English Country House Style: Nancy Lancaster and Nancy Astor

XXI. While the sumptuous dinner parties and grand country house weekends of years past may have vanished, the secrets of elegant entertaining and hospitality live on.  

Nancy Lancaster and Nancy Astor, two American born women, entered upper class British society in the early 20th century and brought the traditions of great Southern American hospitality to some of England's greatest estates including the renowned Cliveden. 

In recent years, Emily Astor and Jane Churchill, descendants of Nancy Lancaster and Nancy Astor, have continued the tradition and share its elements with today's hosts and hostesses in Entertaining in Style (Rizzoli), their book of history, memories and recipes.

Join the Gilded Gentleman and both Emily and Jane for a look back at the tables of the two Nancys and particularly Nancy Lancaster's vision, which led to what we think of as great English Country House look and style. 

Visit the Gilded Gentleman website.