SIX PICKS: Ashley Olmstead of Quail Store
Tucked inside Philadelphia’s beloved Washington Square West neighborhood, Quail Store is an interiors shop dedicated to emerging designers and artists, both local and global.
Founder and curator Ashley Olmstead brings her innate creative eye and decades in the fashion industry to craft this wholly original space — where intentional, beautiful objects and future heirlooms come into focus. We were delighted to discover what inspires, delights, and sells at Quail Store!
What kind of products or objects are you most drawn to right now?
I am especially drawn to old-world textile motifs (I recently won an insane lot of antique Ottoman ceremonial towels), lacquered anything, and antique glass vessels by Venini and Lalique.
What is the best purchase you’ve made for yourself this year?
We stocked up on Autumn Sonata pool towels, and they have been on repeat at my house this summer.
Name an item that you can’t seem to keep in stock!
Everyone loves the Dot Glasses by OGAARD.
What’s your personal go to for retail therapy? Like, where do you shop to feel good?
I have an unhealthy Live Auctioneers habit. When in Philly, Vestige, and when in New York, Desert Vintage is a must.
Favorite Shoppe Online brand discovery?
Yahae socks!
ASHLEY’S PICKS
No. 1
TABI SOCKS
YAHAE
“Speaking of Yahae, these organic cotton tabi socks were one of our top gifts last year. Will double down this year.”
No. 2
THE NEW INTERIOR: VIENNESE DOMESTIC DESIGN AND THE BEGINNINGS OF THE WIENER WOHNKULTUR
ARTBOOK D.A.P.
“I am very attracted to the elegance of early 20th-century Viennese design. The modernity of the Secessionist aesthetic has certainly influenced my personal design sensibility. Also, I am trying to cut down on screen time, so I am currently growing my library.”
No. 3
JUDD THROW
BLACKSAW
“There is nothing quite like the feel of alpaca. This black throw with ivory whipstitch from Blacksaw is something I could live my life draped in.”
No. 4
LEONARDO BOWL
MATCH
“Pretty much a perfect object. Love this as a catchall on an entry foyer table.”
No. 5
RATTAN BASKET
MEET THE EYE
“My love for rattan knows no bounds. I suppose you can take the girl out of Florida... This basket is a perfect shape and size for keeping extra blankets in or for schleping stuff up and down stairs.”
No. 6
OPALINO VASE
VENINI
“Opalino in Apple Green by the glass masters Venini. A stunner.”