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How Shades of Pinck blogger Megan Pinckney Rutherford is decorating her new James Island home

How Shades of Pinck blogger Megan Pinckney Rutherford is decorating her new James Island home
August 2023

Plus, the Charleston native’s favorite versatile style picks for late summer



Though the Shades of Pinck blogger and former Miss South Carolina married Richland County state representative Todd Rutherford in 2020, the Charleston native remains part of the social scene, often coming home to attend store openings and product launches, model for photo shoots, celebrate family occasions, and support events at the Gibbes Museum of Art, where she serves on the board of Society 1858. The couple, who have a nearly two-year-old son, recently purchased a house on the banks of the Stono River on James Island, near where Megan’s family has lived for generations. Here, she shares how she’s decorating her home, as well as her favorite picks for transitioning from hot summers to early fall.

Q What’s in your virtual shopping cart that you hope to purchase soon?
A
I’m coveting new drapes and artwork for our house, such as this Yas Queen multicasted sculpture by local artist Olivia Bonilla.

Q What’s the most treasured item in your wardrobe?
A
The vintage dresses I’ve come across while traveling are pieces that I’ll never part with, but the pillbox hats that my grandmother has passed on to me from her great-aunt’s collection (above: similar “Laura” hat by Gigi Burris Millinery) are absolutely priceless items I will cherish for a lifetime. 

Q What do you have planned this month and what will you be wearing?
A
We just wrapped up a full travel season and are gearing up for an even busier one in the fall, so these days I’m in something that can take me from the office to the playground—like a Hill House dress (“The Jersey Thea Nap Dress,” above). 

Q Looking ahead, are there any fall trends you plan to incorporate into your wardrobe?
A
While I tend to keep my style more classic, I know that to be a true “fashion girl,” I have to play with trends. I’m excited to incorporate chocolate browns (such as this Dorothee Schumacher sleek shine skirt from Hampden), shoulder draping, and statement hats into my outfits this season.

Q You recently purchased a home on James Island. How are you decorating?
A
My goal was to create a warm, welcoming space that accentuated the views of the Stono River and could become a place for my son to grow and connect to. I was intentional when incorporating coastal colors and motifs of our Gullah heritage. You’ll see palm influences, sweetgrass textures, and images of my family from generations past. While we wanted the place to feel light and airy, we also love the use of color and found unexpected ways to make statements throughout the space, such as this Katie Kime “Charleston Toile“ wallpaper (above).