Mary Emmerling

Age: 65 • Raised: Rehoboth, Del. • Books written: 22; more than 1 million copies sold. • In it for the long haul: Her first book, "American Country" (1980), appeared three years before Ralph Lauren's first home collection and nine years before Rachel Ashwell made shabby so chic. • Many mags: Alum of Country Home, Country Living, House & Garden, Self. • Job now: Style scout for House Beautiful magazine. • All in the family: Daughter Samantha is a senior editor there, too. • At home: 1960s townhouse in Scottsdale, Ariz. • Her look: a laid-back blend of twig furniture, camp blankets, weather vanes, jelly cupboards and anything with an American flag on it.