Hey Hey! If you've been reading Pretty Real for any length of time you know I love thrifting. As a kid, I used to go thrift stores with my mom and loved discovering unique finds or even just name brand clothing for pennies. There's something about thrifting that feels like a treasure hunt.
How are you already in Kindergarten?! How is it that you are nipping at the heels of SIX years old? How did that happen?
Do you know I worry about you being the middle child? You're not the oldest, the baby, or the only son. Will you feel overlooked? Will you feel lost? Will you feel cheated? But then on days like today, on the eve of your first year in elementary school, days where I have all the excitement and nervousness in the world as if I haven't been through this before, days where I get teary eyed at the thought of letting you go, I know you'll be okay. I know you'll feel special and loved and looked after. Because you are sweet girl. Don't think I don't notice.
Remember that time I bought a house? And I could finally start from scratch? I could go with any color scheme, any style, any vibe I wanted? And what did I choose? Somewhat inadvertently, I chose farmhouse #thanksjoanna. It's not that I don't like farmhouse style. I, like the rest of America, am quite smitten. But it simply isn't me.
I've mentioned before that I struggle to define my style. I even took a quiz once and it was something like 33 coastal, 30 transitional, 25 modern, 12 traditional. So basically all the styles. Unfortunately that means I sometimes get drawn toward whatever is trendy. After I finished my gallery wall, I realized I'd crossed the line. I knew if I didn't change course, I'd be buying chicken wire baskets before I knew it. I texted my designer friend in a panic. She gave me this: add black, add brass, add leather. I loved her suggestions and started in that direction.
While I am still enamored with vintage decor, I realize I have to pick a team. (And also vintage doesn't mean farmhouse). So I'm going a bit more transitional in the living room. Although my wing back chairs seem a bit farmhouse-ish, I'm thankful I went fairly neutral for my big pieces and chose a modern rug. As a side note, the chairs are SO comfortable and so pretty, there is no way I am replacing them any time soon. Here's a mood board to help keep me on track. I know it needs color and of course this isn't comprehensive, but I'm diggin it.
1. Brass Mirror. I have this in our entry and LOVE it | 2. Chesterfield (similar) | 3. Pillows | 4. Drum Accent Table | 5. Area Rug | 6. Live Edge Table (similar). I had one made and it is AWESOME | 7. Darley "Oak" Bookcase | 8. Wing back chair | 9. Rattan Basket | 10. Cement Pot Planter | 11. Leather Director's Bench
Some of these items I own (the rug, the sofa and chairs, the black basket, the bookshelf, the table) and some are purely aspirational (um, no $500 leather bench in the living room as long as Dax is 2). But I love pulling it all together and playing around with pieces without actually purchasing them!
What about you? Have you ever veered off track when decorating? Do you succumb to whatever is trendy? Humor me!
For your convenience, shop the post below. (affiliate links included)
You guys. Once I get a picture in my brain of what I want, there's no turning back. I'm generally pretty indecisive so when I know what I want, it has to happen (sort of like painting brand new kitchen cabinets). When I came across Pottery Barn's Tassel Blackout Drape, I fell in love. And because I'm working within a tight budget it becomes all about researching a look for less tassel curtain. That's what happened last night. At 11:30 when I should have been sleeping. Maybe my lack of sleep and crazy obsessions can benefit you. (Just humor me).
Pillowfort Light Blocking Tassel Curtains. $24.99 (currently 10% off with code PRESIDENT)
PB Teen Lennon and Maisy Tassel Blackout Drape. $109 (currently on special for $79)*
*UPDATE: the pair pictured on the right is no longer available but these are a close second.
Do you like looks for less? My latest couple is here:
I was given the Mohawk Simon Studio rug in exchange for a review. As a reminder, I only work with brands and products I think you'd love and of course all opinions are mine.
I've slowly been showing you around our home. You've seen the kitchen, the living room, the playroom, the guest room, and Dax's room. And while I'm slow with afters due to this pesky thing called a "budget" [imagine air quotes please], I hope you see value in the befores. Our loft is a blank slate. It's cozy and comfortable and I could live with it as is for awhile. But when Mohawk Home approached me about sharing a review of one of their rugs, I jumped at the chance to get a little bit of personality in there. I love the idea of layering area rugs over carpet. It infuses the space with personality, it's a great temporary solution for renters, and it protects your wall to wall carpet.
I received products from Oriental Trading Company for review. I only chose products I love (hello rose gold love balloon!) and of course all opinions are my own.
