emptiness.
Entertaining scenes and metal floral display at Deeda’s Manhattan apartment
In the many photos I’ve admired from Deeda’s spaces, my eye often went to her floral arranging. With an eye for color and texture, she effortlessly transforms blooms into stunning works of art that enchant and bring a sense of fantasy to any tablescape. Whether it's an opulent centerpiece for a formal dinner party or a whimsical bouquet to brighten a side table in a sitting room, each arrangement is thoughtfully crafted, with meticulous attention to detail ensuring that every petal is placed with precision. Through her floral arranging, Deeda not only brings beauty into the world but also creates never ending inspiration for someone who, like me, instantly swoons at the sight of a perfectly placed bouquet.
One of many arranged tablescapes from Deeda’s book
With an innate sense of hospitality, she transforms every gathering into an unforgettable experience. Whether hosting intimate dinners for close friends or grand galas for society's elite, Deeda infuses each event with warmth, elegance, and charm. "Entertaining is an art form," Deeda remarked, "an opportunity to create moments of joy and connection." Her entertaining prowess lies in the details—from exquisite table settings to thoughtfully chosen menus, each element contributing to an experience that’s bound to linger in the memories of her guests.
Deeda tends to her garden at her Washington, DC home
And we can’t talk about Deeda’s style without commenting on her sartorial aesthetic as well. Whether attending high-profile events or enjoying leisurely outings… even in tending to her gardens, Deeda epitomizes understated chic. With a style that seamlessly blends classic elements with modernity, her wardrobe reflects her refined sensibility. She often opts for tailored silhouettes that accentuate her frame, favoring timeless pieces in luxurious fabrics and muted tones (a girl after my own heart). Deeda’s attention to detail is evident in her tasteful accents that add a touch of glamour without overpowering her ensemble.
An understated, chic Deeda Blair
While Deeda’s fabulous high society life is sure to be admired, what’s more admirable is her philanthropic history. A deeply committed humanitarian, her many endeavors supported areas of health care, culture, and education. From her involvement with museums and galleries to her support for educational initiatives and advancing medical research, Deeda’s impact is quite profound. Serving on the boards of the American Cancer Society’s Research Committee, the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, Harvard AIDS Initiative, and more… Deeda led a very impressive career of fundraising for medical research. And it’s clear that’s where her passion lies.
Deeda sits at her desk in her Washington, DC home in 1972
In fact, all proceeds from her book Deeda Blair: Flood, Flowers, and Fantasy benefit the charitable initiatives Deeda cares about most. And let me just say, this is perhaps the most beautiful coffee table book I’ve ever owned—one that I actually read cover to cover! From Rizzoli’s description, “Style icon and preeminent hostess Catherine “Deeda” Blair shares her inspirations for entertaining with understated elegance and distinction, accompanied by menus, recipes, table settings, and charming stories about her extraordinarily colorful life.”
Deeda brings us into her world, a symphony of travel and stories, decorating, floral arranging, entertaining, and philanthropy where each element contributes to the harmonious composition of a life well-lived. To put it simply, she is just fabulous, and it’s worth taking a deep dive to learn more about her upbringing and life among society’s finest. The people she’s met and circles she ran in, the conversations she’s had, and the thoughts that take up her mind. Her own admirations. She’s simply a treasure trove of inspiration and one who encourages tastemakers everywhere to celebrate the beauty in every detail.
For more reading and interviews with Deeda, read:
Deeda Blair: The Reigning Doyenne of American Taste from The Grand Tourist
Philanthropist and Socialite Deeda Blair Shares Her Philosophy on Style and Entertaining from Harpers Bazaar
Deeda Blair’s Elegance of Conviction from T Magazine
Deeda Blair, Medical Philanthropist and Warhol Muse, Is Ready to Entertain You from Vanity Fair
At Home with Deeda Blair from Air Mail
