Kitschy, Girly and Classic - Meet Emily White!

Once again, thanks to countless hours of browsing on Instagram, we stumbled upon a gem of a feed by the lovely Emily White. Featuring all the things she likes, @10thandjames is a carefully curated page of beautiful, kitschy and girly troves of treasure, both from the past and present. Emily, a design consultant, splits her time between Madison (WI) and Houston (TX). We loved connecting with Emily beyond social media to learn more about her. One thing's for sure, she's as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside with a giving heart for voluntarism, a strong focus on family and patience to hunt down the next fabulous antique.

What is your favorite quote or life motto?

"What’s for you will not pass you." I overheard an elderly man at a wedding quote this as an Irish proverb and it’s stuck with me.

Please tell us more about what inspired you to become a design consultant and the story behind 10th & James?

10th and James was actually the cross streets I lived on for half of college at Baylor University. One of my best friends always said it would be a great name for a brand. So all name credit will always go to her. After graduating with a degree in Apparel Merchandising, I knew I wanted to do something creative but not necessarily apparel/fashion based. I started working as a design consultant for my family’s custom home building company. I mostly worked on finishes and colors and details, basically the finishing touches to a space. From there, I realized I needed some sort of outlet sharing all the things I love, I spent so much time recommending things to clients, friends, and fam…I figured why not just start sharing!

Aesthetically, what do you gravitate towards? What are the things that you like?

All things kitschy, girly, and classic. With some nostalgia thrown in too.

You are a queen when it comes to finding some fabulous antiques (ie. That Goyard steamer trunk). How are you so lucky? What are some tips you can share with us?

I would never consider myself a lucky person in any other aspect of life, but I really do find some real treasures. The key is absolutely patience, every time you go on a hunt, you’re not going to find something. You might not even find something the majority of the time but it’s all worth it when you find something you love. Also…this is a little hippie dippie, but I swear once I voice I want something specific in the antique realm, I always find it. I don’t know if this is manifestation or what but try it! Speak your treasures into existence!

What has been your most treasured find?

The Goyard trunk was a big one, I must say. Also a pristine Gucci Dionysus for $250. Most re-cently, a rare French cut crystal and ormolu box.

Are you on the lookout for anything in particular at the moment?

French Opaline vanity boxes! I recently found some in store for the first time, they were like $4k apiece though. I know I’ll find one for a steal soon! I’m getting close!

To date, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Like everyone else, the last couple years have been rough. I’m genuinely so thrilled with how me, my husband, and family have come together and supported one another in ways that we never had before. Also, on paper, I’m proud of myself for graduating college on time haha.

What is one fact that most wouldn’t know about you?

Since I was small, it was instilled in me to pay my “civic rent.” This was a saying of my Papa who had a large part in shaping who I am. He and my grandmother were extremely active philanthropists in their community and not just with money, but with TIME. It’s something I will always make a point to include in my life.

How would you describe your personal style?

Classic, simple, black. I need a uniform. Black leggings, black or white top, with luxe accessories and shoes. I live for a silk scarf. Since recently moving to a much warmer climate, I love a light and airy dress. Sometimes I wish I could harness my decor style and have a more interesting wardrobe, it’s something I’m working on!

Who’s your celebrity style crush?

Olivia Palermo! Also, Kim K. I can’t help but be fascinated by her style evolution and undeniable influence. I don’t necessarily dress like her (lol) but I always love to see what she’s wearing!

What’s your go-to outfit when you’re pressed for time?

An easy, no iron dress and Hermes Oran sandals.

What’s your fashion or beauty indulgence?

Botox.

Which shoe brand do you love most?

Chanel!

Why do you like the line of products by Protect My Shoes?

That they actually work to protect my shoes! Shoes are my favorite luxury investment (they always fit!) but they definitely depreciate! Being able to preserve their longevity is everything to me. Plus, all Protect My Shoes products are SO cute and look fab in your closet and packed up ready for travel.

What is your next dream travel destination?

Saint Barths. I was there for 12 days after getting engaged in 2019 and I haven’t stopped thinking or talking about it since. I just have to get back there!