Emily Henderson's Blog, page 22

The Real Jeans We Love On Our Real Bodies (+ How A Barrel Jean Looks On 3 Different Women)

We are jeans people. It’s not that we don’t love dresses, skirts, etc. but most of the time we are sporting a beloved pair of denim. Last week, we were chatting about the barrel jean trend and thought maybe we should all do a try-on to see how each of us liked them. But then Em had a better (and VERY generous) idea. I mean, jean styles are super personal and rarely does a single pair of jeans work on everyone, despite what a certain movie might have us believe:). Emily offered to pay for a pair of jeans that we LOVED (max $140 then anything above that would be on us). Obviously, that amount of money is plenty for what’s on the current market and needless to say, we were very excited and so grateful. Some jeans are ones we already owned and are still available while others are brand new. We were PUMPED to try some new styles. Come see what we are wearing:)

Emily

Blouse | Jeans | Clogs

Y’all this denim world is cracking me up – apparently skinny jeans ARE back but only with certain types of boots of a certain height? And while we likely hit peak barrel jean last year, they are going nowhere (because they are far more flattering than just the pure baggy jeans). It’s all making me LOL. Obviously, I typically love a skinny jean but also have gotten used to not having the constriction (once I went “drop crotch” it’s been hard to go back). I bought these Madewell jeans at the end of last year and I was very very very surprised at how good they are. I don’t love all Madewell jeans (often I feel like they don’t keep me in around the places that I want more control). I think it took a long time for big brands to get the cut of the barrel jean right, in a more affordable way. These are mid-rise which I prefer on my short torso/big love pillowed frame. I prefer these with a bit of a heel for some height, but I wear them with sneakers a lot, too.

Caitlin

The Way-High® Curve Jean in Ocean

I’m kicking off 2025 with some unexpected, last-minute travel – and, when left with minutes to pack my suitcase, I eschewed all other bottoms in favor of two pairs of Everlane’s Way-High Curve Jeans. This isn’t my first time singing their praises on the blog (I really love them, gang), but I’m still so pleased with the way that they fit and fall on my bottom-heavy body. It’s often a challenge finding pants that don’t cling to my big thighs and ultra-wide hips, and it can be pretty discouraging – like, why can’t I just wear clothes like everyone else? – but these jeans make me feel like a million bucks. They fall just around my belly button, which is the perfect spot for me (unlike Em, I love a high-rise!) and they’re comfortable enough to wear all day even when I’m just working from home. If you’re also rocking a pear shape, I really think you’ll love these – they just bring some really nice balance to my bottom half! I got a 31, which is my normal Madewell/Anthro size (and I go for the 27″ inseam because I love a little sock pop!). I have 3 pairs – in Calico Ecru, Pure Blue, and Ocean (above) – and I’m just so, so, so happy that I took the plunge on them. 

Jess

The Way-High® Sailor Jean in Tint Blue ($38 final sale) and Deep Blue ($128) | Gray Tee (I sized down two sizes for a tight fit) | Tomato Tee

Before I went to Everlane in person, my favorite jeans were the lighter blue ones on the left! Big kudos to Les Bunge for picking them out and giving them to me as a Christmas present. I love the high waist, the wide but not too wide leg, and the fun detail at the bottom. My only issue is that the “cuff detail” doesn’t necessarily go with every situation I’m dressing for (mainly evening things). Anyway, when I went to the store I tried on the Deep Blue version and loved them too! I did refrain from buying since the next two are what I came home with. I simply didn’t need THREE pairs of new jeans, especially when I have one of those three in a slightly different style. But if you do need a simple, wide-ish leg these are 20/10 for me. I did size down in the photo since they do “relax” fairly quickly and I was on the cusp of the two sizes anyway (plus, I prefer a tighter fit). FYI I’m a day or two in of wearing the lighter blue ones in the bigger size if knowing that is helpful. Still so happy with them!

P.S. I feel like I should say that I am a HUGE Everlane jean stan (as you will soon continue to read). Every pair I’ve ever owned (which is 4 styles now) I’ve loved. The fits are a dream and the prices are on par or lower than Madewell. I also have to say that if you live in LA, there’s a location in Venice (the only location actually) with just the best people who work there. Any time I’ve shopped (probably 4ish times now) they have gone above and beyond and are just generally so fun. I promise this is in no way sponsored, just genuinely think they are great.

design and styling by emily henderson and kaitlin green | photo by kaitlin green | from: kaitlin’s 70s inspired, colorful and cool living room revealed (y’all, i’m so jealous)

Now, those jeans on Kaitlin are ones I have been eyeing because first off they are SO cute on her and she literally calls them “the best jeans ever”. And as you just read, they are LA Caitlin’s favorite too! The nudge and generosity from Emily gave me the perfect excuse to give them a try…

The Way-High® Curve Jean in Ocean – $128

TA-DA!! And I also love them. I know barrel jeans aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but I think they are so freaking fun and add a very cool shape to what can (and usually will) be a simple outfit knowing me. One of my three “style words” (words that help you shop for a cohesive style/wardrobe) is “architectural” and for me, these fit the bill. What I also love is that the denim is on the thinner side (and soft but not too soft) which lets the pant legs still sorta outline your real leg. That way you feel less “stiff clown pants” and more “look, I still have legs in these fun pants”. These were true to size for me and I chose the 27″ inseam which is what they label as “regular” in-store. So if you are taller maybe go for the 29″ inseam. Oh, I’m basically 5’4″ for reference.

shout out to my friend/neighbor who took these photos on her lunch break:)

The Way-High® Gardener Jean in Vintage Indigo – $148

A surprise! I went into the store on a mission. I wanted to try Kailtin’s barrel jeans first and foremost but then try a handful of other styles just to see. Well…I found another style. I think the first words out of my mouth (as in out loud to myself in the dressing room) were “OH, these are so cool”. There was just simply no way I could leave without them. They fit similar to The Way-High® Sailor Jean but with slightly wider legs. Now let’s talk about THOSE POCKETS. I just can’t say how much I love their size, shape, and how they wrap around the side. I’ve never owned anything like these and I’m almost too happy to own them. I might act like a little kid in their favorite outfit and sleep in them. I sized down in these if that’s helpful!

Mallory

Harper High Rise Wide Leg Jeans

So I’ve been rocking these $35 H&M wide-leg jeans for almost a year now (I have them in 2 colorways I love them so much!) but I really wanted a jean that was less baggy and more fitted without being fully skinny (but also thank god skinny jeans are on their way back — Alix Earle THANK YOU).

High Rise Laurel Canyon Bootcut Jean in BEBOP

So I went to Paige because I’ve literally always wanted a pair of Paige jeans…my friend used to work at their corporate office and said they literally design their jeans to make your booty pop. WELL POP IT DOES in these Laurel Canyon boot-cut jeans!! I’m so so obsessed with them because they’re SO comfy and stretchy but somehow still hug tight and lift the backend. Very into them (debating hemming them just a bit but we’ll see. I’m also not opposed to just wearing a taller shoe with them or rocking a version of Kendrick Lamar’s jeans). Paige, I thank you for these jeans that are somehow both incredibly comfortable but are also flattering and sexy. YOU DID IT.

Gretchen

Pistola Mid-Rise Bowed Straight-Leg Jeans

Normally you can find me wearing a pair of vintage men’s Levi’s purchased from a thrift store–worn in with a bit of a straight leg, slightly cropped, and with plenty of leg room. But these can be hard to come by and because they’re men’s, sometimes there’s a little too much room in certain areas, if you catch my drift. I’ve been looking for a pair of women’s jeans that give me the same effortless, vintage vibe but a pair that fits my body better. Oh honey, did I find them. I picked up these perfect Pistola Mid-Rise Bowed Straight-Leg jeans (a mouthful) and have been living in them ever since! They’re a beautiful, classic wash, hit right at my ankles, and sit exactly where I want them to on my hips. But they have a realllllly great shape–a mostly straight leg style that bows ever so slightly at the knee. They’re almost barrel jeans, but not as exaggerated, which works best for me. I can’t really pull off the barrel jean the way so many cool girls can, but this pair makes me feel like I’m one of them anyway!  A little on the pricier side, but to me, definitely worth it!

Marlee

Risk Taker Mid-Rise Jeans in Be Bold

Yay for jeans under $100! I just grabbed another pair of these mid-rise straight leg jeans from Free People – I love these because while the silhouette is super simple, they have a raw hem and a double knee detail that makes them feel special without doing too much! The wash is a perfect indigo and they come in a bunch of other washes – these are the “Be Bold” wash, but eyeing them in a cream color too. They have a tiny bit of crop – I’m 5’8” and pants are notoriously short on me so I typically avoid cropped inseams but these hit at a perfect spot (they come in a short version too if you’re looking for some extra crop!). I’m in between sizes so I sized up this time for a looser fit, but I also have them in a size down in the black and those are a little more fitted in the butt (in a good way). Love them with sneakers and boots for now but excited to wear these around this summer with a cute tee and sandals!

Those are the picks! Do you have any you might want to try? Got a favorite you want to share with the class?? Hope this was a fun little insight into our personal styles and gave you a few new ideas you might want to test out.

And THANKS AGAIN to Emily. xxx

Love you, mean it.

The post The Real Jeans We Love On Our Real Bodies (+ How A Barrel Jean Looks On 3 Different Women) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Arlyn’s Love Letter to Latin American Designers & Creatives (Well…Sort Of)

Since January 20, 2025—though really, since the morning of November 6, 2024—I’ve felt a heavy weight on my heart as someone of Latino heritage. I’ve always felt like an American. I was born in Florida and with the exception of about a year and a half where my family lived in Puerto Rico when I was a toddler, the United States has been my home. My parents have lived in the States since the early 1980s, and my maternal great-grandmother and great-grandfather lived in South Florida since my mother was a teenager. While being of Puerto Rican descent grants you automatic citizenship whether you’re born on the island or on the mainland, people and systems in this country are quick to “other” you regardless. 

After seeing the onslaught of illegal immigrants being coraled and booted (most of which were Latino, by the way, as if there aren’t other illegal immigrants in the US), I just felt sad. Children being taken from schools, especially, just feels sacrilegious. I’m not saying that anyone from anywhere can take up camp in America illegally, but seeing people that look like my father, my brother, myself being hauled away and memes about the chains of the detainees being used as “ASMR” coming out of the WHITE HOUSE Instagram account just felt so gross. 

Sitting in my feels, I texted Jess with a post idea. “What if I write a love letter to Latin American designers and artisans?” “YES!” She replied nearly instantly. My idea was a narrative change of all the negativity of the news; deportation this, ICE that. Knowing that my own parents, American citizens since birth, didn’t feel comfortable leaving their house without their passports—just in case—is A LOT. One whisper of a Spanish accent is all it takes in some places to feel unsafe these days. 

For anyone reading with an uncomfortable feeling forming in their stomachs and “Why are we getting political on a design blog” materializing in their heads/mouths/fingers, let me be clear: I’m not making a political statement here by leaning into my ethnicity to explore design. But for the record, and I’ll say it loud for the people in the back (who have their noise-canceling headphones on), BEING BROWN HAS ALWAYS BEEN POLITICAL. We can’t help but be politicized constantly, so I won’t apologize for existing OR writing about being brown in design even if you perceive it as a political statement. So, let’s keep moving forward.  

Once I got my green light from Jess on the topic, I got to work. I sat. I pondered. Who were my favorite Latin designers, architects, creatives? Surely I could dig around all my bookmarks and identify the work of some? But my brain was foggy, and my feeds empty. How could it be that I…didn’t know any? Surely I knew someone considering I’ve written a few articles on the very topic during Hispanic Heritage Month in recent years—the only time any publication bothers to cover us with gusto. Checking their box. “Look! We wrote about brown people. Good for us.” I can rattle off the names of at least 30 designers and makers, none of which are Latin American. A few names finally emerged for me after a deep dive in my Pinterest boards and social bookmarks (yes, people like Orlando Soria or even Marco Zamora), but I gotta be honest, I was pretty disappointed in myself. Do I not know my people at all? Or is something else going on here? (Both, I think.) 

Out of curiosity, I did a search on Google (which, btw, has recently removed all ethnicity- and race-based holidays from our calendars) to see if I could find some demographics for designers and architects. According to the IIDA (International Interior Design Association), “73% of designers across all disciplines in the US identify as white (non-Hispanic), despite comprising only 60.1% of the population at large, per Census Bureau stats. Black people account for 13.4% of the general population but only 5% of designers and 18.4% of U.S. residents who identify as Hispanic represent only 3% of designers.”

Three. Percent. 

Three….

Percent.

I’m not using this as an excuse for not being aware of Latino representation in the field I have known and loved for nearly 15 years. But three percent is a shockingly low number. I could write a dissertation on why I think this is. I wouldn’t be the first. That’s not my focus today, though. 

I’ve been in the design world for a decent chunk of the four decades I’ve graced this Earth. And throughout all that time, I’ve so often been the outsider. At trade shows. At industry events and intimate dinners. And I’m not just talking about in the US. I’ve traveled to numerous countries and continents in the name of design, and nearly every time, without fail, I’m the only Latin person in the room (the closest I got to some semblance of “sameness” was when I was in Spain, but Spaniards are not considered Latino as the term is specific to those from Central and South America as well as Spanish-speaking islands in the Caribbean, BTW).

And clearly, maybe I’m part of the problem. It’s not like I couldn’t name artists and creatives of my same background that inspired me. In my family alone, there are five designers of varying disciplines: My uncle is a fairly renowned shoe designer, my cousin is a jewelry designer, my other cousin is a painter, and yet another cousin is a landscape architect. My aunt was at one point in time an interior designer. And then there’s me. 

This is part of why I didn’t change my name when I got married. Arlyn Shaw could be anyone. Any ethnicity. But Arlyn Hernandez is clear. I’m a Latina. And I prefer for people to know that outright. Maybe to inspire, or maybe to stand out in a sea of non-Latin names and faces. But I wear my last name like a badge of honor these days, and no one, not even my husband, can take that away from me (he would never, for the record). 

Of course, there are plenty of Spanish, Hispanic, and Latin designers and architects in this world. There are entire editions of Architectural Digest that come out of Spain as well as Mexico and Latin America. They exist, and man are they good. If you’ve ever perused the projects from these parts of the world, both in residential design and hospitality or commercial, you can feel the heart. But for the sake of today’s post, on creating a “love letter” to Latin American designers, creatives, and creators, I’m focused on people from this country specifically. And at first mental dive, I came up short.   

There’s a chance that I’m unclear on the background of people, and perhaps I’d have a longer love list if I were aware. After all, no one is obligated to write out I’M MEXICAN or MY PARENTS IMMIGRATED FROM CUBA on their professional bio for their design firms. I’ve been asked to write many bios for myself, and I can recall maybe a single time where I included anything about my Puerto Rican heritage. White American people don’t have to confirm their nationality on their websites, so in theory, why do we? It’s our right to include; it’s our right to exclude. 

All of that said, I spent the last week digging up some of that 3% to share with you here today. To celebrate, rather. Some are artists. Some are interior designers and architects. Some are product designers or heads of brands. And if this exercise taught me anything, it’s that I need to do my part as a design writer and editor to be more aware of Latin American creatives in my field; to dive deeper and find them, cheerlead them, share them in my work. Which I’ll start doing…right now.

Studio Galeón

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Studio Galeón (@studio.galeon)

Studio Galeón is a women-led firm out of New York helmed by Lucia Galeón, who was born and raised in Patagonia, Argentina. The image above is from the Petunia Hotel in Ibiza, Spain, and just such a beautiful mix of natural texture and splashes of color in just the right places. On the complete flip side of this is the kaleidescope-like Susan Alexandra boutique in Soho, which is a study in simple tiles making a huge impact.

Erick Garcia of Maison Trouvaille

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Erick Garcia (@maison_trouvaille)

Erick Garcia is a Mexico-born, Los Angeles-raised designer who runs Maison Trouvaille. He’s a favorite of people like Jen Atkins (Hollywood hair guru and founder of Ouai), and recently designed the headquarters of Rhode, Hailey Beiber’s beauty brand.

Tricia Benitez Beanum of Pop Up Home

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tricia Benitez Beanum (@popuphome)

I’ve known of Tricia for years, being a good friend of EHD alum Michael Keck. She runs vintage retailer/communal retail market Pop Up Home and has the most effortlessly cool style. She picks the kinds of things I wish I had the eye for, and puts things together in a way that I wish I had the eye for. So, in general, this Los Angeles-based Puerto Rican just has such a good eye. Ha!

Casa Verónica

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Casa Verónica (@casa_veronica)

A self-labeled Chicana, I just love the ceramic works of Veronica Ortuño. She started as an interior designer but later expanded into pottery, tilework and things like ceramic lamps, and then glassware. Her work has such a beautiful visual hand in it, and so much heart.

Alfredo Paredes

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alfredo Paredes Studio (@alfredoparedesstudio)

First generation Cuban American Alfredo Paredes has impecable taste. You kind of have to if you worked for Ralph Lauren for three decades, ending up as Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer. He now runs his gorgeous firm (based in New York), which works on hospitality, retail, and residential.

Carlos Mota

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carlos Mota (@casamota)

The work of Carlos Mota, a Venezuelan-born designer based in New York, is homey, eclectic yet sharp. As someone who was the international style editor for Architectural Digest and editor-at-large for Elle Decor, you just know his veins are full of style. I find myself fairly in love with some of the textiles and how he somehow makes something like an ivy print (which takes me straight back to the early ’90s) look impossibly chic. You can shop his catalog of linens and tableware at his online shop Casa Mota.

Maye Ruiz

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Leandro Bulzzano (@leandrobulzzano)

Okay so Maye Ruiz technically works out of Mexico, so while she’s not American, I just love her design POV. It’s unapologetic, bold in a very calculated way, and impossibly cool. If you’ve ever been tempted to design with red but don’t really know where to start, well…start here.

Christina Alvarez of Curio Interior Design

Lihat postingan ini di Instagram

Sebuah kiriman dibagikan oleh CURIO INTERIOR DESIGN (@curioid)

I first saw the work of Christina Alvarez in a project of hers that was published in AD Clever. The Cuban American designer runs Curio Interior Design, and I love how she’s able to mix rich, vibrant textiles and art with beautiful and modern furnishings and accessories.

Gabo Martinez

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by •Gabo Martinez• (@gabomartinipotts)

“I am Mexican. All of me. I was made of the blood and the dirt of this country. Therefore I am this country.” What a wildly cool thought; I just love Gabo Martinez’s authenticity and love of her ethnicity. Her ceramics and pottery are vibrant, rooted, and fresh. I’d truly love to own one of her pieces one of these days.

Alexander Diaz of Atra Form Studio

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MANERA Magazine España & México (@maneramagazine)

There are some people or brands you follow that you know you likely will never have in your home, but it’s just cool to study and look at. Atra Form Studio is one of those. Created by Alexander Diaz (who is of Swedish-Mexican descent), the furniture and interiors studio has its roots in Mexico City, but it also takes up space in New York as well as Milan.

Cisco Home

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cisco Home (@myciscohome)

Cisco Pinedo, a Mexican-born furniture designer and builder, was the absolute heart of furniture brand Cisco Home until he passed away last year. Anytime I visited their showrooms when I popped into High Point, North Carolina, they treated me with the utmost of care. Like family, honestly. Cisco Home’s upholstery pieces are a go-to favorite for designers because they are well-made and beautiful, so be sure to check them out if you’re on the market for some new seating.

Materia Madura

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Materia Madura (@materiamadura)

This one is seriously cool. Ana Cristina Quiñones is a Puerto Rican designer specializing in materials, products, and furniture with a sustainable focus. Her waste-based materials and surfaces look like cool terrazo, but are actually derived from raw materials such as coffee waste, plantain waste, bread waste, wood waste, metal waste, textile waste, and glass waste. On top of that, these centerpiece bowls are so beautiful, serene, and simple.

José E. Solís Betancourt of Solis Betancourt Sherrill

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solis Betancourt & Sherrill (@solisbetancourt_sherrill)

And lastly, rounding out the pack from another Puerto Rican. José E. Solís Betancourt of Solis Betancourt Sherrill creates some very posh homes, and the firm’s work has been featured time over time in all the heavy hitters (AD, House Beautiful, The NYT, etc. etc. etc.).

—

Thank you friends for being here today, and letting me have a moment to have a moment with myself, my heritage, and how it intersects with interior design in this country. It’s not easy to be vulnerable like this, much easier to hide behind talking about my favorite wallpaper picks or color trends, but it’s important to me to be authentic, and this is who I am. I hope you found some new people today to admire and research, or at the very least, learn something about someone different than you.

Until next time…

Opening image credits: Design by Arlyn Hernandez | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Arlyn’s Happy & Bright Living Room Reveal

The post Arlyn’s Love Letter to Latin American Designers & Creatives (Well…Sort Of) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Some Pretty Spring Or Easter Dinnerware We Love (Despite Not Being A “Dinner Party Lady”)

I just watched the Martha Stewart documentary (SO GOOD) so all of these feelings about the marketing of “perfectionist domesticity” are popping up (as shown above). Did she create an industry that stresses out already stressed-out parents? Am I a part of the problem? Probably… But it sure is fun to have your home look pretty and a lot of people feel extreme joy setting a table. We are in the “family frat party” era where Easter is more “Eggs and Kegs”. We eat outside and this room becomes the de facto craft room for 12 kids (before we had the crafting shed). As an Enneagram 7, I like to be at my own party, not working it. But we all get fulfilled in different ways, so if you are a more dinner party person, here is some inspo for you

For our Easter “Eggs and Kegs”, we have a multi-family potluck with a big egg hunt, pony keg (and wine), a store-bought honey-baked ham on Hawaiian rolls, with a robust mustard and pickle bar. It’s all outside, with tons of kids running around, paper plates and everyone brings food and serves themselves – very old school potluck. I don’t decant the mustards into bowls or label a thing (nor do I remember to take photos or post about it because I’m too busy having fun). I usually put out vintage floral tablecloths, baskets, and pastel servingware (because I’m a hoarder and need to use my pretty things), and throw Trader Joe’s tulips in vases/jars everywhere. It’s a lot of work just cleaning the house, TBH, but I literally stop caring about how it looks after the first guest arrives, knowing that an hour later it will all be messy and wonderful. (Hot Life Tip – keep expectations low and casual and it’s hard to disappoint:))

So why am I showing you this pretty tablescape? Because I have great partnerships where I get to style out my home and lean into a different side of myself to show inspiration. It’s so much fun and I would buy everything here if I were a dinner party lady. So we snapped some photos for the blog while we were shooting the social campaign as inspiration

Placemats | Napkins | Dinner Plates | Bowls | Flatware | Wine Glasses | Water Glass | Glass Striped Candlestick Holders | Glass Bud Vases | Floral Platter

All of the above is from Anthropologie (some pieces I’ve had for a while now – like the glassware and the flatware). I think some of the standout pieces are those placemats (instant impact), the glass candleholders look like handblown Italian glass (look at the stripes and in three different heights), and if I were to register for fancy plates now I would get these floral plates and platter – they are so whimsical and special (I’ll bring out the platter for Easter for sure). The colored wine glasses are excellent (and the shorter ones are easier to drink from). I was also really surprised by how easy the tulips were to style in these pastel glass bud vases (which isn’t usually my move – I like big, foraged arrangements).

Maybe this will be the year I snap some iPhone shots of the mustard/pickle bar… Miracle Whip and all (that is if we aren’t still under construction in the backyard All in all, if you love pulling out your best dishware and cooking a three-course Easter dinner, DO IT!!! If you are like me, might I suggest ordering a big honey-baked ham, 2 packs of Hawaiian rolls, 9 different types of pickles, and mustards, and be prepared for a post-Easter Sunday gut bust.

Here are some more pretty Spring/Easter/Sedar tabletop options we found if you are interested in adding some new life to your table. Like I said, I love the creativity of setting up a whole tablescape but also there’s so much power in a little festive pop of color or pattern. There’s no need to have a different set of dishes, cups, flatware, etc for each and every holiday (unless you want to of course). A little can go a long way. Let me show you what I mean…

Linens

Let’s start with the easiest, highest impact.

1. Floral Print Tablecloth | 2. Linen-Blend Tablecloth | 3. By Hope Daffodil Stripe Runner | 4. Patterned Tablecloth | 5. Patterned Table Runner | 6. Soil to Studio Sara Block-Printed Linen Table Runner

A tablecloth or table runner with your everyday dishes and glassware can make such a huge statement! You can go bolder with something like #3 or #4. Those colors are so fun and happy and could easily take you through summer. Or you could go bold with a pattern with a toned-down color palette like #1, #5, or #6. The most versatile, of course, is a solid color like #2 which could work any time of year. I truly love using tablecloths and runners.

Hot Tip: If you have a tablecloth that’s a little too small, just turn it diagonally. It’s a fun shape and will look intentional:)

Napkins & Holders

You don’t have to “go big” on the table linens if you don’t want to…a fun cloth napkin is also a perfect way to add some spring personality.

1. Dark Yellow Gingham-Checked Napkins (Set of 2) | 2. Delft Floral Napkins (Set of 4) | 3. Check Dyed Thread Napkins (Set of 2) | 4. Wanda Wood Easter Napkin Ring Sets | 5. Hand Painted Ceramic Flower Napkin Ring (Set of 4) | 6. Handwoven Spring Napkin Rings (Set of 4)

There are so many cute options on the market but these three were some of my favorites and not “too spring” or “too Easter”. A happy gingham will always be a great spring choice and that yellow is the perfect tone. The blue Delft ones are pricier but if within your budget would be SO pretty with a simple tablescape and a few flowers. Then the check dyed thread napkins feel fresh without going the pastel route which is a really nice alternative. Three different vibes that would all bring some fun to your table. Now, if you want to kick it up a notch to really drive home the season, any of these three napkin rings would be very cute. I love the subtleness of the wooden eggs. A cute Easter nod:) The flowers are just happy pops of color that would liven up any solid-colored napkin. And if you really want a bunny motif, these woven bunnies are so sweet! I also love using a leaf spring from my yard with ribbon or twine for an easy at-home option.

Now, if you are also more in an “Eggs and Kegs” era but still want pretty spring/Easter things, I love these floral and these striped paper ones:)

Placemats

Here’s the other super easy table linen to consider – placemats.

1. Water-Repellent Placemat (Set of 2) | 2. Handwoven Carrot Round Placemat | 3. Striped Linen Placemat

What I love about the yellow ones, aside from that cute scalloped border and pop of color is the fact that they say they are water-repellent. So ideally that’s an easier clean up which I’m always a fan of. Then for a real Easter treat, these round, woven carrot-trimmed placemats are pretty darn cute. And the blue-striped ones are a fun pop of color and pattern while not being “too loud”. I would happily have those on my table any time of year.

Platters

I’m sure most of us have platters that would be perfectly great for a spring or Easter meal but if you want to add a season-specific one, take a look at these.

1. Costa Nova Rosa Oval Platter | 2. Vine Lattice Serving Tray | 3. Large Stoneware Serving Bowl | 4. Lexington Stoneware Deviled Egg Platter | 5. Lemon-shaped Stoneware Serving Plate | 6. Botanical Transferware Serving Platter

Caitlin was the one who called the cabbage/foodware trend years ago and I think it’s so fun. The leaf bowl and lemon platter are so sweet and whimsical! Instant tablescape joy. Then for spring-themed but more “classic” #2 and #6 are so pretty. But if you aren’t a pattern lover then I love that pink one. I had to throw in the deviled egg platter because it was too cute and deviled eggs are a must:)

1. Kate Spade Seder Plate | 2. Eden Stoneware Seder Plate | 3. Scalloped Ceramic Seder Set

Passover is also coming up and I love these Seder plates! The floral one in the middle might be my favorite since it matches the dinner plate set and platter I got for my house:) But the other two are happy, colorful, and a bit more modern which might be a better fit for some people’s style.

Pitchers

If you’ve been following me for a while then you know I am a big pitcher fan. Not only do I always need water on hand at a table but they are also an incredible vase option. Very versatile:)

1. Stoneware Pitcher With Painted Rabbit And Florals | 2. Footed Glass Pitcher | 3. Speckled-Glaze Stoneware Pitcher | 4. Charm Inlay Glass Pitcher | 5. Ruffle Reactive Glaze Stoneware Pitcher | 6. Lemon-shaped Stoneware Pitcher

Let me just say that any of these could work as vases too for your spring table. You can’t go wrong. I do love the painted rabbit one because I love a handmade look and that color combo is very me. And speaking of blue, the speckled stoneware pitcher is a super playful option that’s a little less Easter-specific (not that rabbits can only come out in the spring:)). But if that sunny spring look is your goal then #4 and #6 are perfect. Then #2 and #5 are just beautiful, sweet options I loved (you know I love a footed vessel).

Candle Holders

Another favorite table accessory – the candle holder:)

1. Cabbage Candle Holder | 2. Isla Medium Smoke Green Recycled Glass Hurricane Candle Holder | 3. Windowpane Ceramic Taper Candle Holder | 4. Glass Tea Light Holder | 5. Glass Taper Holders | 6. Topiary Stoneware Candleholder

A little ambiance is important to me when creating a tablescape. So candle holders, whether that be for taper or tea lights, are a must. It’s an easy accessory to add a seasonal feel that is pretty affordable and easy to store. Anthro really knows how to make a whimsical candlestick holder. #1 and #6 are slightly more “traditional” and I love them. The windowpane pattern on #3 is playful and a little bold which I love and it comes in other colors too! If you aren’t a taper candle person then #4 is great and the scalloping is so pretty. Another non-taper option is #2 which has a flower petal feel to it I love and finally #5 is simple but impactful and could easily be used throughout the year (I actually think it came out during Christmas which is why it’s on clearance now but still so pretty!).

Bud Vases

On to the flowers! Well, kind of…

1. Small Stoneware Vase | 2. Botero Bird Vase | 3. Seehorn Handcrafted Ceramic Vase | 4. Small Glass Vase | 5. Mini Glass Vases (Set of 2) | 6. Recycled Bubble Glass Vases (Set of 3)

I use bud vases all of the time and for larger table settings specifically, it’s nice to keep the flowers below eye level. That way you can see the people sitting across from you and there’s more room for food platters. I know not everyone wants a colorful tablescape and a neutral, color palette is also so beautiful. For those, I recommend #1 and #6. They have great, interesting shapes, and will let the flower(s) you put in them shine. For my glass lovers, #4 and #5 are great. They both have movement (one in the shape and the other in the “pattern”) which is going to look great with other patterns if you have any. Then for a more decorative vase (that’s a little less “bud” and more “small”) #2 is so cool. The handpainted design gives it a vintage feel and the shape is sculptural and beautiful. Lastly, I love a blue bud vase anytime, anywhere and this one (#3) is good.

Dinner Plates

Plates can be an investment (depending on how many you need, right?). So while I don’t have truly specific holiday dinner plates myself, I do love it when I get to play with them or see them in someone else’s home. It’s totally a preference and storage situation whether you “should” have them. But if you want to take a peek at some of our favorites, here you go!

1. By Hope Floral Melamine Dinner Plates (Set of 4) | 2. Porcelain Plate | 3. Porcelain Plate | 4. Floral Earthenware Plate | 5. Cielo Scalloped Terracotta Salad Plates (Set of 4) | 6. Flora Hand Painted Flower and Bunny Appetizer Plate

We eat outside A LOT (when the weather permits) so nonbreakable plates are always great. These melamine plates are not only kid-proof but also so cute! On the other side of the spectrum are the white and gold porcelain plates (#2). So versatile and pretty for the whole year. You could easily add festive small plates or other decor for whatever holiday it is. Small plates like #5 actually. Those colorful scalloped plates would be the perfect small addition to a fairly neutral tablescape. A POP of colors if you will. The handpainted floral plate (#4) is another favorite of mine. That’s the dessert size but they have a whole collection to choose from. Then to really up the playfulness, #3 and #6 are perfect.

Glassware

1. PAPPERSBJÖRK | 2. Savannah Wine Glasses (Set of 4) | 3. Beverage Glasses (Set of 2) | 4. Milky Footed Glasses (Set of 2) | 5. Recycled Double Old-Fashioned Glass | 6. Jupiter Every Day Glasses (Set of 6)

The last category is glassware. I have a few friends who collect glassware and it’s always such a joy to look at everything together. The colors, the shapes, and the materials are always so cool. I like having both a wine and water glass on the table if it’s a full-on tablescape. The super important thing to me is that they are different heights, it makes it look better and more intentional. The #2 wine glasses are romantic. The color and all the detailing keep me staring at them. But the blue milk glass ones are so fun. A little modern and unexpected while still feeling simple. I just think choosing a colorful glass like #1, #3, and #5, even if the shapes are classic, is going to make your table feel incredibly fresh and exciting. #6 is a classic style that I have used and loved in my homes many times and those come in lots of other colors too.

Tablescapes are fun and should remain that way, without the pressure of perfection. So if any of these items or ideas get you excited then great! If you have what you need already then that is great too. It’s all about doing what makes sense for us and our families (which is eggs and kegs at our house for the foreseeable future). xx

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post Some Pretty Spring Or Easter Dinnerware We Love (Despite Not Being A “Dinner Party Lady”) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

My Best Tips For Finding Vintage Art (My Most Prized Posessions)

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the best way to make your house interesting on a budget is through original art. Everyone has vertical space to fill, and it requires zero functional considerations so art is where you can be interesting, get weird, have fun, lean into big colors and it can change the context of your whole room (AND LIFE!!). BUT, because it’s purely decorative there seems to be this imaginary pressure that it has to really represent your style, as if it has to MEAN something, and because of that people are often paralyzed and walls remain blank for years and years. And listen, contemporary original art can be so expensive (rightly so), so people buy placeholder art at Homegoods, never to be changed out. I’ve collected vintage art for decades – both before I had any money and still, and my goodness my collection is pretty darn epic. So here are some of my best tips:

You Don’t Have To “Get” It – You Just Have To Like It photo by kaitlin green

My gut is trained and will tell me instantly that I like a piece of art. Usually, it’s due to the colors, the energy, or if it makes me smile or think. At this point it’s immediate – my gut is LOUD and bossy. But I’d say don’t worry if you don’t understand it, you just have to like it and if you like it GET IT. I love knowing the history behind the artist or the piece, for sure, but if you don’t that’s ok.

Original Art Is A Once-In-A-Lifetime Situation, So Don’t Pass It Up, And Don’t Overthink It!photo by veronica crawford | from: final los feliz primary bedroom reveal

I think the biggest barrier to entry is that people are unsure if it’s “perfect,” or they feel like it should really mean something or have an artistic intent that they can speak to. I mean, SURE, that would be great but you could also look at a piece of art like a shirt or a chair and simply ask yourself if you like how it looks, if it feels like your style, and if it would go with the other things you already own. You HAVE TO CLOSE THE DEAL. Take my big blimp for instance – I didn’t get it, but I liked it so much. It reminded me of the Beatles, it was whimsical and pop-arty and made me think. It was $200 which was the most I had spent on anything at the time (24 years old and living in New York) and it wasn’t until 8 years later that I could afford to frame it properly (which cost $1000), but I cherish that piece so much.

When In Doubt, Stick To A Color Palette Already In The Room (Or Home)left: photo by kaitlin green, from: farmhouse dining room reveal | right: photo by mike garten, from: my house tour from good housekeeping

This is my #1 tip to ensuring you actually hang it on your walls – YOU HAVE TO LOVE THE COLORS. Now, of COURSE, you shouldn’t buy art (or not buy art) based on whether it has the perfect palette but I can tell you from YEARS of experience that when it works cohesively in your home you are that much more guaranteed to hang it and love it for longer. That random yellow abstract I collected that I still love sits waiting for its moment, whereas most of my other blue/green/gray pieces work so seamlessly. This just makes your life easier.

photo by kaitlin green | from: elliot’s bedroom room revealphoto by kaitlin green | from: elliot’s bedroom room reveal

The big vintage painting in Elliot’s room, for example, is way more colorful than most of our main spaces but I loved it so hard and fast, the colors are so intense and beautiful. Once I pictured it in her room, on her wallpaper, I gave myself permission to splurge on it because I knew that it would look so awesome in Elliot’s room.

For Vintage, You Have To DIG (And Dig And Dig)

In LA I was spoiled by the flea markets, my god are they good. But you still had to show up early and dig, look past the damaged frame, picture it in a vignette in your house, and go through box after box from weird estate sales. I have found some of the best pieces were behind others, hung high on a wall out of sight, or in the boxes unframed, stuffed with a lot of studio or student art (ie. their “practice” art that is honestly good enough for me at times!).

Be Picky, But Not Snobbyleft: photo by tessa neustadt, from: glendale guest bath reveal | right: photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse kids bath reveal

This dog painting was $20 (unframed, another $100 to frame it) and it’s a little silly, but my god it’s just so good. The frame really elevated it, even though it’s just a simple metal frame. Listen, if you want me to be a snob I can be, (i.e. don’t buy HomeGoods wrapped canvas faux fine art photography if you are looking to build out a longer-term “vintage” collection). But don’t let how rudimentary or basic drawings scare you – I once bought what looked like children’s pencil scribbles on white paint and I swear it looks really good where we styled it. Sometimes a strong geometric shape on a canvas does something for a collection even if it looks so simply done.

Splurge On Bigger Pieces And Paintingsphotos by tessa neustadt

Big art should be more expensive than smaller art because it can really command a room (and therefore do a bigger job). Sometimes one big piece of art is $400 but four smaller pieces of art might cost even more! I know it is hard to get your head around (and if you are like me, might be hard to convince our partners it’s worth it), but a good big piece of art can change a whole room, become the focal point, the conversation piece, the jumping off point for everything!! Don’t pass them up. And yes, a painting with more colors, tones, or mediums took more time and materials to create, so value it accordingly. Oil paintings specifically take a really long time to do because of the dry time (you can’t add colors until the first color dries) so by nature of time spent on it, it’s okay if they are more expensive.

The Frame Matters (And Also Doesn’t??)photo by tessa neustadt | from: los feliz primary bedroom reveal

Sometimes the frame makes the art and sometimes the art is great despite a terrible frame. Try to look at and value the frame and the art both separately and/or collectively. God that sounds confusing. The point is, sometimes I’ve found a really simple piece in an incredible tramp art frame and the combination makes it beautiful, other times I have to look past the world’s dumbest, gaudiest frame to see a pretty painting and take it out (and later invest in a new frame if needed). Feel free to ditch the frame and keep the art or vice versa.

Think Outside A “Simple painting” – Go sculptural Or Texturalleft: photo by tessa neustadt | right: photo by kaitlin green, from: farmhouse family room reveal

Before I could afford huge vintage paintings I collected the coolest flags and hung them in a way that made them look more elevated. (I LOVE that blue and white one still!).

Just last year I framed a large boro piece in our family room because the colors, tones, and casual vibe were exactly what I wanted to “hold the wall” as well as contrast with the wall of seascapes. Think vintage quilts, scarves, etc.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: final los feliz living room reveal

I also love flat sculptures (like the wooden one in the gallery above the floral chaise in our Los Feliz house). If it’s flat (ish) it can be hung on the wall so don’t let something unconventional stop you.

But Where Do You Find Them???? Where Do I Shop?photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse sunroom reveal

Thrift Stores: For those who have serious time to dig and want to stay on a super budget, thrift stores can deliver, but they can also be a ton of 90s generic stuff to comb through. Also, thrift stores these days are so overpriced it’s wild. But this is where you are going to “score” the best (it just might take a long time).

Antique Malls or Flea Markets: This is definitely my preference and where I’ve found the best gems. You see while it requires some digging, a human with a discerning eye has already selected it. You aren’t forced to rummage through so much used garbage and you might have better luck. Typically dealers that are at flea markets or booths in antique malls don’t have a super high overhead so their prices can be pretty reasonable.

Vintage Dealers, via Instagram or Curated Stores: I love buying from local Portland vintage sellers (Form & Function, @shopwilma, @fabiusgrange, @donefortheday, @total_nonsequitur, @20thcenturyinteriors) and I’m proud to be able to support them. Now dealers are special – they have a trained eye, years of editing experience, and they work their asses off, doing all the footwork for you (waiting in line at estate sales, driving far away to scour country thrift stores, building frames by themselves, etc). So yes, they are going to be more expensive. You are paying for their eye, their years of building contacts and of course their time, but you likely are going to find something better faster. Don’t try to barter much with them unless you are buying a lot of pieces (the profit margin isn’t big, let’s support them!).

Etsy and eBay: Because I do believe that I’m a vintage shopaholic I find myself on these sights all the time when I can’t go in person (drinking wine on Saturday night while watching Younger, perhaps?). But I rarely find “steals’ since it’s mostly dealers who need to markup a lot to make a living and shipping costs can be so high with art. When I was curating my seascape collection I found most of them at random antique malls over the years, but near the end, I was desperate for a few pieces that were a certain shape or size and I splurged on a few by Etsy sellers that were GORGEOUS.

Facebook Marketplace:  What I love about FCMP is that sometimes you’ll get these huge vintage maps for so cheap or a box of random paintings that someone is trying to dump for like $50. Heck, it could be a bunch of vintage 80s posters that someone inherited that could be so dope in someone’s room. Plus, a lot of the curated local dealers will advertise there which I love because it helps me learn about new stores and dealers in town then I go and follow them directly.

Ultimately, it’s my opinion that these dealers are so valuable and if you can afford to buy art from them you should feel good about it (and again, be kind about bargaining and avoid it unless you think it’s just very overpriced). The profit margin is not high on vintage – it’s an unscalable business – so let’s pay these curators what their eye is worth if you can. But if someone is trying to charge $200 for an unframed small pencil abstract, feel free to offer what it’s worth to you (just don’t be bummed when they say no).

Opening Image Credit: Photo by Kaitlin Green

The post My Best Tips For Finding Vintage Art (My Most Prized Posessions) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Farmhouse Color Palette (And The Hard Lesson I Learned About Choosing The “Right White”)

This post has been so satisfying to write because seeing all these pretty rooms together, after years of designing and styling (and crying and smiling), makes me so proud of our home. Seeing them all together in different yet beautiful colors really does create a story of me and my family. I was lucky enough to have Sherwin-Williams as our paint partner for our home, with a huge inventory of gorgeous trustworthy colors in an extremely high-quality formula. It’s such a happy house, full of way more color than I predicted (thank goodness) and we aren’t even done yet Just so you know, for the exterior we used their Emerald® Rain Refresh Exterior Acrylic Latex and for the interior, Emerald® Interior Acrylic Latex. I love them both so much. So let’s see them all together and talk through why I chose them and how I feel about them after 2 years of living here.

Current Exterior – Pure White SW 7005from: front porch reveal

For the exterior, I wanted a bright happy white and while honestly probably many of them could have worked, I love how Pure White SW 7005 pops (especially now that the landscaping is totally grown in – I need new photos!). It just feels really happy and nearly impossible for a color to not look good against it. I love how the copper and blue of the doors all pop against it and that it feels really really happy.

from: back porch reveal

This white just feels like a really clean white, very little to no pigment in it and therefore works perfect with my color palette and style (which is more airy and fresh than subtle and moody).

Red Door – Poinsettia SW 6594 | Blue Door – Mountain Pass SW 9655 left from: front door reveal (round one) | right from: front porch reveal

At one point Brian all but begged for a red door (we had one in LA and loved it). I was pretty drained from decision fatigue at that point (and I love red TBH) so I got excited and we went for it. But once it was painted it felt too bold for us, just too much to be the first thing you saw as you drove up. The red color, Poinsettia SW 6594 is EXCELLENT for a poppy piece of furniture, but once we repainted the color Mountain Pass SW 9655 (Emerald® Designer Edition in semigloss) we felt like it was WAY more us. (Although the red was really fun during Christmas :))

Living Room – Extra White SW 7006 (Wall Paneling + Ceilings) | Mantra SW 9631 (Walls)from: living room reveal

The room that I struggle with the most in the house is the living room because the white paint color that we chose is too cool for a room that doesn’t get a lot of natural light. This is my mistake. We chose it when the walls and windows were covered in brown paper but I should have done more research! Now, I love it in the kitchen, sunroom, mudroom and our bathroom – all of those rooms have a ton of natural light and it feels so bright and happy. And when it snowed outside last year this room was so gorgeous I wanted to cry. But on a normal day the indirect low light makes the white paint read too cold (it has a lot of blue in which I didn’t catch or notice, again my fault). This is the last time I make a mistake on white paint and seems like not a huge deal but since it’s so much millwork that has to be sprayed, it’s extremely expensive and disruptive to repaint (probably $5-10k). And since the living room is so open to the sunroom, kitchen, entry and up the stairs we’ve got ourselves a bit of a problem – do you repaint everything a new white ($$$$$$) OR do you paint the LR a complementary white or color and hope it transitions nicely? TBD.

left from: living room reveal | right from: dining nook (round two)

For now, we painted the drywall using Emerald® Designer Edition Interior Latex in flat, (which is far less expensive to paint than wood) a light blue/gray/green called Mantra SW 9631 from the Designer Color Collection and it adds such a nice tone that works with everything we have. Sometimes it looks light blue, sometimes Robin’s egg, sometimes gray. Definitely check in on your lighting during multiple times of the day and on multiple walls. I love the designer series because the paint colors are super nuanced (and I love the confidence knowing that it’s been vetted by a designer).

Stairway – Smoky Blue SW 7604from: everything i learned about stair carpet runners and what we ended up installing (including what it cost)

We painted our original (but very very worn/beaten) stairs Smoky Blue SW 7604 and it’s really happy. It’s bright enough to feel colorful without going too bold.

Sunroom – Extra White SW 7006from: sunroom reveal

Here you can see the Extra White SW 7006 work so well! The greens and blues pop perfectly! It’s just a matter of the right light and this room gets so much indirect light (3 walls of windows and 2 skylights).

Pantry – Slate Tile SW 7624from: pantry reveal

I know that Slate Tile SW 7624 and Smoky Blue SW 7604 look similar but they ARE NOT the same, lol. Slate Tile has more green in it, but they are close. I love this color and would use it over and over again. It feels moody and really pulls you in, which we wanted for this intentionally darker space.

Family Room – Still Water SW 6223from: family room reveal

After first painting this room a pretty gray color that just didn’t work, I obsessed over making sure this color was perfect with the sofa and vibe, and I’m happy to say it is. This color, Still Water SW 6223 (Emerald® Interior Acrylic Latex in satin) is a very very dark teal, and in this room (that is really dark with only one indirect light source) it has the perfect amount of undertones to still read as a color (not just sucking the light and reading black). But fair warning, in a room with a lot of natural light this color will look VERY bold and more like a bright but dark Teal. It’s moody in here because it’s dark with low light. But I wouldn’t put it in a larger bright room unless you want a really saturated and bold colorful room.

From Family Room To Hallway – Still Water SW 6223 (Family Room) | Extra White SW 7006 (Hallway) | Cocoa Berry SW 9078 (Bathroom Panelling) from: powder bath reveal

I do love this combination of colors – Still Water SW 6223 to Extra White SW 7006 to Cocoa Berry SW 9078 (and I like how the wallpaper in the bathroom talks to the family room color!). We accidentally painted the door a matte (not satin) Still Water otherwise I think it would read even bolder.

Powder Bath – Cocoa Berry SW 9078from: powder bath reveal

Oh I LOVE this color. Cocoa Berry SW 9078 (Emerald Int in satin) is a really really warm dark mauve that feels so calming and complementary to all the blues we have in the house. I’m so happy we added this color to our overall palette because as you’ll see below our guest room is a beautiful blush color and I recently used Glamour SW 6031 which are all on the same color strip (from the Sherwin-Williams color fandeck). I love them all so much.

Mudroom – Dew Drop SW 9641 (Panelling, Trim, Beams) | Extra White SW 7006 (Walls and Ceiling)from: mudroom reveal

Dew Drop SW 9641 was the first paint color that we saw and I gasped in delight. It is SUCH a pretty light blue/green that is so subtle but doesn’t read as a pastel at all. It picked up all the tones of the tile and complemented the wood so well. It feels fresh, bright, and airy. I wouldn’t put this color in a room without a lot of natural light because it might look flat. I find that lighter colors like this need the natural light to bring out the pigment.

Primary Bedroom – Debonair SW 9139from: primary bedroom reveal

Speaking of pigment! Debonair SW 9139 (Emerald® in both flat and satin) has so much pigment that at night (or in winter) it feels like the coziest room in the house – I LOVE IT. It’s happy but moody. But during the bright northern summer this room gets so much natural light that it can be too bold, the light pulling out the pigment. So there are 2-3 hours during the day that I wish I could snap my fingers and have it be painted Eventide SW 9643 or Evergreen Fog SW 9130 (both recently painted at the River House and I’m OBSESSED with them). I’m not sure I’m going to repaint because I like it at times so much! But I will say that the lesson I learned is to check the LRV (light reflectivity value) of each color. This one is 34 (100 being the most reflective). The way they define this is that if it has a high LRV then it reflects the light a lot, therefore you see the light more not necessarily the pigment within the color. Since this has a lower LRV you see the pigment a lot more when there is light. I’m not sure if that makes sense but here’s how I would put it: my advice is to paint dark rooms medium/dark and light rooms medium/light. This room, while we wanted it to feel cozy is simply too naturally bright to handle a color this med/dark, aka the color pops too much when the lights on it. Evergreen Fog, LRV score of “30” similar to Debonair, is in my bro’s family room and while it looks pretty neutral on the paint deck, in his brightly lit family room it reads VERY green (and perfect, so beautiful I could scream).

So low LRV + lots of natural light = your eye sees more colorful pigment and therefore reads as more of a bright color and high LRV + low light = less pigment and perhaps a flatter color (like Extra White in the living room). The lower the LRV the more of its color you’ll see when a lot of light hits it. So if you WANT to bring out more of its color put it in a bright room go low, but if you want it to be more subtle, less bold/saturated (like Still Water) put it in a low lit room. I’m GREAT with vintage, but boy am I still learning about the undertones of paint.

Fireplace – Big Dipper SW 9645from: primary bedroom reveal

We painted our fireplace Big Dipper SW 9645 (which I’ve used before). This is an almost black that would definitely read as black in a low light situation, but is such a pretty dark navy with a lot of green in it here. We love it.

Primary Bathroom + Closet – Extra White SW 7006left from: primary closet reveal | right from: primary bathroom reveal

In our well-lit closet and bathroom the Extra White SW 7006 (Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in semigloss) looks great (but I’m sure Pure White SW 7005 would have as well). Goes to show you how whites are so different with different lights and with different accent colors (like this tile).

The Kids’ Rooms + Landing Doors – Upward SW 6239 (Doors) | Extra White SW 7006 (Walls, Ceiling, Trim)left: birdie’s bedroom reveal | right: charlie’s bedroom update

Upstairs we painted all the doors of the landing and kids’ room in Upward SW 6239 – a really light, almost periwinkle, happy blue. It’s happy and pretty, closer to a pastel than we normally go but everyone is into it!

Kid’s Bath – Shell White SW 8917from: kids’ bathroom reveal

We matched the white paint in the kids’ bath to the white tile that is a lot warmer than the Extra White. So this is called Shell White SW 8917 (Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel in semigloss and satin) and it’s only slightly warm, but did the trick! This room is getting wallpapered soon so stay tuned:)

Guest Room – Artistic Taupe SW 6030 (Walls, Ceiling) | Extra White SW 7006 (Trim)from: guest bedroom reveal

Maybe my favorite color in the house and I’m not alone. This room is so warm and cozy, and yet bright and airy. I want to paint every room this color (or a blue and green version of this color). As a reference, this has a LRV of 44, so it’s pretty in the middle and in here reads more of a pink than it would in a darker room (where it might read more neutral).

from: guest bedroom reveal

This house really taught me my strengths and weaknesses which I’m sooooo grateful for because as a creative you won’t stop messing up (or if you do it means you aren’t taking risks), but we hope to get closer and closer to making all the right decisions every single time. A huge thanks to Sherwin-Williams for being the best paint partner with the best colors for our home. We feel so lucky to have worked with a brand whose quality is high and colors run so deep.

*Design by Emily Henderson and ARCIFORM
**Styled by Emily Henderson
***Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post The Farmhouse Color Palette (And The Hard Lesson I Learned About Choosing The “Right White”) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

This Year’s Presidents Day Sales Are Seriously Better Than Ever – Let Us Help You Find What You Need

It’s been a minute since I’ve done one of these sales posts. Normally, the angel we know as Caitlin Higgins is the one who takes these beasts on. But Caitlin was on vacation so I took the reins this round. The one thing I forgot about the process is that you are exposed to A LOT of really great (and on sale) items that are so tempting to click purchase on. That’s mostly to say that there are truly so many great sales with great items so if you have a list of goods (which I recommend) then you will likely check off each one of your needs. So grab a big coffee or whatever your preferred beverage is and let’s go on a sales adventure together.

Home & DecorAllModern

Deal: Up to 60% off
Our Picks: We LOVED the bed and bench in Emily’s niece’s bedroom but there’s nothing young about them:) Then this chair is so chic (vintage-inspired) and at a great price.

Annie Selke

Deal: 35% OFF Sitewide
Code: SPRING
Our Picks: Cailting used this rug in her living room and it’s held up beautifully to spills and pets. And this rug is an EHD classic that we’ll always love.

Anthropologie

Deal: 30% Off In-Stock Furniture & Décor
Our Picks: Could this be the new “Anthro Mirror”?? We really love it.

Apt2B

Deal: Up to 35% OFF Sitewide + Free Shipping
Our Picks: Remember this adorable sleeper sofa in Albie’s living room?

Artfully Walls

Deal: 25% Off Sitewide
Code: TREATYOURSELF
Our Picks: There are SO many incredible options but this abstract really caught my eye, this landscape is both moody and calming, and this photo is such a fun piece to give your home a bolt of energy.

design and styling by emily henderson and kaitlin green | photo by kaitlin green | from: kaitlin’s 70s inspired, colorful and cool living room revealed (y’all, i’m so jealous)Article

Deal: Up to 40% off
Our Picks: If you follow us you know we LOVE Article. My main advice is to just go look at their site but we love the bed Gretchen has (here’s the reveal!), this awesome statement vase, and this really pretty but modern ottoman.

Ballard Designs

Deal: Up to 70% off sitewide, plus free shipping
Our Picks: We love their preserved boxwoods after seeing them in Caitlin’s bathroom. Also, Emily’s patio umbrella, dining table, and chairs are all on sale! See the reveal here.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Deal: Up to 70% off
Our Picks: This pretty bed is almost $700 off!! This over 50% off knit blanket is a classic and comes in a ton of colors (I like the indigo) and maybe now is the time to get an automatic vacuum

Best Buy

Deal: They didn’t give any specifics but from what we can see they are GOOD!
Our Picks: We’d recommend the Frame TV deal because it’s pretty awesome.

Boll & Branch

Deal: 20% Off Bundles
Code: BUNDLE20
Our Picks: Caitlin has these bath towels and said verbatim “They were absolutely worth the splurge.” And she did actually buy them #notsponsored:) And if you are curious how to take the ultimate shower she wrote all about it here!

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: the new (luxury) bed in a bag with brooklinenBrooklinen

Deal: 20% Off Sitewide and 25% Off Select Styles
Code: PRESDAY
Our Picks: Emily has been on record many times saying their percale sheets are their favorite!

CB2

Deal: Up to 50% off
Our Picks: This Lawson-Fenning bookshelf is such a stunning piece. Large frames are usually really pricey so this 24″x36″ one is a GREAT deal.

The Citizenry

Deal: Save up to 35%.
Our Picks: We love this coffee table, which looks like it’d be right at home in any Heidi Callier project. Also, this rug is so freaking pretty.

The Company Store

Deal: 40% off Specials, 25% Off Everything Else
Code: PRESIDENT25
Our Picks: We’d recommend the luxe throw that Jess used in this bedroom makeover.

The Container Store

Deal: 20% off sitewide for in-store pickup, 35% off Elfa storage solutions, or 25% off Elfa purchases under $1500.
Our Picks: We love the budget-friendly Elfa storage system – remember how great it looked in Sara’s closet?

design by emily henderson and sarah weldon | styled by emily henderson and emily bowser | photo by steven mcdonald | from: the prettiest green and pink kitchen remodel that we completed In 7 weeksCrate & Barrel

Deal: Up to 60% off
Our Picks: The incredible candelabra Em used (that we ALL loved) is on a great sale and this pendant is so pretty – peak modern traditional.

Design Within Reach

Deal: Up to 50% off
Our Picks: If you’re up for a DIY, the storage benches Mal used in her dining nook are 30% off.

Effortless Composition

Deal: 50% off on purchases over $25
Our Picks: We love this vintage striped throw pillow and this beautiful dish!

Frontgate

Deal: Up to 70% OFF Sitewide + Free Shipping
Code: FSALL0225 (For Free Shipping)
Our Picks: If you’re looking for an expandable table that’s BEAUTIFUL this is a great option. Then I happened to see this vanity stool and if I had a vanity I would get it. And don’t forget it’s all free shipping!

HD Buttercup

Deal: Up to 35% Off
Our Picks: I really love this console table and it’s almost $600 off!

H&M Home

Deal: Up to 50% off everything.
Our Picks: We are all sleeping on H&M Home – look at this glass and marble cloche, this fringed bolster pillow, and this chandelier!

Home Depot

Deal: Up to 30% OFF on Select Appliances
Our Picks: Looking for an affordable washing machine? This one is highly rated and under $600.

Industry West

Deal: 25% Off Sitewide
Code: PRES25
Our Picks: This bookshelf is so pretty and would be a dream to style but I also love that it comes in a “behind the sofa” version.

design by arlyn hernandez | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: arlyn’s living room revealInterior Define

Deal: Save up to 25% Sitewide
Our Picks: The Maxwell sectional is a timeless choice – remember it in Arlyn’s living room?

Jonathan Adler

Deal: 25% off Sitewide
Code: PRESIDENT
Our Picks: We highly recommend taking a browse through their extremely fun pottery.

Joss & Main

Deal: Up to 60% off
Our Picks: Vanities are always something readers are looking for and this is one we love (and $700 off:)). Counter stools are another hot item so if that’s what we need check these out!

Leesa

Deal: 30% Off Mattresses! + Free Sleep Bundle ($299 Value)
Our Picks: This is the mattress Emily said she would buy if they needed a new one (and is a little jealous her daughter has it:))

photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse living room revealLulu and Georgia

Deal: 20% off orders over $1,000+, 15% off orders over $500+, Free Shipping on orders over $5,000
Our Picks: Emily is BIG on dining chairs having curved backs so these are right up our alley. We will always sing the praises of this sofa and if you have a large bedroom these nightstands are so beautiful/cool.

Lumens

Deal: Up to 60% off
Our Picks: You can watch Em’s rechargeable lamp recommendations or her statement lamp recommendations, too!

Made In

Deal: Up to 25% off
Our Picks: The carbon steel griddle would make the perfect gift for any chef.

Marie Burgos Design

Deal: 30% off Sitewide
Code: PRESIDENTSDAY25
Our Picks: If you’re looking for colorful lighting check these out!

McGee & Co.

Deal: Up to 30% off Sitewide
Our Picks: There are so many great options but I loved these blue planters, this cool modern traditional iron side table, and this cool but elegant wall mirror.

Minna

Deal: 25% off Sitewide
Code: PRESPRING
Our Picks: You won’t miss with their throw pillows (or anything else:))

Mitzi

Deal: 20% off everything
Code: PRESDAY20
Our Picks: Tali Roth’s collection is an EHD favorite.

design by jess bunge | styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: jess’ communal patio revealNeighbor

Deal: 15% off everything.
Code: PRES2025
Our Picks: Em’s outdoor lounge chairs are 15% off, in case you wanted to duplicate her pool setup.

One Kings Lane

Deal: Up to 40% off, Extra 10% off orders over $900
Code: 10EXTRA2025 (for the extra 10% off)
Our Picks: I love walnut wood and think this sideboard is stunning (and super functional). This warm oatmeal linen bed is a winner for me, and if you love a vintage-inspired outdoor umbrella, this is a great one.

Our Place

Deal: Up to 30% off kitchen essentials
Our Picks: I have been drooling over this titanium nonstick pan from the moment it came out! Em has it and really loves it too so I might need to grab one.

Pom Pom At Home

Deal: 20% off
Code: STRIPES20, plus free shipping on orders over $49
Our Picks: This 5′ long lumbar pillow can double as a body pillow at night and it’s a GREAT price.

Pottery Barn

Deal: Up to 50% Off
Our Picks: Love this tablecloth for spring and summer so much. This pillow and throw blanket are also giving “cozy springtime”.

Rejuvenation

Deal: Up to 50% Off
Our Picks: If you loved Emily’s best friend’s living room, the swivel chairs are on sale amongst a ton of other great options!

styled by getteline rene | photo by mark weinberg | from: suprise! our second rugs usa line drops today and we couldn’t be more excited – come see!Rugs USA

Deal: 45% Off Sitewide
Code: PREZDAY45
Our Picks: We’re clearly biased but we love our rug line very much:) Check it out here!

Ruggable

Deal: Up to 20% off Sitewide
Our Picks: The washable doormats seem like a great use case for this type of technology.

Schoolhouse

Deal: Up to 70% Off
Our Picks: An EHD favorite shop! We love this throw blanket, this table lamp, and this beautiful round pillow.

Serena & Lily

Deal: 20% off Sitewide and 25% off + Free Shipping with orders over $2,500
Our Picks: Caitlin did a ton of research last year, and this is one of the only king-sized sleeper sofas on the market. Check it out, hosts!

Tuft & Needle

Deal: Up to 30% on mattresses
Our Picks: A couple of us have the Mint Hybrid mattress, and I love it. Caitlin (who is one of the owners) also has a significantly damaged spine that her orthopedist described as “dust separated by naan bread,” so you can trust her on this one.

photo by kaitlin green | from: my niece’s colorful tween bedroom reveal that she will hopefully still love in five years Wayfair

Deal: Up to 70% off
Our Picks: The affordable floor lamp that Em loves (and so did you guys) is even more on sale! This MCM-inspired bathroom sink vanity is 50% off just today and this is a great dupe for the Rejuvenation floor mirror (and under $200).

West Elm

Deal: Up to 60% off
Our Picks: Ok, I know this may seem silly given the time of year but this is THE BEST/our favorite Christmas decor item and it’s on a great sale! And for non-Christmas decor, I love this day bed and this tall dresser.

Fashion & Beautyphoto by kaitlin green | from: 8 flowy, easy summer dresses with sleeves (in very fun prints…ideal for this time of year)Abercrombie & Fitch

Deal: 20% off almost everything.
Our Picks: These trouser pants look professional, but feel like socially-acceptable outdoor pajamas. This is such a pretty spring dress! Can’t wait for the warmer weather:)

ABLE

Deal: Extra 40% off sale Items
Code: EXTRA40
Our Picks: This is such a great maxi dress (think spring break) and this 2 t-shirt bundle is highly rated. It looks easy and relaxed that I might need to grab.

Anthropologie

Deal: Extra 40% off Sale Items
Our Picks: Love this sweet floral blouse that’s under $40 after the sale, this cozy Sundry quarter zip, and this gingham spring dress! The deals are so good.

Athleta

Deal: Up to 60% off, plus extra 20% off sale items
Our Picks: Over 8k people gave these soft joggers over 4 stars!

Briogeo Hair Care

Deal: 25% off Sitewide
Our Picks: This haircare duo is a lifesaver itchy, dry scalp. (Would recommend for anyone with hard city water.)

Evereve

Deal: 70% off Clearance
Our Picks: This is a jacket that Em has and loves. This quilted jacket is so cute and very on-trend (but not trendy if that makes sense) and this is the perfect “spring plaid” jacket!

photo by kaitlin green | from: my current favorite lightweight trousers On my bodyEverlane

Deal: Up to 30% off
Our Picks: This pair and this pair are my favorite jeans. I LOVE them. And these flats are both an Em and Caitlin rec!

Free People

Deal: Up to 25% off on selected styles
Our Picks: This striped oversized crewneck is the perfect slouchy “cool” sweatshirt and comes in A TON of colors. Then I just really love the look of this also slouchy cropped pullover. Cute but cozy.

Gap

Deal: 40% to 60% off, plus 50% off sweaters, tees, and sweats
Our Picks: Em’s favorite PJs are deeply discounted, but check out her sizing notes first.

Hanna Andersson

Deal: Extra 25% off sale items
Code: WKND25
Our Picks: I now know the importance of a 2-way zip onesie because of my niece and this one is so cute! Then if you are thinking about Easter this is such a sweet overalls outfit. And for mom (or any adult who likes a striped spring dress), this is such a pretty one.

HigherDOSE

Deal: 20% off Bundles
Our Picks: This is the sauna blanket bundle which is the one Emily would deeply recommend if she were to suggest one:)

J. Crew

Deal: Extra 50% off sale items
Code: SHOPNOW
Our Picks: This popover shirt is the perfect mix of casual and put-together and this sweater is the ideal Mal sweater – striped, with a collar and classic buttons.

photo by kaitlin green | from: really good denim (+ the non-skinny jeans that i like including my new favorite barrel-shape)Levis

Deal: Up to 40% sitewide and 50% off select outerwear
Our Picks: You cannot go wrong with a timeless, sherpa-lined jean jacket.

Madewell

Deal: Extra 30% off sale
Code: SALEONSALE
Our Picks: Em loves a puff sleeve and this denim one is great. Then if you love a merlot-colored fashion moment this kitten heel boot and shoulder bag are awesome!

Nisolo

Deal: An additional 50% off markdowns
Code: SALE50
Our Picks: Love these simple boots and for just over $100 is a STEAL! The same goes for this cute over-the-shoulder bag.

Nordstrom

Deal: Up to 60% off on selected items
Our Picks: Em wore this sweater on our big shoot and it’s even cuter now that it’s 40% off!

Old Navy

Deal: Denim on sale
Our Picks: These are Emily’s favorite and only $22 and you wouldn’t know it by looking at them!

Sephora

Deal: Up to 50% off on selected items
Our Picks: If you want a good moisturizer I like this one a lot!

We did it!! Hope this was helpful and that whatever you had on your list you found here (and saved some money along the way). See you tomorrow for a design post:)

Love you, mean it.

 

Opening Image Credit: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: One of Emily’s Best Friends Gets The Cozy Yet Sophisticated Bedroom Makeover She Really Deserves

The post This Year’s Presidents Day Sales Are Seriously Better Than Ever – Let Us Help You Find What You Need appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: Em’s Favorite (And Softess) Pajamas Are On Sale, Jess’ New One-Piece Swimsuit, And Affordable Readymade Cafe Curtains

Happy Sunday everyone! What did you think of Robyn’s living room and dining room reveals? We are pretty happy with how they turned out:) We also just shot some very fun updates that will be coming to you all soon. Ok, let’s just get straight into this week’s links…

This week’s house tour is another masterpiece by Jessica Helgerson. A Queen Anne-style home that was brought back to life in just the most beautiful and cool way. Oh, this home also now belongs to The Shins’ guitarist, James Mercer and his family. You just need to go look at the photos. It’s nothing short of special.

From Emily: I have a rather strict pajama policy (that I think should be adopted universally by the world) where I buy 3-4 sets that all match (same color, but mix of short sleeve, long sleeve, shorts and pants) and that’s all I wear for PJ’s. When I can’t find a top and bottom clean I’m SO BUMMED and will throw on a T-shirt but I swear I don’t sleep as well. Somehow I’ve lost a few of them (or a dog has eaten the crotch) so I went online to buy some backups and saw that my favorite (from this big review) is on sale right now 40% off. Comes in a lot of different colors, but again, my favorite thing to do is have them all the same so that you don’t have to think and search AT ALL. Here’s the link for the top and the bottoms. My last review, when I bought these, was in September of 2023 and all of them are in excellent shape still (no pilling or feeling scratchy). I think whatever this “modal” fabric is is my favorite (but admittedly when not on sale they are kinda spendy!).

From Marlee: I grabbed one of these mini photo printers for my boyfriend back in December – it has been a HIT. We have been talking about printing photos from trips over the last couple of years but have never gotten around to ordering prints or making it to Walgreens etc. You do have to buy special paper and ink, so it is a bit of an investment. But I did the math and the cost per photo is similar to the cost if you were printing at a store or somewhere online – and personally the freedom to print whenever I want in the comfort of my own room is PRICELESS. We’ve been having so much fun printing photos and building a little album. The quality of the prints is great and the printer is small enough to slide into a desk drawer. This one prints standard 4×6 photos but they also make one that prints mini 2x3s (with the option to print on sticker paper!) which would be so fun for scrapbooking. It’s definitely one of those gifts that is also for myself!

From Caitlin: A fun quick read: you need to check out this interview with Jeremy Strong on his recent Dunkin Donuts’ Super Bowl commercial, in which he likens himself to Proust and quotes Emerson. It was the perfect follow-up to his now-iconic, much-lambasted New Yorker profile. I just love Jeremy Strong and Jeremy Strong lore. We need more single-minded weirdos who are deeply and specifically passionate about their craft and nothing else. He is a character!!! (Anyone else miss Succession desperately?)

Also from Caitlin: A more serious long read – I loved this profile of Sarah McBride in the New Republic. I’m a little biased here – I’m also a 33-year-old woman from Delaware, and knew Sarah in high school – but I just think she’s smart and capable and determined and brave. I really enjoyed diving a bit deeper into her political career and I left the piece feeling really proud that she represents my hometown, my mom, and all of the people I love (including Big Ive, who you’ll meet halfway through). I think you’ll come to love Sarah as much as I do:)

President’s Day sales are upon us which means it’s a really good time to purchase a mattress if you are in the market for one. We actually just did a post reviewing all the mattresses we have actually slept on and gave our honest feelings (Plus, Emily’s favorite). If you’re interested go check it out here!

From Mallory: It’s been a big cafe curtain week at EHD: Em and team is working on adding some to the farm up in Portland and I just added some to my dining room to cover up my ugly window ac unit! I found these affordable pinstripe curtains (that already come with rings) and used this tension rod to hang them and they look so cute in the room. It’s way better than staring at my janky AC unit all day that’s for sure

From Jess: In prep for a team retreat that ended up getting postponed I bought this one-piece swimsuit from J.Crew that I love! I wore it last weekend and my friends all loved it too which is always a great feeling. It’s a small-scale leopard print that has a squareneck, cute thin straps, and built-in cups that I actually really like (I usually take those out because I’m almost never a fan). It’s also cut a little high on the hips in a way that made me feel cool but not exposed. I’m so pumped I have this now and when the time comes for our retreat I will be so ready:)

Also From Jess: Do yourself a favor (if you have Hulu) and watch Muslim Matchmaker. First off there are two matchmakers, Hoda Abrahim and Yasmin Elhady are so fun and lovely. They were my favorite part of the show. But the entire thing was just great and you bet I finished it in basically one sitting.

From Arlyn: I’m adding one more raincoat to the list of recommendations from yesterday’s post. I’ve lived in Los Angeles for seven years and the rainy season caught me off guard every single year. You just get so used to dry weather that you scoff at the idea of spending any real money on rain gear…until the downpours come. Last year, I finally decided to be a grownup and get a proper rain jacket. I grabbed this one from Eddie Bauer and really love it. The sleeves have velcro to help you sych them tightly, the hood has drawstrings to keep it secure on your head, it has a zipper *and* snaps, and the pockets have bottom flaps and buttons to keep things in them dry. It’s long and covers the tush. I haven’t noticed any water seepage through the fabric even on super heavy rains.

From Gretchen: This week I took the plunge and cut bangs! Well, I didn’t cut them, the amazing Bree Ritter did. I’ve followed her work on Instagram for years—she’s sort of a shag genius and I love her handle, @goodbyehorsegirl. I’ve been on a hair rediscovery journey ever since I spotted the tiniest hint of a wavy texture on my head. So I’m leaning in and adopting the shaggy cut to really embrace and scrunch them up! Bree did some beautiful work. I can’t stop catching glimpses of myself in the mirror and playing with my hair. She also turned me onto a great new product for giving it that tousled look. It’s the Mare salt spray from Reverie and it smells sooo dang good, I want to wear it as perfume! It enhances the wave and gives it the perfect little lift.

Thanks for reading with us today and see y’all tomorrow. xx

Opening Image Credits: Photos by Kaitlin Green | From: My Best Friend Robyn’s Living Room Reveal – We Added So Much Color, Charm, Coziness (And A Lot Of Heirloom Quality Pieces)

The post The Link Up: Em’s Favorite (And Softess) Pajamas Are On Sale, Jess’ New One-Piece Swimsuit, And Affordable Readymade Cafe Curtains appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The EHD Portland Team’s Cute But Hardworking Raincoats and Rain Boots Recommendations (And They KNOW Rain)

Since we needed to make a last-minute change to the calendar, we got to thinking about what people might be looking for. Well, it’s definitely the rainy season… so at least for me, it’s rainwear. So since half of our team lives in the rain for over half of the year, I thought to ask the rain experts, the EHD Portland team. I picked their brains on what their favorite cute but really good raincoats and boots were. Here are my findings…

Rains Long Jacket

This was the first jacket they sent through. Gretchen says she really likes this brand a lot and it’s easy to see why. Its unisex utilitarian style paired with the fact it’s water and windproof, all while being lightweight is pretty great. The longer length is nice too. What’s also really nice is that it’s not crazy expensive either. Oh, and there are 12 other colors to choose from! They did say it was a good dupe for this next one I’m about to show you.

Stockholm Lightweight Raincoat

This one though is THE crowd favorite. When Gretchen texted me she said this was both her and Kaitlin’s (photographer) favorite. It’s also the same brand Emily is wearing in the opening image from 2017! Needless to say, it’s a classic. This one is on the pricier side but is a workhorse that will last you a long time.

Moss RainCoat

This one I found with a little of my own research. The brand is super trusted and who can resist a classic yellow raincoat?! Curious George in the coolest way:) It does come in navy blue too if that’s more your speed.

Weatherproof Oversized Rain Jacket

Now, this one really grabbed my attention when they sent over the link because of those big utility pockets. So cool, right!? Gretchen said she hadn’t tried this one in person but LOVES her puffer from this same brand and the reviews on the site are really good.

Rainout Ridge Long Trench

This was one of my finds (obviously the Portland gals aren’t buying new jackets every year so I wanted a few more options). The color is awesome (also comes in black), the reviews are even better and if you are someone who likes their jackets to have a slightly defined waist, this one has a cinch on the inside of it. It also goes up to 3x in petite, regular, and tall!

Perfect Raincoat

For a more fashion-forward option that’s water-resistant, this one reminds me of the one I own and love. Getting to wear it is the only reason I’m ok with rainy days. The gold accents pop in such a fun way and it also has some drawstrings if you like some customizable cinching.

BLOCKTECH Half Coat

For the final jacket, I chose this modern cutie that’s currently on sale for $50! It’s water-repellent, has a hood and a way for you to tuck in if you don’t want it out, and overall looks very chic. From the reviews, it does run a little big but that’s also great for easy layering!

Now, let’s get into a few of our favorite rain boots…

ONA AVE Chelsea Boot Waterproof

These are a pair that Emily has and LOVES. They are Sorel so not a huge surprise that they both look great (that brown tone is so pretty!) and keep her nice and dry. Speaking of Sorel…

CARIBOU X Women’s Chelsea Waterproof Boot

Em bought these extremely cool Sorel’s a couple of years ago and they are still on a heavy rotation. She’s wearing them in the opening photo on the beach! I remember her raving about how comfortable and cool she felt in them. They don’t seem to have the plain black anymore but I really love this color too.

Sherpa-Lined Chelsea Rain BootsGretchen sent these ones through because they were really similar to the ones she has and loves/they had great reviews. This is why she loves them: “love a sherpa lined short rain boot, cuz sometimes the rainboot material can make my toes extra cold”. Very good point, Gretch:)Original Short Rain BootAnd to end this raingear post, Gretchen of course reminded me that she loves her Hunter rainboots and that they’ve held up really well over the years. It’s nice to make a good purchase once, you know?So that’s it for us. While I was writing this post I got a flashflood warning…whether it’s one of these or pieces you own, stay prepared!Opening Image Credits: Left Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Cool Windbreakers For Spring Layering (And Walking)…She’s Sporty Now:)

The post The EHD Portland Team’s Cute But Hardworking Raincoats and Rain Boots Recommendations (And They KNOW Rain) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Arlyn Is Considering Turning Her Dining Room Into A Playroom: 3 Options To Make It Work

The dining room in my previous home was *literally* the jewel box of that place. It was my showpiece, the room I loved to just sit in and look around. I was proud to host dinners and game nights there. I was grateful for a beautiful space like that when it became the impromptu home office for my husband and me when we were sent home to work at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. We didn’t have a breakfast nook, so it’s where we say like six times a day giving our baby (at the time) purees and snacks in her high chair (RIP rug). And then we moved.

Don’t get me wrong. I feel like I often talk about our home now disparagingly. I love where we live for many reasons, but it’s definitely lacking the luster of our old place. Mostly because everything that’s here is just a holdover. It was picked for over there, but living its next life here.

Another thing about where we currently live? It doesn’t accommodate all of our daily needs, specifically having office space for two working adults and an area for our toddler to freely play. We have alllllll of her stuff scattered between the living room (which I affectionally refer to as the luxe daycare when people come over), dining room, and her bedroom upstairs. She’s perfectly content because she doesn’t know anything else. But we do. Long story short, she had so much room to play where we were staying over our Christmas vacation, as well as at our friends’ place where we stayed during our fire evacuations.

So when we settled back home after a whirlwind month, I sat down at my spot on the dining table where I work and looked around, contemplating how I was using the spaces in my home. (For the record, my husband now works in a small office downstairs that we call the dungeon because it has no windows, and I can’t stand the idea of writing in there so it’s all his.) Was I being fair to my girl by commandeering the dining room because of what I *wish* it was? A whisper of my old jewel box? Sure, we used the 6-seater table here and there to host friends, but certainly not more than a handful of times per year. Did I like sitting here with a perfect view out the window that frames the beautiful trees on our street while I tapped away at my keyboard? Yup, sure did. But am I also tired of my living room being drowned by IKEA TROFAST units, play kitchens, make-shift ball pits made out of balls and a large storage container, etc. etc. etc.? Also yes (especially because the actual floor space for my daughter to play is super limited).

Living in a smaller home that doesn’t check all your boxes, in terms of spaces needed, always means someone or something is being sacrificed. If I’m being honest with myself, I want a formal dining room. I want a beautiful space to sit down and enjoy a meal with friends and family (we have a little bistro table in the kitchen we use when it’s just us). I want to sit where I’m sitting with easy access to the kitchen for a snack, right next to the powder bath for quick restroom breaks, across the window so I can see when my husband pulls up from an errand or a work outing. Seeing our neighbors walking by with their dogs’ leashes in hand, or the mailman popping over to the other side of the street to make their deliveries is good for my soul. But having a singular, big and open spot for my girl to play and do her arts and crafts and zoom around as a superhero and read her books under a Nugget couch fort might just be even better for my soul.

All of that to say, I’m pretty torn on what to do with this space. The dining room is always the easiest option to turn into a flex space. I know even our own Caitlin from EHD is talking about changing the function of her beautiful dining room into a spot for both her and her boyfriend to work out of. My family needs a living room, but maybe it doesn’t need a dining room as badly as a play space. So, let’s explore some options.

What I’m Currently Working With

This is the current state of my living room. Like, I snapped this photo as-is without even attempting to make it look any nicer 15 minutes before writing this sentence. Half of the large cabinet under the TV is full of coloring books, dot markers, board games, and various other toys. In front of the sofa chaise (at left in photo), there’s a toddler armchair and a container of balls and random blocks my girl throws in there regularly. The coffee table always has something currently in play on it, and other toys just finished being played with on the bottom shelf (and rogue MagnaTiles and drawings and construction paper…). The ENTIRE right side of the living room—I’m talking plant to stair banister—is toys and toy storage.

Here’s another view. The left photo is the wall right by the landing five steps up into the dining room from the living room (it’s a multi-level townhome). Guys, it’s not great, but I also acknowledge that this is for such a short time. My daughter is about to turn 3, and I’d be lucky if I had another 5 years of her little kid toys taking over my living room. It’s a blessing, I know that.

Here’s the dining room in question. We have toy overflow in here, a mail landing spot (and let’s be honest, a junk-landing spot most days), and my little work spot. The chair is NOT ergonomic by any means, but I’m only ever sitting for like two hours of straight working time so it’s not a big deal (I don’t think). I’d love to get a big rug in here to break up all the wood tones that are all on top of each other, and likely would still do that even if it became a play space.

This is the footie-pajamaed angel in question who needs more room to play. Again, she’s totally happy fluttering between the small amount of floor space in the living room, to the small amount of floor space in the dining room to the middle of the kitchen but you know…there are reasons why that isn’t ideal. We don’t spend a ton of time playing upstairs in her bedroom because the layout of her room doesn’t allow for much toy storage (an issue to get into for another day), and I don’t like leaving her alone to play up there while I get some other things done around the house the way I can when she’s downstairs.

All things considered, I’ve come up with three possible options if I decide to give my ol’ dining room the official boot (gosh, that hurts to type):

Option 1: Turn it into a multi-functional space to check all the boxes.

I’m talking play area, small dining nook, and maybe even a little desk set up. That or I use the dining nook as my desk the way I currently do, and bring in a bit of a library vibe, too. Because I still have tons of boxes of books sitting in the garage from when we moved in two years ago that I’d love to get out and onto some bookshelves. I could possibly get a 4-seater table that expands into a 6-seater when we need it, and tuck that into a corner by the window.

Here’s a messy sketch of some initial thoughts:

*not to scale (table and banquette would likely take up more room than shown here)Pros of option 1: I get everything I want in one space (but do I really have enough room for everything?). I can also make it pretty enough that it doesn’t feel too kid-like, but is still happy enough for my actual kid.Cons of option 1: I’d have to get rid of all my furniture that’s in here, and that makes me very, very sad. Plus, I use that credenza to store a lot of small appliances, platters, and other kitchen and dining things I can’t fit in the kitchen (but often use). Also, me trying to do everything might end up being everything done poorly. Can you really have it all? (With good design, yes, possibly).Option 2: Try to fit in both a home office and a playroom.

So, maybe there’s a world where we get a folding table and chairs that we keep in the garage when we need to feed more than three people, and I focus in on two primary uses: workspace and play space. For anyone wondering how I could possibly work with a toddler playing around me, the answer is: I do not. I work while she’s at preschool or sleeping or being cared for by someone else. I’d still have to get rid of basically everything in my dining room, but I’d get back my entire living room. I could do a very pretty vintage secretary desk in front of the window, turn the area where the bar is now into a reading nook for my girl, and have so much space left over for all of her imagination and playthings.

Here’s another hurried sketch of how I could make this work:

*not to scale by ANY meansPros of option 2: Plenty of space for both work and play, and an opportunity to have some breathing room aesthetically (we have too much furniture everywhere and it’s sometimes suffocating).Cons of option 2: No more dining room. No more dining-related storage. Setting up a temporary eating space in a playroom when the need arises.Option 3: Use it just as a playroom with tons of open space.

As I’m writing this, I can already tell you that I don’t think this is the move. While I know I can find a spot to work in this house (upstairs in my bedroom, in the breakfast room, even in the “dungeon” if worst comes to worst), I’m not sure it’s the best move for prime writing Arlyn. And writing is my livelihood so…yeah. I needed to go through the exercise of typing this out to know that I’d be the least happy with option 3.

Now, for some cons about ALL of these plans: Wise parents of EHD—Will my kid even play in here or will she just go to the living room anyway? I might be okay with that scenario because at least I know that everything lives together in one space at the end of the day. But please, enlighten me with your wisdom before I make any drastic choices like putting my beloved table and chairs up for sale on Facebook Marketplace.

Oh, also! I have my couch to sit on in my living room where she currently plays and well, I’m 40 now and would rather not sit on the floor when she’s playing or I’m playing alongside her. A Nugget-esque couch could solve this, surely.

—

Before wrapping up, I pulled some inspo of play areas with some of her existing storage pieces set up in a way that could work for us if they all lived in the same room, but also a few rooms that seem to have a few purposes.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Barkoff Coppola Interiors (@barkoffcoppola.interiors)

As much as I love this, we won’t be doing any built-ins because we’re just renters and don’t know how long we’re even staying here. BUT, I love the idea of the larger low table for play in the center of the room. We’re big Playdoh/coloring book/watercolor/paper mosaic-gluing people and more surface area would be great!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Studio Gild (@studiogild)

If you stretch your imagination a little, I could see something like this for my space. A small table (though maybe something that extends), a few chairs, lots of books/bookshelves, and a window seat!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by courtney gault | MS Ed, MFA (@greenwich_play)

Same kind of thing here (the first image), just a bit too plain for my taste. But good to see how much space is opened up with a much smaller table (and something round is easier to place in a corner and still look good).

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mollie (@modest_mollie)

And kind of just what I want to be able to give my Evelyn. A bunch of open space to make a big mess, have space to build, climb, sit and read, and all the things she loves.

SO: WHAT SAY YOU?? There’s a lot to consider, and while I’m not locked into any “design” at the moment, I do think this exercise has at least gotten the wheels churning a bit. The idea of selling furniture and finding room for the things *inside* the cabinets in my dining room is daunting, but so is every new project I suppose. Would love to hear your thoughts or encouragements.

Until next time…

 

 

***Dining room after photos: Design by Arlyn Hernandez | Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Arlyn’s Moody Dining Room Reveal Is All About the Insane Power of Paint

The post Arlyn Is Considering Turning Her Dining Room Into A Playroom: 3 Options To Make It Work appeared first on Emily Henderson.

I Searched For A Comfortable, Stylish AND Affordable Club/Reading Chairs – This Is What I Found

The “I” in the title of this post is from Emily as she was the one who pitched and did the initial research for this post. It all started with that little cutie green chair above from her best friend Robyn’s recently revealed living room. As most home projects go, the money-spending faucet was raging and all of them (Emily and her best friends) wanted to turn it way down. So when it was time to find a cozy chair for the reading corner, the term “affordable” when shopping was a priority. Now, the chair they chose was more in the $700 range which while not as expensive as it could have easily been, it also is cheap. However, in Em’s (and my) search we found nine high-rated, very cute, cozy reading chairs that are all under $400. What each of us considers “affordable” is based on a lot of different factors but given the current market, we felt good about these and thought the pricing was fair (and for those slammin deals, there’s always vintage shopping but that can come with all sorts of cost variables is reupholstering is needed). Hope you’ve got your book and a hot drink handy because it’s time to get cozy…

Soft Padded Armchair – $340

This was an Emily find I loved as soon as I saw it. The shape is the perfect balance of curved and sleek and how cute are those rounded feet?! Those really make this chair look more expensive than it is. If the white fabric makes you nervous, this chair also comes in three darker colors. It’s just so versatile style-wise so 10/10 from us. 

Wide Oversized Armchair Accent Chair – $310

Another Em find and what a great one! For it to be oversized (love a roomy chair) at the price is awesome. The MCM-inspired design will add a lot of style to your room and if green isn’t your preference there are eight other colors to choose from.  

Chanequa Oversized Upholstered Accent Chair – $340

This one I found on Wayfair and fell for the size and that wood base. So often the more “affordable” chairs have wood bases that don’t look…great. But from the looks of this photo and the customer one on the site, I’m impressed. This is another one that could be a style shapeshifter so it’s going to work in most homes. It also comes in 3 other more classically neutral colors. 

Extra Deep Accent Chair – $300

This cutie was an Emily pick and another one with a pretty wood base! I would call this look “soft modern”. It comes in four other colors and I also really like the camel boucle. 

Corduroy Deep Seat Single Sofa Accent Chair – $300

Oh, you know you could just sink into this one. It really reminds me of the Article sectional Emily put in the mountain house so it’s probably way she wanted to include it in this post. It’s big and comes in four other colors (the dark green is also so pretty). Reading a book, watching a movie, or scrolling on your phone would likely be a big joy in this one. 

Swivel Accent Chair Modern Barrel Armchair – $310

If you love an Amber Interiors or Studio McGee look, this is your chair. She’s cute, she swivels, she’s got a skirt and the reviews say she’s comfortable! What’s not to love? Well aside from the fact that it comes in two other colors. 

Namiyah Upholstered Armchair – $340

When I found this one I knew I had to include it. It’s a chair and a half (yay, big!) and the reviews confirm it’s as comfortable as it looks (and to me, it looks super comfy). There are also five other colors to choose from! This is definitely a better style for a more modern home but of course, we are fans of breaking the style rules if you want to. And actually, in the really light colors, it would be great with an organic casual style. P.S. You can also buy a version with a matching ottoman 

Upholstered Accent Armchair – $360

I wanted to make sure to give you some traditional options and this one is pretty perfect for this category, right? It’s also oversized which we again, always love, and so classic in shape. It also comes in a green velvet (but looks pretty shiny) and a cream boucle.

STRANDMON Wing Chair – $349

We had to include an Ikea chair and this one is amazing! Often affordable chairs don’t come in fun (and cute) patterned fabrics but this one is an exception. Houndstooth is, of course, a classic pattern but in this high wingback chair, it looks so fresh. I think this could work in a ton of different spaces seamlessly. It does also come in three solid colors (the green is my favorite) if that’s better for you:)

Stutsman Upholstered Chair And A Half – $354

The final chair is a great choice. It’s simple but with some really pretty arms. This puppy is also real solid and such a great size (we’re really a big fan of a chair and a half – especially for snuggling). It does come in two other colors! For our modern traditional lovers, this is a home run for you.

Ok, that’s it for our research and hope it was helpful! Let us know if there are any other types of furniture you’d like us to find you for. xx

Love you, mean it.   

 





 

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: My Best Friend Robyn’s Living Room Reveal – We Added So Much Color, Charm, Coziness (And A Lot Of Heirloom Quality Pieces)

The post I Searched For A Comfortable, Stylish AND Affordable Club/Reading Chairs – This Is What I Found appeared first on Emily Henderson.