My Latest Flea Market Finds–Road Trip Treasures

October 11, 2016

Whenever we drive to see my mom in Oklahoma, we plan a few pit stops at flea markets and antique stores along the way. I typically find an item or two but nothing to brag about. This trip however was different. I lucked upon lots of unique pieces at great prices. Most of what I found will go in my Etsy shop but I am keeping a couple of items for myself.

Staffordshire dogs are really popular right now and I found a couple of different dog pieces. The first was this single dalmatian figurine. I know these were originally sold in a set as bookends but as a single it makes a great decor pieces for a bookshelf.

The other dog pieces I found was this set of dalmatian bookends. I’m tempted to keep these but into the Etsy shop they’ll go.

This blue and white lidded jar is so cute. If it wasn’t for its petite size you’d think it was a garden stool. I snapped this piece up for $5.00 and I’m going to keep it for myself.

I’m also on the look out for brass trays and this one had beautiful details. It’s pretty large in size and would make a great bar tray.

I love milk glass and see these bowls quite often but have never purchased one. The embossed fruit motif on the bottom is so intricate and pretty and the bowl is super heavy.

I don’t know how long the brass pineapple trend is going to last but I keep buying them if I can find them at a good price. I already own two so I’m going to be listing this lidded piece in the shop after I clean it up a bit.

This pretty brass letter holder has me in a quandary…sell or keep? The design is really pretty and you can tell its a great quality piece. Since I have good luck selling letter holders in my shop I’ll probably sell this one.

I also found a silver-plated one that needs some TLC. It was less than $3.00 so if it doesn’t clean up well I’ll just keep it.

My favorite find of the trip was this ceramic elephant stool. It’s in great condition and I practically stool it from the dealer with the price they had on it.

Don’t you just love my latest flea market finds?

For those of you living in Memphis, you might want to check out the Antique Mall Warehouse. I found most of the chinoiserie and brass pieces there.

If you want to check out my Etsy shop, head here.

Happy hunting!

Let’s Get Cozy–Fall Throws and Storage Baskets

September 23, 2016

I came across the image the other day and all I could think about was cooler temperatures and getting cozy under a plush throw blanket. Cooler temps are on the way and now it the time to shop for that perfect fall throw blanket.

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When I’m shopping for a cozy throw blanket, there are a few things I look for and avoid…

I avoid synthetic fibers like acrylic which won’t provide much warmth and typically has a rougher feel.
I look for natural fibers like cotton, wool or cashmere all of which are soft to the touch and will keep you warm. And now you can even find washable wools which provide warmth and allow for easy care.
I look for oversized throw blankets that will cover you from head to toe. A great size is 60″ x 80″.
I prefer blankets with a straight edge and no fringe. I’ve found that over time, fringed edges tend to pull apart or tangle. note: I would buy all of the fringed blankets I’ve shown in this post because they are well made and the fringe is individually knotted.
You can never go wrong with classic styles like herringbone or cable knit. And solid colors are naturally more versatile than patterns although I love the African Shibori throw below.

These Natural Hyacinth Braided Cameron Tote Baskets are perfect for flat weave throws because they won’t snag on the basket. And the handles make it easy to move around the house or wherever movie night is happening. Grab these now because they are on sales–$20.99-$23.99!

For chunky throws you want a basket with a smooth interior like these Kiel Rope Weave Baskets or this Mamba Basket. I love the subtle texture and pattern on both of these baskets and the robust size means you can stash lots of blankets away.

Kiel Rope Weave $59-$99

Mamba Basket $64.95

And if you like to keep your throw blankets under wraps, theses lidded Collin Mocha Wicker Storage Baskets are two of my favorite. $79.95-$99.95

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The season is almost here!

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Shop these throws:

Herringbone Throw $39 available in 4 colors // Interlochen Throw $98 available in 2 colors

Landyn Chunky Knit Throw–$69.95 available in 3 colors // Moroccan Wedding Banded Throw–$399 available in 2 colors

Handcrafted African Indigo Shibori Throw–$349 // Cashmere Cable Knit Throw–$199-$299 available in 8 colors

On A Personal Note–Vintage Toast Racks

September 21, 2016

♠ VINTAGE TOAST RACKS ♠

I’ve mentioned before that I have an Etsy shop where I sell vintage decor and handcrafted items. One of my best-selling items are vintage toast racks. Whenever I come across one in good quality I pick it up. You might be thinking that I sell these rack to use to hold toast but you’d be wrong. After buying my first toast rack and styling it as a stationery/letter holder, that’s how I’ve been promoting them ever since.

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Most of the racks I’ve round have been silver-plated but you can find them in brass, milk glass or even decorative ceramic styles like this blue and white beauty. #yesplease

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Toast Racks are the perfect chic storage piece to hold thank-you notes, bills or small electronics like your cell or linens. During the holidays, they are a great way to display Christmas cards without taking up a lot of room.

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They come in all shapes and sizes and prices can range from as little as $5.00 up to hundreds of dollars.

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Designs range from ornate and Victorian to simple and classic and some designs have more slots than others.

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When shopping for vintage toast racks on Etsy, use these search terms to narrow your findings: toast rack , letter rack, card holder, letter holder, Victorian rack

I’ve made shopping easy for you and rounded up a few of my favorite toast racks, all under $20!

This one is for all you blue and white lovers.

This one is perfect for a desk and can hold more than just stationery.

If your style is art deco, you’ll love this one.

And I love this brass swan piece.

We’re heading off on a road trip tomorrow and I plan to stop at a few flea markets along the way. Fingers crossed that I score a few toast racks.

Becoming An Expert Flea Market Shopper (5 books to own)

September 20, 2016

One of the things I love most in life is shopping flea markets. There is something exciting about looking for a hidden treasures amongst piles of dirty, dusty and cast-off relics.

Shopping flea markets isn’t something I’ve done all my life, I’ve only been treasure hunting for about the last 6 or 7 years. In that time I think I have become pretty savvy at vintage shopping, partly because I’ve taken the time read about, study and research the craft.

If you love flea market shopping and want to learn how to find the best collectibles and vintage pieces, I have 5 books I recommend you read. All of these books are filled with valuable tips on what to look , how to tell if an item has value and they highlight the best flea markets around the country.

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Because I’m a big fan of Better Homes and Gardens books, Flea Market Decorating was the first ‘thrifting’ book I purchased. Included in this book is a state-by-state listing of flea markets and antique fairs and well as tips on refurbishing your vintage finds. There is also loads of decorating ideas using real room settings with actual vintage items. The cover alone should entice you!

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I stumbled upon Flea Market Secrets in a thrift store and gave it my usual flip through to get a feel for the images. One of the best things about this book are the 10 Golden Rules of shopping flea markets that the author outlines. The rules are tried-and-true and things you’ll want to employ no matter where you shop. I also like that there are chapters dedicated to different types of items like glass, furniture, textiles and jewelry. Each chapter give you in-depth information on what types of items to buy, what to pass up and how to care for your treasures. You’ll also find the authors favorite flea markets around the world from Paris to Round Top, Texas.

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I remember when Lara Spencer first announced that she was writing a book of thrifting–I was so excited. I’m a big fan of Lara’s, have watched all her HGTV shows and love her design (and fashion) style. Her book, I Break For Yard Sales is one of the best out there and I love the fact that it combines flea market and thrifting tips with great design advice and inspiration. Page after page Lara shares her passion form shopping yard sales, thrift stores, estate sales and flea markets. You’ll learn her bargain hunting secrets and get insight from appraisers on what to look for when shopping.

You gotta love that Lara isn’t above dumpster diving for a treasure!

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Lara’s second book, Flea Market Fabulous expands upon her flea market shopping tips by showcasing nine rooms that have been decorated with thrifted pieces. The book walks you through the entire process of decorating with vintage finds, from creating a design plan to building a mood board. I also love the room illustrations and before and after photos of the DIY transformations Lara and her team pull off.

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And finally, my list of inspirational flea market shopping books would not be complete without Eddie Ross’ amazing book Modern Mix. When you want to take you flea market and antique shopping to the next level, this is the book that will guide you. Throughout the 8 chapters of the book you’ll find beautiful images of chic interiors, table settings, bars and parties created using vintage pieces. And along with sharing his secrets to shopping, Eddie will teach you how to expertly combine colors and pattern, mix old and new & curate a high and low mix within your decor.

“Modern Mix cracks the code to navigating thrift shops, yard sales and flea markets with confidence.”

And of course I had to share a few of my flea market shopping tips with you:

Have a list of items you’re looking for but be flexible. Shopping flea markets can be overwhelming and you can easily get side-tracked so it’s a good idea to have a list of ‘must have’ items to keep you focused.
Let your creativity flow. Whenever I’m out treasure hunting, I always stop and think about an item I’m interested in. I think about the different ways I could use it in my decor or how I could transform it into something else. Many of the items you’ll find shopping won’t be a perfect fit but with a little creativity and work they can be become real gems.
If you love it, buy it. We’ve all been there–spotting an item but then giving it too much thought and passing it by. Then we have buyers regret and go back hoping the piece is still there but sadly it’s not. I learned early in the game that if you love it and it fits your budget and needs then get it.
Negotiate. Flea market and vintage shop dealers are used to bargaining so don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. And remember the more items you buy from one dealer, the better your bargaining strength.

For even more flea market shopping tips, read my 10 Tips for Shopping Flea Markets Like a Pro post.

Happy hunting friends.

**this post contains affiliate links

Favorite Posts, Pins and Products of the Week

September 3, 2016

The time has come for us to sail away on a glorious 8 days cruise. I’ll be posting the highlights on Instagram so make sure to follow me there. And next week I’ll be sharing the Best of ConfettiStyle with a round-up of some of the most popular blog post since I started this blog journey. Enjoy your weekend and I’ll see you back here on the 12th with a tan and sand in my shoes!

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FAVORITE POSTS

Only one word to describe this kitchen makeover…gorgeous!

Lessons in Layering your decor. A great read and a great home tour too!

William McClure via Marcus Design

Where have these Mod Melts been all my life. So many ideas and so little time.

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FAVORITE PINS

This is a beautiful and creative way to design a bathroom vanity.

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This gold leaf table top table is stunning. The rest of the home is pretty great too.

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This is the newest addition to my Words To Inspire Pinterest board which includes over 1800 inspirational quotes and words of wisdom. If you need to positive energy, check out the board here.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I love the palm leaf trend that is so popular right now and I love this pillow. Oh, and check out Dolce & Gabbana’s Fall/Winter Botanical Garden collection.

This wall shelf would look great in a kitchen or in a bathroom. It pays to shop where the teenagers do.

These fall leaf appetizer plates will be the star of the show on your fall dining table. And I love these pumpkin ones too.

I’m so happy to find malachite decor at an affordable price. You could buy this malachite dish and use it as a coaster.

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Favorite Posts, Pins and Products of the Week!

August 27, 2016

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FAVORITE POSTS

This is a great example of eclectic style. I love all the color in this home.

I loved checking out this bloggers top interior design pins from Pinterest. So much eye candy.

p.s. tile from ceiling to floor is a good thing!

This was such a cute video and now I’m even more excited about the book.

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FAVORITE PINS

I’m not a gin drinker but this peach and gin tonic have me rethinking that.

This beautifully styled cheese board and the how-to tutorial are great.

I love the organic look of this fall floral arrangement and the oranges are a fun touch.

This beautiful image from House Beautiful kinda makes me want to go out and buy a red sofa.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

This is a great time of year to shop all of the end of summer clearance sales and snag some really good buys. p.s. H and M Home has some great items worth checking out.

If you have an extra $5.00 lying around, you might want to pick up this black and white pillow cushion. #chiconashoestring

Eating a bowl of cereal every morning out of this gold stoneware bowl would make me feel like royalty. Or you could use this bowl to hold flowers or succulents.

And how about sipping tea out of this leopard print cup! There are also salad plates to match.

If you’re looking to UpStyle your organizing game, this black and gold storage box will do that in a flash. #iwant

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Enjoy your weekend friends. I’m going to be housebound all weekend getting a ton of work done and starting to pull things together for our upcoming cruise. I’m so excited with the thought that in just seven days my view will look a little like this.

What I’m Loving About The Fall 2016 Color Trends (and some product picks)

August 24, 2016

Even though temps are still in the 90’s and the air is sticky, I can feel the coming of fall. There is something in the air and I can definitely feel my mood changing. I’m looking forward to the season officially arriving.

In anticipation of the first day of fall I did a little web search to check out Pantone’s fall color picks. I’m excited about the colors that were selected because ~~all~~ most of them are great colors when it comes to decor. Of the 10 colors that made the list, there are a few that I’m particularly drawn to. Today I’m sharing what I’m loving most about the fall 2016 color trends plus I’ve rounded up some product picks to get you started on your fall decor.

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AURORA RED

Red is my favorite color and even though Aurora Red is a bit more russet in tone, I’m still a big fan. It’s a color that will mixes easily with neutrals and grey and it works both as a statement color and as an accent. A mirror or accent pillows is an easy way to add this color into your mix for fall.

Aurora Red Product Picks:

The Suzani Appliqué Pillow Cover would make a great accent pillow for a sofa, chair or bed. And with the popularity of blue and white, I could see this being a great fall update in a blue and white bedroom.

The Malone Campaign Desk is a great piece for a small foyer, hallway or guest bedroom. The brass accents really jazz it up and I love the clean lines and simple details.

LUSH MEADOW

Yes I love emerald green and yes I’m excited it made the cut for fall. The Pantone version, Lush Meadow is a bit softer than a traditional emerald but it still has the life and energy that has made this shade of green so popular.

Lush Meadow Product Picks:

Garden stools continue to be a popular decor piece and this Safavieh Chinese Dragon Stool is a stylish way to add chinoiserie and emerald green into your decor for fall. #ineed

Here’s a green table lamp I know you’re going to love. The green glass (a hot style trend for fall) and the faux wood grain lampshade make this Jade Table Lamp a stunner. And you won’t believe the $139 price. #iwant

SPICY MUSTARD

If you’ve followed color trends for the last two years, you’ve seen the surge in the popularity of the color yellow. Spicy Mustard is the color Pantone has identified as a trend for fall and I love the rich and luxurious look that this color adds to decor. And If given the opportunity, I’d would definitely own a yellow sofa.

Spicy Mustard Product Picks:

I recently spotted this Bradberry Downs collection rug and think it would be an awesome rug to spice up a living room or dining room. And I love that it can work with black or wood stained furniture and both silver and gold finishes.

If you haven’t jumped on the x-bench trend, the Safavieh Palmer X Bench is a great way to do that. I love the pattern and nailhead trim and would nestle a pair under a console table or at the foot of a bed.

This Large Glass Vase caught my attention on the H and M Home site not only because of the beautiful mustard color, but also because of the $12.99 price point. #greatbuy

SHARKSKIN

Grey continues to be a hot, hot trend in decor and the focus for fall is a rich, classic shade of grey with an enticing name…Sharkskin. p.s. you’ll continue to see the popularity of grey for kitchen cabinets too!

Sharkskin Product Picks:

Grey is one of my favorite colors to decorate with in a bedroom. It’s a soothing and relaxing color with a sophisticated edge. The Asher Organic Duvet is a favorite for fall especially mixed with black and crisp white.

This classic chevron patterned throw is the perfect accessory to drape over a chair or sofa. And it would make a great gift too.

RIVERSIDE

Unlike Serenity which is a Pantone 2016 colors of the year, I am a fan of the blue they picked for fall called Riverside. I love the steely grey undertones of this color and how well it mixes with the richer colors you always see during fall.

Riverside Product Picks:

I can already envision this Unlimited Beads Blue Dinnerware set as part of a fall table setting mixed with orange and white pumpkins and lush greens. #yesplease

I’d love to get new lamps for our bedroom, and this Blue Ceramic Table Lamp would definitely be on my list of options. The matte blue base and the lattice design lampshade really make it stand out.

So friends, even though we’ve got a few more weeks to enjoy summer, I’ve got fall on my mind and ideas in my head.

How about you? Are you dreaming of fall and which of Pantone’s fall colors are your favorite. Do tell!

DIY Potential–Ikea’s New Product Line

August 22, 2016

Besides thrift stores, Ikea is one of the best sources for DIY items. If you follow any DIY or craft bloggers, I’m sure you’ve seen them transform an item or two from Ikea.

When I got the 2017 Ikea catalog in the mail last week, I filled through the pages. While there didn’t appear to be a lot of new items, I did spot quite a few pieces that would make for great DIY projects.

DIY INSPIRATION FROM THE 2017 IKEA CATALOG

The Gladom Tray Table is just begging for a DIY UpStyle. I envision this piece painted gold, black or even Hermes orange. And if you love color, you could paint the removable tray one color and the stand another. $29.99

Th $35.00, the Lixhult Cabinet is a super affordable way to add storage to any room. Those doors a begging for some Overlays and I’ve even consider adding brass leg caps.

The Knotten Standing Desk is a great catch-all piece to place near the front door or in a mud room. And to Upstyle it, I’d paint it grey and add a marble slab top. $149.00

There are many creative ways to DIY this StenStorp Kitchen Island. I’d start by staining the top darker and painting the base. Then I’d add this brass towel bar to one side to hold kitchen towels. $399.00

The Vesken Shelf Unit is a great buy at $12.99 and would be perfect for a small bathroom that needs extra storage space. I could see this piece painted and the trays lined with beautiful paper.

The Norraker Bar Stool would be easy to paint or stain and then I’d Upstyled it with an upholstered seat cushion and a cup pull mounted on the back. $99.00

I can easily envision the Flisat Children’s Stool painted primary colors for a kids play area. But then again, it could also be painted a more sophisticated color and used as a small plant stand in a living room. $14.99

Have you had time to flip through the new Ikea catalog? I’d love to know what great pieces caught your eye.