Patricia Altschul is an American socialite, reality television personality, and businesswoman with a net worth of $100 million. Best known for her appearances on Southern Charm, the hit Bravo reality TV series created by her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, Altschul has established herself as a beloved public figure. Her sophisticated style, sharp wit, and deep involvement in the art world have made her a standout on the show. Beyond television, she is an accomplished author and entrepreneur, having launched The Patricia Altschul Luxury Collection in 2020.
Early Life and Education
Patricia Madelyn Day was born on April 16, 1941, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was raised in Richmond, Virginia, by her parents Francis and Walter Day, the latter being a respected doctor. She received her early education at Marymount School and later attended Olney Friends School. Demonstrating academic excellence, Patricia pursued higher education at George Washington University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in archaeology and art history in 1964. She continued her studies and earned a master’s degree in 1965, setting the foundation for her deep appreciation of art and history.
Academic and Business Career
Following her graduation, Altschul began her professional career as an instructor at George Washington University. She later advanced to an assistant professor role in art history. Her passion for art led her to establish Arcadia, a private art dealership in Georgetown, where she cultivated relationships with collectors and art connoisseurs.
In 2010, she appeared in Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston, a documentary directed by her son, exploring the legacy of the fashion designer Halston. Her involvement in the art and fashion community further solidified her status as an influential figure in high society.
Reality Television and Southern Charm
In 2014, Patricia Altschul became a household name when she joined Bravo’s reality series Southern Charm, a show conceptualized by her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith. The series provides an inside look at the modern Southern aristocracy in Charleston, South Carolina, where Patricia’s poised demeanor and sharp observations have made her a fan favorite.
Critics and fans alike appreciate her quick wit, Southern grace, and refined lifestyle. TV critic Christine Lo once described Altschul as a “straight shooter with a serious pedigree and a ton of clout to throw around.” As of 2025, she has appeared in over 60 episodes of Southern Charm and continues to be one of the show’s most compelling personalities.
Beyond Southern Charm, she has made guest appearances on Watch What Happens: Live, Celebrity Page, and The Real Housewives of Atlanta. In 2020, she appeared in the documentary The Mystery of the Pink Flamingo, further showcasing her versatility as a television personality.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Luxury Collection
In 2017, Patricia published The Art of Southern Charm, a book detailing her experiences, philosophies, and insights on Southern etiquette and hospitality. The book became a popular guide to living with sophistication and grace.
Building on her brand, she launched The Patricia Altschul Luxury Collection in 2020, offering high-end yet accessible home décor, clothing, and accessories. The collection, sold on the Home Shopping Network, features an array of elegant pillows, throws, and lifestyle items inspired by her signature style.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Patricia Altschul’s personal life has been marked by high-profile marriages and deep philanthropic contributions. She married L. Hayes Smith in 1962, and together they had one son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, born on June 2, 1968. After their divorce in 1979, she later wed Edward Stitt Fleming, a doctor and entrepreneur, from 1989 to 1995.
In 1996, she married Arthur Altschul, a financier and general partner at Goldman Sachs. Arthur co-founded General American Investors and was a well-respected figure in the financial industry. Patricia remained married to Arthur until his passing in 2002.
Due to her prominence in New York society, Patricia has served on the boards of esteemed organizations, including the Rockefeller family’s Hudson Hills Trust and the New York Historical Society. In 2012, she was honored as Woman of the Year by the Police Athletic League of New York City for her philanthropic efforts.
Real Estate Investments and Historic Renovations
Patricia Altschul has also made significant real estate investments. In 1997, she and her late husband Arthur purchased a stunning 30-room mansion in Long Island, which she later sold for $12.5 million in 2009.
In 2008, she acquired the historic Isaac Jenkins Mikell House in Charleston for $4.8 million. The 10-bedroom, 9,500-square-foot estate, originally built in 1853, was once a public library before being transformed into a lavish private residence. Altschul spent over $5 million restoring the home to its former grandeur, earning her a Pro Merito Award/Carolopolis Award from the Preservation Society of Charleston in 2013. The house was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014 and has been prominently featured on Southern Charm.
Legacy and Influence
Patricia Altschul embodies elegance, sophistication, and an unapologetic embrace of the Southern aristocratic lifestyle. From academia to reality television, from high society to entrepreneurship, she has built an enduring legacy. Her sharp commentary and refined sensibility continue to captivate audiences, solidifying her place as a cultural icon.
With a net worth of $100 million and an ever-expanding influence, Patricia Altschul remains an inspiring figure, blending old-world charm with modern-day business acumen. As she continues to evolve, her contributions to art, media, and philanthropy ensure her legacy will stand the test of time.