Profile: Jane Scott Hodges
by allthebest • 16 Jan ’12 • profile • 11 Comments
Last Christmas I had the great pleasure of meeting fellow Southerner Jane Scott Hodges at the home of Charlotte Moss. I have always been of the opinion that everything looks better with a beautiful monogram and Jane Scott (Founder of Leontine Linens) is one woman who understands and supports my position.
The Lexington, Kentucky, native grew up with an appreciation for family heirlooms and embroidered linens. However, when it came time to register for her own trousseau, she was unable to source the same quality monogrammed linens she had envisioned…and thus, Leontine Linens was born (named for the street in New Orleans where she settled with her husband after attending Tulane).
I must admit that I love Jane Scott’s modern sensibility, attention to detail, her unexpected use of color and the importance she places on heritage. “I don’t believe in having fine things and keeping them stored in a drawer,” she says. “They are meant to be used – that’s how traditions and memories are created. As you set the table, you remember your grandmother setting the Thanksgiving table with the same silver or linens, and in turn, your children quietly form those memories.”
Jane Scott has a new website and has joined the world of blogging…be sure to stop and say hello.
How would you describe your personal style?
Classic, with a modern twist – Always! I owned a herringbone blazer and drove a vintage brown Mercedes in college, signs that I have always felt most comfortable in classic pieces. After all, “…style is what you are inside.” – C.Z. Guest.
What is your most prized possession?
My mother gave me a charm bracelet on my 30th birthday, on which she had placed special charms from both of my grandmothers as well as her own collection of charms. I love the heirloom nature of it as well as the legacy it represents.
What is your idea of earthly happiness?
A roaring fire in a cozy room, surrounded by friends and family (with a baguette, some French cheeses, and fine wine!)
What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
The camaraderie and wisdom of my dearest friends.
What inspires your creativity and designs?
My clients have always been my biggest inspiration. They share their homes’ most personal spaces with me and allow me to witness a snippet of their everyday life.
Who are your style icons?
This is a challenge for me! I don’t work to emulate others, though I know we all pick up things from the past we have seen and read about and the current world we experience every day!! I know that the sense and the history of style of my mother and mother-in-law have influenced me greatly. I also know that since childhood I have held firm convictions on what I like and dislike! There are so many men and women that inspire me every day, I am certain, it would be hard to name a few!
Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
Oprah! I’m still waiting for my own show on her network!
What books are currently on your bedside table?
Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn and Frederic Malle on Perfume Making. On my Kindle, I’m currently reading Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. But last week, it was Danielle Steele and Ellen DeGeneres! I like to mix it up.
What is your favorite luxury in life?
Eight hours of sleep, without fail, every night. I consider it a necessary luxury. And I’ve got some good sheets, too.
Past or present who has most influenced your direction in life?
My devoted husband, who is a partner in the truest sense of the word, both in matters personal and business.
Profile by Ronda Carman
Photography by Heather Schneider for Matchbook
This is a wonderful interview. Thank you for featuring Jane and her gorgeous work. Mary
Great profile Ronda! I have loved Leontine Linens for many years. CC’s crib was done by them, and as you know, it was beautiful!
xo,
Tammy
Beautiful indeed!!!
Awesome. Perfect. Divine.
In other words: YAY!!
I am so happy that you and Jane found each other!
Doffing my hat,
Malcolm
I enjoyed this interview!
Fab Post thanks for sharing! Love me a monogram!
I have admired her creative work for so long. Thank you for doing a profile. There is something addictive about beautiful monograms.
Ronda,
Great post! Absolutely love monogramed linens, bedding, tote bags, napkins, etc. They are all so special it just elevates your spirit when you see beautiful napkins and bed linens just waiting for you to enjoy. Great website for Leontine Linens too.
Thank you Ronda for this great interview. The Bluegrass is proud to call Jane Scott Hodges one of their own!
Love Leontine Linens and Jane Scott Hodges! She has been an inspiration to my own career path and a great supporter.
I treasure every one of my Leontine Linens. What Jane and her team have done is bring back the monogram in a modern way!