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Style Q&A: The refined style of Mary Scott McLaurin and Frances Parker, the sisters behind design firm McLaurin Parker

Style Q&A: The refined style of Mary Scott McLaurin and Frances Parker, the sisters behind design firm McLaurin Parker
December 2022

Find out how the design duo decorate their homes, what they're wearing to parties, and their go-to hostess gifts.



Sisters Mary Scott McLaurin (left) and Frances Parker (right) love the passion of the hunt—scouting for just the right one-of-a-kind piece to balance their clients’ antiques and art collections, add modern elements, and reflect the personality of the homeowners. With projects from Sullivan’s Island to Kiawah, the interior design duo has built a reputation for creating refined and livable spaces since opening the firm in 2014. This month, they are joining other tastemakers at Charleston Historic Foundation’s Illumination weekend, presenting a vignette at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. Here, the sisters share how they celebrate the holidays

Q What will you wear to holiday parties?
A
Both of us wear a lot of black—always chic with special jewelry, such as these Lizzie Fortunato earrings (above), and a fantastic pair of shoes, like these velvet Loeffler Randall heels (above). We tend to dress more tailored but shake it up for cocktail parties.

Q What are the items in your closet you can’t live without?
A
Our “uniform” for installs, site visits, and running around to meetings includes Rag & Bone sneakers, tailored button downs, and blazers. We are loving the entire collection from locally based E.M. Reitz (above).

Q Do you have any tried-and-true skin-care products?
A
We are believers in skin care and love beauty products. Our favorite place to shop for luxe products is Cos Bar, and Ella Ora skin therapy clinic is a beyond treat for facials. We are loyal fans of Augustinus Bader’s “The Rich Cream” (above).

Q How do you decorate your homes for the holidays?
A
We are big on family holidays, traditions, and nostalgia. We decorate with an abundance of greenery such as smylax, tree cuttings, and lots of votives, such as this one from Diptyque (above). And you can never forget the mistletoe!  We love Lotus Flower for all things floral.

Q What are your go-to hostess gifts?
A
Any hostess gift from Hobnob—especially their Christmas crackers and vintage bottle openers; little treats from Burbage’s Grocery; and fun gifts for the bar, such as this “Butler Balancing Act” game from Houses & Parties (above).