Miles Reddthrows a good party. Known for his rich hues and layered textures—which are on full display in the Manhattan townhouse he's called home for over a decade—the designer skews old-school when it comes to entertaining. He's a fan of classic cocktails, vintage china, an après-dinner tea, and, most important, a strict dress code. One evening this winter, Redd invitedADover to see how he hosts in style. Among the many things we learned were a handful of tried-and-true party rules.
1. Always have a stocked bar
Redd's own amply stocked home bar is set on aSaarinen Tulip table, whose modern silhouette is offset by an antique bust. Redd suggests both offering guests a drink from the bar and greeting them with ice-cold Champagne, all the better to set a festive mood.
2. Pick a theme
And no, it doesn't have to be seasonal(or traditional for that matter). Redd often chooses "Modern Marie Antoinette" as his inspiration and imbues each aspect of the evening with a hint of the famous queen's style, but not enough to go over-the-top thematic.
3. Get the lighting right
Redd's apartment is filled with small light sources: wall sconces, floor and table lamps, and lots of votives. This setup allows for more combinations of lighting, ensuring the perfect ambience. And when in doubt, always use more candles.
4. Change up locations
If your space allows, move the party to another room once dinner finishes. It revives the energy of the group.
5. Consider your wardrobe
Most important, says Redd, is "that you dress up!" Festive attire not only sets the tone for a celebratory evening, it shows your host that you're appreciative of his efforts.
