Class With The Countess

Luann's column from OK Magazine.

What Would the Countess Do?: Staying Fresh; Throwing Summer Soirées
 Author: LuAnn de Lesseps

When it comes to etiquette, manners and overall good behavior, even celebrities need help navigating the rough waters of stardom! It’s a good thing Countess LuAnn de Lesseps of the Real Housewives of New York is joining forces with OK! to school them on the right thing to do! In a rough situation, we just ask, “What Would the Countess Do?” This week she weighs in on how to stay fresh in the summer and throwing the perfect summer soirée.
WHAT WOULD THE COUNTESS DO? POLITICS PLUS HOLLYWOOD; RUDE GUESTS

As the temperatures heat up, how do you keep your cool while still looking your best? When throwing a summer soirée, what can you offer guests to keep them comfortable?
It’s hard to stay looking fresh at summer parties when the temperature soars and the humidity rises. To stay cool while looking glamorous, I wear caftans and sundresses with a Pucci scarf to tie back my hair. Big, fun sunglasses and sandals complete my look. I use a self-tanner and Chanel Bronzing Powder for a sun-kissed look. Pureness Oil Control Blotting Paper from Shiseido keeps my skin looking fresh all day.

WHAT WOULD THE COUNTESS DO? AGE IMMATURITY; DATING WITH CHILDREN

To make my guests as comfortable as possible, I adopt a very casual entertaining style during the summer and love to host barbecues and buffet style dinners so people can sit where they like. A good hostess makes sure that her guests stay as cool as possible when entertaining on hot days. I serve cold water, ice tea, light cocktails and dry Rose from Provence. White wine spritzers are great because they hydrate more than intoxicate. Instead of hot, heavy foods, I serve light hors d’oeuvres, salads, and chicken or fish. For dessert, I top a scoop of vanilla ice cream with mixed berries.

WHAT WOULD THE COUNTESS DO? FREEDOM TO TWEET: THE PRINCE WILLIAM EFFECT

Tip: Keep entertaining casual during the hot summer months. Less is more, especially in the summer.