DFM Talks to Serena & Lily

We were thrilled beyond words when the amazing women (and namesakes) behind Serena & Lily, one of our favorite online boutiques of all time, agreed to speak with us! Dotcoms For Moms had so many questions for this super stylish duo. Thanks to both of them for taking the time to share their ideas and inspiration. For some of our personal S&L favorites, check out the slideshow at the bottom!

DFM: One of the things we love most about Serena & Lily is that you offer items for kids' rooms that aren't overly childish or cutesy - adults can appreciate and enjoy them too! Was that something you set out to do?

Lily: Yes. When we met back in 2003, there was a void in the market for high-end crib bedding. We wanted options that were simple and sophisticated, and more in line with the style reflected in the rest of our homes. We continue to approach our nursery design with this same philosophy.

DFM: What are your 3 favorite items from your current collection?

Serena: I hate to pick favorites, but if forced, I love the new Corsica table linens (pictured above), which are block printed... always a fave. I also love love love our Swazi Glassware (below). It’s great design, all recycled, and has an amazing social mission behind it. We hand-selected it in Swaziland, Africa last fall.

The Sundial Chair and Ottoman are also personal favorites. I have them at home. You can’t believe how good they are until you sit in them for yourself.

Lily: Our new Soleil Sling Chair (pictured above) is probably my favorite. I’m also loving our Soleil Outdoor Throw Pillows and the Fouta Towels.

DFM: If stylish moms want to invest in a piece for their baby's room that will grow with the child as they get older, what do you suggest?

Lily: The glider is the most important piece of furniture in your nursery – it’s where you’ll spend the majority of your time, so you want to love it and be comfortable. It’s definitely worth the investment. Pick a classic style and fabric that can live in your child’s room as they grow. Or you can always have it reupholstered as you update the décor.

DFM: What elements do you think define the modern family home?

Serena: The modern family home should have pieces that do double and triple-duty. Smart furnishings that are multi-functional, like stools that can be ottomans, side tables that can double up to become coffee tables or card tables, storage pieces that you can sit on to put your boots on.

DFM: Serena & Lily bedding is gorgeous - tell us what are the essentials for a great bedroom?

Lily: A bedroom has to be comfortable and cozy, and that starts with the bed and bedding. Beyond that, a bedroom needs items that have personal meaning – photographs, items from travels, books, mementos – things that make you feel loved and at home.

DFM: Where do you look for design inspiration?

Serena: Inspiration is everywhere – from the streets of Morocco to my own backyard in Sausalito. I love traveling the world to get a fresh perspective on colors, patterns, textures and techniques. Then I find ways to incorporate those concepts in our designs and make them work for our customers.

Lily: My inspiration comes from enjoying time with family and friends. I believe that the home is the most meaningful place because it’s where so many memories are made. I’m always looking for design that captures the spirit of living in the moment and enjoying a happy life.

DFM: Do you think today's consumers are getting more comfortable with buying things online? And how do you make this easier and more appealing?

Lily: I think people are getting more comfortable. A good experience relies on giving people the most detailed view of the product. We are giving our customers the ability to magnify the images so they can almost feel the texture of the fabric, and a 360 degree view of the furniture items. The other things that help are swatching and easy returns.

DFM: What are the easiest ways for people to work unique and interesting touches into their home in a way that's budget-friendly?

Lily: Interesting and unique pieces don’t have to be expensive. In fact, the most interesting items are ones with meaning and history, like an old family quilt, a great flea market find, or a wall of your children’s art.

DFM: What are your favorite colors for summer?

Serena: For colors, the stronger the better. I love our Poppy Orangey/Red. And I love it mixed with naturals like our rattan Banda Coffee Table.

Lily: Right now, I’m particularly loving the oranges, poppy, cobalt, and the various finishes of brass and rattan.

DFM: What are some trends you see for bedding in the next seasons?

Serena: For the next seasons, we’re thinking about great textures and a lot of layers!