What I Learned From My Grandmother

By Kathleen Cook Varner
November 12, 2019
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Credit: Kelly Cummings
Her worldly style was accessorized with a scarf and a smile.
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Legacy of Beauty

Credit: Kelly Cummings

My grandmother Alice Davis Arnold Cook, who was fondly known as “Mama Cook” to her 12 grandchildren, never missed an opportunity to host a party in her Nashville home, which was the perfect balance of tailored and practical. Her personal style followed the same model. I can still see her closet full of gorgeous hats, high heels, and scarves she collected during her travels. Mama Cook believed a little effort went a long way—whether in accessories or outlook. I had my first child last summer, a little girl who’s the first grandchild in my immediate family. When it came time to choose her name, I couldn’t think of one that exudes more grace and charm than Alice (which also happens to be my mother’s name). Mama Cook’s love of travel, hospitality, and fashion live on in all of her granddaughters and will be passed on to her tiny namesake too.

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Best Face Forward

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“Mama Cook and I always had our simple skin-care regimen in common. A good face wash and a no-fuss antiaging routine are key.”

Buy It: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum, $24; amazon.com

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Polished Locks

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“Purple shampoo was her secret for keeping her natural color fresh.”

Buy It: Oribe Bright Blonde Shampoo for Beautiful Color, $46; nordstrom.com

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Perfect Pop of Color

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“Regardless of the season, she was fond of a coral lip and touched it up after every meal.”

Buy It: Clé de Peau Radiant Liquid Rouge Lipstick, $50; nordstrom.com

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Touch of Scent

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“I inherited her penchant for luxurious fragrances and use a dab of this oil every day. It’s citrusy, spicy, woody, and warm—grandmother would approve.”

Buy It: Maison Louis Marie No.09 Vallée de Farney Perfume Oil, $57; sephora.com

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Timeless Mementos

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“She inspired me to start collecting scarves as souvenirs from my travels.”

Buy It: Vintage Vine Square Scarf, $70; talbots.com

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Painted But Practical

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

“A creamy pearl polish was her go-to. I spend my days arranging flowers and styling photo shoots, which isn’t easy on my nails. Neutrals camouflage the inevitable chips.”

Buy It: Nail Polish in Joss, $10; zoya.com

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By Kathleen Cook Varner