Downton Abbey Finds: Season 1 Episode 1

As part of my new un-employed lifestyle, I’ve decided to re-watch Downton Abbey with an eye for the cool props, costumes and other things in the house.

One thing that really caught my eye in the first episode was this awesome key-chain belt clip that Mrs. Hughes wears.  It has a pair of little scissors as well as all the house keys on it.  I think it could make a super aweseome and super functional accessory.  Kind of a stylish version of a multi-tool: Little scissors, little pen, a couple keys…

 

The other thing I noticed was this beautiful linen skirt that Lady Grantham wore.  I can definitely see myself wearing a version of this skirt.  Definitely high-waisted and impeccably tailored.  Not as tight as modern pencil skirts but still very strait-lined.  The embelishment down the front is a great added touch and I love the modern-ness and practicality of the nude long sleeves on the dress.

 

At the very end of the first episode of the first season, I fell in love with Mrs. Crawley and her son’s dining room.

 

It’s so bright and cheerful.  I love the decorative paint treatment above the chair rail and the furn in the urn on the little table is a great touch.  I’ve got to figure out where to put ferns in the house and I love the idea of using a stencil on just one strip of wall instead of the whole thing.  I’ll have to figure out where I can do that!

In addition, look at the captains chair at the table.  It’s got an open back but upholstered arms: Very interesting and different.  I’ve never seen a set like that.  I’d take those chairs in my dining room any day!  Also note the large variety of wood tones.  The very dark spiral cut legs on the right with the spindle legs and the lace-work on the buffet on the left.  Also the use of the warm gray on the walls is so trendy right now and really makes this room pop.

I love this show and I’m excited to spend some time re-watching it and paying more attention to the sets and costuming now that I know the plot!

Sarah