Along with this week’s heatwave came a bevy of trunk shows, fundraisers, Tennis Hall of Fame tournament, houseguests, suppers… and the list goes on. One might say July is “heating up,” whereas August had formerly been the busiest month of the summer.

I thought you all might enjoy a peek at “The Week that Was,” made all the more special by the fact (of course) that the summer shopping, Newport style, took place in private homes which added another element of conviviality to the week. To quote my friend and designer, Ala von Auersperg, “summer dressing is all about unexpected pairings that feel irreverent and fun.” From Saturday the 13th to Saturday the 20th, here are some of my stops…

7/13: The Redwood Library & Athenaeum’s “Arabian Nights.” It is Chris Norton’s 4th year at this event and his reputation preceded him — the dance floor took up most of the tent in expectation of the guests’s response to this singer, trumpeter and band leader.

7/14: “Yappy Hour,” the major fundraiser for the Potter League for Animals, is a big favorite on this Island. For so many reasons, they have been a valued resource for our family (and pets) for the past 30 years.

7/17: A cluster of boutiques hosted by Elizabeth Leatherman…from painted cashmere shawls to Indian cotton caftans to witty copies of designer handbags (in rubber, no less)…was a welcome shopping opportunity.

The day finished with torrential rains that couldn’t dampen a small, cozy supper of friends overlooking the garden.

7/18: And finally, a much anticipated seated luncheon and modeling of Ala von Auersperg’s yummy pieces inspired by her artwork…each paired beautifully with selections from David Webb…was a true “match made in heaven.”

7/19: Fortunately, temperatures were dropping as the Aquidneck Land Trust’s benefit began at one of the most picturesque points on the Cliff Walk — the adjoining lawns of Miramar, Ocean View and Rock Cliff. A sellout night!

7/20: A highlight of the weekend…David Webb’s New York boutique virtually moved to Newport and filled up every surface in Meredith Wood-Prince’s dining room His beyond glorious jewels took your breath away, to include his signature sea-inspired enamel and multi- colored stone bracelets. What a treat to style some pieces on the hostess’s needlepointed chair (see feature image at top).

What’s a Newport fundraiser without a vintage car?

Perhaps it’s time for you to add a July week in Newport to next year’s summer calendar…