Emily Henderson's Blog, page 250

The Link Up: How Arlyn Stops Thigh Rub, Sara’s New Hair Must Have & A Better Than “The Real Stuff” Ice Cream

image via all sorts of | design by amber interiors

We hope you all were into yesterday’s team shorts review post. If you missed it, head here to check it out (we found a pair that worked for ALL of us, FYI…a true miracle). And because we’re an office full of women with tons of recommendations, we’re back with another edition of The Link Up where we blab about all the things we’re…blabbing about to each other. Let’s go:

You may remember when Emily, Velinda and team did our first Flash Makeover with Pen & Napkin. This was a part of a larger collaboration series that they are doing with a bunch of LA designers. Next up was the extremely talented Justina Blakeney (of The Jungalow) and no surprise here, she killed it. Emily obviously loved her reveal and wanted to make sure everyone also sees it and spreads the word on the awesome work of Pen & Napkin.

As you probably noticed on Emily’s Instastories, part of the EHD team was in Salt Lake City, Utah, for our Velux Brighten Up Any Room giveaway. What you might not know (but could probably guess), the production team is all about turning up the music during long project install days. Julie bought this small but mighty speaker to bring with the team and it’s perfect for traveling or summer outdoor adventures. Emily Bowser has the same one which she uses to listen to her sleep sounds every night.

Caitlin’s knowledge of life insurance begins and ends with podcast ads, so she actually really enjoyed reading this article on Cup of Jo where a real-life expert answers big questions about what life insurance actually IS and when you actually need to buy it. (She also feels way smarter because now she knows the difference between term- and whole- life insurance, which is like, a pretty adult thing to know about. And unlike some of her coworkers who need coverage, Caitlin learned that she can safely put off worrying about it for a few years.)

It’s getting really hot here in LA and while Jess , she does not have a good air-conditioning system. She just bought this white tower fan and loves it. It’s aesthetically pretty great, has a few different setting options and comes with a remote. All that for $50.

Chandler just bought the Glossier Lash Stick this weekend, and, so far, she’s really happy with it! “The formula is light but the color is dark, which works really well on my fine and very light eyelashes. It isn’t dramatic but leaves you with really natural summer lashes. And to top it off, it is reasonably priced and the packaging is quite nice on the eyes. If you are local to LA, go to the store on Melrose. You won’t be disappointed!”

As someone who really pays attention to sustainable food options, Bowser has been using Butcher Box (which delivers 100% grass-fed and -finished beef, pork and free-range organic chicken) for a year and has found that it pretty much covers the protein (for 2) for the month. If you missed her Podcast call out, the founder, Michael Salguero, was on Bulletproof radio and talked about “Why Quality Meat Matters for You and the Planet.” It’s a fascinating take on why farming animals ethically is important not only to our health but also our soil.

This week’s house tour is from the one and only Amber Lewis. This particular home is not only beautiful but has a pretty great serendipitous story that you should definitely read.

Ryann has been following Otherwild on IG for a while now and just loves their general ethos—but she recently discovered that they launched Otherwild General, a zero-waste shop (they even have a brick and mortar in LA!) and now she is even more obsessed. All their products are so cute and affordable and she cannot wait to stock up.

Velinda got this dairy-free ice “cream” for her wife who has a severe dairy allergy. She got “the real stuff” for herself but ended up begging Katie to share half of her’s. It’s. So. Good. 

Sara has been using this Kristin Ess hair mask and it REALLY makes my hair so soft and shiny. Plus, she loves that all of Kristin’s stuff is cruelty-free, affordable and available at Target.

Mallory wants to talk about the simplest (and FREE) little thing that actually changed her life. It’s called Google Momentum and if you don’t have this on your computer, you must download it. It’s basically a Google Chrome extension that you can set as your homepage whenever you open up a new tab. All it is is a beautiful screen with GORGEOUS photos that change daily, a to-do list you can customize, your daily goal, and a comforting “Good morning, Mallory” (or afternoon, or evening). It brings her so much joy every single day and she’s making everyone in the office get it on their computers so we can all share daily quotes.

Veronica recently bought two pairs of these shorts from Zara (in denim blue and black) and she wears them basically every day. She loves a good “mom fit” (meaning something not super tight) and these are super comfortable and great for every occasion whether it be a day at the beach, lounging around the house, or running around doing errands. “These are like the yoga pants of jean shorts. Highly, highly recommend but maybe size up.” 

Speaking of shorts, Arlyn’s thighs have touched since she was basically in the womb (her words), and she’s always been so jealous of women who can prance around all summer in a dress or shorts without worrying about raw, chafed thighs. She typically wears the affordable shorty Spanx brand at Target, less for the “suck in” power and more to prevent irritated thigh skin in dresses, BUT NO MORE. Megababe’s Thigh Rescue anti-chafing stick is fantastic and she highly recommends it. Also, their Bust Dust to prevent swamp boobs in the hotter months.

Okay bye until tomorrow! xx

Affiliate and partnership disclosure: Our posts may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, we may receive compensation (don’t worry, this doesn’t cost you anything!). Our opinions expressed here are explicitly our own, and we will never recommend anything we don’t truly love.

The post The Link Up: How Arlyn Stops Thigh Rub, Sara’s New Hair Must Have & A Better Than “The Real Stuff” Ice Cream appeared first on Emily Henderson.

This One Pair of Shorts Worked on All of Our Bodies (+ All the Other Options We Reviewed & Loved)

Five EHD women, not a single one in shorts…yet. But fear not, because this post IS about shorts as the headline suggests. Emily is basically the cut-offs queen, but almost no one else around here was a regular short subscriber and we all thought it’d be fun to go on a try-on session to see if we would convert ourselves (and pass on any recommendations to you guys to aid in your own search). I’m pretty sure as this specific photo was snapped, I was saying “YAY SHORTS” and this was the outcome. WE WERE EXCITED (or at the very least feigning enthusiasm to hide our terror of showing our human limbs on camera because evidently that’s a thing). Fueled by the promise of Shake Shack for lunch—though Veronica and Ryann ended up at In-n-Out, rude—we hit up The Americana in Glendale (for anyone not familiar, it’s one of those big outdoor malls with stores like Nordstrom, Madewell, Anthropologie). It also has a 24-hour Sprinkles cupcake ATM, but that has nothing to do with this post.

Everyone’s assignment: go try on a bunch of bottoms at several stores and report back on any you actually like/could see yourself buying. The good news is everyone actually found things they truly liked (and some of us purchased) and no self-deprecating words were allowed. Read on for what everyone picked and why, and then, pretty please, pass on any of your own suggestions for well-fitting shorts you can personally endorse.

Let’s do this. (But first, props to our photog Veronica who had to capture us in and around fitting rooms in “very flattering” fluorescent retail lighting.)

Arlyn (Editorial)

Shorts Relationship Status: Uh, definitely complicated. I’m only now, 34 years into my life, mostly unconcerned about whether my legs look like ham hocks or not, so this is a step forward for me and VERY freeing, particularly in hot LA summers. I’m petite and curvy, so there’s always an issue with inseam and rise. I can never seem to find the right combo. I also struggle with the “crotch stuff” (god, that was an unfortunate set of words together) when I walk in shorts, constantly tugging them down and mostly, it’s never worth it to me. 

Go-To Size: I’m a pretty solid 14/33, and fluctuate between L and XL depending on the brand/store.

Height: a statuesque 5’3″

Pick 1: Pull-On Shorts, Madewell, $40

Size: L (though I also own in black in an XL and I prefer the smaller size)

Why I like them: I already own these shorts in black, so I knew I was grabbing them for this try-on session/shoot. THEY ARE THE BEST. At one point, we all had a color in our dressing rooms. It’s like wearing pajama bottoms, but the little slit up the side (which sadly you can’t see in my photo for whatever reason) and the material make them appropriate to leave the house in. My goal for the summer is to essentially collect them in every color and never stop wearing them. If you’re a shorty pants like me, the inseam and rise are PERFECT (plus, you can roll them down if you want and I promise no one will notice). 

Pick 2: High-Rise Denim Shorts in Lunar Wash, Madewell, $70

Size: 32

Why I like them: Let me start by saying high-rise denim absolutely never works on me (I have a VERY short torso that is made to look even shorter with my exceptionally large bust), except these are probably magic because they were AMAZING. I tend not to spend a ton of money on shorts because I know I will never wear them but I walked out of the store with these and plan on actually wearing them, ha. They are flattening in the front poochy area (enough that I was confident enough to “French tuck” my T-shirt…this never happens), the perfect length for my short limbs, and have the perfect amount of stretch. I feel like I won the denim short lottery with these.

Caitlin (Social & Partnerships)

Shorts Relationship Status: IDK. Like, would I wear shorts on a first date? Probably not. But did I find out about this shoot and then go home and eat cheese fries instead of like, prepping my legs and putting on some Jergens sunless tanner? Yup. Shorts will never be my first choice (especially when they ride up in the crotch, which I feel is a super common problem that we do not talk about enough! Is there boob tape for pants?) but yeah, I don’t mind wearing them if it’s hot. This is my long-winded way of saying that I have accepted that I have super pale and pretty thick thighs and I’m ambivalent about it now. 

Go-To Size: 30, L/XL

Height: 5’8″

Pick 1: High Rise Denim Shorts in Lunar Wash, Madewell, $70

Size: 30

Why I like them: The morning we left to take these photos, I literally told Team EHD that I wanted to find high waisted shorts. Mission accomplished, y’all! These shorts are so comfortable, have the perfect “not too tight, not too loose” thing going on, and they were kinda like our Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in that this cut looked SO GOOD on every single person who tried them on.

Pick 2: High Rise Denim Shorts in Jordie Wash, Madewell, $72

Size: 30

Why I like them: Okay, okay, I KNOW these are technically the same shorts in a different wash, but hear me out: I have not worn actual blue denim shorts since…my sophomore year of college, probably? It’s been almost a decade and this was the first pair that reminded me that jean shorts could be kinda cute. I loved the wash, I loved the distressing, and you can cuff them up or leave them as-is, so you have some length options. Plus, I’m a Madewell loyalist (in the header photo, literally everything I am wearing is from Madewell) so I know that these will stand the test of time.

Pick 3: Linen Blend Shorts High Waist, H&M, $20

Size: L

Why I like them: These are normally the kind of shorts I gravitate toward in the summer. I know it’s not traditionally flattering, but when it’s hot out, I do not want any fabric actually touching me and I love to rock the entire “my body is a cube” look with an oversized button-up and loose shorts—it’s kinda like my version of a muumuu. But y’all, this is even better than a muumuu because the pockets on these are NUTS. They are ENORMOUS. By my initial size estimate, I determined that I could definitely fit an entire burger in each pocket, which is so far BEYOND what I could ever dream for a pocket on a normal women’s short! Also, if you decide to eat a huge lunch while wearing these, they are SO STRETCHY and comfortable. Like, if I had to wear shorts to Thanksgiving dinner, I would pick these. Love ’em.

Velinda (Design & Production)

Shorts Relationship Status: We’re healing. When I was 14, my mom told me in the sweetest of voices that it was so cute she could see cellulite on my leg that was squished against a chair. I was barely post-eating disorder and I don’t know what it was she saw, but WHY WOULD YOU SAY THAT? (Moms! Don’t do this to your girls). I didn’t wear shorts again (only breathable day dresses on hot days) until I was 26 years old when I popped over to friends’ house in pajama shorts. One of my pals, who had obviously never seen my legs before, said “Velinda, you have great legs! Why are you hiding them?” So, I started to dabble a bit again, slowly building my comfort level. I think I kinda love shorts now that I’m in my 30s and finally sourcing confidence from me vs. whoever was last in my ear.

Go-To Size: 27, 4/6

Height: 5’8″

Pick 1: High-Rise Denim Shorts in Erwin Wash: Cutoff Edition, Madewell, $70

Size: 27

Why I like them: So simple, but they have a little give which makes them really comfortable and not suffocating when sitting. Classic, casual and easy to pair in an ensemble.

Pick 2: Levi’s 501 High-Rise Denim Shorts in Fault Line, Free People, $70

Size: 27

Why I like them: Apparently, I’m as attracted to tattered shorts as I am pants. Cheers to forever looking slightly like a vagrant. These rise a bit higher and are thicker, giving some extra tummy support. As a result of being thicker, they have a little less give than the Madewell pair, but I still found them to be comfortable and a bit “cooler.”

Pick 3: Levi’s 501 Cutoff Shorts, Free People, $70

Size: 27

Why I like them: These were my favorite…on the shorter side, but still covered the booty (keep in mind, mine’s not abundant). I’m most attracted to them because they’re different than anything I have and they made me feel sassy…but I bet they could also go “chic” if paired right. Anyway, I liked the edge.

Jess (Editorial)

Shorts Relationship Status: Arch Nemesis?? I only own one pair of shorts that I have worn once in the past year and on that day I couldn’t wait to get my jeans back on. The constant adjusting, the inevitable chafe and cellulite show make me stay far far away from these little nightmares. Even in my younger (and thinner) days, I was always VERY uncomfortable in them (because the chafe is REAL people). This girl just has some genetically round-shaped thighs that have and will always be with me despite any past or future size. So when we were asked to participate, after my initial panic of the idea of wearing shorts ON THE INTERNET, I decided to get over my issues (because no one cares but me) and see if there was a magical pair of shorts I could like and feel good in.

Size: 30, on average

Height: 5’3 3/4″

Pick 1: High-Rise Denim Shorts in Jordie Wash, Madewell, $72

Size: 30

Why I like them: I really liked these a lot and seeing me photographed in them kind of makes me want to go back and buy them. I considered going down a size to help with tummy support but liked the comfort of the 30. Also, the wash was 100% perfect.

Pick 2: High-Rise Denim Shorts in Tile White, Madewell, $70

Size: 30

Why I like them:

Ryann: “Jess, I think you should try on white shorts today.” 

Jess: “HAHAHA white shorts with this booty? not. happening.”

Well, Ryann was right and I was wrong because I loved them A LOT (as shown from the expression on my face). I let my fears get the best of me and that’s why you should always go shopping with friends to push you out of your comfort zone. Apparently trying on clothes won’t kill you. Now my only fear would be spilling on them which I definitely would because I am a mess that shouldn’t be allowed to have nice things. Also, I want to note that while I don’t think they look “bad” in this picture, they looked and felt GREAT in the store. All the girls were begging me to get them. Highly recommend these puppies.

Pick 3: Denim Shorts, H&M, $18

Size: 10

Why I like them: What an unexpected gem. Aside from one pair a loooong time ago, I have never bought pants or shorts from H&M. I guess I didn’t have a lot of faith in their cuts and quality. Well, guess what? These fit great, I love the wash and that hint of distress. They felt a teeny bit on the shorter side but that may be because I am not used to wearing shorts. Plus, they were $18. Basically FREE! So I bought them because I really didn’t have a choice. It was a low-risk investment to get me on the shorts train. PS, I also bought four more colors of the shirt I’m wearing here and in the other two looks. It’s the perfect fit, feels/looks expensive with its linen material and so comfortable (and only $13 each). I’m wearing a medium which is pretty true to size for me.

Ryann (Editorial)

Shorts Relationship Status: I keep ghosting them, but then I come back for more after a few months (Yes, just like your horrible tinder date—I’m THAT guy). Lately, I have been into dresses that are more forgiving, but then I have moments where I really just want to wear shorts and a T-shirt and call it a day. I currently have one pair of shorts, so this little EHD research project was very apropos for me and my life. 

Go-To Size: 28-29 (size 30 in Levi’s)

Height: 5’8″

Pick 1: Levi’s 501’s High-Rise Denim Shorts, Free People, $70

Size: 30

Why I like them: These feel very Emily Henderson (I am pretty sure she actually has these), which might explain why I quickly snagged that puff sleeve top to try them with. The fit is great and I love a distressed short so yes, I did buy them and have no regrets. I’ve had versions of this same short so many times over the years (and I’d still be wearing them had my weight not fluctuated), but the upside is I now have them in three different sizes and I know these are a lifelong staple for me.

Pick 2: Curvy High-Rise Denim Shorts in Glenoaks Wash, Madewell, $70

Size: 29

Why I like them: I am unsure about how I feel about these longer shorts on me. I always see girls rocking the longer hem, but often feel very insecure about how my legs look in them. They make me feel short and stubby? I don’t know. But, I think if I would have sized up, I would like them more because that would create a relaxed fit. That said, these may be the most comfortable, breathable denim shorts I have ever put on my body. I feel like I can really DO things in these bad boys, I could even ride a bike in them (why I would be riding a bike I am not sure—but I could and that is all that matters). 

Pick 3: Levi’s Vintage Shortalls, Free People, $98

Size: L

Why I like them: Man do I love these overalls. I grabbed them on the way to the fitting room, because the white wash caught my eye and I’ve been wanting shortalls for a while now. The only size they were carrying in store was Large, which I figured would be fine because I like an oversized look and when I put them on I knew immediately they are a HELL YES. They are very comfortable but still chic (IMO). I definitely feel effortlessly cool wearing them and can see them being a staple in my wardrobe. I would wear with long sleeves and boots, or short tees and sneakers. 10/10!

Alright folks, that’s a wrap on our shorts try-on session. We’ll leave you with a grid of photos of us in ALL THE SAME SHORTS that somehow worked on all of our bodies. WE LOVE THESE SHORTS. This was an insanely fun morning, so if you like this style of post, we’d love to do more for different clothing categories…let us know!

***photography by Veronica Crawford

 

The post This One Pair of Shorts Worked on All of Our Bodies (+ All the Other Options We Reviewed & Loved) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

50+ Nearly Free Ideas For How To Entertain Your Kids (& Get You Through Summer)—UPDATED

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | from: mountain house: the kid’s room reveal

*Editor’s Note: We published this post last year from all of YOUR recommendations, and have since updated with even more recommendations from readers and Instagram followers, particularly for slightly older kids (3-5 and beyond). We’d love to keep this updated, so feel free to throw any new ideas in the comments.

It’s summer, the kids are out of school…what now? While parenting is, of course, full of sparkly, heart-wrenchingly beautiful moments, there are also those times where you feel so exhausted/unexcited/brain-dead and have NO IDEA what to do with your kiddos to keep them entertained—and you sane—for even two minutes. A few years ago, I did an Ask the Audience post where I talked about how playtime is at times not that fun for me and I begged asked you guys for ideas for how to entertain toddlers that both little ones AND adults would enjoy without really spending money or leaving your house. I wanted to feel more engaged, a.k.a. more present and a better mom…and you guys KILLED IT. There were over FIVE HUNDRED (!!!) comments with suggestions, genius ideas, other moms who just got it…thank you, thank you, thank you.

But, because of those five hundred comments, we thought…”no one is going to read all of this except for us” so we dug in, went through basically every.single.word, cleaned things up/took out duplicate ideas and plucked out some serious gems we felt were most appropriate for summer.

You guys are amazing and I KNOW that I’ll be referencing this a lot this summer. I hope it helps you, too.

FOR OLDER KIDS (3 YEARS & UP)
1. Play “Winter” in Summer

“Play ‘winter,’ i.e. create a smooth ramp down the stairs with blankets and pillows to ‘sled’ down, ‘ice skate’ with socks on wood floors, build an ‘igloo’ which is just a blanket fort, have a ‘snowball’ fight with rolled up socks, and have hot chocolate (or cold chocolate milk).” — Lindsay

2. Shaving Cream Drawing

“Try an activity that is sensory-satisfying, like shaving cream in a large jelly pan. The kids can draw in the foam with their fingers and then ‘wipe’ clean to start over. It’s messy (definitely an outdoor activity), but it can be very fun.” — Hilary

3. Chalk Alphabets

“I used to use sidewalk chalk to draw the alphabet on the driveway and then give the kids a spray bottle of water (or squirt gun). I would call out a letter and they would have to find it and go squirt it. We also did numbers and then they had to spell out words or do easy math problems. Educational, water play, and you can just sit there and call out things for them to do!” — Terri

4. Chalk Portraits

“When I used to babysit more, I would lay on the sidewalk/patio and let the kids outline me in sidewalk chalk. I got a little rest and they loved it. Then, when the outline was complete, I would sit back while they tried to fill in my face and clothes. It was always really funny to see their perception of me in chalk!” — Maura

“Trace them laying down and let them draw inside the outlines.” — Kate

5. Plexiglass Easel

“Buy a piece of plexiglass [hardware stores like Home Depot sell these for just a few bucks, depending on the size] and hang it in the backyard to be an outdoor easel. Kids can paint on it and leave it to be an art installation for the yard. When they’re ready to paint again, have them hose and scrub it off, which is also a good activity for a hot day.” — Melinda Chew

6. Tie Dye Shirts

“We did recently tie dyed shirts. It takes a little prep work (buying and washing the shirts, buying the dyes) but it was a lot of fun. – Jill

7. Pioneer Night

“Turn on fiddle music (that was the only electric we were allowed to use) and the kids dressed up and played as if it was the 19th century. (Think hidden eggs to collect, washboard and clothesline, etc.) They loved it!” — Heather

8. Drive-in Movie Theater

“Decorate cardboard boxes as cars, make snacks and enjoy.” — Rachel

9. Pajama Trips

“Take surprise pajama trips to get ice cream or basically anywhere outside the house.” — Lauren

10. Slip-n-slide + Baby Soap

“It doesn’t hurt their little eyes and they love it.” — Rebecca

11. Ice

“Freeze a giant block of ice with little toys on it. On a hot day, set it outside with safe tools.” — Corinne

“Freeze little animals in muffin tins and they can melt/chip them out.” — Ali

12. Potato Stamps

“Cut potatoes in half, carve shapes into them (or use small cookie cutters for safety), dip them in paint and use them to make stamp art.” — Beth

13. Geocaching

“Here’s a fun mountain house activity: Geocaching is fun…it’s a lazy parent’s scavenger hunt!” — Jessie

14. #kindnessrocks

“Decorate rocks then go on a walk or to a park and hide them! #kindnessrocks.” — Katie

15. Chores = Fun

“My son loves to ‘do work.’ It’s fun for him to do what we consider choices = win-win.” — Kara

16. Blindfold Guessing Game

“Blindfold your kids and have them feel, smell and touch things to guess what they are.” — Jessica

17. Pretend Raffle Tickets

“My kids love to make tickets and use them for fake raffles, carnival games, talent shows.” — Whitney

18. “Baking”

“I clean out my pantry and let the kids ‘bake’ and ‘cook’ with all the expired goods.” — Yippeeioh

19. Business Visits

“A lot of maker businesses will let kids come see how they do stuff. Try a pizza shop, a T-shirt printer, etc.” — Taylor

20. Workouts + Fun

“I do a workout with my nieces and nephews. They love burpees and jumping jacks and then they create their own moves. By the end, everyone is tired.” — Caroline

21. Building “Fountains”

“We get PVC pipes and a faucet connector and let the kids build ‘fountains’ in the yard.” — The Wilsons

22. Walkie-Talkie Hide-and-Seek

“Simply that. Play hide-and-seek with walkie-talkies.” — Christina

23. Build Fairy Houses

“We go outside with an empty shoebox and build fairy houses with the things we find.” —Indre

24. Library

“The autonomy of choosing and checking out books always works.” — Ally

25. Pick Your Adventure

“We keep a mason jar full of popsicle sticks with different activities written on them to pick.” — Rebekah

26. Play “Post Office”

“I use to have the kids make a post office with an old cardboard box as the mailbox. We’d send letters and wrap old boxes as packages.” — Jonet

FOR YOUNGER KIDS (UNDER 3)
Photo by Tessa Neustadt for Lonny
27. Bubble Machine

“We have a battery powered machine, and it keeps the kids entertained for a long time! My 4-year-old uses her butterfly net to pretend that the bubbles are butterflies, and my little guy just runs around laughing.” — Kim

28. Outdoor Color Scavenger Hunt

“No Time for Flash Cards has given me some really great activities. For example, she posted about a color scavenger hunt to do in the front and/or backyard [the idea is to take an ice tray or something with compartments, cut pieces of construction or colored paper and placing a different color into each spot of the tray, then the kids have to go around and find small things—flowers, rocks, leaves—that match the colors and place into each section.] It’s a great newsletter for year round!” — Jessica

29. Safari Hunt

“When my boys were younger (they are 24 months apart), we would go on a safari hunt. First, the adults would hide plastic animals (larger ones from a toy store) inside or outside at night time, while the kids went up to their rooms with a mini flashlight and little backpacks until we called out for them. Once they came out, they would hunt their hearts out until they found all the animals! My younger son loved the idea and didn’t always find a ton of animals but loved running around with a flashlight searching. We did this many, many nights and they loved it every time! We would sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy watching them on their hunt!” — Michelle

30. Use a Timer for Activities

“A timer helps to put a limit on everything, and small children don’t equate you and the timer as being the same entity. You can tell them you’re willing to do an activity for 15 minutes and set the timer for 8. They don’t know the difference, all they hear is the beep.” — Melissa

31. Create “Play Stations”

“Something that made my life easier was setting up play stations for the next morning or for after the kids got up from a nap. For example, I would set up some stuffed animals with stuff from the play kitchen so it suggested that maybe they were having a picnic. It worked every time! The kids would wake up and want to be entertained, and I would say, ‘I think the teddy bears are getting ready for a party’ (or something to engage their imagination) and they would head over and check it out and next thing you know, they are playing with the bears for the next 30 minutes.” — Teresa

“I have made “stations” too. I put about four activities on our dining room table in separate areas (for example, magnetic sand, Light Bright, coloring paper & markers, and Legos). Then I told the kids they had ten minutes at each “station” at the table. I set the timer and let them play with one thing, then told them when it was time to switch to a different area. The novelty of having the stations and the timer running was fun to them. Sometimes they wanted to stay at one station longer so I would say, sure, I’ll set the timer for ten more minutes. In some funny way, it made them feel like they were doing something important and made the toys feel new again. They had the choice of which stations to do next, too, and they loved that. – Jill

32. Cornstarch + Water = Minutes of Fun

“My guys like mixing things like cornstarch and water, flour and water. A couple of bowls of water, spoons, a ladle, a funnel, maybe some supervised food coloring, etc…usually keeps them engaged for as long as anything does at this stage!” — Mara

33. Chocolate Pudding Finger Painting

“As kids, my mom would make chocolate pudding and let us draw with it like finger paint on butcher paper, so fun and non-toxic, if you don’t mind a little sugar intake.” — Emilie

34. “Paint” With Water

“If you can be outside with them, water and/or sand will entertain them for hours. Your younger one would be thrilled to be given a hose with the water at a trickle and some plastic containers or given a bucket of water and a paintbrush to ‘paint’ the driveway or sidewalk. As long as you are present (and not engrossed in your phone) to say ‘Wow!’ and ‘I love it!’ frequently, they can entertain themselves.” — Tricia

35. Toy Animals + Washable Paint

“Let kids paint plastic animals with washable paint and then have them give the animals a bath in a big bowl.” — Jessie

UNDER 20 MINUTES OF FUN

36. Sensory Stimuli

“One thing that always keeps kids occupied is sensory stimuli. Sand with objects in it, shaving cream (it smells really good to them, you just need to watch out for them eating it), cornstarch and water [it’s both a solid and liquid at the same time and fascinating], and other generally gooey things. This is one I as an adult actually like doing, too.” — Katie

[Side note from Emily: I just wanted to add something to the whole “sensory stimuli” idea. In that photo above, my kiddos (and hubs) are playing with some homemade flubber/gak we made and everyone loved it. It’s SUPER easy to make with really cheap ingredients you might already have laying around: 4 ounces school glue (like Elmer’s), 1/2 cup water + 1/4 cup hot water, 1/2 teaspoon Borax (find it in most store’s laundry detergent section), food coloring (optional)]

37. Go On a “Safari”

“Say excitedly, ‘GUYS! Put on your explorer hats and grab your binoculars because WE ARE GOING ON A SAFARI!!!!!’ The kids will probably react like they CANNOT WAIT based solely on the excitement in your voice and without even needing to know what the heck a safari is. Once they are ‘in,’’ you RUN LIKE THE WIND to another corner of the yard or house or park and pretend you’re all getting in your jeep, buckling your seatbelt and heading out. Sit down. They will, too. Put your seatbelt on. They will, too. Start up the jeep and drive a bumpy road. Then GASP IN SHOCK when you see a giraffe! Narrowly avoid a near-fatal mishap with a lion! All you do is point and gasp A LOT. And narrate the whole thing for them. Like DO YOU SEE IT? It’s a scary lion! Hear it roar? I promise, they will totally fill in the blanks and you can start to coast through it after a while.” — Kirsten

38. Disco Dance Party

“We recently bought a cheap colorful dance party light. Paired with music, a couple of balloons and a dark playroom, we have ‘discos’ and dance it out. The music helps lift my mood and makes it fun for everyone.” — Briony

39. Fairy Tear Hunts

“We buy those little colored glass flat beads from craft stores and throw them everywhere – the kids love finding fairy tears. It never gets old!” — Heather

40. Shaving Cream

“Shaving cream spray on the counter! Let them practice the alphabet, write their names, draw figures.” — Tammy

OVER 20 MINUTES OF FUN
photo by Jason Frank Rothenburg for Jason Frank Rothenburg | from: 6 quick & easy 4th of july party ideas (that look like you tried)
41. Scavenger Hunt

“Yes, it requires some prep work, but scavenger hunts are like Disneyland and it helps engage them and get so much energy out. I usually draw pictures instead of clues so they can do it more independently. And I spread the clues OUT. Like front door to back of the backyard to upstairs to downstairs to side yard to bathroom. Get that energy out, kids. And I leave a small prize at the end, like really small. But they LOVE IT. It doesn’t last for hours but they feel very excited and satisfied by it so they live on that high for a while. I also make a list for them: Find three things in the house that are green. Draw a picture of them. Find something in the house that is tall. Draw a picture of that. Then, you can enjoy their drawings and celebrate their brilliant artistry but it’s still an activity they can do somewhat on their own.” — Paige

“I quickly made up a little scavenger hunt for the art museum near us so that when the kids went inside to look at the art, they’d have something to do. It said ‘Find these things’ at the top and then had a checklist that included things like ‘a painting with a dog’ and ‘a sculpture made of metal.’ I think I gave them stickers to put on each box, but I can’t remember. They loved filling in those boxes as they looked at the art work!  — Jill

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | from: our backyard makeover – the final reveal
42. After-Dinner Nature Walk

“Take a ‘nature walk’ after dinner (or at any point in the day) with the specific intention of having no intention or destination. Bring a bag and let them collect and bring home whatever they want—rocks, sticks, leaves. Get out of the house and go to a park and plan to stay (bring snacks/drinks) so they can burn off a ton of energy and come home tired.” — Karen T.

43. Reading Picnics

“We used to do book picnics. We would eat outside on a blanket [you could also do this inside if it’s too hot or raining] and bring out a ton of books. I would read to them as they ate and they loved it. Also, I always read to them during lunch and dinner (if I had time) and it helped them sit still long enough to finish eating and really instilled a love of reading. I got tired of reading the same books over and over so we went to the library almost every week and would check out literally about 50 books every time.” — Terri

44. Bath + Dinner Combo

“Here’s a solo parenting night strategy: kids eat dinner in the bathtub [they’ll eat anything when distracted]…they think it’s awesome and clean up is easy peasy.” — Alli

45. Extra Long Bath Time

“Stock up on bath toys, bring a comfortable chair into the bathroom (for you) and put on the kids’ favorite soundtrack or, if they can engage, a kids audiobook. Seriously, audiobooks and kids podcasts save my life. My kids are a bit older now, but when they get rambunctious, I pop on a podcast that catches their attention and they stop in their tracks!” — Emily

46. Dirt Play

“Plant a garden, i.e. let the kids fill flower pots with dirt and have them plant seeds. Digging in dirt alone is thrilling.” — Leah

47. Ice, Ice Baby

“I would freeze some of my kids’ toys in various sized containers and then, we would use turkey basters or eye droppers to drip warm colored water on the ice and watch t melt. Ultimately, the kids just would end up using their plastic hammers to smash it out.” — Tanya

48. Repurpose Cardboard Boxes

“Use flattened out cardboard boxes to draw a map with roads, etc. for cars, or other toys (like we have Daniel Tiger toys, and you can draw his neighborhood on the box), which is really exciting for them. We also made Daniel Tiger trolleys out of boxes once, and that was super fun.” — Ashley

49. Create a World With Cardboard

“We hoard our cardboard boxes and tubes from paper rolls/toilet paper/foil/etc. Cardboard plus colored masking tape and stickers can pretty much become anything they could imagine. We’ve built cars, spaceships, houses, castles and, even a movie theater (we sat in front of a ‘screen’ filled with stickers as characters and they narrated the action to me. I loved every moment of it. It isn’t going to be the neatest, most aesthetically pleasing playtime debris, but my kids can’t stay away from those cardboard boxes.” — Christina

50. Kids Yoga

“My kids have really enjoyed Cosmic Kids Yoga. We stream it through YouTube. The yoga is always based on a narrative and the moves are part of the story (kind of like they are acting it out, but doing yoga at the same time). Lots of good kid yoga resources out there, but my little girl loves this one the most. They have videos of different lengths and many different types of stories for a variety of interests. My 16-month-old can’t do the yoga, but loves to toddle around her sister (4) as she does it.” — Melissa

51. Vinegar + Baking Soda

“I fill a baking dish full of baking soda, then give the kids little jars mixed with food coloring & vinegar, and eye droppers. They can drop the colored vinegar in the dish, making different colored fizz. We’ve done this indoors a number of times, but it has the potential to be messy.” — Emily

52. Audiobooks + Quiet Time

“Play audiobooks in their separate spaces with a special toy or set of quiet toys like Legos.” —Ally

53. YouTube Draw Along

“Art for Kids Hub on YouTube! My Kids ages 4-9 could follow/draw along for hours.” — Ally

And finally, after our most recent call out on Instagram to get ideas, so many of you recommended, again and again, some accounts to follow that have fantastic suggestions, listed below: 

@busytoddler

@theworkspaceforchildren

@friendsartlab

@fiveminutemum

@dayswithgrey

@thedadlab

@naturallycuriouschildren

@mamapapabubba

So many of you also suggested some great toys to buy that are inexpensive but awesome (beyond the usual toy-aisle stuff) in this post. Feel free to suggest EVEN MORE great ideas (or chime in if any of the ideas listed here have been successful for you and your kiddos). 

The post 50+ Nearly Free Ideas For How To Entertain Your Kids (& Get You Through Summer)—UPDATED appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The (Surprising) Emotional Effects of Color In Your Home

photo by mike kelley | from: the fig house lounge before & after

Hey guys, I’m back with the very beginning stages of my MOTO (aka “Makeover Takeover”). I mentioned in my last post that my boyfriend and I are moving into a new apartment on August 1 and I am feeling the pressure to start thinking about my ever-approaching design process because we’re not bringing much with us. I don’t think I need to reiterate to you all that I have not done this before (this being designing an apartment for the INTERNET to see and judge), so it is all very exciting and absolutely terrifying.

So to get things rolling, what else could I do besides go on pinning frenzies aided by a glass of wine, in a desperate search for inspiration? My apartment is small but mighty and does not have a ton of architectural charm really, so my inspirations are that of small spaces, with DIY moments and storage solutions. In my very important research, I found out quickly that with an icebox style apartment such as mine (i.e. the visual interest of the inside of a freezer), all the charm and intrigue is going to come from styling and color. So, I got to really thinking about color as it applies to my design plan. Specifically, I began contemplating what color to paint the bedroom and/or kitchen, and how I could incorporate bold hues throughout our place in a way that would be cohesive and feel like us.

I did not want to embark on this color journey alone, and though I am extremely blessed to have team EHD guiding me in so many ways, the psychology of color was something I was very interested in learning about and implementing into this project I will soon call my home. I am a visual person, and I notice how color affects me in my daily life constantly. Red makes me feel powerful. Black makes me feel confident and sophisticated. Yellow and orange (in moderation) give my brain a happy energy boost. None of this is scientific but is certainly a very real thing I have observed in my own life. It makes sense to me that colors affect how we feel—it’s one of the first things we connect with as children. As a kid (and probably as an adult, too) you have a favorite color. You love that color and would do anything to see that color as much as possible. Why? Because that color makes you happy, or is associated with good feelings. THIS IS FASCINATING TO ME and I sincerely hope it is for some of you, too, because if not, you’re about to fall straight to sleep. So, yes, I had a lot of questions and since we have a few connects in the industry (job perk!) I was able to send over my burning color questions to some very insightful color experts.

Some of these questions are specific to me (though I know a lot of you will relate) but I snuck in a few for you parents out there because I think children have a special relationship with color and also because I am at my core, a giver. We divided the answers into categories, based on the intended effect. Let’s get to it, shall we?

For Health
1. photo by Petra Bindel | image source 2. design by Jenny Komenda of Juniper Studio

Are there certain colors that promote health?

“Colors found in nature can be the most positively healing colors. Sky blues and watery greens are the colors we gravitate towards to bring calm physical and mental balance.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Are there colors that can help cultivate healthy relationships or communication?

“The colors you surround yourself with can have a powerful impact on your overall attitude and experiences. It’s about using the colors to create a space that evokes a sense of positivity and openness for what’s to come. Surrounding yourself with calm watery tones of blues and sea-glass shades can create a space that is both calming and sophisticated (try HGSW2324 Reflecting Pool, which is is a beautiful color for creating serenity and elegance).” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams 

What about feelings of depression? Or any surprising colors that DO in fact affect mood in a way someone might not expect?

“I think the way colors affect people’s moods is totally unique to the individual. We all have our own stories and experiences that lead to who we are and what we like. I have conversations about color every day with homeowners and designers and one of the most interesting things that I’ve learned is to see how people react to colors and how they describe them, too. It’s deep.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“The healing powers of color are unique to each and every individual. Seek the colors that speak to you and your personal positivity. Green hues are some of the most well-known for having a positive impact on one’s everyday attitude; ideal for balance and harmony, decreasing the overwhelming feeling of everyday stress. For instance, Green Water 5003-4Ais a comforting hue, evoking the calming balance of water. Use with a tone on tone approach to promote positive energy!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

1. design by Loft Kolasinski Studio image via home world design | 2. image via apartment therapy

I love red but have a bit of anxiety. Does red TRULY cause intense feelings/anxiety? If so, how much does it affect anxiety and can you recommend a way to maybe bring it into your home in a way that won’t be overwhelming?

“Shades of red have been said to raise blood pressure, so I recommend being mindful of the rooms you want to use it in. It’s best used in common areas like living and dining rooms. Red is an exciting color that is energizing and fun, perfect for rooms that you want to stimulate conversation. Show Stopperfrom our “Color Pizzazz” collection is a perfect red that is bold and playful when combined with the other colors from the palette.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

“Not all reds are created equal. It is absolutely possible to create a shade of red that feels warm and inviting, but it can be tricky. Dialing back the saturation is a good place to start. Try a red with an earthy undertone. This will feel more organic and less intense.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

For Relaxation:
design by elizabeth roberts and john erik karkula | image source

I have a lot of trouble sleeping. Are there colors that help sleep hygiene? Or, what colors are best for creating a calm relaxing space in the bedroom?

“I prefer light colors in general, but there is definitely something to be said for a deep shade in a bedroom like a bold blue or muted green.” — Jamie Davis, Co-founder of Portola

“Colors that are soft, muted and not too stimulating are perfect for creating a calm relaxing environment in the bedroom to promote a healthy sleep cycle. Our Quiet Comfort Color Collectionis great a resource when you’re looking for calming tones, HGSW3047 Sensitive Tint is a beautiful soft lavender hue that has the calming effects of a cool shade without compromising colorful style.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

If you combine a “happy” and “sad” color in a room, how would that affect mood? Do they counterbalance each other in that way?

“All colors have the power of positivity when used with that intention. Think about the emotions you want to evoke in a room and what colors come to mind. If green gives you the feeling of calm balance and that is your intent, pull various shades of green for the space. A room is what you make of it; you have the power to pick the colors that make you feel great!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Are there colors that increase laziness?

“I wouldn’t necessarily paint my office dark blue or gray. These colors are beautiful and cozy, but probably won’t promote productivity and excitement. Keep those shades reserved for a den or bedroom.” — Jamie Davis, Co-FOunder of Portola

For The Kids (And Fur Babies)

Are there colors that affect young children more than adults?

“From a very young age, children use color as a way of learning. They associate colors with objects and are drawn to bright, primary and secondary colors with a high contrast as a way of navigating the world. The way colors affect children’s moods are very similar to adults; warm hues can be comforting and cooler tones can be calming. Think about a room’s use and then pick your colors. A playroom can be fun and vibrant, while a nursery should be calm and muted so the child can be relaxed to have a peaceful nights’ rest.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

I don’t have kids, but I have a dog and I’m curious. Since our pups are color blind, how does color affect their behavior or mood (or does it not)?

“Dogs can see shades of color, just not the way we can. Dogs cannot see reds and greens, but can typically see other shades in a more muted lens. Just like humans, dogs have their own personality and can react differently to colors.  If you’re worried the colors of your home are affecting your dogs’ mood, play around with different dog toys and see what shades your dog gravitates towards and responds positively too. But at the end of the day, if you’re concerned your red room that you love might be causing your dog anxiety, rest assured they are probably seeing dark gray.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

One of our team members mentioned she heard yellow is said to cause anxiety in babies. Is this true, and if so, what other colors could be good for gender-neutral rooms or nurseries? 

“I have heard the rumor that yellow can cause anxiety for babies, or even bring anger out in some, but the key to picking a color for a baby’s nursery is to select a soft shade. If you want to use yellow in your child’s room, use something muted. Butter Up is a happy optimistic shade that makes a room feel open and airy.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

For Creativity 
photo by sara ligorria-tramp for a light & bright home office

What are the best colors for a creative space? (Or what colors promote creativity?)

“For creativity, I think light, crisp and clean. I feel it is important to have a blank canvas to allow yourself the freedom to think and create. I get very inspired when traveling by all the fun and bold uses of color, but when I’m in my creative space, I like things to be minimal and clean.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“Primary blue (Deep Space 4008-8Cfor example) is bold and vibrant and is an intellectual color that sparks creativity. When used thoughtfully, it can help increase your focus and efficiency. Favored by many artists, purple is often associated with imagination and creativity. The sociability of red combined with the focus of blue is ideal for a space when looking to spark creativity.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Are there colors that help entrepreneurial people?

“Sure, there are colors that are linked to happiness and energy, calmness and relaxing, and imagination.  Depending on what that key driver is for the entrepreneurial person, there is absolutely a color to help! For instance, most freelance writers have a great sense of imagination so a shade of purple might help them.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

It’s Relative…
design by Paloma Lanna | image source

Are some people more susceptible to the effect of color than others? 

“Yes, absolutely. Most people are affected by color as they are by different smells, tastes, etc. Feelings about colors are often deeply rooted in your own personal experiences; for example, an avocado green hue can often remind people of their parents/grandparents kitchen appliances that were bought in the ’70s.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

What colors cause irritability?

“This is often very subjective. If you have a distaste for a certain hue, no matter what the psychology is behind it, you may not like any shade of it. When selecting a color for your project, it is important to find a color that works well for it and most importantly, that it makes you happy.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

“I’m not a huge fan of orange or yellow. Which has actually been an interesting challenge when creating colors. I have spent a lot of time lately working on how to make yellows and oranges that I like. It’s all about saturation and undertone. I might not love those colors, but plenty of people do.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

What is one of the biggest misconceptions about color you see frequently? Anything that someone might be surprised to know?

“That everybody sees colors differently. No two people are alike, so it doesn’t make sense to assume that all people see color the same way and that everybody’s reaction to being in a red room is going to be felt the same way. That is one of the most challenging parts about being a colorist. It is also the most rewarding! I love making colors that make people feel great.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for reveal alert: the color trend we are very into

How does light in a room affect a paint color?

“Lighting is the main element that can change the look and feel of a color in a room, the type and amount of light is something to consider when selecting the perfect color. Most homes have incandescent lights, which is an amber color, making warm tones more vibrant and cool shades more muted. Natural lighting is another lighting element to be mindful of, think of the room type and when it will be used. The direction and time of day the sun comes in could determine the type of sunlight the room gets throughout the day. East-facing rooms get warm sunlight in the morning, while west-facing rooms get the warmth of the sun during the evening.  North and south-facing rooms receive more light throughout the day that is cooler in tone.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Now the fun part. Taking the sound advice graciously provided above, I have a decent idea what color palettes I am willing to work with (which is very much subject to change mind you). So, for my first act in this MOTO journey, I am giving you my color palettes, room by room. You’ll notice most of these are “neutrals” as the key colors with a bunch of other colors as accents because that feels less intimidating to my neophyte decorating ways. I AM VERY CONFIDENT AND NOT AT ALL FRIGHTENED TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU. Here goes:

My living room is where I spend the most time, and I am not afraid to admit it. It is where I watch TV, read, write, and yes sometimes eat, so it is both a relaxing and creative space for me. This color palette is very much inspired by the living room photo up there (4th photo down from the top). I just love the bright colors but how the room still feels simple and warm. I think for me, creativity and relaxation go hand in hand and in order for me to be my most creative and as calm and “at home” as possible, bright colors and beautiful things to look at are a must.

If you can picture this, in my new place, you’ll walk straight into my living room from the front door and if you turn your head right, you’d see the sofa. Directly ahead is where our dining table will live. It is not a dining room, nor necessarily a nook, it is just a space. This is fine with me because honestly I don’t sit at the table very often. Since this area is directly adjacent to my living room, I want the colors to work together and flow naturally without repeating the same thing as the living room. I am imagining the living room having more visual interest and colors and the dining area to be a lot more subtle and minimalist. I picture a sleek black dining table, plants, a brass bar cart and some art or centerpiece that incorporates some or all of the accent colors.

The bane of my existence is that I have a very hard time sleeping. I am a light sleeper and very restless and though I really do not believe that color will make much of a difference for me in this area, I do want to create a relaxing and calming space. I love the idea of having natural colors in my bedroom, because I love love love being in nature. What I really mean by that is “I am outdoorsy in that I like getting drunk on patios” which is a quote I got from a very funny meme I saw once and is also very accurate. Anywho, natural colors and materials that are muted and calming are what I am going for here to create a zen oasis.

Welcome to my one and only dark and moody moment, where I hope to incorporate just a tiny bit of the Victorian style that I have (to my utter surprise) come to love. I like dark bathrooms, always have, and I really have no idea why so that is where the inspiration for these colors are coming from, I guess. I’d love a Victorian framed vintage painting here, or a really dramatic gold mirror. I also love limewash now, so my dream would be to have a limewash dark dramatic blue, maybe a bold purple painting, and brass hardware and call it a day.

I really thought about a huge bright red color moment in here. Like, really thought about it. Our cabinets are currently white and you know part of me wants to paint them a bold red. But I think I will chicken out because despite how much I want it if I really think about it, I don’t think it will look good. The kitchen is very narrow and I believe it would feel like being trapped in the parted red sea. SO, I went the opposite route and am now envisioning crisp white walls, (perhaps green cabinets) plants (of course), with a pop of yellow and red with matte black hardware.

And there you have it. I guess doing this post means that I actually have to do my MOTO, and that you all and EHD will be expecting it. GULP. Be advised that all this might change by tomorrow and that I am not responsible for sticking to anything mentioned here today. Oh, and for anyone wondering where the photos of my place are, well, a full introduction to my new home is coming as soon as I get the keys to the place. Stay tuned.

Oh, and as always, throw any specific color recs into the comments, because who doesn’t spend their time wondering about the perfect paint color?

 

The post The (Surprising) Emotional Effects of Color In Your Home appeared first on Emily Henderson.

How Colors Can Affect The Way You Feel at Home

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | arlyn’s moody dining room reveal

Hey guys, I’m back with the very beginning stages of my MOTO (aka “Makeover Takeover”). I mentioned in my last post that my boyfriend and I are moving into a new apartment on August 1 and I am feeling the pressure to start thinking about my ever-approaching design process because we’re not bringing much with us. I don’t think I need to reiterate to you all that I have not done this before (this being designing an apartment for the INTERNET to see and judge), so it is all very exciting and absolutely terrifying.

So to get things rolling, what else could I do besides go on pinning frenzies aided by a glass of wine, in a desperate search for inspiration? My apartment is small but mighty and does not have a ton of architectural charm really, so my inspirations are that of small spaces, with DIY moments and storage solutions. In my very important research, I found out quickly that with an icebox style apartment such as mine (i.e. the visual interest of the inside of a freezer), all the charm and intrigue is going to come from styling and color. So, I got to really thinking about color as it applies to my design plan. Specifically, I began contemplating what color to paint the bedroom and/or kitchen, and how I could incorporate bold hues throughout our place in a way that would be cohesive and feel like us.

I did not want to embark on this color journey alone, and though I am extremely blessed to have team EHD guiding me in so many ways, the psychology of color was something I was very interested in learning about and implementing into this project I will soon call my home. I am a visual person, and I notice how color affects me in my daily life constantly. Red makes me feel powerful. Black makes me feel confident and sophisticated. Yellow and orange (in moderation) give my brain a happy energy boost. None of this is scientific but is certainly a very real thing I have observed in my own life. It makes sense to me that colors affect how we feel—it’s one of the first things we connect with as children. As a kid (and probably as an adult, too) you have a favorite color. You love that color and would do anything to see that color as much as possible. Why? Because that color makes you happy, or is associated with good feelings. THIS IS FASCINATING TO ME and I sincerely hope it is for some of you, too, because if not, you’re about to fall straight to sleep. So, yes, I had a lot of questions and since we have a few connects in the industry (job perk!) I was able to send over my burning color questions to some very insightful color experts. 

Some of these questions are specific to me (though I know a lot of you will relate) but I snuck in a few for you parents out there because I think children have a special relationship with color and also because I am at my core, a giver. Let’s get to it, shall we?

1. design by Loft Kolasinski Studio image via home world design | 2. image via apartment therapy

I love red but have a bit of anxiety. Does red TRULY cause intense feelings/anxiety? If so, how much does it affect anxiety and can you recommend a way to maybe bring it into your home in a way that won’t be overwhelming?

“Shades of red have been said to raise blood pressure, so I recommend being mindful of the rooms you want to use it in. It’s best used in common areas like living and dining rooms. Red is an exciting color that is energizing and fun, perfect for rooms that you want to stimulate conversation. Show Stopper from our “Color Pizzazz” collection is a perfect red that is bold and playful when combined with the other colors from the palette.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

“Not all reds are created equal. It is absolutely possible to create a shade of red that feels warm and inviting, but it can be tricky. Dialing back the saturation is a good place to start. Try a red with an earthy undertone. This will feel more organic and less intense.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

One of our team members mentioned she heard yellow is said to cause anxiety in babies. Is this true, and if so, what other colors could be good for gender-neutral rooms or nurseries? 

“I have heard the rumor that yellow can cause anxiety for babies, or even bring anger out in some, but the key to picking a color for a baby’s nursery is to select a soft shade. If you want to use yellow in your child’s room, use something muted. Butter Up is a happy optimistic shade that makes a room feel open and airy.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

I don’t have kids, but I have a dog and I’m curious. Since our pups are color blind, how does color affect their behavior or mood (or does it not)?

“Dogs can see shades of color, just not the way we can. Dogs cannot see reds and greens, but can typically see other shades in a more muted lens. Just like humans, dogs have their own personality and can react differently to colors.  If you’re worried the colors of your home are affecting your dogs’ mood, play around with different dog toys and see what shades your dog gravitates towards and responds positively too. But at the end of the day, if you’re concerned your red room that you love might be causing your dog anxiety, rest assured they are probably seeing dark gray.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

design by elizabeth roberts and john erik karkula | image source

I have a lot of trouble sleeping. Are there colors that help sleep hygiene? Or, what colors are best for creating a calm relaxing space in the bedroom?

“I prefer light colors in general, but there is definitely something to be said for a deep shade in a bedroom like a bold blue or muted green.” — Jamie Davis, Co-founder of Portola

“Colors that are soft, muted and not too stimulating are perfect for creating a calm relaxing environment in the bedroom to promote a healthy sleep cycle. Our Quiet Comfort Color Collection is great a resource when you’re looking for calming tones, HGSW3047 Sensitive Tint is a beautiful soft lavender hue that has the calming effects of a cool shade without compromising colorful style.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

Are there colors that affect young children more than adults?

“From a very young age, children use color as a way of learning. They associate colors with objects and are drawn to bright, primary and secondary colors with a high contrast as a way of navigating the world. The way colors affect children’s moods are very similar to adults; warm hues can be comforting and cooler tones can be calming. Think about a room’s use and then pick your colors. A playroom can be fun and vibrant, while a nursery should be calm and muted so the child can be relaxed to have a peaceful nights’ rest.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

Are some people more susceptible to the effect of color than others? 

“Yes, absolutely. Most people are affected by color as they are by different smells, tastes, etc. Feelings about colors are often deeply rooted in your own personal experiences; for example, an avocado green hue can often remind people of their parents/grandparents kitchen appliances that were bought in the ’70s.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

design by paloma lanna | image source

Are there colors that can help cultivate healthy relationships or communication?

“The colors you surround yourself with can have a powerful impact on your overall attitude and experiences. It’s about using the colors to create a space that evokes a sense of positivity and openness for what’s to come. Surrounding yourself with calm watery tones of blues and sea-glass shades can create a space that is both calming and sophisticated (try HGSW2324 Reflecting Pool, which is is a beautiful color for creating serenity and elegance).” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams 

What about feelings of depression? Or any surprising colors that DO in fact affect mood in a way someone might not expect?

“I think the way colors affect people’s moods is totally unique to the individual. We all have our own stories and experiences that lead to who we are and what we like. I have conversations about color every day with homeowners and designers and one of the most interesting things that I’ve learned is to see how people react to colors and how they describe them, too. It’s deep.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“The healing powers of color are unique to each and every individual. Seek the colors that speak to you and your personal positivity. Green hues are some of the most well-known for having a positive impact on one’s everyday attitude; ideal for balance and harmony, decreasing the overwhelming feeling of everyday stress. For instance, Green Water 5003-4A is a comforting hue, evoking the calming balance of water. Use with a tone on tone approach to promote positive energy!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

 

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | portland reveal: a light & bright home office

What are the best colors for a creative space? (Or what colors promote creativity?)

“For creativity, I think light, crisp and clean. I feel it is important to have a blank canvas to allow yourself the freedom to think and create. I get very inspired when traveling by all the fun and bold uses of color, but when I’m in my creative space, I like things to be minimal and clean.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“Primary blue (Deep Space 4008-8C for example) is bold and vibrant and is an intellectual color that sparks creativity. When used thoughtfully, it can help increase your focus and efficiency. Favored by many artists, purple is often associated with imagination and creativity. The sociability of red combined with the focus of blue is ideal for a space when looking to spark creativity.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Are there colors that help entrepreneurial people?

“Sure, there are colors that are linked to happiness and energy, calmness and relaxing, and imagination.  Depending on what that key driver is for the entrepreneurial person, there is absolutely a color to help!  For instance, most freelance writers have a great sense of imagination so a shade of purple might help them.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

photography by sara ligorria-tramp | reveal alert: the color trend we’re very into

How does light in a room affect a paint color?

“Lighting is the main element that can change the look and feel of a color in a room, the type and amount of light is something to consider when selecting the perfect color. Most homes have incandescent lights, which is an amber color, making warm tones more vibrant and cool shades more muted. Natural lighting is another lighting element to be mindful of, think of the room type and when it will be used. The direction and time of day the sun comes in could determine the type of sunlight the room gets throughout the day. East-facing rooms get warm sunlight in the morning, while west-facing rooms get the warmth of the sun during the evening.  North and south-facing rooms receive more light throughout the day that is cooler in tone.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

If you combine a “happy” and “sad” color in a room, how would that affect mood? Do they counterbalance each other in that way?

“All colors have the power of positivity when used with that intention. Think about the emotions you want to evoke in a room and what colors come to mind. If green gives you the feeling of calm balance and that is your intent, pull various shades of green for the space. A room is what you make of it; you have the power to pick the colors that make you feel great!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

1. photo by petra bindel | image source 2. design by jenny komenda of juniper studio

Are there certain colors that promote health?

“Colors found in nature can be the most positively healing colors. Sky blues and watery greens are the colors we gravitate towards to bring calm physical and mental balance.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

What colors cause irritability?

“This is often very subjective. If you have a distaste for a certain hue, no matter what the psychology is behind it, you may not like any shade of it. When selecting a color for your project, it is important to find a color that works well for it and most importantly, that it makes you happy.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

“I’m not a huge fan of orange or yellow. Which has actually been an interesting challenge when creating colors. I have spent a lot of time lately working on how to make yellows and oranges that I like. It’s all about saturation and undertone. I might not love those colors, but plenty of people do.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

Are there colors that increase laziness?

“I wouldn’t necessarily paint my office dark blue or gray. These colors are beautiful and cozy, but probably won’t promote productivity and excitement. Keep those shades reserved for a den or bedroom.” — Jamie Davis, Co-FOunder of Portola

What is one of the biggest misconceptions about color you see frequently? Anything that someone might be surprised to know?

“That everybody sees colors differently. No two people are alike, so it doesn’t make sense to assume that all people see color the same way and that everybody’s reaction to being in a red room is going to be felt the same way. That is one of the most challenging parts about being a colorist. It is also the most rewarding! I love making colors that make people feel great.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

Now the fun part. Taking the sound advice graciously provided above, I have a decent idea what color palettes I am willing to work with (which is very much subject to change mind you). So, for my first act in this MOTO journey, I am giving you my color palettes, room by room. You’ll notice most of these are “neutrals” as the key colors with a bunch of other colors as accents because that feels less intimidating to my neophyte decorating ways. I AM VERY CONFIDENT AND NOT AT ALL FRIGHTENED TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU. Here goes:

My living room is where I spend the most time, and I am not afraid to admit it. It is where I watch TV, read, write, and yes sometimes eat, so it is both a relaxing and creative space for me. This color palette is very much inspired by the living room photo up there (4th photo down from the top). I just love the bright colors but how the room still feels simple and warm. I think for me, creativity and relaxation go hand in hand and in order for me to be my most creative and as calm and “at home” as possible, bright colors and beautiful things to look at are a must.

If you can picture this, in my new place, you’ll walk straight into my living room from the front door and if you turn your head right, you’d see the sofa. Directly ahead is where our dining table will live. It is not a dining room, nor necessarily a nook, it is just a space. This is fine with me because honestly I don’t sit at the table very often. Since this area is directly adjacent to my living room, I want the colors to work together and flow naturally without repeating the same thing as the living room. I am imagining the living room having more visual interest and colors and the dining area to be a lot more subtle and minimalist. I picture a sleek black dining table, plants, a brass bar cart and some art or centerpiece that incorporates some or all of the accent colors.

The bane of my existence is that I have a very hard time sleeping. I am a light sleeper and very restless and though I really do not believe that color will make much of a difference for me in this area, I do want to create a relaxing and calming space. I love the idea of having natural colors in my bedroom, because I love love love being in nature. What I really mean by that is “I am outdoorsy in that I like getting drunk on patios” which is a quote I got from a very funny meme I saw once and is also very accurate. Anywho, natural colors and materials that are muted and calming are what I am going for here to create a zen oasis.

Welcome to my one and only dark and moody moment, where I hope to incorporate just a tiny bit of the Victorian style that I have (to my utter surprise) come to love. I like dark bathrooms, always have, and I really have no idea why so that is where the inspiration for these colors are coming from, I guess. I’d love a Victorian framed vintage painting here, or a really dramatic gold mirror. I also love limewash now, so my dream would be to have a limewash dark dramatic blue, maybe a bold purple painting, and brass hardware and call it a day.

I really thought about a huge bright red color moment in here. Like, really thought about it. Our cabinets are currently white and you know part of me wants to paint them a bold red. But I think I will chicken out because despite how much I want it if I really think about it, I don’t think it will look good. The kitchen is very narrow and I believe it would feel like being trapped in the parted red sea. SO, I went the opposite route and am now envisioning crisp whites, plants (of course), with a pop of yellow and red with matte black hardware.

And there you have it. I guess doing this post means that I actually have to do my MOTO, and that you all and EHD will be expecting it. GULP. Be advised that all this might change by tomorrow and that I am not responsible for sticking to anything mentioned here today. Oh, and for anyone wondering where the photos of my place are, well, a full introduction to my new home is coming as soon as I get the keys to the place. Stay tuned.

Oh, and as always, throw any specific color recs into the comments, because who doesn’t spend their time wondering about the perfect paint color?

The post How Colors Can Affect The Way You Feel at Home appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Is Your Wall Color Making You Anxious? (+ More Burning Color Psychology Questions We Had…Answered)

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | arlyn’s moody dining room reveal

Hey guys, I’m back with the very beginning stages of my MOTO (aka “Makeover Takeover”). I mentioned in my last post that my boyfriend and I are moving into a new apartment on August 1 and I am feeling the pressure to start thinking about my ever-approaching design process because we’re not bringing much with us. I don’t think I need to reiterate to you all that I have not done this before (this being designing an apartment for the INTERNET to see and judge), so it is all very exciting and absolutely terrifying.

So to get things rolling, what else could I do besides go on pinning frenzies aided by a glass of wine, in a desperate search for inspiration? My apartment is small but mighty and does not have a ton of architectural charm really, so my inspirations are that of small spaces, with DIY moments and storage solutions. In my very important research, I found out quickly that with an icebox style apartment such as mine (i.e. the visual interest of the inside of a freezer), all the charm and intrigue is going to come from styling and color. So, I got to really thinking about color as it applies to my design plan. Specifically, I began contemplating what color to paint the bedroom and/or kitchen, and how I could incorporate bold hues throughout our place in a way that would be cohesive and feel like us.

I did not want to embark on this color journey alone, and though I am extremely blessed to have team EHD guiding me in so many ways, the psychology of color was something I was very interested in learning about and implementing into this project I will soon call my home. I am a visual person, and I notice how color affects me in my daily life constantly. Red makes me feel powerful. Black makes me feel confident and sophisticated. Yellow and orange (in moderation) give my brain a happy energy boost. None of this is scientific but is certainly a very real thing I have observed in my own life. It makes sense to me that colors affect how we feel—it’s one of the first things we connect with as children. As a kid (and probably as an adult, too) you have a favorite color. You love that color and would do anything to see that color as much as possible. Why? Because that color makes you happy, or is associated with good feelings. THIS IS FASCINATING TO ME and I sincerely hope it is for some of you, too, because if not, you’re about to fall straight to sleep. So, yes, I had a lot of questions and since we have a few connects in the industry (job perk!) I was able to send over my burning color questions to some very insightful color experts. 

Some of these questions are specific to me (though I know a lot of you will relate) but I snuck in a few for you parents out there because I think children have a special relationship with color and also because I am at my core, a giver. Let’s get to it, shall we?

1. design by Loft Kolasinski Studio image via home world design | 2. image via apartment therapy

I love red but have a bit of anxiety. Does red TRULY cause intense feelings/anxiety? If so, how much does it affect anxiety and can you recommend a way to maybe bring it into your home in a way that won’t be overwhelming?

“Shades of red have been said to raise blood pressure, so I recommend being mindful of the rooms you want to use it in. It’s best used in common areas like living and dining rooms. Red is an exciting color that is energizing and fun, perfect for rooms that you want to stimulate conversation. Show Stopper from our “Color Pizzazz” collection is a perfect red that is bold and playful when combined with the other colors from the palette.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

“Not all reds are created equal. It is absolutely possible to create a shade of red that feels warm and inviting, but it can be tricky. Dialing back the saturation is a good place to start. Try a red with an earthy undertone. This will feel more organic and less intense.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

One of our team members mentioned she heard yellow is said to cause anxiety in babies. Is this true, and if so, what other colors could be good for gender-neutral rooms or nurseries? 

“I have heard the rumor that yellow can cause anxiety for babies, or even bring anger out in some, but the key to picking a color for a baby’s nursery is to select a soft shade. If you want to use yellow in your child’s room, use something muted. Butter Up is a happy optimistic shade that makes a room feel open and airy.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

I don’t have kids, but I have a dog and I’m curious. Since our pups are color blind, how does color affect their behavior or mood (or does it not)?

“Dogs can see shades of color, just not the way we can. Dogs cannot see reds and greens, but can typically see other shades in a more muted lens. Just like humans, dogs have their own personality and can react differently to colors.  If you’re worried the colors of your home are affecting your dogs’ mood, play around with different dog toys and see what shades your dog gravitates towards and responds positively too. But at the end of the day, if you’re concerned your red room that you love might be causing your dog anxiety, rest assured they are probably seeing dark gray.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

design by elizabeth roberts and john erik karkula | image source

I have a lot of trouble sleeping. Are their colors that help sleep hygiene? Or, what colors are best for creating a calm relaxing space in the bedroom?

“I prefer light colors in general, but there is definitely something to be said for a deep shade in a bedroom like a bold blue or muted green.” — Jamie Davis, Co-founder of Portola

“Colors that are soft, muted and not too stimulating are perfect for creating a calm relaxing environment in the bedroom to promote a healthy sleep cycle. Our Quiet Comfort Color Collection is great a resource when you’re looking for calming tones, HGSW3047 Sensitive Tint is a beautiful soft lavender hue that has the calming effects of a cool shade without compromising colorful style.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

Are there colors that affect young children more than adults?

“From a very young age, children use color as a way of learning. They associate colors with objects and are drawn to bright, primary and secondary colors with a high contrast as a way of navigating the world. The way colors affect children’s moods are very similar to adults; warm hues can be comforting and cooler tones can be calming. Think about a room’s use and then pick your colors. A playroom can be fun and vibrant, while a nursery should be calm and muted so the child can be relaxed to have a peaceful nights’ rest.” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams

Are some people more susceptible to the effect of color than others? 

“Yes, absolutely. Most people are affected by color as they are by different smells, tastes, etc. Feelings about colors are often deeply rooted in your own personal experiences; for example, an avocado green hue can often remind people of their parents/grandparents kitchen appliances that were bought in the ’70s.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

design by paloma lanna | image source

Are there colors that can help cultivate healthy relationships or communication?

“The colors you surround yourself with can have a powerful impact on your overall attitude and experiences. It’s about using the colors to create a space that evokes a sense of positivity and openness for what’s to come. Surrounding yourself with calm watery tones of blues and sea-glass shades can create a space that is both calming and sophisticated (try HGSW2324 Reflecting Pool, which is is a beautiful color for creating serenity and elegance).” — Ashley Banbury, Sr. Color Designer, HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams 

What about feelings of depression? Or any surprising colors that DO in fact affect mood in a way someone might not expect?

“I think the way colors affect people’s moods is totally unique to the individual. We all have our own stories and experiences that lead to who we are and what we like. I have conversations about color every day with homeowners and designers and one of the most interesting things that I’ve learned is to see how people react to colors and how they describe them, too. It’s deep.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“The healing powers of color are unique to each and every individual. Seek the colors that speak to you and your personal positivity. Green hues are some of the most well-known for having a positive impact on one’s everyday attitude; ideal for balance and harmony, decreasing the overwhelming feeling of everyday stress. For instance, Green Water 5003-4A is a comforting hue, evoking the calming balance of water. Use with a tone on tone approach to promote positive energy!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

 

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | portland reveal: a light & bright home office

What are the best colors for a creative space? (Or what colors promote creativity?)

“For creativity, I think light, crisp and clean. I feel it is important to have a blank canvas to allow yourself the freedom to think and create. I get very inspired when traveling by all the fun and bold uses of color, but when I’m in my creative space, I like things to be minimal and clean.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

“Primary blue (Deep Space 4008-8C for example) is bold and vibrant and is an intellectual color that sparks creativity. When used thoughtfully, it can help increase your focus and efficiency. Favored by many artists, purple is often associated with imagination and creativity. The sociability of red combined with the focus of blue is ideal for a space when looking to spark creativity.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

Are there colors that help entrepreneurial people?

“Sure, there are colors that are linked to happiness and energy, calmness and relaxing, and imagination.  Depending on what that key driver is for the entrepreneurial person, there is absolutely a color to help!  For instance, most freelance writers have a great sense of imagination so a shade of purple might help them.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

photography by sara ligorria-tramp | reveal alert: the color trend we’re very into

How does light in a room affect a paint color?

“Lighting is the main element that can change the look and feel of a color in a room, the type and amount of light is something to consider when selecting the perfect color. Most homes have incandescent lights, which is an amber color, making warm tones more vibrant and cool shades more muted. Natural lighting is another lighting element to be mindful of, think of the room type and when it will be used. The direction and time of day the sun comes in could determine the type of sunlight the room gets throughout the day. East-facing rooms get warm sunlight in the morning, while west-facing rooms get the warmth of the sun during the evening.  North and south-facing rooms receive more light throughout the day that is cooler in tone.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

If you combine a “happy” and “sad” color in a room, how would that affect mood? Do they counterbalance each other in that way?

“All colors have the power of positivity when used with that intention. Think about the emotions you want to evoke in a room and what colors come to mind. If green gives you the feeling of calm balance and that is your intent, pull various shades of green for the space. A room is what you make of it; you have the power to pick the colors that make you feel great!” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

1. photo by petra bindel | image source 2. design by jenny komenda of juniper studio

Are there certain colors that promote health?

“Colors found in nature can be the most positively healing colors. Sky blues and watery greens are the colors we gravitate towards to bring calm physical and mental balance.” — Sue Kim, Color Marketing Manager, Valspar Paint

What colors cause irritability?

“This is often very subjective. If you have a distaste for a certain hue, no matter what the psychology is behind it, you may not like any shade of it. When selecting a color for your project, it is important to find a color that works well for it and most importantly, that it makes you happy.” — Rachel Skafidas, Senior Color Designer, Krylon

“I’m not a huge fan of orange or yellow. Which has actually been an interesting challenge when creating colors. I have spent a lot of time lately working on how to make yellows and oranges that I like. It’s all about saturation and undertone. I might not love those colors, but plenty of people do.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

Are their colors that increase laziness?

“I wouldn’t necessarily paint my office dark blue or gray. These colors are beautiful and cozy, but probably won’t promote productivity and excitement. Keep those shades reserved for a den or bedroom.” — Jamie Davis, Co-FOunder of Portola

What is one of the biggest misconceptions about color you see frequently? Anything that someone might be surprised to know?

“That everybody sees colors differently. No two people are alike, so it doesn’t make sense to assume that all people see color the same way and that everybody’s reaction to being in a red room is going to be felt the same way. That is one of the most challenging parts about being a colorist. It is also the most rewarding! I love making colors that make people feel great.” — Jamie Davis, Co-Founder of Portola

Now the fun part. Taking the sound advice graciously provided above, I have a decent idea what color palettes I am willing to work with (which is very much subject to change mind you). So, for my first act in this MOTO journey, I am giving you my color palettes, room by room. You’ll notice most of these are “neutrals” as the key colors with a bunch of other colors as accents because that feels less intimidating to my neophyte decorating ways. I AM VERY CONFIDENT AND NOT AT ALL FRIGHTENED TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU. Here goes:

My living room is where I spend the most time, and I am not afraid to admit it. It is where I watch TV, read, write, and yes sometimes eat, so it is both a relaxing and creative space for me. This color palette is very much inspired by the living room photo up there (4th photo down from the top). I just love the bright colors but how the room still feels simple and warm. I think for me, creativity and relaxation go hand in hand and in order for me to be my most creative and as calm and “at home” as possible, bright colors and beautiful things to look at are a must.

If you can picture this, in my new place, you’ll walk straight into my living room from the front door and if you turn your head right, you’d see the sofa. Directly ahead is where our dining table will live. It is not a dining room, nor necessarily a nook, it is just a space. This is fine with me because honestly I don’t sit at the table very often. Since this area is directly adjacent to my living room, I want the colors to work together and flow naturally without repeating the same thing as the living room. I am imagining the living room having more visual interest and colors and the dining area to be a lot more subtle and minimalist. I picture a sleek black dining table, plants, a brass bar cart and some art or centerpiece that incorporates some or all of the accent colors.

The bane of my existence is that I have a very hard time sleeping. I am a light sleeper and very restless and though I really do not believe that color will make much of a difference for me in this area, I do want to create a relaxing and calming space. I love the idea of having natural colors in my bedroom, because I love love love being in nature. What I really mean by that is “I am outdoorsy in that I like getting drunk on patios” which is a quote I got from a very funny meme I saw once and is also very accurate. Anywho, natural colors and materials that are muted and calming are what I am going for here to create a zen oasis.

Welcome to my one and only dark and moody moment, where I hope to incorporate just a tiny bit of the Victorian style that I have (to my utter surprise) come to love. I like dark bathrooms, always have, and I really have no idea why so that is where the inspiration for these colors are coming from, I guess. I’d love a Victorian framed vintage painting here, or a really dramatic gold mirror. I also love limewash now, so my dream would be to have a limewash dark dramatic blue, maybe a bold purple painting, and brass hardware and call it a day.

I really thought about a huge bright red color moment in here. Like, really thought about it. Our cabinets are currently white and you know part of me wants to paint them a bold red. But I think I will chicken out because despite how much I want it if I really think about it, I don’t think it will look good. The kitchen is very narrow and I believe it would feel like being trapped in the parted red sea. SO, I went the opposite route and am now envisioning crisp whites, plants (of course), with a pop of yellow and red with matte black hardware.

And there you have it. I guess doing this post means that I actually have to do my MOTO, and that you all and EHD will be expecting it. GULP. Be advised that all this might change by tomorrow and that I am not responsible for sticking to anything mentioned here today. Oh, and for anyone wondering where the photos of my place are, well, a full introduction to my new home is coming as soon as I get the keys to the place. Stay tuned.

Oh, and as always, throw any specific color recs into the comments, because who doesn’t spend their time wondering about the perfect paint color?

The post Is Your Wall Color Making You Anxious? (+ More Burning Color Psychology Questions We Had…Answered) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

What Everyday Kitchen Essentials to Buy (or Not Buy) From Someone Who Knows

photo by zeke ruelas for ehd | from: modern deco kitchen reveal

As a 34-year-old “elder millennial,” it strangely feels like I’m one of the only people I know my age who knows what they’re doing in the kitchen. Sara on our team and maybe two of my friends seem to be the only exception. So, of course, that makes me the token advice giver when anyone needs help distinguishing between a zucchini and a cucumber or knowing what to buy when you suddenly get tired of eating out and want to cook more than frozen Trader Joe’s go-tos.

Even our dear, sweet Emily told me she was pretty helpless in terms of knowing what she needed to buy to set up her kitchen when she got DEEP into souping. She compared herself to a baby vampire from the Twilight franchise…she “rabidly, maniacally bought all the things, yet didn’t actually have any of the things I really needed.” I hear that. That was me about 9 years ago. While I learned how to cook at a young age out of (sort of) necessity (neither of my parents was very, uh, good at it and I liked to eat good, varied food), I didn’t get a chance to really dive into the world of kitchen tools for myself until I moved into my first apartment in my mid 20s. I BOUGHT EVERYTHING. If it looked cool or was pretty or I even sniffed that I could need it, I bought it and stupidly spent money I could have used as a “rainy day” fund on lemon zesters, ALL the pots and pans, only the best-looking vegetable peeler. Do not do this. Learn from me. After nearly a decade of cooking in my own kitchen, here’s what I learned: just because something looks good doesn’t mean it’ll work well and probably better yet, you do not need a special tool for everything. All that does is clutter up your counters and drawers. That Yonana machine you thought was a good idea can only do ONE thing: smoosh frozen bananas. Guess what can do the same thing and also a ton more? A really good food processor.

So, if you find yourself always asking your friends/coworkers/strangers on the street/the internet for what knife you should buy, or never having on hand what you need when meal prepping (or souping) or even just moving into a new home and starting from scratch, I hope my personal experience using (and not using) items in my kitchen will help guide you to getting what you really need that will hopefully last you a long, long while (instead of rusting over and cracking at the first go in a dishwasher…here’s looking at you KitchenAid can opener).

First up, my every day (as in, I use them every day) kitchen essentials:

Before diving in, I want to say something, though. My biggest tip for ANYONE just starting to cook or outfitting a kitchen is to know how and what you like to cook and start there. If you’re a souper like Emily, you’ll want to get a great chef’s knife for all that veggie chopping, a cutting board and a big stockpot. If you make a ton of family meals or want more hands-off cooking, invest in an Instant Pot or the large half sheets and Silpats I mention below. 30 minutes in, you have yourself dinner with very few dishes to wash. Make eggs or pancakes every morning? A non-stick pan is where it’s at. If you want to be the kind of person who makes a smoothie every morning but you know you never will, you do not need a fancy blender. You can always add more as you need it, but I bet you’ll find yourself not needing as much as you think. Okay, let’s get into my tried-and-true must-haves.

1-2. Silpats + Half Baking Sheets: I honestly use these 3-4 times a week for just about everything. Veggies, potatoes, chicken, fish. I love a one-pan meal on a weekday and the half sheet is large enough to accommodate both protein and veggies (but still fit in my rental oven). I used to have those little dinky dark-coated non-stick cookie sheets and one day for my birthday, I gifted myself these larger versions (with the Silpats) and my cooking completely and utterly changed. I thought both of these things were more for whipping up tons of cookies or macarons, but I was so, so wrong. My Silpats, in particular, are probably one of my top “never be without ever again” kitchen items. These are “name brand” but people have told me the ones from the Amazon Basics line are also great.

3. End Grain Cutting Board: I eat a lot of fruits and veggies, so a quality cutting board is a MUST for me. This one is considered “end grain” (looks like it was made from lots of little wood blocks). These tend to be a little more expensive, but there’s something magical about the end grain that self-heals after coming in contact with a knife so it actually lasts much longer than an edge grain board. Just be sure to oil it often and DO NOT PUT IT IN THE DISHWASHER.

4. Dough Scraper: This little doohickey looks pretty unassuming, but man is it useful basically every day. I use it to scrape up, say, all the garlic I cut on my board (but because my stove has no counter space around it, I’d rather not walk my heavy cutting board across the kitchen with other veggies rolling off the side just to transport said garlic). It’s called a dough scraper, but it’s a little kitchen tool I find myself using regularly for far more than dough.

5. OXO Good Grips Swivel Peeler: Repeat after me—Invest in a quality peeler even if it isn’t “cute.” For years, I fell victim to the need for “cute” things in the kitchen. That’s almost embarrassing to admit. My candy-colored KitchenAid peeler looked nice (in a drawer, where NO ONE SAW IT), but that thing rusted over, cracked, and the “metal” coating chipped off…TWICE). I finally wised up and got a VERY good peeler that’s so sharp, it’ll split a fingernail as easily as a hot knife through butter so be careful.

6. OXO Good Grips Can Opener: Same goes with a can opener. I also went the “attractive” route here and had the same issues with rusting, cracking…ugh. This one from OXO is fantastic and very high quality. No more jankily opened cans of crushed tomatoes in my kitchen.

7-9: J.A. Henckles Zwilling Gourmet 10-Pc Cutlery Set, Zwilling Kitchen Essentials Set, Zwilling 8-Inch Gourmet Chef’s Knife: Okay, so I have three different varieties of knives here. When I got my first apartment, I bought a very similar knife block as #7 one (I couldn’t find the one I had online anymore). Zwilling knives are my favorite for the price point. Very solid, well balanced and LONG lasting. I’ve had my set for 9 years and they still look and cut like new (with a little sharpening here and there). But, you absolutely positively do not need a 10-piece knife set. Honestly, I really only use my chef knife and paring knives, and I promise, unless you’re constantly deboning chickens and fish, you also do not need more knives than you have fingers. Budget hack: Look for these at HomeGoods and TJMaxx because they often sell this brand for WAY less than retail (same goes for A LOT of the stuff on this list).

10. Anchor Hocking Glass 4-Cup: I’m pretty sure even my 90-year-old Puerto Rican grandma used Anchor-brand measuring cups decades ago so I learned to trust the brand. Yes, I also have dry measuring cups and spoons, but this baby is a regular protagonist in my home cooking show. I bought the set of 3, but the 4-cup is the only one you need. I NEVER use the 1-cup or 2-cup because, uh, the 4-cup also has those same measurements.

11. Snapware Glass Food Storage 24-Piece: I have a household of two, but cook for four so we have lunch for the next day, and these are the best storage containers I’ve found. I bought mine at Costco for about the same price.

12. 10-Piece Glass Mixing Bowl Set: My glass prep bowls are like my right hand in the kitchen. I’m not a huge mise en place-er (too much to wash), but I use these for almost everything. There’s a size bowl for basically anything you need, plus they neatly stack into each other to save a ton of space.

13. OXO Locking Tongs: Tongs that pinch you or easily open are a huge pet peeve of mine. I love these and recommend you get two (one of each size) to avoid having to rush to wash raw chicken juice off before turning your asparagus. They’re also great for tossing and serving salad (so you def don’t need a specific serving set for that).

14. Sur La Table Flex Core Mini Silicone Spatula & Spatula Spoon Set: I’ve had my fair share of beautiful rubber spatulas with pretty wood handles. Guess what? You can’t put that in the dishwasher (or at least, it’s not recommended that you do…they will dull, crack, fall apart). These are all rubber and one-piece construction, and ideal to throw in the dishwasher over and over again.

15-18. All-Clad Hard Anodized 8″ & 10″ Nonstick Frying Pan Set, Cuisinart MultiClad 5 1/2-Quart Saute Pan with Lid, Cuisinart Stainless Steel 3-Quart Cook and Pour Saucepan with Lid, Cuisinart Stainless Steel 8-Quart Stock Pot with Lid: I have a lot to say about pots and pans, but mostly it’s this: just like knives, you likely do not need a set of 6-10 pieces. I cook A LOT, and consider myself a pretty adventurous cook as in I make lots of different varieties of things, and even I only really use these four things. I make eggs about 4 times a week, so a non-stick pan is clutch for me and these are GREAT. I also use these regularly for sauteing without too much added fat. Aside from these that basically just sit out on my stove because I use them that much, I use a higher walled saute pan with lid, a 3-quart sauce pan for almost everything (rice, small servings of pasta, sauces, beans, etc.) and a stock pot for large batches of pasta, boiling corn, making soup, etc.

Next up is my list of “nice to haves.”

These are things I have in my kitchen that I don’t necessarily use EVERY day but still think are very good to have on hand if you have the space to store them.

1. Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor: This is another scenario where “Arlyn picks the cute kitchen appliance” turns out to not work all that well. I had a KitchenAid food processor which was perfectly fine, but the lid broke on it after not much use (and yes, I took great care of it). It also didn’t come with the attachments I needed and found it collecting dust on the shelves of my laundry room. BUT THIS ONE IS DIFFERENT. My friend who is another avid cook recommended it to me and man I love it. It’s pretty no-frills in that it only has a “pulse” and “on” button (i.e. no speeds), but it’s powerful, can fit a whole head of cauliflower (or, let’s get real, block of cheese), comes with three blade attachments and is just generally awesome.

2. 6-Quart Instant Pot: I know the Instant Pot has a lot of devotees, but also, on the other side of the fence, people who are like “why?!?!?” (Emily being the latter). But as someone who has a habit for collecting small appliances, this thing has helped to replace my slow cooker and rice cooker, plus I probably use it for a VERY fast weeknight dinner about 2-3 times a week. It’s a one-pot wonder, people. The 6-quart is a great size for my smaller household, but if you’re cooking for more than 4, you might want the 8-quart. 

3. Cuisinart 9-Speed Handheld Mixer with Storage Case: I have a KitchenAid stand mixer. It is a prized possession (a 30th birthday gift), but I am here to tell you that YOU DO NOT NEED A $400 STAND MIXER. It looks good, yes, and I have fun attachments for pasta and whatnot, but it’s a pure luxury. If you whip up a batch of cupcakes like…3 times a year, a hand mixer is all you need. I have this one and I love it because it has a ton of speeds and has a snap-on case that stores all the attachments.

4. Staub Round Cocotte, 5.5-Quart: Okay, so a $340 cast iron French/Dutch oven will not make your chicken taste better than a $50 Dutch oven. But I understand wanting a “status” kitchen item. I’m personally a Staub girl (instead of Le Creuset) because the black interior doesn’t stain and scratch like the white ceramic interior of LC. Plus, I just like the dark inky colors of Staub better. OH, and Staub lids have these little raise dots on the underside that help to better distribute steam and juicy goodness that LC does not have (good for braising). I was lucky enough to find my first oval Staub for $60 on clearance at HomeGoods (check often because they have them), and my other two as “landmark” birthday and anniversary gifts. I will have them likely longer than I’ll be alive, which is why they’re worth the steep price tag.

5. Lodge 10″ Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet: “Hands and pans” videos will have you believing you can’t survive without a cast-iron skillet. You can. However, they are fantastic but high maintenance, which is why they are on my “nice to have” list instead of my everyday essentials. The time I spend scraping, oiling and re-seasoning my skillet makes it too annoying to use on a daily basis, but Lodge makes a great one (I have a 10″ but 12″ is also great) for very little money that, as long as you take care of it, will probably be found fossilized in your home because it’ll last THAT long.

6. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner 4.0: I tend to not like “single purpose” kitchen items, but I have a few exceptions, including a salad spinner. It literally does nothing more than dry my greens, but I eat a lot of salad and detest wet sopping water messes at the bottom of my bowl so…this is a must in my kitchen. OXO makes a great one for under $30.

7. Microplane: Yes, I have a standard cheese grater, but I probably whip out my microplane more. I use it for, well, cheese (hard cheeses like parmesan only), ginger, fresh turmeric, lemon and lime zest, garlic (sometimes), nutmeg and beyond.

8. Orblue Garlic Press: The only other single-use item on my list is a garlic press. It’s a “nice to have” because you can absolutely just chop up garlic with a knife and be done with it, but if you have a recipe that calls for anything more than 3 or 4 gloves, a garlic press will be your best friend. This is my favorite one I’ve ever owned (I’ve had several that have all snapped) and I feel like it’ll last me a very long time, hasn’t rusted, has an easy-to-clean compartment and inflict brute force on those cloves.

9. Flexible Cutting Mats With Food Icons: These are probably more of a “you do not need these” item but I like to use them in conjunction with my wood cutting board (better for your knife) so I don’t have to spend time washing between cutting chicken and slicing carrots. Plus, if you’ve ever cut garlic on a wood cutting board and forgot, then went to cut up some luscious strawberries and were unpleasantly surprised…these will save you every time.

As if I haven’t written enough words here today, I can’t finish without telling you what, from experience, I have learned you absolutely do not need (some I’ve already touched on but want to revisit as a reminder):

Niche one-use tools, like an avocado slicer (use a knife and big spoon), spiralizer (you can use that good-quality peeler I just recommended to you instead), lemon zester (use a microplane or fine cheese grater), Yonana (yes, I’ve owned one of these banana ice cream machines) or any other novelty items. They will take up space, collect dust, and you do not need them.
A Vitamix. This is another one of those things. The internet will have you thinking that you are NOTHING without a luxury blender. I could never bite the bullet on one of these and bought this KitchenAid blender (after MUCH research, not just because it was pretty and blue…I promise I’ve learned my lessons) for like 1/4 of the cost and it’s EXCELLENT. I use it about two times a week for my homemade almond milk and it has never failed me. Wait, why didn’t I include it in the “nice to haves” roundup from above? Let’s pretend I did.
A big knife block set. I already talked about this, but it’s a nice reminder. You really need 1-2 good quality knives and that’s it for most daily cooking. Save yourself the money and space if you’re short on both.
A big, beautiful stand mixer. I love my KitchenAid mixer, I do, but I probably use it like 4-5 times a year and it really is more of a “status” item than anything else.
All the pots and pans from a set. Look, buying a set is typically a VERY good value, but when I think about the space all the sauce and fry pans I rarely use take up, I would have been better off just buying the three things I NOW know I only ever use. In general, unless you have a plethora of cabinet storage, I’d recommend starting with just a few pieces and building from there as you find the need for something else. But honestly, I think most of the time, you’ll find you are 100% fine with less.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for ehd | from: arlyn’s dining room makeover takeover

I hope this was useful. I know it’s a lot, and you definitely do not need everything. Your life will go on without a microplane, it will. Mine is just made easier in the kitchen with these things without feeling like too much or kitchen “fluff.” P.S. that is a peek into my kitchen. It’s really not much bigger than what you see there (the stove is over to the right kind of on its own, and the fridge is alone on the opposite wall…awesome). Most of the stuff I included in here is stored inside that gray IKEA unit you see to the left of my dining room, FYI. That and a little console table I brought in next to my fridge.

Now, my inner cooking and kitchen tool enthusiast wants to know ALL about your must-have everyday essentials or best brands you use. Please spill all the details because I am not an expert, just someone who cooks a lot and is relatively proficient behind the stove.

The post What Everyday Kitchen Essentials to Buy (or Not Buy) From Someone Who Knows appeared first on Emily Henderson.

We’re Designing Our “Dream” Dorm Rooms If We Could Go Back (+ College Dorm Survival Tips)

photo by sara ligorria-tramp for EHD | from: my dream dorm

Let me paint you a picture of yesteryear. It’s 2006 when I was a young, naive 18-year-old moving into her dorm room. Back then, the world was different. The iPhone had yet to change (*cough* take over) our lives forever, Facebook was strictly for college students and Instagram and Pinterest did not exist. Let me repeat that last part. Instagram and Pinterest DID NOT exist until 2010. I was already out of college when those came on the scene. Also, I think online shopping was a thing but I was NOT partaking. Too risky if you would have asked me. “I’m old school,” I would proclaim. I had in my mind that I  needed to see and touch whatever I wanted to buy before I was giving anyone any money. So endless runs to the mall, Target and The Container Store it was and DIY dorm room ideas from the imagination of me and my creative parents’ minds.

It all feels nearly prehistoric now. Needless to say, things are different than they were 2006. So now that we are in 2019, I got to thinking if I were headed off to college this year, with the endless inspiration that’s on the internet and my current close and loving relationship with online shopping…how would I decorate my dorm room differently? I took this question to the streets and by streets, I mean the EHD team for some dorm room ideas. Our new Partnerships and Marketing Manager Caitlin, and our new Editorial/Social Media Assistant Mallory were particularly into this idea. So we thought we would all design our dream 2019 dorm rooms as a fun nostalgia trip (well, for most of us). This way, you have three different designs in addition to getting to know a little more about these two wonderful EHD ladies. ALSO, fun fact, there is almost exactly a five-year difference between each of us which I think maybe gives an interesting perspective…

Curious to see what that is? I thought so (plus we have some real raw ACTUAL photos of some of our dorm rooms, so keep reading).

I will go first since I am the oldest and wisest. JK. But here she is…

1. Washed Linen Duvet Cover Set | 2. Cream Chenille Euro Dec Pillow | 3. Cotton Velvet Cushion Cover | 4. Crochet Fringe Throw Pillow | 5. White Fitted Sheet | 6. Throw Blanket | 7. Stripe Rug | 8. The Orga lamp | 9. Be Nice Or Leave Flag Tapestry | 10. Cult Paper Mouth Art Print | 11. Almost Makes Perfect Round Art Print | 12. Floral Vase Tufted Tapestry | 13. New Math Collection Tea Towels | 14. Abstract line Art 2 Poster | 15. 30-Minute Hourglass | 16. Leather Tray | 17. Ottoman | 18. Decorative Soft Knit Baskets Bins Storage Organizer | 19. Picture Frame | 20. Dome Glass Table Lamp | 21. Woven Wicker Arc Wall Mirror | 22. Bluetooth Radio Speaker | 23. Rattan Letter Sorter | 24. Book Boxes | 25. Lined Hardcover Notebook | 26. Wall Jewelry Cabinet Armoire with Mirror | 27. Eraser Pencil Stand Set | 28. Textured Stripe 6” Planter | 29. Blue Bud Vase | 30. Office Chair  | 31. Brass Tray | 32. Pen Cup | 33. Polka Dot Ceramic Dish | 34. Mug | 35. Desk Lamp | 36. Wastebasket

Okay, I know I may get a fair amount of push back on some of these items as they are not all classically “dormy.” And while not the most expensive, they are also not terribly inexpensive for what people may think a college student needs. BUT as the oldest gal out of today’s group, there is something to be said for buying a few things that don’t scream dorm. Why do you ask? Sustainability. Sure, your style may shift after that first year of being on your own but the last thing you want is to throw out all of your dorm decor because it either fell apart from poor quality or now feels toooo young when you start to decorate your new apartment. I say don’t spend a ton of money on bed linens or storage. You will probably desperately want an upgrade from your twin XL asap once you say goodbye to your dorm and will need to buy new bedding for that bigger bed. Secondly, dorm specific storage is just that…specific to a dorm. You may have very different needs in your next apartment so don’t break the bank on the organizational stuff.

Now for my dream design, I wanted it to feel young but not juvenile and colorful but still peaceful. Sometimes too much color is distracting for me (I can attest since I really went for the color in my actual dorm all those years ago; I sadly cannot find a photo as much as I tried). Some of my favorite items in this are the Floral Vase Tufted Tapestry because it’s playful while still looking modern, the squiggle table lamp because I have wanted it forever (I love squiggles if you didn’t know) and I would keep it forever/ it gives movement to the space. I also really love the Italian Lakes book because SURPRISE it’s a secret box and the over the door mirror/storage piece because it’s almost too useful. I wish I would have had this when I was in the dorms. It’s perfect to share with your roommate (if you get along) for your everyday jewelry and makeup. Then you can have your special stuff in a smaller bin on “your side.”

Jess’s Dorm Dos and Don’ts

1. Choose art that looks good unframed: In any dorm I’ve been in, putting holes in a wall is not only a big no-no but it’s actually impossible. Remember that cinder block is the wall material of choice of a lot of schools. And then when you get an apartment, put your favorites in frames and they will feel brand new and more put together.

2. Don’t go crazy on the appliances: You only really need a fridge and a microwave. Maaaybe a toaster and coffee maker. Just take it from someone who NEVER used her “eggs benedict maker” and keep it simple. Also, you might want to wait to see if your roommate wants to split the appliances so you don’t have double of everything. Plus, try and get out of your room as much as possible to meet people. The dining hall is perfect for that and you don’t have to wash your dishes.

Now may I introduce Caitlin. Five years younger and as you will soon be able to tell with her design, SO MUCH fun. I’ll let her take it away in one second but we thought it would be fun to show you what her actual freshman dorm looked like, Halloween decorations and all. Just so you all know, I’m not avoiding showing my less than ideal dorm room. Like I mentioned, I tried desperately to find a pic of mine but it was lost on an old computer. Also remember that I am older and the technology we know today was a fetus that didn’t want to make remembering memories easy. So I will just subject my two new coworkers to showing the world their old rooms alone.

Does it have some personality? Yes. Would she do things pretty differently if she could do it all again? The answer was a big yes and the design below would be her 2019 dorm masterpiece. Okay, now Caitlin will take it away…

1. Solid Down Alternative Comforter | 2. Pink Pillow | 3. GURLI | 4. Winky Embroidered Pillow | 5. Sheet Set | 6. Throw Blanket | 7. Rug | 8. Modern Irregular Stripes 01 Art Print | 9. You Can Stay Up All Night Art Print | 10. Ice Skating Illustrated Winter Print | 11. Wall Clock | 12. Toucan Lamp | 13. Trixie Inflatable Chair | 14. Cork Bulletin Board | 15. Plastic Vanity Mirror | 16. Vase | 17. Banana Dish | 18. Speckled Ceramic Tiered Planter | 19. Over-the-Door Mirror Metal Black | 20. Henry Googly Eye Planter | 21. Reference Bookend | 22. Letter Rack | 23. Academic Planner | 24. Wastebasket | 25. Office Chair | 26. Cactus Coaster Set | 27. 70’s Vintage Plastic Desk Organizer | 28. Penn Desk Lamp | 29. Large Slatted Metal Bin with Mesh Bottom | 30. 3 Shelf Utility Storage Cart | 31. Laundry Basket

Hi y’all! I’m Caitlin, and I head up partnerships around here. I’m a Delaware native and graduated with a degree in journalism that I am currently using for the first time. I spent three years living in my college’s dorms—first in a forced triple (yes, I lost the lottery, and yes, it was as cramped as it seems), then in a double, and finally in a single—so I am WELL VERSED in the on-campus life. Anyway, here’s my confession: I kind of LOVE the college dorm aesthetic. There’s a pretty limited time in your life where you can rock a blow-up translucent chair (one of them was in the late 1990s when everyone loved inflatable furniture, and one of them is the 1-4 years when you’re living in a dorm), so I’m trying to lean into that vibe.

My style in a nutshell: I try to keep most of my functional pieces super minimal while bringing in the weird with my accessories and art. There’s a little bit of vintage (I am absolutely in love with this toucan lamp and ’70s space-age pencil cup), a little bit of nature (spoiler alert: the person who can keep a plant alive in college is definitely the type of person you should befriend), and a little bit spicy (I have a different Baron Von Fancy print above my bed now, but this one feels very fitting for all your all-nighters).

Caitlin’s Dorm Dos and Don’ts

1. Bring way less than you think you need: The plastics industry is lying to you. You do not need to buy extra plastic dressers or those big plastic storage tubs. And if you feel like you do need those things right away, there’s a good chance that you may have overpacked. Case in point: I brought two (yes, two) of these big tubs filled with shoes and boots when I moved into my Boston dorm. You know what I didn’t need when it was 80 million degrees and I was hauling things from my car to my dorm? A whole tub of boots, that’s what. I had never even worn boots before I got to college, and now I was stuck schlepping the entire TJ Maxx size 9.5 shoe section in a plastic sarcophagus. They sat untouched for months. Pack less than you need at first and live in your space before you make any big storage decisions. As it turns out, mail and holidays are both things—you can always bring more things in later!

2. Be nice: Okay, this is not decor-related, but it is a real pro-tip: if you’re living with other people, be considerate about your noise level! In my freshman year forced triple, one of my roommates would wake up in the middle of the night to eat apples. Apples! That’s a healthy choice, but y’all, you do not even KNOW how loud a crisp apple sounds across a silent room at 3 AM. On the bright side, my bunkmate and I bonded over how surreal and ridiculous of an experience this was and we ended up becoming best friends—I even got to be in their wedding.  So, maybe your crunchy foods will bring your roommates together…but probably not. Basically, if you’re going to be loud, do it in the common room.

Next and last up is Mallory. Mallory graduated this past December so she is fresh off that college train and most attune to what life in the dorm is like in the “modern-day post-social media world.” I am about to show you her freshman dorm and let me say that it is super cute. In my opinion, she didn’t even really need a “dream dorm” redo…

See what I mean?? Pretty great already. But hey, we love a redesign and her “new design” is actually even cuter so please enjoy while Mallory introduces herself…

1. Tufted Dot Duvet Cover | 2. Gemma Fringe Throw Pillow | 3. Textured White Pillow | 4. Velvet Tufted Round Throw Pillow | 5. Jersey Sheet Set Solids | 6. Broken Stripe Flatweave Rug | 7. Kiss 2015 Art Print | 8. Spacce 03 Geometric Pastel Print | 9. Mini Macrame Wall Hanging | 10. Cosmic Double Rainbow | 11. Abstract Art2 Art Print | 12. Hinkson Picture Frame | 13. Mirror Hooks, Set of 3 | 14. Tiger Cutout Hook | 15. Opalhouse Chunky Knit Throw Blanket | 16. Black Braided Jute Pouf | 17. Oak and Metal Floor Mirror | 18. Round Decorative Mirror | 19. DwellStudio Faceted Black Vases | 20. White Himalayan Salt Lamp | 21. Two Cube Organizer | 22. Speckled Vases | 23. Office Chair | 24. Marbled Travel Journal | 25. Free Downloadable Calendar | 26. Solid Faceted Wastebasket | 27. Desk Organizer | 28. Black Indoor Floor Lamp | 29. Dorm Shower Tote | 30. Cooking Caddy | 31. MagicLinen Laundry Bag

Hey everyone! I’m Mallory, the Social Media and Editorial Assistant here at EHD. I’m a So-Cal native who has never surfed a day in her life, wannabe calligrapher, fireworks lover (I cry every time I watch the Disneyland fireworks), and my back-up career is to be a professional trampolinist. So now that we know each other, let’s dive right in:

I call this look, Chic Modern Glam (or Affordable Anthro Chic). I would be stoked to go back to college if that meant living in this dorm room. It’s got everything you could want: pattern, warmth, storage, a gallery wall, a great floor lamp (which is only $33), all sprinkled in with lots of gold glam. The pieces I chose aren’t just there to look pretty though, guys, they’re functional, too. Like those wood storage cubbies (life savers, see below) and desk organizer. I also really love the ceramic vases and art. They add the perfect amount of texture to the room and completely elevate the style.

Mallory’s Dorm Dos and Don’ts

1. Get versatile storage furniture: Let’s start with the storage because that’s most likely going to be your #1 problem when moving into your new space. In my crusty little dorm freshman year of college, my roommate bought two of those storage cubbies. At first, I was weary but they ended up being the most versatile pieces of storage that I took around with me from college apartment to college apartment (my roommate ended up transferring so she gave them to me…shoutout to you, Han). The best part about them is you can configure them any way you want, which makes them perfect for dorm life since you usually have no idea what you’re getting into until you walk in the door. You can stash one (or both) under your bed, you can put them together and make them a TV console, or you can do one in a little nook on one side of the room, and the other on the opposite side of the room. See? You got lots of options with these little babies. Plus, you can switch out the bins for an instantly new look, so they’re totally non-committal.

2. Be resourceful and find FREE things: Another little something I chose for my dorm that’s hands-down the most affordable item in this blog post because it’s FREE is this printable minimalist calendar. I’m a sucker for giant calendars that I can write on daily (I had a whiteboard calendar that I used in my dorm). This one rocks because you literally have to pay no money, you just click the link and print. Enjoy.

3. Command Strips are key: The last thing I want to call to your attention is the fun little tiger hook. It shows so much personality, keeps the glam-thing cohesive PLUS you can hang your towel or robe on it, so yes, it is fashion AND function all wrapped up into one. As you probably already know, you can’t nail this into the wall unless you want a hefty fine, so I would recommend using a command strip to stick on the back of it. The rumors are definitely true—Command Strips will be your best friend so get comfortable hanging EVERYTHING with them. I think I probably used over 1,000 of them to hang a full gallery wall my sophomore year. Anything is possible if you just believe in yourself and your stash of Command strips.

Now for THE DORM ESSENTIALS. You know those little things that will make your dorm life so much better, prettier and easier all in one shoppable place. Thank us later.

1. Black+Decker Compact Refrigerator | 2. 16-Compartment Under Bed Shoe Storage | 3. Heavy Duty Bed Risers | 4. Interlocking Drawer Organizer Set | 5. 10-Foot Extension Cord | 6. Command Spring Clips | 7. Mounting Putty | 8. Washi Tape, Set of 4 | 9. Twin XL Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper | 10. Long Under Bed Boxes with Wheels | 11. 3.1 cu. ft. Retro Mini Fridge | 12. 30-pack Non-Slip Slim Hangers | 13. Damage-Free Brass Hooks | 14. Microwave | 15. Assorted Picture Hanging Velcro Strips | 16. 8-Shelf Fabric Shoe Hanging Storage | 17. 90-count LED Fairy Lights | 18. Magnetic Fridge Caddy | 19. 5-Tiered Pants Hanger | 20. Essential Oil Diffuser | 21. Mesh Shower Caddy | 22. 2-Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster | 23. Damage-Free Wall Hook | 24. Shower Slides

Alright, hope these dorm room ideas are helpful for all the college bound out there (or even those post-college that want a little accessory refresh). Our biggest tip/recommendation is to explore your style/creativity. Look at Pinterest, Instagram and blogs for inspiration but ultimately make it your own. Try not to be wasteful and be nice to your RAs.

If you are college bound but looking for non-dorm design college tips and a more general “how to not mess up college” advice, head to this post. We polled the team and put together all of our best tips to help you make the most of those precious four years…and maybe help you get a job after.

Why Designers Hate Most Medicine Cabinets (+ Some Genius Alternative Bathroom Storage Solutions)

Like most cultural and political debates in our country, that of choosing whether to have a medicine cabinet or not reigns both controversial and contentious amongst designers and homeowners alike. To actively choose NOT to have the most convenient storage for the daily annoyances of teeth brushing and face washing seems outright absurd, and yet I have never in my life opted for this convenience. The mountain house was my big opportunity. It was more modern (which I think works better for something streamlined and inset) so it could have handled it whereas our 100-year-old Tudor might have looked a bit, well, clunky in a design sense.

So today, I’m going to dive into the internal (and external) debate to have or not have the ultimate convenience of a medicine cabinet. If you just fell asleep, I suggest you stand up, walk to your medicine cabinet (or not), slap yourself in the face to stay awake. Perhaps drink a 5-Hour Energy because you don’t get to nap while the rest of us are trying to change the minds and world on this subject. You can’t pretend it’s not a problem. It is. It’s real. We need to know why someone like myself and even my friend Nate Berkus (and a few other designer friends like Amber Lewis) have historically hated the medicine cabinet.

Let’s start with some basic photos of inset medicine cabinets and why they get a bad rap. Here is why I’ve been historically anti:

image via overstock
image via emilymccall.com
image via lowes

I don’t like medicine cabinets for the following reasons:

They can look generic and builder grade. They feel cold, contemporary and lacking real style.
Their frames are often too big and chunky (see new good alternatives in our roundup below).
To do inset/recessed, they have to be semi-permanent because it requires construction and that’s scary if you aren’t really into something in the first place.
The good ones are really expensive (see some below) and typically even custom, so then you are spending a ton of money on something you don’t really love anyway, and it’s permanent. That’s a hard commitment to make especially if you are someone who likes to change things up.
Wall-mounted medicine cabinets are great for the right small bathroom but it does project into the room and therefore eats up real estate (but I like a lot of them far more than the inset options).

But mostly I don’t use medicine cabinets because I love a BEAUTIFUL mirror. Mirrors are the artwork of the bathroom so, of course, I’m going to opt for that over something that provides boring “storage solutions.”

I know the idea of going with form over function is infuriating to most of you, but designing a beautiful space is important as, you know, a designer. Now before you all say “it’s also your job to design a functional space” there are other options (I’ll talk about more below). Typically, in a master bathroom, vanity space will have be sufficient that you don’t NEED the dinky shelves on a medicine cabinet, but I couldn’t help but think…Was I alone? Do other designers feel this way? I asked a few friend/experts in this field:

Nate Berkus: “I’ve always avoided them but now the trade-off for storage has me slowly converting…I wish someone would invent one that universally works with a vintage mirror.” Now, Nate just recently moved back to New York to an apartment that I’m sure is big and beautiful but with two kids in New York City living, I get why he might be converting.

Amber Lewis: “I am not a fan or a heavy user of the Medicine Cabinet.”

Orlando Soria: “I am fully on Team Medicine Cabinet. I know they can be a bummer for some designers who would rather have a pretty decorative mirror above a sink, but there’s just stuff you can store in one that doesn’t make sense anywhere else. And they provide storage at the most convenient height to access while you are standing getting ready in the morning. They also do something that I like in that they provide dual functions: they are storage AND a mirror. Ideally, you’d be insetting them, but even surface wall mounted can look great (I like to frame them out in wood trim to make them look more integrated if they can’t be fully sunken into the wall)…like this:

photo by Tessa Neustadt courtesy Homepolish | from: Orcondo’s Kitchen & Bathroom Reveal

“I like replacing crappy mirrors that are just glued to the wall with medicine cabinets. Having everything in drawers is annoying. In an ideal world, you’d build the medicine cabinet flush with the wall and put a decorative mirror on top.”

Sherry Petersik of Young House Love: “Personally, we’ve never added a medicine cabinet during a bathroom reno, and always find the storage in the vanity to be just fine, and then we can use a pretty mirror over the sink. I especially love a round one to break up the squareness of most vanities (which isn’t exactly readily available in medicine-cabinet-form). So yeah, I don’t hate them or anything, I just don’t generally find myself adding them ever…and I’m still alive without one.”

Maxwell Ryan of Apartment Therapy: (Had a long convo with him on the phone but here’s a summary of what he said): He didn’t even think of them for his Scandinavian style country house because he didn’t want anything that they could put any clutter in and stylistically they would have been wrong. And yet he and his daughter recently moved into a new apartment in New York which had them already installed and well, it’s his daughter’s favorite thing in the home. He wouldn’t have chosen them but he’s pretty psyched he has them now. His general thought is this: it’s found space, previously unused, and you should use it if you need it, but stylistically he understands why designers, stylists and editors don’t opt for them. He, like me, loves what a special mirror does to a room and typically they just aren’t that special.

Now, I want to add a caveat that they can ABSOLUTELY work, and if you truly need storage solutions then it can be done. This is a good example of an inset medicine cabinet in a modern space that works.

image via habitus living

It’s sleek, goes wall-to-wall (and floor-to-ceiling) so it’s relatively seamless, plus that vanity is epic so it’s not the focus. But for the record, that one is custom (I think you push the glass to pop it out) and was likely thousands of dollars.

image via house beautiful | design by arent & pyke

Same. Everything here (including their choice of medicine cabinet) is so pretty so that bathroom is still stunning even though the mirror itself isn’t a “work of art.”

image and design via mim design
image via 555 west end ave
image and design via clare kennedy interiors
image and design via mim design

But it’s rarely done right and honestly I don’t think inset should be done in a vintage style home (again, I think the wall-mounted ones can work well in older homes). My pickiness is just so specific and it’s hard to explain. All the circumstances have to be there to pull it off and that’s just hard. And yet it can be permanent which is terrifying.

So what do I prefer? Why do I consider mirrors the art of the bathroom? Exhibit A (and beyond):

left: image and design via handelsmann + kaw | right: image via remodelista, design by richardson architects and katie martinez interiors
image and design via jean stoffer design
image via houzz | design by run for the hills
image via southern living
image via stokperd
left: image via my domaine, design by robson rak | image via my domaine, design by jessica helgerson

Why must something tear apart my insides as the medicine cabinet has?? They are the recliners of the bathroom. The microwave of the kitchen. I long to reach out my arm and easily pull a hidden toothbrush out of a medicine cabinet, and yet I have never opted for this joy.

I thought that surely there could be an in-between, a happy medium: storage without the contemporary facade. We tried for the mountain house but first went through some storage alternatives:

SO WHAT ARE THEY? Let’s explore.

THE SINGLE SHELF:
image via atlanta homes & lifestyles

Well okay. This is certainly a cute opportunity for, say, displaying your most beautiful product and as a stylist I know I can make this look pretty, but is this an actual storage solution? It’s a stretch. While it does provide more surface area, you can’t really display your necessities unless you are president of the lifestyle mafia and have like $250 face cream decanted into blown glass vessels. And let’s face it, we aren’t.

image via realestate.com.au
image and design via decus interiors
image via instagram | design by laine & layne
image via hunker | design by breathe architecture

While certainly cute, where on earth do these people store ANYTHING but their toothbrush?

image and design via casework

There’s also the “shelf ON the mirror” situation, but it’s the same issue in terms of where to put the ugly necessary stuff? The vanity surely, but I guess pretty glass lidded jars for cotton balls and whatnot would go here…

THE BUILT-IN SIDE SHELF OR CABINET:

Next up is one that I felt could be an option: you get the massive pretty mirror that you want and then on the sides of the vanity, you add easily accessible storage. And yes, you could even put a door on this and make it a cabinet.

right: image and design via katie martinez design | left: image via design travel and design by shane thompson

I think this is a good solution, but unless there is a door it’s not hidden and your gross vitamins and crest strips will junk it up pretty fast. But if you want a massive mirror (that likely can’t never be hinged) then I think this is a good alternative. I love digging into any walls for extra storage throughout the entire house.

image via mydomaine | design by jake arnold

It can look pretty but it can also look busier and junkier. But if you need to display your Aunt Jonie’s studio pottery from the ’90s like those people did, then stop reading right here!

image via becki owens

Let’s be clear that no one actually lives in the above bathroom (right?). It’s a hotel without any almost-empty bottles of mouthwash or toothpaste overflowing because someone doesn’t like to put lids on things (me, it’s a thing/problem).

image and design by studio mcgee

The side cubbies could work to provide more storage, but it’s not the kind of everyday stuff that your medicine cabinet should hold. No one wants to have to dig through a huge bin to find the eye cream you promised yourself you would start using every night.

SLIDING DOORS (AKA BARN DOORS):
image and design via catherine kwong
image via maple hawthorne
image via cabinet style

For the master bathroom of the mountain house, we wanted a huge mirror to reflect light/trees (or at least no frames between mirrors) and for a hot (and possibly feverish) second, I thought that maybe something like this could work. Now, I know that people have beef with barn doors, I do too, but I do think that if done right in the right house (modern farm/industrial) this could be a solution. Be careful, don’t let it be too chunky (which they tend to be) and make sure it’s the right style. Ours was not, but I wouldn’t have done this anyway. It would have been something custom and worked well with our style.

Okay. So while I do think some of those are solid options that can look pretty, they aren’t the best alternative. What is? HERE YOU GO:

THE BEST STORAGE ALTERNATIVE TO THE MEDICINE CABINET:

The custom or readymade mirror over hidden shelving on hinges. Sounds complicated. Keep reading.

image via clever | design by winwood mckenzie

YES. It’s hard not to get behind this but it’s clearly custom and likely more expensive (I’d bet around $1,200, not including construction). But BOY am I glad there is a solution out there.

So did we do that in the mountain house?

Well, I’ll be honest and say that we don’t need the storage at the mountain house like we do in LA because we have so much less stuff, PLUS our vanities have GREAT storage. In the master, we wanted a huge mirror to reflect light and trees from the opposite windows. In the powder, we didn’t see the need for more storage since it’s a powder room. And the guest bathrooms, well, they are just for temporary guests and they have tons of vanity storage so we opted out. If you don’t need storage (ha, who are you?), then don’t suffer through the pain of figuring out how to integrate it in a stylish way. Full stop.

I did, however, want to show you guys a genius storage solution for editorial reasons so we came up with this plan for the kids bathroom. I figured of all bathrooms, the kids could use somewhere to put their disgusting toothbrushes that they chew on like Jolly Ranchers daily.

So during construction phase, our plan was to dig into the wall and build shallow shelves between the studs in the wall above the vanity and then place two pretty hinged mirrors overtop. YAY. A SOLUTION.

Now, our plan wasn’t communicated well enough to our contractor (we were moving fast and two hours away so not on site as often as we wanted) and then all of a sudden the whole wall was tiled with no shelves (isn’t it funny how some things take forever and you are like “what’s the holdup?” and other things happen faster than they were supposed to before you could give proper direction? so hilarious). Having them rip out the tile and find the space between the studs to build shallow shelves seemed totally unnecessary so we didn’t, but that was our plan.

I didn’t have any reference photos at the time, but I just found this and it’s PERFECT.

image and design via old brand new
image and design via old brand new
image and design via old brand new

GENIUS. Dabito from Old Brand New took a pretty readymade mirror and dug out shelves behind it and put it on piano hinges.

HALLELUJAH.

DO THIS. IT’S THE PERFECT SOLUTION TO YOUR MEDICINE CABINET WOES.

While it does require some research and I’m sure there are some restrictions (frame size and width)—and yes, it also requires skills by you or your contractor—it is the best solution in my eyes if you need the storage space, want a pretty mirror AND don’t want to spend thousands on a custom-built solution.

HOW DO I FEEL ABOUT WALL MOUNTED MEDICINE CABINETS?

Well, they’re hit or miss. There are some pretty beautiful ones out there, for example…

image via est living | design by watts studio
image and design via almost makes perfect
left: image and design via robson rak | right: image and design via gia bathrooms & kitchens
image and design via decus interiors

My medicine cabinet fantasy (which is also shared by Nate Berkus and is a million-dollar idea): We need to have a universal hinge system that works with most new or vintage mirrors. It could come in different sizes to ensure that it can be hidden, but then you or your contractor hook it up to a beautiful vintage mirror that you can yes, open and close where it previously didn’t. Kind of the idea of what Dabito did that I showed you above, but like…mass-produced for everyone.

Okay, but does that mean that there aren’t good ones on the market? Of course not. There are some and I want to stress this again: IF YOU LIVE IN A RENTAL OR HAVE A SMALL BATHROOM IN NEED OF STORAGE AND YOU DON’T WANT TO DO ANYTHING EXPENSIVE OR TOO CUSTOM, WALL MOUNTED MEDICINE CABINETS ARE GREAT, AND CAN BE ATTRACTIVE AND STYLISH.

To prove it, we rounded up some that we really like and many that I considered during the “medicine cabinet journey of 2018.”

1. Seamless Medicine Cabinet | 2. Elanora Mirror Cabinet | 3. Cubiko Storage Mirror | 4. Robern Single Door Medicine Cabinet with Rosemont Frame | 5. Benchwright Wall-mount Medicine Cabinet | 6. Jacuzzi Single Door Medicine Cabinet | 7. Infinity Brass Medicine Cabinet | 8. Nel Black Medicine Cabinet | 9. Godmorgon Mirror Cabinet with 2 Doors | 10. Vintage Medicine Cabinet Polished Nickel | 11. Bayview Mirror Cabinet | 12. Pharmacy Wall-Mount Medicine Cabinet | 13. Lillangen Mirror Cabinet | 14. Ketcham Cabinets Front Keyed Lock Surface Mount Medicine Cabinet | 15. Signature Hardware Bastian Teak Medicine Cabinet | 16. Signature Hardware Teak Framed Double Door Medicine Cabinet | 17. Vintage Recessed Medicine Cabinet | 18. Weathered Oak Inset Medicine Cabinet | 19. Medicine Cabinet | 20. Plymouth Sliding Storage Mirror | 21. 23.63″ Wooden Round Mirror Cabinet | 22. Arch Top Medicine Cabinet | 23. Grayson Wall Storage Mirror Cabinet | 24. 48″ Kyra Medicine Cabinet

#2, #16 and #24 were all top contenders for the master bathroom before I strayed, and #1, #15, #17 and #21 I don’t think we’re on the market when I was shopping but I think they are stylistically GREAT.

So there you go. It’s complicated. And I really need you all to be reasonable about this. If you need the storage badly, choose the function of the medicine cabinet. My journey was more about grappling with the convenience of one, while ultimately valuing style over storage. There I said it. Yes, sometimes I value style over storage and that’s okay. I’m a stylist, not a professional organizer.

WHAT SAY YOU???? Have you any medicine cabinet woes? Do you regret not putting one in or do you wish you had this custom hinged solution earlier like I do??

The post Why Designers Hate Most Medicine Cabinets (+ Some Genius Alternative Bathroom Storage Solutions) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: Emily’s New Favorite Running Shoes, VERY Fun Pillows, & The Best Dog Content on the Internet

image via the design files | styled by annie portelli

Ok, so no new team members to introduce this week but lots of quality recommendations. Let’s get in quick so we can get outside.

Friends first. The ever-talented Oh Joy! team just launched a new pillow collection of latch hook and embroidered pillows and boy are they so cute. We are currently pretty partial to this ray of sunshine (pun-intended…once you click through).

More friends second. One of Emily’s bestie’s Robyn got her these Nike Running Shoes Zoom Pegasus 35 Turbo Running Shoe and she says they are awesome. As a runner, Emily has tried her fair share of shoes and these might be her favorite. Plus, they just plain look good.

Bowser recently got this wood drying rack for her stasher bags. The best thing about the rack is that it folds up so that you can easily throw it in a drawer when not in use if you’re one of those people that hates a cluttered counter.

One of our favorite Aussie design sites The Design Files has yet another truly warm yet jaw-dropping home reveal. This modern rustic house is what cozy dreams are made of. Plus, you really have to see the kids’ room…epic bunk bed situation happening.

It finally feels like summer here in LA and that means those temps are getting in the high 80s so Julie has been testing out different aluminum-free deodorants that ACTUALLY work all day long while schlepping furniture for shoots. She’s happy to report that she has finally found the one by Type A and they have three amazing scents: Floral Linen, Ocean Mint and—the one she’s been using—Clean Crisp Citron!

Grace was thinking of seeing Miss Saigon at the Pantages Theatre (she’s only seen a regional production thus far). She loves the songs and the original production will always have a place in her heart (hello, Lea Salonga—Filipino pride!). But one of her really good friends who is Vietnamese American just shared this article about how some of them feel about the Vietnamese’s portrayal in all productions of this musical and it’s eye-opening.

Fun summer shoe alert: Mallory recently bought a pair of these Soludos mules and they became an instant staple in her summer wardrobe. PSA, if you get them, make sure you break them in before wearing them for 12 hours straight with no change of shoes…she learned that the hard blister-ridden way.

Caitlin highly recommends following the Instagram feeds of these two service puppies in training. Phil is an American pup and Boots is over in the UK. Nothing warms her heart more than watching these little guys learning and growing every day over Instagram stories. 

For any natural beauty devotees here today, Chandler loves Honest Beauty. The product that she uses every day is the Magic Beauty Balm Stick. The highlighting cream stick is moisturizing and works well by itself for those no-makeup days, as well as under makeup for a subtle glow that is lightweight on the skin. And to top it off, this product is super affordable and lasts a long time.

Sara says this is BEST Homemade Italian Dressing. She recommends adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to really brighten it. She promises it’s a thousand times better tasting and healthier than store-bought and takes just five minutes to whip up.

Jess needs SOMEONE to buy these incredible used Rachel Comey mules from The Real Real before she caves on her post-vacation spending freeze. Guys, they are on sale for $80!

Veronica feels if you’re anything like her, there was nothing more you wanted as a kid than a treehouse. This article will make all of your childhood dreams come true.

And lastly, Velinda also has some quality dog content for you…this hair-cut loving, dancing dog. She says it may end up being the best 15 seconds of your life.

Okay bye ’til tomorrow. The sunshine is calling. xx

The post The Link Up: Emily’s New Favorite Running Shoes, VERY Fun Pillows, & The Best Dog Content on the Internet appeared first on Emily Henderson.