Fun fact: I wore Aerosoles at my wedding (yes, the comfort brand). They were nude leather and very cute, with a heel, but still very danceable, with enough chunk to walk in grass. So my commitment to my feet, promising them comfort above style (but only barely) runs deep. Today’s comfortable flats/ spring shoe (in the closed-toe fashion) was requested by a lot of readers (specifically for work and not showing our winter pedis), and I was happy to oblige. I tried on many, many more, so all of these below rank high on “comfortable,” with some allowing for all-day walking.

In this post, I’m also wearing a new pair of Stretchy but so well-cut Quince Slacks. They are true to size, so comfortable, and flattering. Washed Linen shirt from J. Crew that is also excellent – airy, good cut, menswear vibes, drapes really well (but now I’m so curious about Quince’s linen shirts!).

Comfortable Flats: Quince – Italian Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flat

I ordered a ton to try from Quince, and overall, I was extremely impressed. Let’s start with these ballet flats. I love these. They are so lightweight with a sweet little strap that is so easy to pop on and off, in the perfect oxblood color (comes in many colors). Definitely great spring – fall shoes. They are perfect to pop in your purse should you need backup shoes on a night out or want to wear sneakers for your walking commute, but then wear dressier shoes to the office.

Interior Softness: 10/10. There is a built-in small insole that has some give and is very soft to the touch.
Arch Support: Eh, none really, but the minimal style doesn’t really lend to a lot of support. I walked 1/2 a mile in these last night (so barely) and thought, “ok, these are comfortable but def not long walks”.
All Day Wearability: Errands in the car? 7/10. All day on foot? 3/10.
Quality: 9/10 I won’t really know til 3 months of wear, but the stitching is well done and nice leather.
Style: 10/10 They’ve nailed the ballet flat at that color.
Price: $72

Overall: I highly recommend these for style, and they are extremely easy and comfortable to wear (like slippers), but your dogs will bark if you go after your 10k steps in these (but again, I think that’s common sense – the nature of ballet flats isn’t for long walks).

Comfortable Flats: Quince – Italian Suede Penny Loafer

Another great one that looks designer (because it’s so high quality and simple, a la The Row) but is, you know, $1,100 LESS DOLLARS (listen, I get The Row and admire what they’ve done as a brand and business, but I LOL a lot at it most of the time). I absolutely love these, notably the almond color and slight heel, and they scored high on most categories.

Interior Softness: 9/10, great. Don’t need to wear socks, IMHO. Easy to slip on and off.
Arch Support: 7/10. Again, has a soft insole, but no added arch support. But not flat like the ballet flat.
All Day Wearability: 9/10. I would not hesitate to throw these on for all-day errands or work. Love.
Quality: 9/10. Fantastic, simple detailing, stitching, and soft leather. Curious about how it will take the dirt (and likely won’t wear in our mud season).
Style: 9/10. Again, super simple and classic, but also slimming and flattering.
Price: $84

The leather is soft, and the stitching is clean and well done. I love these shoes and can easily work them into my wardrobe.

Comfortable Flats: Quince – Italian Leather Soft Loafer

Now, these shoes I really liked compared to so many I tried on that we didn’t bother buying/shooting, but of all the Quince, they are my least favorite. Let me be clear, they are still pretty darn great, but the elastic in the back felt a little tight for me, and I didn’t love the color of the brown (better in black IMHO).

Interior Comfort: 6/10. It’s not bad, but that elastic felt too tight to me.
Arch Support: 6/10. Totally fine, but fairly slim, so not sure there is room enough to add insoles.
All Day Wearability: 6/10. I worry that the cutting in would bug me.
Quality: 7/10. They seem well-made, but the shade of the leather felt fake.
Style: 6/10. The silhouette is super simple and classic, but this color felt flat and too orange to me (go for black).
Price: $84

Comfortable Flats: OluKai – Mii Mule

The mule to end all mules (and that’s coming from a mule lover). I might buy a second pair just to settle my panic if something were to happen to this one. 50/10.

Interior Comfort: 10/10 The interior fabric is so soft and supple, and has such a supportive footbed.
Arch Support: 8/10. It’s really 10/10 for a flat. So YES, these have arch support! Not like a full insole, but more than any other flat on this list (except the last Pokolinos).
All Day Wearability: 10/10. I’ve proven it so many days. Barely noticed I had anything on. Easy to pack too, and I wore them every night on vacation after being active all day.
Quality: 10/10
Style: 10/10 I can wear these with anything, and they are flattering, easy, and elevating.
Price: $150

Comfortable Flats: Quince – Italian Leather Handwoven Square Toe Ballet Flat

Interior Comfort: 7/10. These are slightly roomier than all others, and I have wide feet. They are soft on the inside, but I’m slightly concerned that they’ll stretch and the heel will start popping out. But they are comfortable for sure.
Arch Support: 6/10. Comfortable and soft foot bed, but I wouldn’t say much about the arch support.
All Day Wearability: Great for office, errands, meals, but might not be your walking commute shoe if you are crossing mid-town.
Quality: 8/10. No red flags and seem well made (but a bit loose)
Style: 7/10. These are cute and classic, a bit work-wear for me (since I don’t have an office job), but very elevated and high quality for the price.
Price: $84

Comfortable Flats: Steve Madden Melody Natural Raffia Mary Jane

These are super cute and great for a special occasion, but you won’t be living in these shoes like you can a lot of the others. And they are on the slimmer size, so while my wider feet fit in them, they are less flattering than others.

Interior Comfort: 6/10. These are a bit slim for my feet and the raffia/webbing material is not super soft. It’s nothing abnormal, but not as soft inside as the others.
Arch Support: Little to none.
All Day Wearability: Better for a couple hour occasions for sure.
Quality: 7/10. So hard to say but I would think that you have a season or two a more fragile material like this.
Style: 8/10 I think these would look so cute with so many summer dresses.
Price: $109

Comfortable Flats: Adidas – Japan Low Top Sneaker

Listen, I’m a Nike gal, but I couldn’t find any new ones in store for this shoot, so I’m ordering these in green as my summer sneakers.

The Sambas are a bit flat for me, and I like a tiny lift with my sneakers, but they are easy and cool, and you can dress them alllll sorts of ways.

Interior Comfort: Soft for sure, but you need socks with these to not sweat it up.
Arch Support: 5/10. Pretty flat, but similar to ballet flats (or Converse), that’s kinda the style.
All Day Wearability: 9/10. So easy to wear, nothing bugs, but don’t expect the support of cross trainers.
Quality: 10/10.
Style: 10/10. Sambas are cool. In leather, they are even cooler.
Price: $130

Comfortable Flats: Adidas – Samba Jane Sneaker

Here’s my pitch on these: Fantastic travel shoe, that can check a lot of boxes (sneaker comfort, but elevated to be cute with dresses or shorts, no socks required, etc). I would totally wear these for bike rides to lunch, where I want to be active but not necessarily in athleisure.

Interior Comfort: 8/10. Soft and comfy for sure, the back slipped off my heel a tiny bit.
Arch Support: Better than Japanese Sambas, strangely. 7/10. Pretty supportive!
All Day Wearability: Totally. 10/10
Quality: 7/10. It’s not that they aren’t high quality, but white sneakers simply don’t last as long.
Style: Jury is still out on the cool factor for these, so giving it a 7/10. (They are trendy for sure).
Price: $100

Note: You need to size down 1/2 size in these. I usually wear a 7, and these are 6 1/2.

Comfortable Flats: Quince – 100% Leather Huarache Flat

These are incredible. Probably in the top 3 of this list for alllllll the below reasons.

Interior Comfort: 10/10. I was expecting to feel the leather bits or have it rip off my heel. But y’all, these are CRAZY comfortable, and there is padding inside the heel that keeps them on and blister-free.
Arch Support: No real arch support, but there is a soft, padded footbed.
All Day Wearability: 8/10. Super versatile, too, since they are closed-toe. Office, errands, beach, brunch – these work with everything.
Quality: 10/10. Super impressed.
Style: 10/10. Classic but so much more comfortable than I remember Huaraches being.
Price: $72

Comfortable Flats: Sam Edelman – Michaela Mary Jane Flat

I tried this on in one mall (in black) and loved the comfort and flattering style so much that I drove to another mall that night to get the nude in my size.

Interior Comfort: 10/10. They have a really nice footbed and soft interior materials. LOVE.
Arch Support: 5/10, but the footbed is so padded it’s oddly comfortable.
All Day Wearability: 8/10. Nothing cut in or bugged, just felt so easy and comfortable to wear.
Quality: 9/10. Nice stitching, cute tiny block heel, leather was soft but thick.
Style: 10/10. I find these very flattering (I have wide feet, so they are slimming).
Price: $140

Comfortable Flats: Steve Madden – Shay Woven

I LOVE the style of these and found them very chic in a dressier way.

Interior Comfort: 8/10. They went out of their way to make the footbed really soft and padded. TY!
Arch Support: A little! For how flat they are meant to be, I found them very comfortable.
All Day Wearability: 6/10. I get nervous with slingbacks that they’ll blister, but the strap is wide and soft, so hopefully not.
Quality: 7/10. No red flags here! But hard to say long-term.
Style: 10/10. I think the pointed toe, texture, and slingback say you get it. And that pointed toe lengthens the body, is flattering, etc. Big fan.
Price: $110

Comfortable Flats: Sperry x Aritzia – Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe

Interior Comfort: 8/10. I tried on many others that were itchy, or rubby on the inside, so these are the softest for sure (which is why I got them). They are lightweight and not too chunky or heavy, which I don’t like.
Arch Support: 5/10. Totally fine, and room to add insoles should you want them.
All Day Wearability: 9/10. I think these are perfect for the days you don’t know what you’ll be doing out and about, but want to look cool and be comfortable.
Quality: 10/10. Sperrys are great.
Style: 9/10. The only reason I’m not giving a 10 is that there are “cooler” ones on the market, but I like these for how classic they are, and mostly for how comfortable they are within this genre.
Price: $120

I LOVE THESE SPERRIES.

Comfortable Flats: Rothy’s – Double Bit Bouclé Loafer Mule

Now that I’m a Rothy’s convert (remember the sandal roundup?) I was excited to try these, and boy, did they not disappoint.

Interior Comfort: 10/10. So soft, smooth, and nothing rubbed or tugged.
Arch Support: Minimal but still comfortable.
All Day Wearability: 8/10. Less wearable than sneakers, but so versatile and comfortable.
Quality: 10/10. Rothy’s feels like they’ll last forever.
Style: 8/10 I love the pattern, the horsebit details. For the level of comfort, I think these are very stylish and look like Chanel.
Price: $155

Comfortable Flats: PIKOLINOS – Aldaya Penny Loafer

Interior Comfort: 9/10. They are heavier than all the others (but not clunky, they still move with your feet).
Arch Support: 10/10. For those wanting serious all-day wear and support, these are your gals.
All Day Wearability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10 The leather, stitching, and wood heel are all top-notch.
Style: 8/10. Both slim and chunky penny loafers are in style right now, and these are right in the middle. I think very versatile.
Price: Spendier, but see above for quality and comfort…$180

There were a few extremely comfortable contenders that didn’t have my size or color (or were pretty expensive). Paul Green shoes are splurgy, so comfortable, and always stylish. Sofft had some awesome sneakers, and Vionic was incredibly comfortable and simple (but not my color/size combo). And had Aerosol had a store in Portland, I’m sure I would have included them (I just ordered these heels because I trust them for comfort heels). These loafers from them look awesome. Anyway, like compression swimsuits and comfortable sandals, I have a real passion for comfortable walking flats (and heels). Life is just too short

Happy walking, folks. xx E

Trade shows and “market” are distinctly insider business, and one of my favorite parts of my work as a design writer, editor, and self-professed forecaster of home trends. So when a friend of mine texted me last minute that she was going to be at High Point Spring Market this past weekend, I sorted out my credentials and hit the road. Luckily for me, the city of High Point, North Carolina—a.k.a. the furniture-making mecca of the United States—is just over an hour away from where I am in the Raleigh area.

I hadn’t set foot in that city for close to a decade, since I relocated to the West Coast, but before that, it was a twice-yearly visit to check out what new things furniture companies were cooking up. Retail buyers, interior designers, and media people such as myself walk the floors of the endless parade of showrooms in their sneakers and business casual, lanyards around their necks, shoulders weighed down with free tote bags stuffed with brochures and brand swag. It’s exhausting but exciting, a design sensory overload in the best way.

Unlike in previous years when my calendar was full of appointments meant to schmooze, I meandered around at my leisure, stopping in showrooms and booths that caught my eye. And after clocking nearly 15,000 steps, I quickly turned to my friend and rattled off all the details I noticed were common throughlines between the companies we visited that Sunday.

And today, I’m sharing what I found. In retrospect, I was too busy chatting to take a ton of photos, but between my camera roll and that of my friends, I could piece together enough to give you a sense. Before diving in, I do want to say that everything felt very fall-adjacent. Typically, when I’d go to the spring market, it was bright, peppy, and playful. But it’s clear we’re knee-deep in design that feels rooted, authentic, warm, and full of deep, earthy colors. I’m not mad at it, but let’s all not forget to have a little fun in our homes, right?

Home Trends: Suiting Textiles

Far and away, one of the most obvious trends I saw at High Point this season was what I would call “suiting” textiles. Specifically, plaid, tweed, and pinstripes. Knowing that so much of what we see in our homes started first in fashion, it’s not a surprise to me that this is the direction we’re headed in. Trousers and tailoring, especially in women’s fashion, have been front and center for several years now.

Taupe stripes and tweed where everywhere, from bench-cushion sofas to comfy armchairs. I’m a bit on the fence about the tweed, not for aesthetics, but for comfort. Some of them were a little itchy, and I can just imagine trying to stay cool on an August afternoon on a prickly tweed seat.

My friend proclaimed that she found her dream sofa (left), and in person, it really was awesome. This was a super dark showroom of a magnificent brand I only just recently discovered called Rowe Furniture. Every single thing in there made us both swoon. The photo on the right is from Cisco Home, another one of my favorites, with some fun houndstooth wingback-esque armchairs.

Again, as I was too busy discussing my dream home aesthetic with my friend and catching up (we used to work together three years ago at a furniture company and hadn’t seen each other since), I didn’t snap any of the plethora of plaid upholstery items or decor pieces. But she luckily had this photo of some plaid poufs at Cisco Home.

Home Trends: So. Much. Faux. Fur.

Bouclé is out, faux fur is in, people. And I don’t just mean on throws or pillows. They are having a full-on moment in accent seating. I was pretty dubious at first, imagining, yet again, a sweaty swamp butt sliding down this thing mid-July. And my leggings-only wardrobe is also not very compatible with something so slick and soft. But I have to tell you, it’s very cozy and comfortable.

It’s an acquired look, that’s for sure, but hey, I spend my life as a design writer begging people to be original and take risks, so this is most certainly one of those moments. Plus, if you have kids or someone incredibly blunt in your life, you will get interesting questions such as the one I just got from my 4-year-old, when she came in to ask me what I was doing: “Mama, is that a bear or a chair?!?” I laughed so hard.

Home Trends: Blockprint Fabric & Bedding

Block print fabrics aren’t new to the scene. Since everyone decided they wanted to decorate their homes as if they were jamstresses in the English countryside, they’ve been around. And actually, just to inject an addendum to my previous comment, the block print technique originally arose in China and was later perfected in India (not England).

History lesson aside, sweet, delicate florals in particular can be seen on large upholstery pieces, drapery fabric, and bedding. I love seeing how it was mixed and matched, most successfully with stripes and a floral print of an opposite scale.

Home Trends: Metal Detailing

This one came to me as a bit of a surprise. Ironwork is everywhere! I noticed it across lighting, hardware, and, most interestingly, as a juxtaposition to the softness of seating. We’ll be seeing iron and metal detailing on the arms and even legs of armchairs, chaise lounges, and sofas/sectionals.

Brass took quite the backseat, though it could still be found in small doses in a lot of showrooms. But don’t be shocked when you see oil-rubbed bronze making a huge comeback. In general, we’ve been moving away from brass, with polished nickel, chrome, and pewter coming into the picture more and more. I prefer these mixed with other warm metals to keep things interesting and collected.

Home Trends: Rounded-Off Everything (Wood Included)

Round, soft, sinuous EVERYTHING. Even wood, which is such a gorgeous detail and just makes me want to run my hand along every surface. That table at right, by Ethnicraft, had my whole heart. I stood at the head of it, rubbing the edges, dreaming of future dinner parties.

As you can see, there’s an arch in nearly every part of the above image: The bookshelf, the sofa chaise, the doorframe, the settee, and the giant case good in the background…the curve can’t be stopped.

Home Trends: Warm-Undertones & Earthy Color Palettes

Gone are the days of gray and blue sofas galore. Olive green, chocolate brown, terracotta, and mustard reigned supreme across basically everything. Upholstery, decor, soft goods, and even tilework were installed in the showrooms.

We’ve been talking about warm neutrals for about a year or two now (honestly, maybe more), but everything, even the bolder colors, all leaned to warm undertones. Cool-toned greens were nowhere to be seen, and olive was the star. Honorable mention goes to oranges and reds, and mustard yellow.

I mostly noticed blue (except for when leaning deeply into the coastal vibes—keep reading for more on that) as an accent as opposed to the main event, which was an interesting turn of events. Though I’m sure you’ll have to pry the blue out of Emily’s tight fists ;).

Home Trends: Nautical Blues

I’m sorry I fell down on the job in getting photos of more nautical and beachy blues. Even my buddy had none, and she was the one who pointed it out to me (she works for a major fabric manufacturer and distributor now and knows her stuff). Lots and lots of coastal references with soft blues and creams. There are even some very overt beach callbacks, but that depended brand to brand. I wouldn’t bank on anchors and rope buoy wall hangings being overly mainstream.

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This is where I leave you for today. With a neon sign that stopped me on my way to the restroom to snap a photo. It made me chuckle, and goodness knows we all could use a little silliness these days. “May your delulu come trululu.” From that neon sign to God’s ears.

Until next time, friends…

There is a lot happening over at the Guest Cottage that I haven’t shared (or at least not all in one place), and it might be the stuff that only the remodelers will really care about (or those of you who just like to learn about the remodeling process). I feel like the design of the kitchen and what we are calling the “speakeasy” is at stage “5” – where we have ideas, but are still playing with them, so nothing is finalized. The bathroom is almost fully flushed out (lol), and then all of the electrical, foundation, framing, plumbing, and HVAC have moved along. It’s kinda the boring stuff, but many of you might be interested in how we are doing it, so here’s the latest:

Foundation Repair – Done

A few months ago, our contractors, “Foundations First NW,” finished the scope of work that was just meant to repair and make the foundation safe, but not totally redo it. There is still a slope in the old prop room (better but def still noticeable), and some other areas are wonky, but we knew all of that. We chose not to spend the $100k+ to make it awesome, and instead made it safe and better for a little over $20k. They built the new foundation in the bathroom and spent a few days adding supports underneath the house (using steel adjustable posts), replacing a huge beam, digging out a crawl space, etc. It’s done, and they did a great job.

Electrical

We have finished about 1/2 of the rough electrical, and the fantastic news is that they were able to put so many surface mount junction boxes without using conduit to cover up the wiring in the rooms where we wanted to preserve the original wood paneling (living room, prop room, and upstairs future office). Basically, we feared that we’d have to see some of the wiring since we didn’t want to open up the walls, but it’s all hidden! I’ll give out my electrician’s info after we are done with the work. So far we’ve been soooo happy with him and his team.

HVAC – Heat And AC

After having a Quilt mini-split AC/heat unit installed in our gym, we were blown away by how good the product is (and we are so excited that we can put our wood paneling over top of it so that it can really disappear into the design of this old house). So I pitched a partnership with them, and we have identified the rooms that need heat and AC (which is most of them, actually). Again, while it does require some light construction and electrical work, it’s not a massive ducting system that would require us to rip out walls and ceilings, etc. And we love that we can only heat or cool the rooms when we need to. The exact location is being figured out by GreenSavers (a local company that specializes in installing these amongst all other HVAC and insulation stuff). I’m psyched.

The Roof Is Being Repaired

Listen, it’s not in great shape, but we are hoping not to replace it and just patch it. The guys are out there literally right now giving us a quote (and I can tell they’d prefer we just redo it all). TBD on that front.

Framing Is Happening Right Now

We aren’t moving any walls or changing the layout, but a lot of the ceilings need repair before we can wire, add insulation, or put in skylights. Plus, we have to raise a door and a window in the bathroom, and get rid of two windows (they just don’t make sense and will cost a lot of money to repair or replace). Phase 1 is happening right now. Phase 2 will be after all the electrical, plumbing, and insulation are done, and they’ll panel over it all, then build out the water closet and shower room in the bathroom.

Exterior Repair

This house is old and could probably use a total face-lift, but then it would look like a new house, which is fine, but not really the intent (or just not necessary and would cost so much more). There was a lot of water damage from the rain just pouring off the roof of the covered walkway onto the corner of the house, and some of the posts on the walkway were totally rotted anyway. So we decided to just chop it off, taking off the rotted parts and making it so we can move the water away from the house when it rains (it still touches it a few inches, but not as badly). I’m 9% sad that we lost some of the covered walkway, but not enough to invest in what it would take to figure out the water abatement (the roof line hit the house, no room for a gutter, and everything was rotted). My crew also found siding that didn’t match perfectly, but it sure is close (which is good enough for me). So they are ripping off all boards that are super damaged and replacing them with ready-made boards. I’m sure someone with an eagle eye will be able to spot the difference in the profile, but custom-milled siding is crazy expensive and just not where we wanted to splurge. Once it’s all painted white, I doubt anyone will notice.

Wall Cladding

I’m so excited to say that we found some reclaimed wood that matches our existing wood almost perfectly. It’s reclaimed fir with a rough face, and while I originally wanted it to be a rich, more refined wood, once we held up this more rustic piece, it felt way more appropriate to the house.

All The Fun Stuff

Meanwhile, we have been shopping for tile, ordering a lot of Samplize paint colors, and playing around with the kitchen layout. I want to get a bit closer in the design process before I show you what I’m thinking, so hang tight for now.

The overwhelm is starting to sink in a little, but I’m still having so much fun dreaming up each room. But to finally have some real construction movement over here just feels sooo good. Progress!

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

Well, shit. My mom died. (On Christmas, no less.) The November prognosis of “months” whittled to “weeks to months,” shortly collapsed into “days,” and then she was gone. It wasn’t wholly unexpected – she’d been battling stage IV cancer for a decade, something I never mentioned here – but it was a terrible end to a terrible year. 

Brenda described the medical complications of 2025 as akin to navigating white water rapids – you’re just trying to hold on through chaos – but now, four months later, I’d compare the last 124 days without her to something like being tossed off a waterfall in a barrel. I feel completely untethered, I still feel like I’m in free fall, and I very much look forward to the day when I no longer need to use a convoluted water metaphor to analogize my feelings. (But before you feel too bad for me, please know that Brenda was making quips like “ugh, how much can you cry?” and “God, I didn’t raise you to be such a wimp” until the end. And to her credit, she was my age – 34, with an 18-month-old baby in tow – when my dad passed away the day before their wedding anniversary. So I guess it could be even more devastating, huh?)

To that end, I unfortunately have to cease my moping and put on my big girl pants because I’VE GOTTA SELL MY CHILDHOOD HOME. I think Brenda knew that I would dillydally on this task if left to my own devices, so she explicitly listed what needed to be fixed (fresh carpets and maintained landscaping, mainly) and left me instructions to list it in the spring, which is…uh, about now. So today, I want to kick off a little series on selling my childhood home – including all the nitty-gritty financial dirt, presented from a person who has, ironically, never even bought a house. I also wanted to share some of the details on how my mom organized her affairs to make things easier for me, for those of you who may have put your own estate planning on the back burner. Let’s start with the latter and then dive into the former, yeah?

Lightening The Load – How My Mom Made It Easy To Sell Her House

• She put the property in a revocable living trust. You’re going to need an estate attorney here, but it’s absolutely worth it. And it’ll save your loved ones on probate taxes in the end – in Delaware, we’re charged an administration fee of about 2% of the entire estate (in my case, that’d be about $16,500 for the house alone). By putting our home in a trust and making me the successor trustee, we’ve avoided the court system and enabled me to meet the supersonic sales deadline imposed by Brenda.
• She pre-scheduled maintenance. Imagine my surprise when, in January, our HVAC company came by to tune up our furnace and discovered that it was on its last legs. I had a new one installed the next day – my first time ever dropping over $9,000 on a home repair – and discovered that the house was, in fact, significantly warmer with a functioning furnace. (Imagine that!) She scheduled the AC tune-up earlier this month, too, and luckily, it was in perfect working order. I guess the moral here is just to stay on top of your home maintenance, but boy, what a blessing to not have to discover failing systems during an inspection! 
• She booked her own Swedish death cleaning service. Because what fun is hospice if you’re not actively depressing your family with how considerate you can be? She paid a team of 4 for 2 days of help and told me to reach out when I was ready, which happened to be last week. I’ve handled the overwhelming bulk of clean-out by myself – I have laid eyes on every sheet of paper in this home – but I’ve tapped the experts to help me sort through the garage and what remains in the basement. At the time, I thought it was morbid and depressing, but as decision fatigue begins to set in, I am just so grateful for my mom’s foresight. (She also curated the playlist for her own funeral, if you’re ever in hospice and looking to kill some time. If I don’t laugh, I’ll cry.) (I’m still crying anyway.) 
• Bonus: She switched all accounts to physical mail. Did she add my FaceID and fingerprint to her phone and laptop? Yes. Were the bulk of her passwords saved? Also yes, and that has been pretty helpful! But more helpful than anything? PHYSICAL MAIL. Mortgage updates? All in the mail. Utility bills? Just check the mail. Where did she have bank accounts? Found them in the mail! Need to figure out which credit cards to cancel? It’s easy, because they sent some mail! It’s been transformative: I’ve actually switched to all paper statements, should Dennis ever have to go through this process on my behalf. All-digital communication is overrated. 

The Plan For Prep

I know this is the juicy part that we’re all interested in, but we’re going to eat some vegetables first in the event that someone out there is in a similar situation and feeling overwhelmed at the process of emptying out like, 4,000 square feet of stuff. I’d now like to introduce you to the (soon-to-be-trademarked?) Caitlin Higgins Method for Successor Trustees Preparing a House for Sale. 

Step One: Begin with the paper declutter. You’re likely going to find things in here that you need to carry out the rest of the process, anyway. Your local shredding company is about to become your best friend. Your recycling cans will overfloweth. You will find documents everywhere: in the kitchen. The desks. Filing cabinets. The basement. (Didn’t expect to find paperwork down there, honestly.) Your first job is to be a truffle pig for documents.

Step Two: Find your donation company of choice, because you’re about to spend a lot of time together. I landed on the Ministry of Caring – an organization I volunteered with in high school – because I wanted my mom’s things to go straight to those in need (vs. straight to the Goodwill bins, where they’ll be purchased by a flipper). I know I’m leaving a ton of money on the table here – she has beautiful clothing, nice homewares, great furniture, all that jazz – but the stress of managing Facebook Marketplace or Poshmark sales on top of all other executrix (did not know it was a gendered term!) duties didn’t seem like a particularly wise use of time. 

Dennis sniffed out some great specialty donation spots, too – Project Cure took all of our medical equipment and supplies (and I mean all of them – even the hard-to-donate things, like commodes and picc line caps and iodine). They’re a really incredible organization doing wonderful work – I’m so glad that Den found them! And, of course, you can’t forget the pets – Humane Animal Partners is now the proud owner of 22 dog beds of varying sizes (why did we have so many?!) and a seemingly infinite number of sheets and blankets. Our local Green Drop location has been great for any miscellany.

Step Three: Begin the clear-out process. It is going to take much longer than you realize. I started with dressers and armoires, then tackled cabinets and credenzas, then full closets, then anything under the bed. This is going to be a demoralizing process because all of your work is behind-the-scenes, so to speak, so there’s no immediate visual payoff, but at least you’ll know that the house is much emptier than it began. And that’s something, right?

Step Four: Enlist your realtor. I’m not going to lie: I did this out of order – I actually ordered (and paid) for new flooring before enlisting the help of a realtor. I think this is mainly because the first thing Brenda said after hearing she had months to live was, “oh no, I should have fixed the carpet” (only later did she also remember that we were planning to go to Africa this year – the carpets were still her top concern. In her final conversation with Dennis, she stressed to him that I needed to fix the carpets. As if I’d forget!!!). But a realtor can take a look at your property and help you discern what’s worth investing in. 

Step Five: Begin your updates. This is the phase we’re currently in! Our flooring is scheduled for installation in early May, and our landscaping is all set and ready to go for 2026. You might want to call in additional experts here, like a painter who tells you that literally no one can see the invisible spots you are pointing at and that there’s nothing to be fixed. (You might also want to cry through this meeting, just for fun, because your emotional regulation skills are fully out of whack at this point.) Your realtor may call you several times to help talk you off the metaphorical ledge. She will then take over communication with the trades – something I honestly didn’t even know a realtor could do! – and will make your life about a million times easier. 

The Numbers – It’s $$$ Time

ALRIGHT. WE’VE REACHED THE MEAT AND POTATOES. THE GOOD STUFF. Let’s talk about money. (And my rapidly decreasing credit score – if you’re the executor of an estate and feel like you’re bleeding dough, you’re in good company. My credit utilization rate and stress levels are at all-time highs, but we’re going to make it through!!!) 

On the cost front, I’ve sunk over $26,000 into this house over the past few months. I’ve literally never spent $26,000 on anything – maybe my car, inflation-adjusted? Or college tuition? – So working with my own money at this scale over the past few months has been kind of horrifying. (Funeral expenses, cremation fees, inherited pet surgery – I went from like, 3% utilization to 80% real quick!)

I plunked down $9,000 for a new furnace; spent $15,000 on about 2,500 square feet of carpeting and tile (I did splurge on all-wool carpet and natural padding – a 25% off sale made it tenable. This cost includes removal, furniture moving, and install – we’re starting next week!); and have laid out about $2,000 on mulch (why is that so expensive?!) and landscape maintenance, including a weekly mowing service. 

Once the carpet is down and furniture has been safely moved back into place, we’ll revisit touching up any trim or paint. I’ll definitely keep you posted on cost, because I’m nosy, have no filter, and am happy to overshare on the internet. (I did also get Brenda’s blessing to blog about it, so you can indulge with me. She also suggested I might want to write a screenplay about our year, and said it’d be “a heartbreaker.” Maybe I’ll consider it once this house is sold?)

And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for: the listing price. My mom purchased our home in 2004 for $520,000. 22 years later, she’s hitting the market with updated hardscaping, to-die-for landscaping, an updated kitchen, and a remodeled primary bathroom at $825,000. Homes in our neighborhood have sold for $839,000 and $842,000 within the past few months, so I’m hoping that we’ve positioned ourselves competitively. 

I did explore some alternative avenues here – I got an OpenDoor offer for $776,000, which actually would have netted me more cash by eliminating realtor fees (estimating ~5%, or $41,250) and the $17,000 I’ve spent on updates. I really did consider this – I know it’d be financially prudent for me – but the idea of selling to a corporation (or to any of the obituary-reading grifters who have been haranguing me with letters, texts, calls, DMs, home visits, etc., offering to buy my home at a discount – straight to jail with all of you!!!) made me feel nauseous. Maybe one day I’ll look back and regret not maximizing my income potential, but this house was the spot when I was growing up – where everyone got ready for dances, where my friends had their own rooms, where we stayed up late enjoying the backyard – and I just want it to go to normal people. I don’t want this home to just be a business transaction that increases a company’s bottom line, you know? 

So I’m in the final stretch – aiming to officially hit the market 5/27 – and I’m hoping that we’ll be able to sell it quickly. I mean, it’s still technically spring through 6/20, isn’t it? I still have a ton of stuff to move out of the house, which Dennis and I will be tackling this weekend, and I’m securing a storage space for the furniture I can’t yet bear to part with, like my mom’s iron canopy bed and my grandparents’ grandfather clock. I’m almost ready to tap in the EHD team – the next update from me will be about how we’re styling the house to sell, which should come out in a few weeks.

All this to say: man, dying sucks, huh? I wish I weren’t doing any of this right now. But the only way out is through, I guess? TO THE BOTTOM OF THE WATERFALL I GO. 

PS. I just carved out a section where I could sing the praises of my wonderful, wonderful coworkers at EHD. When I flew to the East Coast last February to take care of my mom after what I thought would be a routine hip surgery, I had no idea how the year would unfold. I remember talking to Em on the phone in March or April – I was totally breaking down, was overwhelmed from my new caregiving role, and didn’t think I could juggle work – and she had my back, 100%, no questions asked. I honestly can’t even remember how much time I spent out of the office last year – I think it was months, but my memory has been colored by that hospital haze – but I remember that every. single. doctor. offered to write me an FMLA letter, and couldn’t believe that I had a job that offered me the level of time and flexibility I needed to devote all my energy to my mom. No one at EHD had to cover for me – and in a normal business, I’m sure I would have gotten the boot – but this team allowed me to focus all my energy where it most needed to be without a second thought. Whenever you read a post here, just know that it was written by a GOOD FREAKIN’ EGG with the kindest heart. I’m so lucky to be here. :’) ONWARDS!

While I’m awaiting my big summer trip to explore a place I’ve never been before, I stumbled upon a different kind of international experience on Instagram the other day…a kitchen design idea I had somehow missed that was extremely popular in its country of origin. That is one very cool thing about the internet: just when you think you’ve been exposed to most things (well, in my case, design things), something simple, practical, and genius pops up and blows your mind. I then decided to see what other awesome kitchen design ideas I hadn’t really been exposed to from around the world. A design hunt, if you will. So, unlike Caitlin’s awesome 2026 home innovations post, this is going to be about kitchen ideas other countries have been using for a while, that I think should be more popular in the US. Let’s start with the idea that inspired this post…

Kitchen Design Ideas: Finish Drying Cabinet

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I saw this creator on Instagram install a Finish dish drying cabinet into her new kitchen, and I immediately loved it/couldn’t believe I hadn’t seen it before. So it’s not a new idea, but it was somehow new to me, and now I desperately wish I had one. This amazing space-saving design element was invented by Maiju Gebhard in the 1940s to eliminate hand-drying dishes (my dream with someone who doesn’t have a dishwasher). The idea is that this cabinet sits above the sink, with dish racks installed into the sides so that the bottom of the cabinet can be open for the water to drip into the sink (or another waterproof surface). And this is where they are/can be permanently stored, too! See? A GREAT kitchen design idea.

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A post shared by Leslieville Kitchens (@leslievillekitchens)

So simple yet an incredible option to not only save on counterspace but also eliminates A LOT of visual clutter! As someone who does not want a drying rack on her countertop (personal preference), I can feel my heart racing in my chest from pure excitement. The one that I saw on Instagram is a little on the smaller side, but others are bigger and can hold pots, pans, you name it.

The only cons I see are that you have to deal with water dripping onto your sink, which might be annoying if you want a perfectly wiped-down and dry area at all times. Second, you potentially aren’t maximizing storage space with things like plates, since they won’t be stacked/very close together. I don’t think that this really is an issue, given that it seems these cabinets are mostly used in smaller homes/kitchens that don’t require the need for tons of items…like plates. For instance, I have 6 dinner plates, not 12.

Kitchen Design Ideas: Elevating Countertop Outlets

This product/kitchen design idea is commonly used in the Netherlands. Outlets are generally not the most beloved item in a kitchen, so the fact that these give you the option to use and then hide them is pretty great. They are put into countertops and then, with the option of a manual lift, push down, or easy button, it raises up.

With this one, I’m of two minds. There are some where the tops are the same material as the counters, which is my favorite version. There are others that are brass or silver but still good looking, then there are the ones that to me are equally as much of an eyesore as ones on the wall…actually, maybe worse. So to do this in a way that enhances the look of your kitchen, not detracts from it, it will likely be a pretty penny.

Here are some shoppable ones!

White Motorized Pop Up Outlet with USB | Brass Round Kitchen Pop Up GFCI Outlet

Dual Sided Pop Up Counter Power Outlet | Tamper Resistant Combination Outlet

Kitchen Design Ideas: Fish Grill Drawers

These fish grills, to my understanding, originated in Japan and are built into their ranges! It’s such a cool way to grill that came out of a need for being able to cook fish in clean more contained way, especially if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Of course, since fish is such a staple in the Japanese diet, this feature is very important and so useful. But also, it’s not necessarily only for fish – you can cook vegetables, small amounts of other meats, like chicken or beef.

@allstarsteven Random Things in Japan That Make Sense Did you know stoves in Japan have built-in fish ovens? Genius or overkill? Would you use one at home? #travel #japan #japon #japantrip #japantravel #japanlife #japanculture ♬ Carmen Habanera, classical opera(1283412) – perfectpanda

Here’s the issue for the US. Japanese versions aren’t easy to get here and are usually always imported. Also, given that there are different regulations for different countries, they also tend not to be certified and are hard to install with US sizes and standards. If anything, I just wanted to include this to maybe create a demand for US-compliant versions:)

Kitchen Design Ideas: Toe-Kick Drawers Or Plinth Drawers

Another really smart storage idea! Especially if you are short on storage, why not maximize every inch of your kitchen and make thin low drawers out of your cabinet’s toe kicks? The interwebs told me this comes to us via Europe (places like Italy, Germany, Denmark, etc). Especially in cities, where there are so many apartments with likely not huge kitchens, smart storage is of the utmost importance.

This is, of course, an idea if you’re renovating or building out a kitchen. Probably a pretty hard DIY with preexisting cabinets. Another thing to consider is how much the cabinets protrude past the front of the plinth drawer. The last thing you want is for your feet to be so close to the drawer that you are constantly accidentally hitting it open. When we were at our Airbnb in Palm Springs for our retreat, alllll of the drawers (of which there were mannnny), we kept accidentally hitting them with our bodies and constantly having to close them. I know it sounds like a silly problem, but it was annoying.

You can do handles or finger pulls, but just make sure it doesn’t look too busy.

Kitchen Design Ideas: Dishwasher Drawers

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Ok, these are definitely used in the US, but not on the scale that I think they should be! They were created in New Zealand by Fisher & Paykel and are much more common there and in Australia, as well as the UK. I first saw them in my ex’s parents’ home back in 2016 (in Australia). I was shook in the best way. I knew on that day I would have my own pair if I were to ever have the chance to revovate a kitchen. You have the flexibility to do smaller loads more quickly, as well as get to do two different types of washes at the same time. If you are a family that has a truly enormous amount of dishes each night, then maybe these aren’t the best fit for you, but aside from that, I love all of the benefits. Also, if you are only using the top drawer, you don’t have to bend down as far:)

So what do you think? Are you intrigued by any of these? What are some other kitchen design ideas from other parts of the world that I missed??

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: A Review Of Our New Induction Range – All The Details On Our Beautiful Aga Elise (And How Cooking With Induction And Convection Is Different Than Gas)

Birdie has you readers to thank for this change, and she is SOOOO thankful (and excited) Here’s what is happening. She and I picked out this wallpaper years ago (she was five the first time she saw it), and we both loved how colorful, whimsical, and happy it was (just like her). Cut to a year or so after we revealed the room (when she was 8 or 9), when she sheepishly (at first) said it didn’t feel like her anymore. And while I was bummed, I also should have known better than to lock in a kid, style-wise, so early, especially a kid who loves fashion and style and clearly expresses herself through it. My style changed so much growing up (still DOES!!!!), she’s not wrong to want to make her room a representation of who she is now – a tween girl! And if I had been a smarter mom, we would have painted and not done a fancy wallpaper to allow for such identity switches in the first place. So…

I’ve been telling her since she was 8 that we can change it when she’s 13. That felt like an appropriate amount of time to live with it (6 years). Now, to an 8, 9, and now 10-year-old, waiting til 13 is an eternity. She brought it up all the time (once a week) and was never once bratty about it, but she just really, really didn’t want it anymore (she thought it was baby-ish, which is cryptonite to a tween). I did my best to understand her point of view, while holding the boundary….

That is, until so many of you came with some solid common sense and reason, defending her desire to change it. The overwhelming response was, “Why are you waiting? If you know you are going to change it, then why not do it now so she can enjoy more of it and feel like her room is hers?” I was trying to make sure she didn’t think life worked so easily – that if she changes her mind about something, she just gets to change it. There are financial consequences to this. But as she puts it while smiling so sweetly, “Mama, you let a 5-year-old pick out the wallpaper. What did you expect??” (LOLOLOL – she’s so right!!!).

I mean, how stinking cute is her room?? We made the bulletin board together (which we are going to paint). We did the window films just for fun (so easy). We painted the vintage nightstand.

We chose the shelf color and the table color together (because painting is easy – this is the lesson here).

Bedframe

Last year, we upgraded her bed to this green one from Article because the vintage Jenny Lind one I got on FBMP was so rickety. And as you can see, she started plastering her wall withs with posters.

What Color Does She Want???

She wants a “beige purple,” A tween girl wall color. After looking at colors together, I realized that what she meant to her was a soft purple, not too bright (but not too gray). And then I remembered that we had been through this exact situation before.

Remember the kid-to-teen room that we did years ago for this sweet girl (who is almost done with college now!!!). It’s so funny. Same color palette before and after Birdie LOVES the after room. Except she doesn’t want any vintage, which I totally get (I think she wants to be more grown up, and vintage feels funky to her).

We think we know the color (it’s for a last-minute paint partnership, which is why it’s happening now instead of this summer). We need it to still look good with the doors and carpet, so as of now, it’s Sherwin-Williams Grape Mist. It’s a really soft lavender that still had a lot of purple in it (versus going too gray or blue or pink). She loves it, I really like it, and we are on the same terms about doing it together.

So, Are We Ripping Off The Wallpaper?

Yep. It’s painful, and I’m not proud of this, but here we are (and it’s coming off really easy). Painting over doesn’t make sense, and forcing my daughter to live in a highly specific room that doesn’t feel like her for the next 8 years also doesn’t make sense. So we bought the spray, and it’s actually coming off really easily. We primed when we put it up (with wallpaper primer), and whatever glue they use now can be dissolved by the spray that releases it.

I have no idea how we’ll be during the teen years, but let’s just say there is a lot of mutual affection. Even when she says she doesn’t want any vintage in her room and no accent colors (literally just light purple and beige – she gave her brother the green bed).

Note the stuffies, which are very affectionately accounted for every night. Being 10, on the cusp of growing up with one foot still in childhood, is so fun to witness.

Well, that photo makes me want to cry. Luckily, I get to spend so much time with her painting this room this weekend because that was the caveat and our rule from now on. She is totally welcome to change her room, as long as she helps. Olivia Rodrigo will be on repeat

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Birdie’s Bedroom Reveal!! Designing WITH (Not For) Your Kids, And How We Exploded This Room With Color

Happy Sunday, everyone. We know it happens every single year, but wow, May got here fast! Well, it’s almost here:) Em’s getting ready to shoot outside, which you know she loves, and lots of other fun projects are well underway. But what we are most excited about today is sharing the reader swimsuit entries we got! Everyone looks so beautiful and gave awesome recommendations, so get ready for those down below. Let’s jump in!

This week’s house tour is pure joy and beauty. The amazingly talented Dabito is in ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST with his New Orleans home. As expected, it’s full of color, pattern, art, whimsy, and more. What’s even more unreal is that this is a new build. You have to see the photos and read this story of how this home came to be!

From Emily: Two gifts that hit big with our kids. For Christmas, both our kids got CrunchLabs kits, and they are so, so good. If you don’t know, Mark Rober (an engineer and now a massive YouTube star) created CrunchLabs based on his passion for curiosity within science. His YouTube is one of a few that we allow our kids to watch that they actually WANT to watch. He’s so smart and likable and doesn’t talk down to kids. The Crunchlab kits are the perfect level of complicated, with a huge payoff. We don’t have to help at all, and yet the kids actually stick to it and have finished every single one. They are usually something really interactive that feels like a toy at the end (this month was a propulsion device). This next one is a fantastic gift for a tween. For our Easter baskets, Brian (uh, I mean the Easter Bunny) bought Charlie a light-up Tetris game, which has proven to be very fun and still deemed cool by tweens (I think because it lights up and is giving neon light decor, maybe?). We bought one from West and Arrow, but Amazon has a lot of options that seem very fun as well. I’m always delighted when my tweens “play” with a toy versus just wanting new tech (that we push back on – the battle is real). It would be such a great gift to stock up on for kids to give their friends for birthdays.

From Mallory: If you’ve ever been to Mendocino Farms, then you know just how delicious their curried couscous is…Austin and I love to meal prep lunches each week, but finding something to make that will get better and better while it sits in your fridge is certainly challenging. We were craving pearled couscous (specific, I know..), so I decided to shoot my shot and make the Mendo version at home. YOU GUYS, IT WAS SO EASY AND DELICIOUS. There are a ton of versions of this recipe (the LA Times one adds brown sugar to the spices, so I added a pinch, and it did make it incredibly yum). The sweet, the spicy, the creamy, the acid – it’s all there, and it gets better as the week goes on. We made some chicken thighs to go with it for some protein, and it’s chef’s kiss. We’re excited for this one to be in our meal prep rotation!

From Arlyn: Over the last few weeks, we’ve spent an unspeakable amount of money on things that are, without a doubt, not flashy or sexy. Bathroom trash cans, plungers, cabinet door bumpers, and the like. But some of the functional things we’re replacing after our move are exciting to me, even if they aren’t decorative. Case in point: Our new KitchenAid dish rack. As much as I imagine a world where I don’t have dishes drying on my counter, there is no scenario where we are hand-drying everything as it washes to put right away. So, we need a dish rack, and this one is sturdy, just the right size, and has a slanted draining tray underneath so the counters don’t get soaked. I found mine on a deeper sale a few weeks back, but honestly, I would have paid more for it now after having it.

Our 2026 Reader Swimsuit Recs!!

This is the Tamarindo top and Cardiff bottom from Carve Designs. I’ve had this suit for about 5 years now and wear it all the time! As someone with bigger boobs, I was specifically looking for a top with adjustable cross-back ties, which gives it a more secure feeling, even though it’s not a high support top. I like that the bottoms have the subtle side bands – they’re soft and don’t dig in and cause a bump where the edge of the suit meets skin. Simple but special, if you will

I like swimsuits with more coverage on the bottom, and so I love the sets from Hapari. The shorts come in 5 colors (all separate listings/links) that mix and match with all of the different styles and colors of tops. I like that I can get a little extra coverage on the bottom without having to layer board shorts over bikini-style bottoms, which is what I did before I was introduced to Hapari. And of course, two pieces make it easy to go to the bathroom! I have purchased many (at least 6) of these sets and will continue to buy more! At the time of this writing, they are having a big sale where all items are $10, but if you miss that, you can still usually get a good sale price. I’m wearing a medium in both the top and the bottom, true to size. 

I have been a J.Crew Lana Swimsuit evangelist since I put it on! Perfect coverage in the back without being too cheeky, and the deep V is so sexy without being overly so. The material is almost exactly like the much more expensive Left on Friday suits I’ve tried. They come in long torso, which is a must for me, and perhaps the best part of J.Crew suits is always having a discount code! 

I’m obsessed with this Cupshe suit from Amazon for $40. I am wearing it on an active weekend in Big Sur, in and out of the river, playing with kids, but still feel sexy and glam!

Instead of a photo of me in my suit, I figured I would recommend an entire brand. I only wear Left on Friday bathing suits. The compression is amazing, they last for years (I add a new piece or three every year), you can wash AND dry them, and they stay in perfect condition. And you can mix and match all the pieces! If you see me in a suit, it’s a guarantee it’s from Left on Friday.

The reason that I love this suit is that I have lost 25 pounds since I bought it. And it still fits! I’m wearing a size 12, but I am a size 8 now. Summersalt is only online, so they have to be really great at the cut, fit, and stretch of their suits so as to accommodate a wide range of body shapes and minimize returns… I own a second summersalt suit in the same color way and two matching coverups, and I’m so pleased that they all still fit. I will definitely buy more suits from them when I’m in the market again! 

Bought this suit in May 2019 and wear it to the beach, the pool, paddle boarding with a rash shirt, and kayaking a lot. It still looks new. I have an almost hourglass figure, long torso, C cup. A friend of mine bought one on my recommendation, and she is very happy with it. She is more athletic and less busty. 

From Caitlin: Here’s one for all my personal finance nerds: I could not be happier with my Robinhood Gold card – so much so that I’ve switched to their banking product, too. On the card front, I’m rocking 3% back across the board – no worries about hitting specific categories every quarter – and I’m so pleased with the point redemption opportunities. (One point = one cent when I redeem and use my cash back to buy stocks – also earn 3.35% when I leave it uninvested in my brokerage!) But get this: the new banking perks are UNBELIEVABLE. I’m earning 3.5% on my checking account (!!!) and a whopping 4.25% on my high-yield savings, with tons of additional perks (no ATM fees, free checks, cash delivery, the list goes on!). I know Robinhood has an interesting reputation in more traditional financial circles – it’s seen as a platform for kids to throw money into junk stocks – but MAN, I’ve been using the card for a few years and recently switched over my direct deposit and daily banking, and just love the feeling that even my uninvested emergency fund is growing. Take a peek and see if it’s a fit for you! 

From Marlee: One of my favorite bags is this tote from Primecut, which is a local Portland woman-owned business. Maybe I’m slightly biased because one of my best friends works there, but their bags are truly the cutest. They are rolling out some new products for spring – enter the most adorable bag charms – that I am so excited for. If you want some handmade, colorful accessories in your life, they are a great business to support:)

From Gretchen: Em’s recent denim shorts post on Friday reminded me just how much I love and wear my AGOLDE Parker shorts. I’ve been breaking them out any chance I can get. They have a structured, button fly (my favorite) and are perfectly worn in with a fray that doesn’t get too wild. I have the shorter pair and wear them to DEATH, but I’m thinking about also picking up the Parker Long’s after seeing them on Em. If they have the same overall fit as my tried-and-trues, with a slightly longer leg, then for me, they’re worth the splurge!

From Jess: I, too, fall victim to the makeup tricks on the internet, but I have to say I really love the results of (mostly) following this one. Now, I wasn’t looking for makeup tips to take “better” photos like this creator is doing; I just wanted to feel warm, soft, and glowy. I also had a similar version (or the same) of most of the products, which also made me feel more willing to try, but honestly, after seeing the results, I would think it’s worth starting from scratch. I did skip the freckles and lip stuff, FYI. Instead, for lips, I bought another of my favorite sheer matte lipsticks in Amour Fou, which looks SO bright on the stick but goes on deeper and is soooo pretty. I had the Makeup by Mario eyeshadow palette, which is my absolute favorite, but I bought his liquid bronzer and the powder bronzer she recommends. I also picked up this powder blush in Amore instead because I preferred the tone (this is the liquid blush I use in Hope). Oh, and this is my concealer and my regular setting powder (in Cherry Peach) that works SO well. This is my favorite $7 mascara (in Deep Brown) and my beloved Victoria Beckman eyeliner (in Terracotta). Now, I like but don’t love my highlighter, so here is the one she recommends. For my brows, I use this pencil (it’s soooo thin, which I love) and this $10 brow gel. I know this is A LOT of info, but I always find it helpful when people tell me exactly what they use. And if you are like me, you will feel silly how many times you likely will watch this reel to get all the tips, but you will be happy with the results:)

Thank you for spending a little bit of your day with us, and see you tomorrow for a very fun update!

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: All The Ways We’ve Styled Our Farmhouse Fireplace Mantel (+ Lots Of Useful Ideas)

Hello again!! Yes, this is the best weekend possible to buy great, affordable furniture and decor. Way Day (Wayfair’s biggest sale of the year) is here and waiting for you:) That means up to 80% off, free shipping, flash deals, etc. I’m sure a lot of you mark your calendars and wait for the Way Day sale dates to be announced, but if you are like me (not as organized, let’s say), no need to fret because here are some awesome, quality, easy decor upgrades for basically every room in your home. As a reminder, this is only a 3-day sale, so let’s get right to it!

Easy Decor Upgrades: Whole House

Let’s start more broad with some items that can be used in many types of rooms…like a rug. This first rug is an Amber Lewis x Loloi collab and is so pretty. The deep colors are going to not only ground your space beautifully but also easily hide any mess that life will likely bring. The lighter jute and cotton one is the kind of rug that is going to bring so much visual texture and give that modern organic style we all love. It’s also made from plant-based, sustainable materials and is designed to be kid and pet-friendly. Not to mention it would be a great laying rug to go under a more colorful, smaller rug you may already have.

If you’ve been looking for a great-looking, affordable Roman shade, here it is. Plus, these are cordless, thermal blackout ones. That means you are potentially saving on your electricity bill, too, because it reduces energy lost through your windows by up to 45% (as well as noise up to 50%). It comes in lots of colors and sizes, too! Kind of a no-brainer. Then, if you are looking for a great curtain rod, this modern traditional one is pretty perfect. Simple but not boring, and you can attach it to the wall OR your ceiling. Not to mention it comes in FIVE different sizes (as well as bronze and white).

As much as we’d all love central air pumping through our homes all summer long, these ceiling fans are a pretty beautiful alternative. I love the simple cylinder design of the first one a lot. I think the brass looks really expensive, but if you’d prefer other colors, there are four other colorways to choose from. Now, if you prefer a slimmer profile, the second one is also extremely clean but still pretty. That one has five other colorways.

Easy Decor Upgrades: Entryway Or Mudroom

Ok, onto the specific rooms! Let’s start with the entryway or mudroom. Storage is king in these spaces, and here are two great options. Beginning with the smaller one, we have the ultimate shoe cabinet. It holds up to 24 (!) pairs of shoes, which is incredible. But what’s also great is that you can style the top with great decor that will make your home even more beautiful. It comes in three other colors. The second one is for those of you who want more of a “get ready station.” With this one, you can hang coats, store shoes, toys, whatever you need! It’s also just visually grand, looks expensive, and comes in four other colors.

Easy Decor Upgrades: Living Room

We’ve talked about the importance of a large credenza, so here are two great options in two very different styles. The first midcentury modern one is not only beautiful, but the storage behind those rolling doors is so good. There’s even a drawer in there! It comes in three sizes and three other colors! The second one could work in a traditional home, modern traditional, farmhouse, the list goes on. If you love to display your pretty things, this is a perfect option for you, given the two glass cases. It does come in four other colors, and those feet are the cutest.

Hello texture! I personally love love a round coffee table; it breaks up the rectangle of a sofa or sectional beautifully. These two are excellent choices if you are in the market because not only are they round (clearly), but the detailing on each of them will add so much to a room. The cream one is organic and has so much visual movement, but because of the color is still light and airy, it doesn’t look “heavy”. The wood one is very structured, but the slats add a very sophisticated pattern. Each of them comes in a few different sizes, and the wood one also comes in a couple of other colors.

If you are looking for some beautiful but not boring neutral throw pillows, these are them. They come in 11 other colors (in case cream isn’t your thing) and seven other sizes. You WILL find what you are looking for:)

And juuuuust in case you were wondering, YES, our sofa and chair line, Room Service, will be on sale! We love these pieces and know you will too. Sorry, it’s really hard not to be biased, but they are really good:) That blue one (which comes in other colors) is our best seller!

Easy Decor Upgrades: Kitchen

They’ve got kitchen essentials like faucets, sinks, and muuuuch more. I really loved this kitchen faucet because, well, first things first, it’s pretty. It looks very expensive, makes a big statement, and based on the almost all-perfect reviews, it also works great! It comes in five other finishes. The farmhouse sink also works wonderfully because the reviews on it are also almost all 5-stars. That perfect look and a great price. It also comes in black.

If you’ve been following for a while, then you know Em has used those cups for years! They’re glass, but they’re chip-resistant, are dishwasher-safe, feel great in your hand, and come in so many colors (we are just partial to the blue :)). Then the copper pots to me are a total dream. Look at how beautiful they are?! If you’ve been wanting a set like this, this is on a great deal.

Easy Decor Upgrades: Bathroom

I immediately fell in love with that traditional white vanity the moment I saw it. It really looks so high-end and is clearly perfect for a traditional-style bathroom. It comes in a couple of other colors and hardware finishes, but this is my personal favorite combo. Then, for something smaller and modern, how wonderful is that floating vanity?? It’s special but not trying too hard. It comes in three other colorways. The sinks are included in both, too!

The shape of that wall mirror is stunning! Modern traditional at its finest. It’s designed to go in a bathroom, but it could easily go in any room that needs a mirror. Plus, it comes in four other frame metal colors. Then, I know tile isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when we think of Wayfair, but they have a great selection, and this is one of my favorites! This could work in a kitchen too, BTW. It’s modern, elegant, and at a great discount. Doesn’t it give mountain house vibes?? Oh, but it comes in a handful of other colors (this one is just my personal favorite:))

Easy Upgrades: Bedroom

Onto the bedroom! If you are just looking for a bed base, this one is solid wood, and the wood is so pretty! I mean, look at that natural grain. It’s an incredibly versatile style and comes in four other colors. The upholstered one is a modern traditional beaut that holds a lot of visual weight (in a great way). It’s simple but again, not dull. It does have a little secret, though…it has a hydraulic lift-up storage under the mattress. It’s form and function!

I LOVE this nightstand. It’s elegant, has a classic shape, micro knobs (obsessed), and both open and closed storage. If a light sage isn’t for you, it comes in EIGHT other colors.

If you want a dresser that leans traditional, look no further. The green one is simple, but with the added trim on the front of the drawers, it really adds a special detail that isn’t too loud. The off-white dresser couldn’t be sweeter with that almost scalloped bottom trim piece. But what I love more is the illusion of 12 square drawers when there are 6 standard-sized rectangle ones. 10/10.

Easy Decor Upgrades: Nursery

While I’m not a mother, I love nursery furniture so much. I mean, look at both of these adorable cribs. The first and more modern one is unbelievably cool and feels a little different from your standard option. Then the spindle crib is the most classic and utterly beautiful. No losers here! They both have a wide range of other colors to choose from.

And with a crib, you will likely need a glider. There are a lot of ugly options on the market, but these two are not that in the slightest. Each is simple with clean lines and great reviews. I love the modern look a lot, and both of these have a couple of color choices.

Easy Decor Upgrades: Office

Need an easy upgrade to your working area? This chair and this desk are modern but totally versatile. As someone who could likely benefit from a “real” desk chair, I really love the look of this one. The upholstery is great, and the reviews are glowing. It also comes in five other colors. As for the desk, it’s a perfect writer’s desk with just the right amount of storage with those drawers. I love that the “handles” are cutouts and there’s no hardware. It makes it look more expensive! This is available in two sizes and three other colors:)

Easy Decor Upgrades: Outdoor

The last “room” we are talking about today is your outdoor space. Outdoor furniture is not inexpensive, likely because it has to brave the elements, but this set is so great and on sale (obviously)! We really love sets for outdoor spaces, and for this one, I love the natural wood and light gray cushion, which gives you a little more room for “mess coverup” than a stark white one:) The overall feel is classic but fresh.

But for some ambiance and warmth, I love this small round fire pit! All I want to do this summer is be outside for as long as possible, and if a fire pit is present, I will be over the moon. And in case you want a little DIY to make your outdoor flooring look better, these wood tiles are going to change everything. I used something similar for my balcony, and I love it so much.

Ok, sale post over, so you can now fully go explore Wayfair’s Spring 2026 Way Day. Remember, it’s 80% off, free shipping, flash deals, and more, and it ends on Monday. A simple, easy decor upgrade can really make all the difference. Happy sale shopping!

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Trying Another Sofa Set-Up In Our Living Room: The Milo Sectional Sofa

Today is a very good day if you are looking to buy some new furniture and decor that will last you many, many years and still look timeless! That’s right, AllModern (a beloved EHD brand) is having its biggest sale of the year. We’re talking up to 70% off thousands of items. It starts today and ends on Monday, meaning…it’s go time, people! But no need to stress because guess what?? I’ve combed through all of their on-sale items and chose beautiful pieces that we consider “new modern classics.” That’s right, built-to-last pieces both in high quality and timeless design. You simply can’t make a wrong purchase:) Let’s get your home finally furnished.

P.S. The images are clickable!!

New Modern Classics: Woven Leather Seating

This type of wide strap, woven leather seat is absolutely in the new modern classic category. This style originates in places like Spain and Scandinavia (according to my research), from over 100 years ago. So while the technique isn’t “new,” it’s incredibly beautiful, versatile, and fresh. Depending on the tones you choose, these would be perfect in a neutral organic home, a modern MCM-style home, or a nice moment of modern texture in a more traditional home. That stool could work effortlessly in my home or Emily’s. Did you notice that the leather on the stool is a dark olive green?? So chic!!

New Modern Classics: Curved Back Dining Chairs

Curved back dining chairs are something we’ve spoken about a lot on this blog because they are extremely pretty and usually the most comfortable style. An upholstered seat is pretty important too, which all three of these wonderful chairs have. While the first chair doesn’t have an upholstered back like the other two, the wishbone style is a classic in and of itself! Plus, the rich-toned leather seat with the light wood frame is so beautiful. It comes in a couple of other colorways, too, that are just as easy on the eyes.

New Modern Classics: Chunky MCM Accent Chairs

There’s something so cool about (the right) chunky accent chair. It’s inviting, it adds architecture to the space, and of course, it’s a nice place to sit. Form and function in one:) All three of these are a little different but have the mid-century modern bent with the right amount of heft. The cream one has those awesome angular arms and just the right amount of open space on the backrest. The velvet chocolate colored one has that very cool but cozy, almost tubular, round shape, but is even more elevated by the exposed dark wood legs. The gray chair also has that “hey, sit here!” aura, but still has that MCM architectural look. Plus, that one swivels!

New Modern Classics: Marble Accent Tables

Marble tables have been on the rise for the past few years now in a big, big way, and we don’t see them going anywhere. I mean, why would they?? It’s a natural material that adds so much visual texture and movement. It also looks expensive (even if you got it for a great deal;)) which doesn’t hurt either. With these three, I love that the shapes are more modern to contrast the traditional feeling that marble gives off. They also work with any style. Great pieces to invest in.

New Modern Classics: Raw Wood Coffee Tables

Like marble, natural materials like “raw” wood, when done in a beautiful way, will always be classic. Case in point, these three coffee tables! The shapes are on the modern side, but because you can see the natural grain and the sealant is pretty matte, there’s a timelessness about them. They look almost like natural pieces of modern art. They’d look so grounding yet visually bold in a room.

New Modern Classics: Fluted Credenzas And Dressers

While I feel that this era of design will be synonymous with different variations of fluted/slated accents, I also know that when done right, it’s a style that has lasting power. Look at these two sideboards, for example. The darker-toned one is a little more unique in its shape, but it has that “modern art” bold aesthetic that makes it feel so special and not something you would ever want to part with. The lighter-toned sideboard is far more simple and classic in shape, but then interesting and textured with the slat details. Two winners.

Keeping with this front-panel style, but with a different function, are these two dressers. The tones are neutral and classic, the hardware is understated, but the texture completely brings them to life. Would immediately add so much movement to a bedroom.

New Modern Classics: Broken Stripe/Plaid Rugs

The broken stripe and now, the modern plaid are two rug patterns that we know are here to stay. I love that brown one so much. It’s so versatile. It would look perfect in a minimalist neutral space as well as an eclectic maximalist one that could use a little color grounding, but with a pattern that isn’t boring. The slightly muted tones of the blue and green one are so pretty, and the overall pattern really evokes an heirloom feeling. Finally, the last one is to me the boldest visually with the contrasting colors, but it is also so simple and beautiful. It would bring so much vibrancy to a room!

New Modern Classics: Solid Saturated Rugs

Onto saturated, solid colored rugs. This is another “new modern classic” we more recently added to the roster, and to me, for good reason. They are so gorgeous and really ground a room while still adding a lot of personality. I love love the micro fringe on the green one, and Mal used the clay colored one in her last apartment living room reveal, and it’s so pretty in person!

If you like the idea of a solid color but want some kind of pattern or texture, these two are perfect for you. The patterns are extremely simple and classic, but do give you a little somethin somethin visually. The blue one also comes in rust and beige!

New Modern Classics: Spindle Beds

A forever classic indeed. Spindle beds have and always will be classic, but we love a modern version too! I would actually categorize all of these as “modern” because of their lovely, clean lines. Both of these are truly so beautiful, so it’s really just a matter of which style would work better with your overall design:)

New Modern Classics: Velvet Curved Beds

Then, on the opposite side of bed design are these amazing chunky, velvet, curved beds. They are grand, but since the headboards have a lower profile than your standard “big bed,” they don’t overwhelm your eye. That’s the modern aspect to them and why I also deeply feel they belong in this category. Not too ornate or fussy, just bold, simple, and cozy.

New Modern Classics: Fluted And Slated Vanities

We aren’t quite done with this detail! Like our sideboards and dressers, bathroom vanities fall in a similar category – important storage. I love the simplicity of the first one – the single drawer knob (with awesome internal storage) and that dark countertop. But if you prefer a white countertop or other base colors, you’ve got lots of options. The second one is actually the same vanity my cousin bought for her primary suite in their midcentury modern home. They are super happy with the quality and think the amount of storage is awesome. It also comes in a bunch of other sizes!

New Modern Classics: Marble Bowls And Trays

A natural material is classic, whether it’s a table or a tray. These three bowls/trays are in the new modern classics category because of their shapes. The ruffled marble/stone bowl trend exploded over the last couple of years. The footed bowl is beloved not only for its function but for the height it gives to any vignette it’s a part of. Finally, the simple circle marble tray couldn’t be more versatile. Any home could (and maybe should) have one;)

New Modern Classics: Keep Your Eye On…

These next two categories are ones we aren’t officially ready to induct into the new modern classics hall of fame, but are very much on our radar (and we’re excited about them).

Geometric Craved Wood Storage

Wow, I LOVE this cabinet. Why do I think it has “new modern classic” potential? First off, the natural wood of it all is a big reason. Natural materials often give “longevity”. Secondly, the geometric carving style is unreal. This one, in particular, with the sizing of the shapes not being uniform, gives it so much movement. To me, this is a piece of art. Ok, onto the next one…

Hand-Painted Graphic Vases

I may be a little biased on this one because I own a very similar vase, but graphic hand-painted vases are here to stay. They add texture, function, and a sculpture to your room. I love the tones of this one so much, and it’s so versatile. 10/10!

That’s it for today! So while these were our sale picks, AllModern has so many more awesome, high-quality finds and great deals, so I highly recommend you take a peek if you are looking for some new pieces. There’s really something for everyone. Happy designing:)

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: How Mallory Saved Her Parents’ Living Room From Grey Vinyl Flooring

Well. We made it to Friday, and I have almost no plans this weekend (besides 4 kids’ sports games). As I’m writing this, I’m in bed, sniffling, begging this cold not to latch, rewatching Ransom Canyon, season 1, in preparation for season 2. It’s SO GOOD. But denim shorts can’t wear themselves, and there are too many bad ones out there to avoid (Y’all, I tried on a lot and was surprised at the cuts). Turns out a few of my favorites from the last two years are still going strong, likely because they are solid in both quality, style, and flattery. You see, I think most of us don’t want to wear really tight denim shorts in the summer. Isn’t the whole point to throw them on and feel casual and cool? We don’t want them tight and constrictive. So here are my favorites right now – a few old and a few brand new.

Denim Shorts: Agolde Parker Long Shorts

Agolde Parker Long Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Sandals

Agolde Parker Long Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Sandals

While I wish my #1’s were as affordable as my #2’s (below), these Agolde Parker shorts will continue to go strong a third year, which I think says a lot. They have the perfect structure that sits softly on the hips and then flares out just a bit (I do not like a denim leg hug), which gives your legs some room and plays with your eye in a nice way. Man, they are good. They have a raw hem, but not much more distressing. They are a thicker denim that has almost no stretch and run a bit big (I’m wearing a 27 here and these still fit when I wore a 28 in most things).

Denim Shorts: Gap Mid Rise Loose Denim Bermuda Shorts

Gap 8″ Mid Rise Loose Denim Bermuda Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Flats

Gap 8″ Mid Rise Loose Denim Bermuda Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Flats

My second favorite denim shorts, for more of a longer profile, are these from the Gap. They are loose, not full “JORT” which I know a lot of us aren’t into (despite them being “in,” I’m like, are they really?). These are so easy to wear, and are extremely soft with some stretch (so they are very, very comfortable). These are their 8″ drop, which usually means pretty high waisted, but they don’t hug and pooch like a lot of high waisted do on me.

Denim Shorts: 90s Agolde Shorts

90s Agolde 7.5″ Shorts (size 27) | Blouse (size S) | Sandals

Now, these denim shorts are definitely JORTS, and listen, I feel cool wearing them because the color, fade, stitching, tailoring, and structure are really good (they are another pair of Agolde’s). These are best paired with flip flops or Sambas and an oversized anything on top or a tiny tank. I’m still really in love with these leopard sandals, BTW.

90’s Agolde 7.5″ Shorts (size 27) | Blouse (size S) | Sandals

Check out my comfortable sandal review here in case you missed it.

Denim Shorts: Free People Moxie Barrel Shorts

Free People Moxie Barrel Shorts (size 26) | Shirt (size XS) | Sandals

So good, y’all. SO GOOD. These denim shorts are more workwear, cargo denim shorts (so on the very, very casual side), and not to be dressed up. But so easy to throw on with sandals or sneakers and loose enough to walk around for hours or even bike. Definitely size down on these (I’m a 27 right now, and these 26’s are still pretty loose on me).

Free People Moxie Barrel Shorts (size 26) | Shirt (size XS) | Sandals

Denim Shorts: Pilcro Henri Denim Shorts

Pilcro Henri Denim Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Flats

For all of you/us who might want to look a little more pulled together, these denim shorts are it. The two-toned denim looks polished, and they have a tailoring that feels like you care, with a cute brass button detail. Flattering, comfortable, and can absolutely be dressed up with some heels (kitten or platform).

Pilcro Henri Denim Shorts (size 27) | Shirt (size S) | Flats

Shout out to that Target blouse that I wore a ton during spring break (so lightweight it’s perfect for humidity). And new tortoise jelly flats that were sent to me by Steve Madden, and I now that I’m looking at them in the photos, I’m a bit on the fence!

Denim Shorts: Free People Now Or Never Denim Shorts

Free People Now Or Never Denim Shorts (size 27) | Blouse (size S) | Mules

For those who want to go “mini” but not “micro,” these denim shorts are GREAT. They are true to size (I ordered two sizes because I assumed they would be tight), but they are cut well and fit really nicely. They sit nicely on the hips, don’t cut in or hug too tightly, and flair out just a bit.

Free People Now Or Never Denim Shorts (size 27) | Blouse (size S) | Mules

They are distressed but not in a way that my father-in-law will make fun of me and ask me if I need to borrow money to buy real shorts It’s a great light blue wash. And yes, those are the world’s most comfortable and still VERY cute mules.

Happy “jean short” season for all those who celebrate

*Photos by Kailtin Green