5 Decor Trends I’m Totally Over (and those I’m loving)

April 18, 2018

You know the saying, all good things must come to and end! Well, that’s how I’m feeling about a few decor trends these days.

Some of the decor trends I’m sharing have been around for years and were very popular at their peak. Others have come on the scene in the last couple of years thanks in part to Pinterest and the DIY movement. Regardless of how long these trends have been around, they have run their course and now need to fade away.

No. 1–Bohemian Tapestries–I love eclectic decor and the exotic patterns and details that bohemian style is known for. I am however over the woven tapestry wall hangings that you’re seeing everywhere these days. In fact, I was kind of over them back in the 80’s when they originated. I vividly remember making one of these in a crafting class back then. When it comes to textural wall decor, I’m more a fan of abstract art or framed architectural findings to add personality to a room.

No. 2–Succulents–One of my design mantras is that every house needs greenery or florals as part of their decor. But instead of small succulent, I suggest for big, beautiful plants and fresh flowers. Did you know that plants help to keep the temperature down in a home and also reduce airborne dust levels? Yes they do! That’s even more reason to add a few plants to your decor.

No. 3–Bell Shaped Lampshades–As one of the most traditional lampshade silhouettes, bell shades have been popular for decades. While they may still be the best option for some lamp styles, taped drum shades are a more updated option. Tapered drums create the same visual effect but have softer lines and a less rigid look. fyi–for more tips on lighting check out my Lampshade Design Guide.

No. 4–Chevron Patterns–Chevron patterns need to be banned, not just on rugs but on every design application you can think of. Today there are so many more interesting patterns for textiles like rugs, pillows, curtains and bedding. I’m currently loving abstract designs and vintage inspired patterns.

No. 5–Chalkboard Walls–I actually like the function that a chalkboard wall offers but think they should now be reserved for more private spaces like a playroom and laundry rooms. And I’m certainly over a full chalkboard wall unless you’re an artist and you use it as a canvas. To replace the chalkboard trend, I vote for a fun wallpaper or a stenciled wall to add pattern and visual interest to a space.

So there’s my take of what’s hot and what’s not in the design world. I know there are other trends on their way out but these are the ones at the top of my hit list.

Are there any decor trends that you’re totally over?

I Know Where I’ll Be On April 8th–Shopping the OPALHOUSE collection at Target.

April 2, 2018

Hi friends. I hope everyone had a great Easter and a relaxing weekend. We spent most of the weekend at home installing wallpaper on the ceiling of my office. Boy was that a job! It’s going to take me shoulders a couple of days recuperate but the pain is was worth it because I am absolutely in love with the ceiling. You can catch a sneak peek over on Instagram.

Besides the wallpaper, I’m also excited that April is here and that April 8th is fast approaching. Why you ask? Because my birthday is just a week away and there’s a really exciting product launch is happening at Target this Sunday.

Target’s newest home collection, Opalhouse launches in stores and online on April 8th and man are there some gorgeous pieces.

The new collection is right up my alley with bold colors, lush textures and handcrafted details. According to Target, there are more than 1,300 pieces in the collection spanning bedding, bath, décor, tabletop and furniture. Target’s design team traveled far and wide to cities like Aix-en-Provence, Lisbon, Paris and Mallorca to gather inspiration to create a collection of authentically inspired, eclectic pieces. And along with all of the amazing items, one of the best thing about the collection is that most items are under $30!!

As soon as the email announcing the launch landed in my inbox, I did some virtual shopping and created my shopping list. Want to see which OPALHOUSE items I’m going to be stalking?

This Green Striped Tasseled Rug would be a fun accent in a bathroom or doorway. It’s available in 3 sizes starting at just $19.99.

I can’t believe the price ($79.99) of this gorgeous Tole Chandelier. It’s the prefect size to hang over a bathtub or in a closet.

I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love the glass candle holders in the collection. The green glass candleholder is also available in orange and is only $14.99. The pink glass taper holder is $12.99 and a shorter teal taper holder, also $12.99.

How cute is this rattan elephant basket. It could be used to hold magazines, remotes or as a plant basket. $24.99

I definitely don’t need another tray in my life but I just might have to pull the trigger on this handcrafted rattan tray. It’s just $24.99 and would make an ideal coffee table accent or desk tray.

The Opalhouse pillow collection is going to create some major havoc to my already out of control pillow collection.There are so many great styles and the colors are so vibrant and pretty. And there are some really great black and white and natural designs for those of you that aren’t into bold and bright.

Round Pleated Velvet Pillow–$26.99–6 colors // Tufted Diamond Skinny Lumbar Pillow–$19.99 // Pleated Yellow Velvet Lumbar Pillow–$12.99 // Velvet Fringe Pillow–$24.99–3 colors // Green Velvet Medallion Pillow–$24.99

I could go on and on about the chairs in the Opalhouse collection. If you’re in the market for accent chairs you’ll definitely want to check them all out. This rattan arm-chair caught my eye and I just love the silhouette and lines on it. It would also be easy to have a cushion made for it to add even more style. $149.99

I’m always on the hunt for small side table and love the look of this hexagon wood table. It’s hard to believe that its only $79.99 especially with the white marble top.

Round coffee tables are getting lots of love right now in the design world. This round coffee table is actually part of a set–it comes with a matching side table and the set is only $199.99. Don’t love the black–it’s also available in natural.

I really can’t believe that this caned double-door chest is only $159.99. I’ve seen similar styles for double and triple the price. This piece would be ideal for a small entryway, hallway landing or to hold linens in a bedroom.

You all know I love pretty tableware. There’s lots in the Opalhouse collection so if you’re like me, hold on to your wallet.

First up on my shopping list are these green canary melamine plates. The individual plates are just $1.99 each but this design is also available as part of an assorted set of salad plates ($7.96) and dinner plates ($11.96). Perfect of outdoor entertaining.

Aren’t these wood planters cool? I love the rustic yet refined they are. There are three sizes with prices from $19.99 to $59.99. The planters can be used indoors and outdoors. And I think they would make great serving vessels for chips and snacks or wine in the larger size.

I can never pass up a pretty dinner napkin. These navy blue cloth napkins have a mini pom pom trim around edge making them great for dressy or causal entertaining. $2.50 each and also available in orange.

I’m thinking of using this mango wood carved tray as a platform to hold items on my kitchen counter. It would also be a great riser for a plant. $19.99

My two favorite colors in a dinner plate–its doesn’t get much better than that. This scalloped edge melamine plate is just $2.99 and is designed to mix and match with other designs in the line.

I adore the color combination of this linen table runner. The teal and Chartreuse color combo is so refreshing and just $17.99.

I love adding a fun summer weight throw blanket over my chairs during the warm months and this woven stripe throw is perfect for that. There’s a teal and green color combo too that is just beautiful. $29.99.

It’s hard to resist a kitchen towel with pom poms. I’m loving the sunny yellow color of this one and wouldn’t hesitate to also use it as a dinner napkin. $3.00–also available in pink with navy pom poms.

It’s hard to find embellished sheets with a little pizzazz. This set features a bohemian inspired black print along the top edge. Sets start at $26.99.

And finally, this velvet tufted stitch quilt just might be my favorite piece in the entire collection. The color and stitching detail are just so yummy. The full/queen $79.99 and there are 6 amazing colors to pick from including the beautiful emerald green.

*****

Have I got you intrigued and ready to spend a wad on new decor?

You can preview the entire Opalhouse collection here and start your very own shopping list before the April 8th launch date. I’d love to know what items you can’t live without so leave me a comment and let me know.

And if you have an idea of how I can get this all in the house without my husband noticing, share that with me too!

Happy shopping!

Tassel Obsessed–One of my favorite details

March 22, 2018

Is there a certain design detail that you’re kind of obsessed with? It might be floral patterns or maybe it’s mercury glass finishes. For me that one design detail that I just can’t seem to get enough of is Tassels. I’ve been crazy about tassels for years and when I opened my home decor store back in 2003, I even named it to reflect my love for tassel–The Scarlet Tassel. I closed my store in 2011 but tassels continue to be one of may favorite decor and fashion accessories.

A recent round of online shopping turned up lots of great tassel adorned decor and fashion. I knew you would never forgive me if I didn’t share it all with you so here, my friends are a load of tassel goodies.

TASSEL MUST-HAVES:

I’m actively starting to shop for spring and summer shoes and these suede tassel loafers are on the list. I love the bold color and stylish black tassel charms. You’ll want to grab a pair of the fast because I know they will sell out. p.s they are currently on sale for $79.88 and also come in a brown toffee color.

Pillows are one of the easiest and budget friendly ways to update your decor from one season to the next. This Kate Spade Tassel Pillow would look great on a sofa or as an accent on a bed. There are 2 yummy solid colors to choose from as well as a boho inspired black and cream stripe. $129

If you look around your house I’m sure you’ll spot multiple places where this cute white stool with tassels could go. It’s the perfect footstool next to a chair or as an accent next to the bed. $139.99

I’m a bit of a throw collector because I’m always cold. This chic marled grey knit throw will work with any decor style and is perfect for spring and summer nights watching movies on the sofa. And I’m pretty smitten with the $69 price tag too!

Is there such things as having too many tassel earrings. The fashion trend is still going strong so I say why not add these tassel drop earrings to your fashion lineup. They are also available in a blue colorway and will only set you back $38.

Several years ago I wrote a post about shopping at Pottery Barn Kids for fun decor pieces. This adorable Boho Tassel Storage Tote is just one example of an item that bridges the gap between kids and adults. It screams magazine basket or blankets storage to me. There are two sizes available–Small: $39 and Large: $59.

I love dressing up a simple summer dress or t-shirt with bold jewelry like this Cardo Tassel Necklace ($52). The combination of tassels, pom poms and black and white is definitely a winning combo.

Have you noticed that patterned bath rugs have been trending up for the last few years? Rugs with an all-over pattern are a great way to add visual interest to a utilitarian space like a bath or laundry room. This striped bath rug with tassels would be a fun option to give your decor a pop of color. And it’s under $40…$39.99 to be exact.

This amazing Justina Blakeney Fela Tassel Chandelier takes tassel decor to a whole new level. What a statement piece for a living space, bedroom or office. I love the natural color ($193.50) but also found it in navy here and in pink here.

And finally friends…what do you get when you pair a classic decor piece like a decorative box with a tassel, this set of 3 decorative boxes with tassels. You could use these boxes stacked as shown or break them apart to decorate a coffee table, bookshelf or night stand. The set is only $73.99 and is available in 8 gorgeous colors.

Anyone else have a tassel obsession?

Happy shopping.

top image–wood bead garland necklace

Spring Entertaining: Tablescape Styling {plus tips}

March 20, 2018

One of my favorite color combinations is black and white with pops of bold color. It’s a classic statement with an edgy vibe and I love the energy that these colors create when used together. And it’s the perfect color statement for spring entertaining.

To celebrate the first day of spring, I pulled together a bold and bright spring entertaining tablescape to share with you. And I added a couple of Easter elements in too since Easter is just a few weeks away.

SPRING ENTERTAINING: BOLD & BRIGHT

Spring is the season when trees are blooming and flowers are budding so I created a beautiful flower arrangement as the centerpiece for my table. I used this gorgeous yellow chinoiserie planter that I scored at an estate sale and filled it with a mix flowers from Trader Joe’s.

Flower Arranging Tip: Use florist’s foam to keep flowers in place and constantly hydrated so they last longer. Soak the foam for 15 minutes before cutting it to fit the container. Water the foam every couple of days.

Tablescape Styling Tip: Creating contrast is a great way to give your tablescape dimension and depth. Combine colors that are opposite on the color wheel; mix matte and shiny finishes; use a variety of patterns for visual interest.

I know I’ve said it over and over, but one of the key elements of a beautiful table is the layering. I layered different plate styles to give the table a ‘collected’ but elegant look. And the black and white striped placemats add a modern and dramatic edge. Instead of using colorful glassware that would have competed with the flowers, I used clear crystal to add a touch of sparkle.

** I’ll let you in on a little secret. Those beautiful scalloped white dinner plates with the silver rim are actually plastic! Don’t they look amazing? Until you pick them up you have no idea they aren’t real china. If you want to pick up a set, I found them at Tuesday Morning.

I layered each pacesetting with my thrifted red salad plates and black and white accent pieces. The small rectangular black and white plates came from C. Wonder (I miss that store) and I got the black and white bowls through a trade resource. My red diy monogram dinner napkins add yet another pop of color.

Tablescape Styling Tip: don’t be afraid to mix different materials in creating your pacesetting. There are tons of beautiful melamine plates at HomeGoods and they can make a great layering element when combined with china.

Whenever I create a tablescape, I like to use candles as part of the centerpiece statement. The tall crystal candlesticks are from Tiffany’s and were a gift when I left Eddie Bauer to move to Atlanta. They add height and along with the stemware give that table some shine and shimmer.

I shared my newly upholstered round ottomans on IG and love the way they coordinate with the centerpiece on the table. The floral fabric is one of my all-time favorite budget fabric finds. You can purchase it here and you won’t believe the price.

To give the table a nod to Easter, I nestled two ceramic bunnies on each side of the centerpiece and tied a pink bow around their next. The bunnies were a Target dollar spot find from last year.

There you have it–lots of spring tablescape inspiration, and a few styling tips to help you pull your table together.

Cheers to spring and happy entertaining!

Spring Pillows { plus tips on building a pillow assortment}

March 9, 2018

Can you believe the weather that’s going on around the country? One day is balmy and the next it freezing or snow is falling. We are experiencing some frigid temps here in Atlanta and it only has me craving spring even more. Although I’m still working on decorating our house I’m working on infusing a touch of spring decor where I can.

One of the decor changes I like to make when the seasons change is to switch out my pillows. It’s quick, inexpensive and new pillows just have a way of making an entire room feel fresh and new.

I’ve spotted lots a beautiful pillows in HomeGoods lately and have also found some great pieces online. Here’s my roundup of favorite Spring Pillows–all under $50!

Shop these faves:

Fringe (available in 3 colors) // Crewel Spliced // Palm Leaf // Floral Velvet (available in 3 colors)

Shobori Velvet (hot trend!!// Jacquard Weave (available in 3 colors) // Cotton Throw (under $35) // Blue Marble Velvet

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Aren’t all of these pillows just gorgeous? The spring pillow trends are all about intricate details, lush textures, beautiful patterns and luscious colors. All of these design details make decorating so much fun.

If you’re looking to change-up your pillow game for spring, here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning an arrangement for your sofa…

PILLOW PAIRING INSPIRATION

Bring on spring!

How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

March 6, 2018

I’ve shared on the blog before that I’m pretty flexible when it comes to design. For the most part I believe that if you love something and it feels right then it’s right for your decor. On the flip side, there are some tried-and-true design rules that whole-heartedly believe in and feel should be a part of every good room design.

One of those design rules is Every Room Needs A Touch Of Black. In 2016 I created a Design Guide all about this rule and even shared my favorite black paint colors. As a follow-up to that design guide, today I want to share a few tips on the best ways to incorporate this color into your decor.

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♦ Black is a classic color that will never go out of style. And because black is made up of all colors, it’s a universal color that pairs beautifully with any color hue. There is simply not a color scheme that doesn’t benefit from the presence of black.♦

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How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

♦ Accessorize With Black–Even though the color has a lot of depth, it is considered a ‘neutral’ so don’t be afraid to use it as an accent in a room that has little color.

A black decorative accessory or one with a black detail is the easiest way to subtly infuse the color into your decor. Think bookends, pillows, a chandelier or a sculptural object.
Dark picture frames against a light-colored wall will draw the eye in while allowing the artwork within the frame to stand out.
A black lampshade instantly upgrades the elegance of a table or floor lamp.
For a dramatic statement in your living room or foyer, consider a black rug which will visually anchor the space.

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Elle Decor

♦ Decorate Around Black–Incorporating a black furniture piece into a living space adds substance, depth and helps to ground the entire furniture grouping.

An armoire, side table or an accent chair are three great black furniture options to consider.
Painting your interior doors black is a quick and inexpensive way to add a bold statement of black within your decor. Go with a semi-gloss finish so the doors with have a reflective nature and any details will stand out.

tip: if the contrast of deep, rich black Is too much, look for a piece of furniture with an ebony stain (darkest brown with a hint of black undertones)–the impact will be the same.

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♦ Accent With Black-A black accent wall or painted ceiling is not only dramatic but one of the best ways to make a small space appear larger. Forget what you might have heard about painting a small room in a light shade. In actuality, dark rooms feel larger because the room lines disappear. Black also makes details come to life, colors more vibrant and patterns pop.

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Now that you know how to add black within your decor its time to go shopping. Here are a few budget-friendly accessories that I’m currently loving.

SHOP MY FAVORITE BLACK DECOR PIECES

Garden stools are a good accent piece next to a chair or sofa and look great tucked under a console table. I love this style and glossy finish on this shaped ceramic garden stool. {affiliate link}

This black and cream rug would look great in a bedroom, foyer or as a runner down a hallway.

I can just envision a lush green plant or beautiful orchid in this gold banded leather vase.

I love the lines and classic shape of this white lamp from Target. A pair of these would look great in a bedroom or on a buffet in a dining room.

Isn’t this botanical art from Minted just beautiful? The bold color against the dark background give it a little bit of an edgy feel.

Buffalo checks seem to be a big trend in home decor right now. This plaid armchair would be a fun accent in a living space or bedroom.

You can never go wrong adding a decorative box to your decor. I love this decorative box with agate stone as part of a coffee table arrangement.

I hope the tips and inspiration I shared today gives you some ideas on how to use black to enhance your decor.

Christmas Gift Wrap | Creative Ideas & Tips

December 24, 2017

Hi friends. The last few days have been a struggle. I’ve been working on this gift wrap post up for days but my photos weren’t loading so I haven’t been able to publish this post. I think I’ve got the bugs fixed now so here’s the long-awaited post, just in time for a weekend gift wrapping marathon.

**disclaimer: Reliant Ribbon sent me some amazing ribbons to use for my holiday gift wrap post, but all words, opinions and gift wrap inspiration is mine.

I’ve had a passion for wrapping gifts for years and love to go the extra mile when creating beautiful packages. If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know I have somewhat of an obsession with pretty wrapping paper and ribbon. And a fun embellishment is usually part of my gift wrap formula too.

Today I’m going to share a few Christmas gifts that I wrapped along with some tips to help you give your holiday wrap a little extra pizzazz!

May no gift be too small to give, nor too simple to receive,
which is wrapped in thoughtfulness and tied with love. ~ L.O. Baird

When I started planning my Christmas theme earlier this year, I knew I wanted to keep my holiday gift wrap simple. This year it was going to be all about the ribbon, paper and fun accents.

FYI–I use my DIY Gift Wrap Crate to keep all of my holiday wrapping supplies organized and in one place. And after the holidays I’ll switch out the paper and ribbon for spring and summer gift giving. ***Need a last minute Christmas gift? The gift wrap crate is a simple project that would be great for someone who loves to wraps.

Ok, let’s get into the details of my wrap…

All of the wrapping paper that I used this year is from HomeGoods. They have an awesome selection of holiday wrapping paper and you can’t beat the price. When I’m shopping for gift wrap, especially at Christmas, I like to buy patterns and colors that can be used year-round. Polka Dots, stripes, plaids and subtle patterns are what I shop for. With non-seasonal wrapping paper, I use inexpensive embellishments to reflect the season or gift-giving occasion.

My ribbon this year is from one of my favorite ribbon sources, Reliant Ribbon. Reliant Ribbon is a family owned wholesale ribbon company that sells a wide range of craft and floral ribbon. They have over 15,000 different ribbon styles so there is literally something for every gift wrap and decorating need.

♦ CREATIVE HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP INSPIRATION ♦

One of my favorite gift wrapping tricks is to combine two or more ribbons to create a layered look. Here I layered a narrow red and white striped ribbon on top of a wide solid red ribbon. The embellishments are mini red and green mercury glass ornaments I bought at Steve McKenzie’s. These ornaments are great as a package topper but can also be used to decorate a small tree or wreath. p.s. all holiday product at Steve McKenzie’s is 50% off through 12/31 with code: MERRY50 so it’s a great time to stock up for next year!

free printable gift tags

Another fun way I like to jazz up my holiday gift wrap is by tying a double bow with pretty satin ribbon. To do this you will want to cut the ribbon extra long. Wrap the ribbon around your box, tie the first bow then know the ribbon on top of that bow to secure it. Now you can tie a second bow and add an embellishment.

I love using unexpected materials to wrap gifts. This year I had the idea of using faux fur as a ribbon substitute. I headed to JoAnn Fabric and found this gorgeous white faux fur trim which was sold by the yard. I cut a piece long enough to wrap around my box and secured it with a satin ribbon bow. tip: a brown or black faux fur is a great ribbon alternative for a men’s gift.

Did you know that a lot of woven ribbons can be curled using the blade of your scissors. #oldschooltrick Curls are a great way to make your gift wrap more festive. And don’t be afraid to combine and curl multiple ribbons together which can create a really fun topper.

faux boxwood garland from Target Dollar Spot // Merry Christmas gift tags

When it comes to holiday gift tags, I use traditional Christmas tags as well as items I find in the craft aisle at Michaels. The JOY tag below is part of a 60 piece Holiday Chipboard Quote Set used for scrapbooking. The tiny tags are perfect for adding a little whimsy to your gift wrap.

holly leaf embellishment from Hobby Lobby

Using ornaments as an embellishment is not a new idea but how you use them can be. Instead of tying this wreath ornament to the ribbon, I tied a knot in the ribbon and bunched the ends in the center of the wreath. I love the way this looks on a round gift box.

free printable gift tags

One of the tips I share when I teach my gift wrap workshops is to to never throw away scrap pieces of wrapping paper or ribbon. Scrap ribbon can be used to wrap a small box or combined with another ribbon for layering. On the box below, I used a piece of scrap ribbon along with a left over Christmas card to decorate the box.

Creative gift wrapping is equal parts the items you wrap with and how you use those items. All it takes to create beautifully wrapped gifts is thinking outside the box (pun intended).

I hope you found these wrapping tips and my Christmas gift wrap inspirational. Be sure to stop by my Instagram feed tomorrow because I’ll be sharing a few last-minute wrapping ideas.

Ornaments On A Stick | An Easy Christmas Craft

December 14, 2017

Happy Thursday friends. I’ve got a super easy Christmas craft to share with you today and I think you’re going to love it. These are what I call Ornaments On A Stick!

Years ago when my home decor store was open, I carried a similar item and they were a top seller. Since I haven’t at market in the last 5 or 6 years, I decided I was going to make my own.

I’m almost embarrassed to share the easy DIY steps to make these but here goes. You only need a few supplies:

Shatter Proof Ornaments–Wal-Mart, At Home and Hobby Lobby are my go to sources for shatter-proof ornaments in different color, shapes and sizes. I used an assortment of mini and large styles from At Home to make mine. (note: this craft will also work with glass ornaments)

Wood Skewers–you can find these at Hobby Lobby and even at the grocery store. I used long skewers for my ornaments but you can also use short cocktail size sticks as well.

Hot Glue Gun–a glue gun is a great tool for everyone to own even if you’re not a crafter. I have this cordless glue gun on my Christmas wish list.

And now the hard part….

Using your skewer, punch a hole into the cap of the ornament and insert the skewer into the hole a couple of inches. Add a few dots of hot glue around the hole and skewer to secure it in place and let it dry. Ta da, you’ve got a fun holiday decor piece to decorate with.

Ornaments On A Stick are great to add to a Christmas tree or mantel garland. And if you use a short skewer, they will also work on a wreath.

Another fun idea is to add them to a flower bouquet or plant that you’re giving as a holiday hostess gift.

Or you can make a holiday door cone like I did and insert a few sticks to dress it up.

And if you really want to go all out, make a super sized version of Ornaments On A Stick to use in your outdoor planters. Just use oversized ornaments and replace the skewers with wood dowels.

P.S. This is a fun craft to do with kids.