I adore homemade bread. When I was a child, my mom would run her bread maker overnight, and I would wake to the delicious smell of a fresh loaf. It was on these mornings that my love for snacking on bread with good-quality butter was born.

Now, I make my own by hand (well, with a little help from a stand mixer), baking it in the oven to perfection. I usually use my best Dutch oven for the task, but I have always wondered if a bread oven, such as the Le Creuset Signature Oval Bread Oven, is worth the investment.

So, I put it to the test and talked to professional bakers to settle the bread oven vs. Dutch oven vs. loaf tin debate. The short answer is that if you have a Dutch oven, you do not need a bread oven, but there are some caveats. Here's what you need to know.

Since getting my Le Creuset Dutch Oven earlier this year, it has been my go-to for baking a simple, crusty loaf. The tight-fitting lid traps moisture while the heritage cast iron retains heat for a great crust. I have never had an issue, so long as I quickly remove the baked loaf from the pot and parchment paper to cool.

Then, I got the opportunity to test out the oval bread oven and personally found it to be a game changer. While I will write up a full review soon, I can share now that the low-profile sides made the loaf easier to manoeuvre without parchment paper, providing a super crisp base. The lid trapped moisture perfectly, and the loaf was one of the best I have ever made.

That being said, professional bakers argue that for the everyday home baker, the separate investment might not be necessary unless you are particularly bothered about the shape of your bread.

Carrie Barnard, Founder and Recipe Developer at Eating on a Dime, explains, 'In general, cast iron bread ovens will not produce vastly different results than a typical Dutch oven. The major difference is simply that bread ovens have a cloche you can remove to more easily get the bread out, whereas a deeper Dutch oven makes it harder to remove quickly.

'The main appeal of a cast iron bread oven is that it effectively traps moisture to brown the exterior of the bread without overcooking the interior, and it can be effectively preheated because cast iron is excellent at holding heat. Dutch ovens share these same features, so if you already have one, there is no real need to get a separate bread oven.'

Where a bread oven really earns its keep is if you do not have a large cast iron pot and have been using a loaf tin, which is better for sandwich loaves when you want a crisp crust, Carrie continues.

'Most loaf tins are made out of aluminum, aluminized steel, or heat-resistant glass, none of which have the exceptional heat retention of cast iron. They will tend to produce a less deeply flavorful bread, so that is one area where you will likely notice a real difference.'

Carrie is not the only one. Desislava Angelova, Baker and Founder of The Bake-Keeper, agrees. 'I bake in a standard enameled Dutch oven and on a plain baking sheet, and I have never owned a dedicated bread oven. A bread oven's shallow base makes it easier to lower the dough in, but if you already own a Dutch oven, your loaf will come out nearly the same.'

The trick? No matter which pot you are using, preheat first, Desi says. 'I preheat the pot for 475°F (245°C) for 30 minutes, then bake for 30 minutes with the lid on and 10 minutes with it off.'

All in all? While I personally love the look of the oval oven and the bread it produces, if you have a quality cast-iron lidded pot as a casual baker, you can skip the bread oven and spend the money on quality ingredients instead.

What Else to Shop

From artisan bread ovens to versatile Dutch ovens and bread-making essentials, I’ve curated a selection of thoughtful upgrades to elevate your home baking, along with gift-worthy finds for the baker in your life.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Want to make baking a little easier on the arms? I suggest one of the best stand mixers to make baking easier and more consistent.

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When you have a small space, multi-purpose furniture becomes your best friend. I should know – living in a tiny New York City studio has taught me to shop strategically, and now, I only want the most versatile, multi-functional pieces for my home.

I have a pull-out sofa, a hidden storage ottoman, and even an extendable bistro-turned-dining table for my kitchen. However, I recently came across a novelty that I hadn’t seen before – a bifunctional living room lighting idea that saves space and shines light but never sacrifices convenience. Enter: Target’s Shelf Floor Lamp.

Independent of each other, a floor lamp and a side table are two essential living room furnishings, so combining them into one piece makes perfect sense. Not only does this Target find act as a lighting idea and a side table, but it helps make the most of your precious floor space by blending the two together. It’s beyond practical for those with tight living spaces – bringing ambient, mid-level light and a much-needed flat surface to rooms that might not have the space for both.

I’m already planning where it’ll go in my living room, but beyond that, this floor lamp side table duo is a convenient feature for lots of other areas in the home. If your small bedroom doesn’t have space for a proper nightstand, this could be the perfect alternative – providing a small table for your nighttime necessities and acting as a bedside light.

Convenience aside, Target’s Shelf Floor Lamp is impressively stylish. Its antique brass finish gives it a tastefully aged look, while its pleated shade adds some texture to its form. For small space dwellers, it’s an absolute dream of a furnishing. And even for those with large rooms, it’s undeniably convenient, helping you make the most of your space by blending two must-have household items into one.

How I'd Style Target's Shelf Floor Lamp

Although Target's Shelf Floor Lamp could benefit any room, I think it would be the perfect feature for a reading nook. Position it next to a cozy accent chair and voila – you've created the perfect, ambiently lit spot to unwind with a book and a drink. See how I'd style the scene below.

Shop More Living Room Lighting Ideas

One lamp isn't enough for a living room. In fact, the best living room lighting schemes consist of a few light sources at different levels to create an inviting and ambiently lit space. Shop a few more lighting picks below.

Target's Shelf Floor Lamp takes multi-purpose furniture to the next level. Designed as a side table and a floor lamp all in one, its singular footprint ensures extra space in your living room layout for everything else. And with it, your space might not feel so small anymore.

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Fall gardening usually means time spent working the soil, cutting back perennials, planting bulbs, collecting leaves, and mulching. It is a moment to refresh the garden after the heat of summer and put it to bed for winter. The weather is likely to be changeable; it can be hard going but also thoroughly satisfying work. With the right strong, durable gardening accessories for fall, you will have everything you need close at hand and stay warm, dry, and as clean as possible.

You can easily end up covered in soil, mud, and more doing many quintessential fall gardening jobs. I have ended up with muddy knees on countless occasions when weeding flower beds or cutting back perennials in the fall. That is where a long waterproof garden apron with split legs like this one on Walmart comes in super handy for stopping you from getting dirt everywhere while you work.

Rain is a given in fall, but it doesn’t always need to stop play and halt you from ticking jobs off your fall gardening checklist. This is where watertight accessories make a difference too. A pair of waterproof boots like these rubber boots on Amazon helps your feet stay dry in the rain and prevents you from ruining other footwear in muddy borders. This folding garden kneeler, also on Amazon, keeps you from having to kneel on muddy ground while offering a comfortable platform to work on and pockets for your weeding tools.

You'll likely need different tools for different tasks. Better than laying an array of tools on the ground and risking losing them, or going back and forth, this garden cart from The Home Depot or heavy-duty canvas tool bag from Wayfair is perfect for carrying your favorite gardening tools. You’ve got somewhere to keep tools or accessories, and no need to trudge repeatedly to the garden shed or garage as you move from task to task.

Here are 16 useful gardening accessories for fall to help you get everything you need done and stay comfortable while doing it:

Pruning is a typical fall gardening job, with lots of perennials to cut back and shrubs that need trimming. You usually need a range of pruning tools for different jobs, from pruners for general cutting to a pruning saw for large tree branches.

Whatever tool you use, and whatever size stem or branch you are cutting, your tools must always be clean and sharp. They will work better, make cleaner cuts, and avoid spreading diseases around the garden.

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My closet is tiny, and I wish I were exaggerating. I have one short rail to myself, and a serious shopping problem that is simply not compatible with minimalist living.

With my fall and winter sweaters now taking up three-quarters of that space, I needed a quick fix to double storage space. The answer? These $7 hanger stackers from Amazon. Instead of five hangers on the rail, there are now five stacked vertically.

It’s the perfect way to organize my small closet affordably and quickly.

Despite decluttering my closet twice a year during my spring and fall wardrobe swaps, I still have a silly number of clothes. As I live in a rented home, I don't have the option to expand my existing closet space, so the rail is packed, and getting things in and out is a workout.

The problem is worse in fall and winter when my rail is dominated by heavy knits and thicker materials. I needed a way to organize clothes without donating the lot.

These $7 hanger hooks allow me to stack similar items together in a tiered line, rather than cramming several hooks beside one another.

I am not the only one who loves this quick fix, either. Isabella Flores, Professional Organizer at Sparkly Maid San Diego, explains, 'Connector hangers can be a great space-saving solution, especially for closets with limited hanging space. They allow you to take advantage of the vertical space beneath your closet rod, especially when you use them strategically for matching sets, lightweight pieces, or less frequently worn or accessed items.'

To make the best use of them, Isabella suggests, 'Instead of hanging heavier pieces like a wool coat, blazer, or other structured jacket on a connector hanger, try reserving connector hangers for lighter fall and winter clothes like cardigans, flannel, and long-sleeve shirts and tops or even pants.' This then creates a little more space for thicker materials without them being crushed.

'Always double-check hanger compatibility and weight limits before use (just because a connector hanger can technically hold five hangers, that doesn’t mean you should stack five sweaters!)' she adds.

What Else to Shop

I use a whole host of hacks to help keep my small closet under control. These are some of my favorite organizers for taming clutter and creating order, especially in fall and winter.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Switching over your seasonal clothing? We have some expert tips for storing clothes long-term to prevent damage.

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With temperatures where I live already down to 44 degrees Fahrenheit at night, I've started using my Bedsure 2-in-1 Comforter for the second year in a row.

While I tend to use a duvet insert that's suitable for year-round use, living in an old, drafty home (and generally not being a hot sleeper) can leave me struggling to get a good night's rest once the weather transitions from summer to fall.

The Bedsure 2-in-1 Comforter Set, available at Amazon, however, keeps me warm while I sleep all night long, with a machine-washable comforter and a soft and fluffy blanket that can be cleverly detached once spring arrives.

Layering a comforter and blanket is an easy way to make bedding feel warmer as winter approaches. In my experience, though, it often means waking up to find one layer has slipped off the bed. Tucking everything in too tightly can also become a bed-making mistake, restricting movement and making it harder to sleep comfortably. Both of these issues are solved with the Bedsure 2-in-1 Comforter Set, available at Amazon.

I first tested this set last year and was impressed by how cozy it kept me, even when temperatures dropped to 30°F. The fluffy blanket and pillowcases instantly make the bed feel more inviting, adding warmth to the room and layering comfort without leaving me feeling overheated. And if you tend to sleep warm, you can simply detach the blanket from the comforter and use either layer on its own, making it a versatile choice as temperatures fluctuate.

For such a fluffy finish, it's also conveniently easy to care for. Both layers are machine-washable, and the 2-in-1 design means there'll be space to store this comforter and blanket combo in even the smallest of linen closets.

I have mine in the Cream White colorway, which feels suitably wintery, but it's also available in a whole host of rich tones, from a deep olive green to navy blue and burgundy.

One recent review, written by Bryon, dubs it the 'best bedding [they've] ever bought.' 'This comforter set is everything in the description and more! It washed and dried nicely; both layers are so soft and comfortable,' they explain.

'The snaps are sturdy and well secured [...] The materials are very nice, and they’re lightweight when separate but plush and thick when buttoned together. Great value for the cost.'

Another adds that it's a 'soft, versatile comforter set,' and says, 'In everyday use, the comforter feels lightweight on its own, but the detachable fluffy layer adds extra warmth when needed. I like being able to switch between just the lighter layer or both together depending on the temperature; it makes it more flexible than a standard comforter.

'The material is soft and comfortable against the skin, and it doesn’t feel stiff or scratchy. The pillow shams and pillowcases match well, so everything looks coordinated without having to think about mixing pieces. It also lays out nicely on the bed and doesn’t take much adjusting. Even with the detachable layer, it still fits together in a way that feels simple once it’s set up.'

Paired with the perfect thermostat setting for sleep, it's my favorite duo to reach for when making the bed in colder weather. And if you have friends and family coming to stay over the holidays, it's the ideal addition to keep guests warm.

More to Shop

Below, I've handpicked six more cozy favorites for staying warm while you sleep throughout fall and winter.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

You may also wish to move your bed placement to stay warm at night.

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Holiday decorating will look a bit different for me this year – in more ways than one. Having just moved to a new apartment, I’ve decided to restart my collection of Christmas decor. Instead of the hand-me-down decorations I've mostly inherited, I want pieces of my own, starting with a tree.

I’ve already decided that an artificial Christmas tree will be best for my small living room (the less mess, the better), and I’d prefer something mini – this way, it won’t overwhelm my already tight space. I’ve looked at loads of traditional options – realistic-looking mini-trees, slim fir styles, even planter-bound trees with pinecone branches – but ultimately, I decided on something a little different than my usual evergreen: a White Potted Tree from Anthropologie.

In the past, I’ve gravitated towards traditional Christmas trees – full-bodied firs in cozy shades of dark green. This white tree from Anthropologie is the antithesis of that – it’s short, sparse, and most notably, white. And it's so on trend for 2026.

A modern take on Scandi-inspired holiday decor, this tree is minimal and quietly chic. Leave it bare or adorned with a simple string of white lights, and it'll look like it belongs in the depths of a snow-covered Nordic forest – bringing a peaceful, winter wonderland charm into your living room.

On the other hand, this tree can be the blank canvas for your boldest holiday ideas – all thanks to its white branches. Style it with multi-colored twinkle lights, vibrant baubles in varying sizes, and a whimsical bow on top, and watch it become the playful accent that excites your home during the holiday season.

Clearly, versatility is a major selling point for this tiny tree, but it's not the only reason I'm buying it for my home. Practically speaking, this model is a perfect alternative to traditional trees because of its small size. It can tuck comfortably into a corner – staying out of the way but remaining noticeable and impactful.

For small spaces, like mine, it's an unbeatable option. But even for larger homes, this tree can become a useful holiday decor feature. Rather than making it the main focus of a living room, I'd style it in less conventional areas of the home – a staircase landing, a hallway, even a reading nook. Its snowy look will radiate seasonal charm anywhere you need it.

How I'd Style Anthropologie's Mini White Potted Tree

Shop More Mini Christmas Trees

There are lots of benefits to mini Christmas trees. Not only are they great for spaces in which full-size trees can’t fit, but they’re also good for spreading holiday cheer in less obvious parts of your home. Aside from Anthropologie’s White Potted Tree, find a few more options below that are just as chic.

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With the end of October nearing, my attention has fully turned to getting my home guest-ready for the holiday season. Before fluffing the cushions and lighting a candle, however, there's laundry to be done.

In fact, there are seven things that experts recommend washing in the remaining run-up to November, from curtains to throws, to get your home looking and feeling fresh and inviting.

Here, they share the items to tick off when doing laundry throughout the remaining week of the month − while there's still plenty of time.

1. Curtains and Drapes

This might feel like a big place to start, but washing and caring for your curtains and drapes is a task that shouldn't be neglected.

'Curtains are one of those things people forget to clean because they don’t look dirty,' explains Rechelle Balanzat, Founder and CEO of Juliette. 'But they collect dust, pollen, pet dander, and everyday odors over time. With more people coming into your home during the holidays, freshly cleaned curtains can make a noticeable difference in how your space looks and feels.'

To clean your curtains, Rechelle recommends always checking the laundry symbols or care label beforehand. 'Cotton and some polyester curtains may be machine washable, while silk, velvet, and lined drapes may require professional cleaning,' she says.

Then, remove any hooks and hardware, shake out the dust, preferably outdoors, and wash machine-safe curtains on a gentle cycle with cool water before air-drying to prevent shrinkage and wrinkles. To smooth out any remaining wrinkles, you may wish to use a steam cleaner, available at Amazon, 'provided the fabric is steam-safe,' adds Rechelle.

If your curtains aren't machine-washable, take them to your local dry cleaners to avoid any damage. If you're wondering how often you should wash curtains, experts recommend every six to twelve months.

2. Towels and Bathrobes

Putting a towel into your guest bedroom is an easy way to make a guest room feel more homey. But if they're scratchy and stained, they'll detract from the experience rather than add to it.

'If you’re the type of person who has towels and bathrobes only for guests, you’ll probably need to wash them so they’re nice and fresh before they arrive,' says Alex Varela, Cleaning Expert with Oakville Maids.

Importantly, don't use fabric softener when washing towels: It will coat the fibers, making them hard and rough. Instead, use dryer balls, available at Walmart, for a naturally fluffy feel. You can also wash your towels with vinegar to the same effect.

3. Throw Blankets and Decorative Pillow Covers

'Throw blankets and decorative pillows get used constantly, whether we’re relaxing on the couch, taking a nap, or entertaining friends,' says Rechelle. 'They can hold onto body oils, dust, pet hair, and food spills.

'I recommend refreshing them before hosting season begins, especially if guests will be using your living room or staying overnight.'

Washing, drying, and caring for blankets and throws is simple once you know how, and many are suitable for machine-washing. The same applies to pillowcases, though 'delicate wool, cashmere, velvet, and embellished fabrics may require special care or professional cleaning,' advises Rechelle.

If you are washing any at home, it's always best recommended to use a gentle detergent, like the All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent, available at Amazon.

4. Pillows

Don't neglect to wash your pillows, either. 'It’s a good idea to wash them before November or December because most people don’t really wash their pillows, or at least not as often as they should,' warns Alex. 'And pillows absorb a lot of body oils, sweat, and dust mites.

'That being said, check the care tag first because not all of them are washing-machine safe, like memory foam pillows shouldn’t go in the washer for example. (Most) Polyester pillows or down pillows are washing machine safe, though.

'Always wash two at a time so they’re “balanced” within the drum. If you just add one, it would have too much “free” movement. Run an extra rinse cycle than you normally would and dry on low heat (full cycle). You may need two to three cycles until they’re dry on the inside. I recommend a fragrance-free detergent.'

Something like the Tide Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent, available at Walmart, will work well in this instance. Don't forget about cleaning your throw pillows, too.

5. Guest Room Bedding

Finally, it's not just your pillows that may need your attention − particularly if you're preparing your guest room for a flurry of guests.

As Rechelle says, 'Your guest room doesn’t need to be used every day to need a refresh. Bedding can collect dust and develop stale odors while sitting in a closed room.

'Washing your sheets and mattress protector ahead of time means you’re not scrambling to prepare a comfortable bed when family or friends announce they’re coming to stay.'

Take the time to wash your bed linen according to the care labels, and take extra care when washing a mattress protector to avoid any potential damage, as some may be counted among the things to never put in the washing machine.

Then, 'Store freshly laundered linens in a clean, dry space until guests arrive,' continues Rechelle, to keep them smelling fresh.

What to Shop

Below, I've curated six essentials to get your home looking beautifully guest-ready ahead of the holidays.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'I recommend that you don't wait until Thanksgiving week or Christmas to tackle these items,' reaffirms Rechelle. Start in October, and you’ll have a fresher home before the holiday rush begins,' allowing you more time to spend on perfecting your Christmas decor ideas.

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If holiday hosting is your love language, then there’s a good chance you’re familiar with the mess that materializes as soon as your guests arrive and shed their outdoor layers. While coats can easily squeeze into a closet, it’s the shoes that become a pain – kicked into a chaotic cluster that overtakes your entryway.

This precarious shoe pile is inevitable during holiday parties, but it can happen all year round, too. I know the struggle firsthand – as a frequent host who lives in a tight apartment, my small entryway looks like a dense mountain just seconds away from a landslide anytime I have guests over.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, and lots of holiday parties planned at my place, I decided that it's time to address my entryway dilemma with a creative storage idea. And I have found just what I needed in Wayfair's Way Day sale: this surprisingly spacious and subtly chic cushioned storage bench.

This bench’s stylistic appeal is what first caught my attention. It doesn’t read too utilitarian – unlike a lot of the tiny entryway storage ideas I saw during my search for the perfect one. Instead, it yields a tasteful, modern farmhouse-inspired look with its fluted doors and painted frame. It’s one of those practical furnishings that works overtime to keep your space clean and looking chic.

That said, what sold me was its surprisingly spacious layout. It features three base cabinets, a side pocket, and even an underseat compartment for hidden storage. It’s a true workhorse for any entryway, providing space for shoes, grocery bags, an umbrella, gloves; the list goes on and on. It’ll keep your entryway clear of clutter any time of year.

Boasting a 4.6 out of 5-star ranking at Wayfair, this bench comes highly recommended by reviewers, with some remarking on its easy assembly, its sturdiness, and its attractive look. Plus, its price is hard to beat at less than $130.

While it’s already a stylish storage piece, I think this bench has the potential to be transformed into something even better. I’d reupholster the bench with a chic, durable fabric (Pepper Home’s Hadley Sky Performance Woven is my choice), I’d repaint the exterior in a fresh, inviting color, and I’d even replace its cabinet knobs with more exciting alternatives to give this bench a custom look.

Wayfair’s Cushioned Storage Bench is such a practical solution to make your entryway look nicer. Ahead of hosting season, it’ll give you a defined space for guests’ shoes so that while you’re hosting, a shoe pile will be the least of your problems. And at less than $130, it’s a steal for how helpful it’ll become in your home.

How I'd Style Wayfair's Cushioned Storage Bench

Aside from new upholstery and a fresh coat of paint, here's what I'd buy to make Wayfair's Cushioned Storage Bench a bit more exciting for the entryway.

Shop More Entryway Benches

Wayfair’s Cushioned Storage Bench isn't the only option I considered for my entryway. Below, find three more that are just as chic and practical for eliminating that inevitable shoe pile.

Although Wayfair’s Cushioned Storage Bench is helpful for keeping a cluttered entryway organized any time of year, I just know it'll come in handy during hosting season. But if you're looking for something larger that can benefit both shoes and coats, check out IKEA's NIPÅSEN Coat Rack and Bench, instead. This editor-approved find maximizes small entryways with its many functions and is perfect for organization when hosting this holiday season.

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‘I’m never going to be the person who tells you there’s such a thing as too much brown, but there is definitely such a thing as the wrong brown,’ Salem-based interior designer Molly Kidd tells Homes & Gardens. Her custom window treatment collection for Everhem, for all its floaty embroidery and fanciful tassels, is grounded in earthy chocolate brown. From furniture to sneakers, it's a shade we’ve seen seemingly everywhere in the past year – except, strangely, for window treatments.

But why? Perhaps a little too imposing? Molly says it comes down to the fabric. ‘On a window, it’s all about the material and what’s around it. I love our chocolate linen because of how the specific weave lets the light move through it – it feels earthy and almost sun-faded rather than heavy.' The rich, 'Le Café' shade joins two more lightweight linens in Au Lait, a warm, milky ivory, and Classique, a classic stripe, alongside two sheers: embroidered lace Fleur and Voile Blanche.

‘I also like giving a darker curtain a little breathing room: warm plaster walls, lighter upholstery, something with age and patina. Brown is basically a neutral in my book. Treat it like one, and it becomes surprisingly easy to live with.’

And, be it chocolate or otherwise, a great curtain, especially one that hangs solo, hinges on the drape. Musing the layered, theatrical windows Molly observed during her travels to France and Italy, soft valances are another standout of the lacy, piped-to-perfection collection.

‘Think wardrobe, not matching set,’ Molly continues. Café curtains offer privacy without blocking the outside’s natural beauty in kitchens and bathrooms; Roman shades gather neatly at the bottom, lending bedrooms an enveloping softness without feeling too formal. Each can exist, or even be double-dressed, alongside the collection’s full-length drapery. ‘If I’m layering, I want the pieces to do different jobs – a sheer for softness and filtered light, then a linen with more weight and structure. The trick is making sure they aren’t competing for attention.’

For Molly, that means separating church and state: chocolate gets its window, ivory gets another. The nuance comes from the fabrics themselves, which might not surprise fans of her earthy minimalist DNA.

‘I usually keep the palette tonal and let the contrast come from texture, transparency, and weight. It’s the same reason a linen shirt under a great jacket works: similar language, completely different jobs. And I always go higher and wider when the architecture allows. Give all that fabric somewhere to breathe.’

Maybe chocolate brown curtains aren't actually the winter coat we think they are. In a light-filtering weave, with thoughtful layers and a generous drape, even the most bundling, satiating shade carries a certain levity. Ahead, a few ways to indulge in chocolate this fall, plus the supporting pieces for an airy, earthy window wardrobe of your own.

Chocolate isn’t the only curtain trend we’re craving for 2026. From generous folds to barely-there details, see how else designers are dressing their windows this year.

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When I was a child, going to my grandmother’s house around Christmastime felt like taking a trip to the North Pole. She was a holiday decorator to her core, so every single inch of her home was filled with some sort of Christmas decor – from the lit reindeer on the front porch to the holiday-scented candles in her bathroom.

My favorite feature, however, was always the Christmas village she had on display in her cozy living room. Lined up on the console table behind her couch, this village had everything – a schoolhouse, a bakery, a florist; the list goes on and on. Six-year-old me spent hours gazing at it, imagining that little people lived there, and they too were preparing for Christmas Day.

Ever since, I have wanted to recreate my grandmother's Christmas village. Lennox is, of course, known for its beautiful ceramic Christmas houses, and this year Pottery Barn and Target have versions too. For some lovely, affordable options, I have also just spied that ALDI has released the sweetest, nostalgic, classically holiday-inspired Hotel Village House.

Everything about its design reminds me of the houses my grandmother had in her collection – from its snowy roof to its white-tipped trees and even the charming bows adorning its facade. Plus, it lights up from the inside – mimicking the warm and inviting holiday scene I remember so fondly from childhood.

It's decorations like this that make the holiday season feel so magical – helping you rediscover the childlike wonder you had as a kid. I can already picture this little hotel in my living room – sitting on my Christmas mantel, radiating nostalgic charm and glowing with warm, ambient light.

If you're just starting your Christmas village collection like me, consider this the perfect first piece. Its classic Christmas color scheme allows it to stand on its own or in a small holiday vignette.

However, if you're looking to grow your village collection, this ceramic hotel is the perfect next purchase. After all, where will all the imaginary vacationers stay while they're visiting your Christmas village? You just need a hotel.

Aside from this charming ceramic hotel, ALDI's Christmas collection has more whimsical buildings. All for just $12.99, these ceramic buildings can help you expand your Christmas village into an entire holiday empire – right in your own home.

Shop More Ceramic Christmas Buildings From ALDI

Shop Nostalgic Christmas Decor

Along with the bakery, the school, and the bookstore, ALDI's Hotel Village House is an inherently nostalgic piece of holiday decor. If you prefer to decorate your home for Christmas in a way that makes you feel like a kid again, shop three more nostalgic holiday finds below.

ALDI's Hotel Village House is a reminder that Christmas decorating doesn't need to be trend-driven or overcomplicated. Sometimes, the best holiday features are the ones that are nothing more than nostalgic – making you experience the childlike joy of the Christmas season once again. ALDI's Gingerbread Christmas Decorations have the same effect, so after completing your Christmas village, consider making another one out of gingerbread-inspired ceramic, too.

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IKEA’s STRÅLA light shades sell out every year. At around $8 apiece, these oversized, paper stars have developed a cult following since their ’90s debut, thanks to their clean Scandi lines and hang-anywhere versatility. Pair one with a cord set, and it’s a pendant; add a lamp base, and it’s a table lamp. Change your mind next Christmas? Switch them around. Nearly three decades later, the 2026 collection has landed, and the annual scramble is on.

While the iconic star-within-a-star silhouette remains, this year’s drop introduces more intricate, origami-style folds, giving the familiar paper shades a little more surface area for whimsy. The snowflake-inspired Paper Petal Star carries all the delicate beauty of a winter wonderland storybook, while its counterparts arrive in punchier greens and reds, borrowing from IKEA’s ‘Happy Carnival’ mood for 2026. ‘I wanted to evoke laughter and make Christmas decor more relaxed. The shapes are geometric and simple yet playful, with eye-popping colors. I hope they will add joy and a stress-free perspective on Christmas,’ says IKEA designer Marta Krupińska.

For all the unexpectedly punchy colors, new star- and leaf-shaped lighting chains, and even a surprisingly surreal matchstick-shaped floor lamp, one thing hasn’t changed in decades of STRÅLA lighting: the sheer number of places you can put it. Homes & Gardens' Head of Interiors, Hebe Hatton, considers the paper stars a holiday tradition.

‘I have had my first IKEA Stråla light for almost a decade. It sat in the window of my first apartment, adding holiday cheer to my tiny space that didn’t have much room for festive flourishes. I loved that it worked as both an indoor light I could enjoy from the couch and an outdoor Christmas decoration that glowed for the neighbors to see, too.’

She’s been adding to her collection with successive October drops ever since. Not because the old ones wither away (quite the opposite), but because each new riff on the famous style adds something special to her holiday scheme.

‘I have since added to the collection,’ Hebe continues. ‘When I moved house and had more windows, one went up in each. One year, I hung them above my dining table; another year, one adorned the mirror above my fireplace. Each year, they come out of the attic looking the same as when they went away because they fold down so neatly. So, despite being made of paper, they last so well.’

With some of Hebe's oldest still in circulation, the STRÅLA sell-outs have nothing to do with needing a replacement and – like buying an ornament-of-the-year or a novelty stoneware mug – everything to do with becoming an annual ritual. Ahead, the best of IKEA’s STRÅLA collection for 2026, from lacy paper shades to elaborate new lighting chains. Whether you’re securing your first or finding an excuse for your fifth, the time to shop is now.

Our STRÅLA Favorites to Shop Now

Indoor or outdoor? White or colored? Incandescent or LED? Before you string another strand, our guide to choosing the perfect Christmas lights has you covered.

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With the start of November now just over a week away, I'm beginning to feel ready to transition my home from Halloween to the holidays. Christmas in my home begins on November 1st and, while the tree won't be up until December, my home scenting transitions overnight.

I've tried a wealth of seasonal candles, with notes of spiced orange, fir, and gingerbread, but something that I feel truly captures the holiday spirit is the fresh, peppermint scent of candy canes. This is the inspiration behind IKEA's new VINTERFINT Candle − and it costs just $4.99.

The affordable price, sweet seasonal scent, and nostalgic, playful design make it one of the very best candles to wrap as a stocking stuffer or light in the run-up to the big day.

There are several Christmas candles I return to each November − Diptyque's Sapin, NEOM's Christmas Wish, and Skandinavisk's Fjord, available at Amazon, to name a few. But while a real treat, my yearly rotation is certainly not affordable. Fortunately, IKEA's VINTERFINT Candle is.

With the iconic scent of a sweet and minty scent of candy cane, it's undoubtedly an essential to make your home smell like Christmas. The 20-hour burn time means it will last through plenty of festive days and evenings spent on the couch or hosting friends and family, and for just $4.99, I'd suggest buying a few to place in each room to make your entire home smell nice.

The playful design will look at home among any Christmas mantel decor ideas or maximalist Christmas table decor, particularly if you prefer the classic colors of traditional Christmas decor, with a modernized twist.

I'd pair mine with a similar reed diffuser, like this Wild Mint & Eucalyptus Reed Diffuser, available at Amazon, to boost the scent throw. Alternatively, use peppermint oil, available at Walmart, in one of the best essential oil diffusers to fill your home with fragrance, without the worry of flames. My favorite is the NEOM Wellbeing Pod Luxe, but if you're on a budget, the InnoGear Ceramic Essential Oil Diffuser, available at Amazon, has the same look for less.

In any case, I'm ordering a handful of IKEA's VINTERFINT Candles for myself, and an additional few for gifting to friends and family this Christmas − they make the perfect stocking stuffers. And once the candle is used up, you can reuse the candle jar (after getting the wax out) for seasons to come.

More to Shop

For home shipping, your IKEA basket must be over $35. I've rounded up some more festive favorites to add in, along with alternative recommendations for burning and gifting this season.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Get organized ahead of time with our new year home fragrance edit.

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It might feel a little early to be thinking about Christmas decor storage – after all, we haven’t even celebrated Thanksgiving yet. However, planning your storage solutions ahead of time can save you both money and stress once the festive season is over.

Certified Professional Organizer Jenny Dietsch of Getting It Done Organizing strongly supports this approach, urging, 'Buy your bins before the holidays, before stores run out of the good ones. The success of next year’s setup starts now. When you store décor thoughtfully, you’ll be able to decorate with intention next year instead of just reacting as you pull things out of boxes. Knowing what you have and where it is gives you complete control (and makes the process so much more enjoyable!).'

Shopping early means you can take advantage of peak sales periods to find great prices while getting everything in place before the post-Christmas clear-up begins. Rather than waiting for deliveries during the busiest time of year for mail, you’ll have everything you need to refresh your home storage and pack away the festive clutter as soon as the celebrations are over.

I’ve hunted high and low for the prettiest and most practical storage essentials to help keep Christmas clutter under control, whether you have a spacious attic to fill or need stylish, visible storage that works in a smaller home.

Christmas Decor Storage Tricks

When storing Christmas decorations, there are a few quick tricks and tips that can simplify the process and, more importantly, make decorating easier next year. I spoke to professional decorators and home organizers to learn their three most important tips for reclaiming your home after the holidays and making post-Christmas cleaning less overwhelming:

• Declutter as you go: According to Danica Carson, Professional Organizer and Co-Founder of The Uncluttered Life, 'Decluttering decor when storing things for the season is crucial. It’s also easy and accomplishes two things at once, so I highly encourage it. The end of the season is the perfect time to assess your decor before it’s out of sight and out of mind until next year. Realistically, you aren’t going to be getting out that seasonal decor to sift through it and declutter during the rest of the year, so it’s kind of a now-or-never situation when it comes to decor decluttering.'
• Beware of delicate decorations: When the post-Christmas blues hits, it is easy to fall into the trap of simply tossing items into a bin and calling it a day. For delicate pieces, however, Patricia Derpinski of Hudon Holiday Decor stresses how important dedicated storage is to preventing damage. Rushing the process can feel like a time-saver; however, pressure from stacking can cause cracks while exposing them to dust and moisture. Instead, she shares, 'I recommend using ornament storage boxes like the Sterilite or IRIS boxes [both from Amazon] for safe, organized storage.'
• Take your time: Barbara Brock, Professional Home Organizer, concludes, 'Resetting your home after Christmas takes time. This is the biggest advice I can give − allow enough time to undo the Christmas tree, store it away or discard, preserve strings of light, store ornaments and other things. Get out all the storage boxes, as storing your ornaments in dedicated boxes or in tissue helps preserve them for next year.'

If you want to save money and cut down on waste at home this season, there are plenty of household items you can use to store fragile decor.

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Thanksgiving is, at its core, about slowing down and spending quality time with family and friends. But when your home becomes the gathering place for the holiday, the pressure to get everything looking its best can quickly take away from the joy of hosting.

The good news is that preparing your home for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean deep cleaning or ruthlessly decluttering. A few simple, considered changes can make your space feel more organized, welcoming, and ready for guests, without adding another layer of stress to an already busy season.

We spoke to experts to discover how to simplify your home systems, focus on the areas that matter most, and host Thanksgiving with less effort. The result? A home that feels as warm and inviting as the occasion itself, leaving you more time to enjoy it.

1. Don't Clean The Whole House, Edit It

The secret to an elevated, effortless space is not thorough decluttering and cleaning; it is editing your home. Creating space for the eye to rest, to move without friction, and for your design to stand out can help to make your home feel more considered, with the added bonus of being easier to manage.

The first step is to reduce visual noise, starting in the living room where guests will gather, before working through to other key spaces such as the dining room, kitchen, and bathrooms. Work with the rooms that you will use, and ignore those guests will not see to preserve time and energy.

'In living spaces, fold and put away extra blankets, magazines, baskets, or other storage vessels that people may bump into (this too will make the space feel a bit bigger),' suggests Dianne O’Connor, CEO of Weston Table, who also recommends giving thought to a pared-back color scheme when using flowers or candles. 'In small spaces, less is always more.'

This might mean employing a few decluttering methods to help tackle piles on surfaces such as coffee tables and entryway credenzas, but keep it minimal. You do not have to declutter your whole house or eliminate all signs of life for one event.

When it comes to the dining space, Kate Rumson, Villeroy & Boch’s Hosting Expert, adds, ‘Let each element breathe; consider candles, seasonal foliage, and a few well-placed centerpieces,’ she recommends. ‘It's about creating a visual feast that complements, rather than competes with, the delicious dishes you're serving.’

If in doubt, ask yourself what you would focus your effort on if you only had two hours before guests arrived, and work from there.

2. Plan Ahead

It pays to plan your Thanksgiving party ideas well ahead of time. The longer you have to work, the less you will have to cram in the days or hours leading up to guests arriving. This means that you will have more time to spend relaxing with your friends and family on the day itself.

Start in the kitchen. Consider your Thanksgiving menu, plan your grocery list, check that your appliances and utensils are in good working order, and create a plan for storing leftovers neatly. With everything laid out, it will be easier to keep a kitchen tidy when cooking Thanksgiving dinner, too.

Wash your fancy dishes, glassware, and serving dishes. To polish cutlery, put some hot water and a few tablespoons of white vinegar in a bowl and submerge your cutlery to soak until the water is cool enough to handle. Then, using a microfiber cloth or tea towel, wipe down each utensil for a streak-free shine.

You can also set the table for Thanksgiving well in advance for effortless on-the-day hosting, suggests Devon Wegman, Design Director and Founder of Devon Grace Interiors. 'Keeping things simple is best. If possible, opt for benches instead of chairs at the table to maximize seating. On the table, placemats will crowd it too much, so opt for chargers under plates instead. Anything else on the table should do double duty as function and decor. Think decorative glasses for water and wine, a decorative pitcher for water, and decorative napkin folding to add texture.'

If you use fresh flowers or yard trimmings, you can put those in closer to the big day.

3. Consider Layout

You will likely have to rearrange furniture before hosting, especially if you live in a smaller home or apartment. You want to create easy walkways for guests so that no one is tripping over anything, while ensuring there is ample room for everyone to sit.

To organize a living room, Mary Jo Contello, Professional Organizer and Founder of Organized by MJ, explains, 'Making sure there is enough comfortable seating is very important, ensuring it is accessible for all of your guests. I then recommend targeting clearing the area of toys, paperwork, and clutter so guests can put drinks and small plates down without items teetering on the edge.

4. Concentrate on the Kitchen

With dinner the highlight of this holiday, the kitchen will become the inescapable heart of your home. Because of this, it is smart to spend time here before the big day so everything runs smoothly and your home appears effortless to guests. This is especially true if you are hosting Thanksgiving in a small space.

To make steady progress before Thanksgiving, experts suggest:

1. Decluttering the counters: It is essential to keep kitchen counters clear to maximize your workspace. Begin by decluttering your kitchen, removing non-essentials from the kitchen entirely. You will be amazed at how even just a quick clear-out can be perfect for making more counter space in a small kitchen
2. Doing a stock check: Di Ter Avest, Professional Organizer and Owner of Di Is Organized, says, 'Over time, pantries can get chaotic with expired food, misplaced items, or lack of organization. Start by taking everything out of the pantry and placing it on a countertop or kitchen table where you can clearly see everything you have. Then, go through each item one by one, discarding anything that has expired.
3. Planning the menu: With your pantry organized, Lauren Saltman, Professional Home Organizer and Founder of Living Simplified, suggests, 'Menu plan early [a menu grocery list pad from Amazon can help] and don't forget that your guests might be around before Thanksgiving, so be sure to have extra snacks on hand. Then, create a detailed shopping list and get to the grocery store before it gets crowded or runs out of an important ingredient.'
4. Dividing your kitchen into zones: Lina DaSilva, Cleaning Expert and Founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, recommends, 'Divide your kitchen into zones based on activities – prep, cook, serve, and wash. This streamlines movement and ensures that tools and ingredients are at hand where needed. It also helps when it comes to cleaning up after hosting, too.'
5. Preparing cleanup areas: Keeping on top of your washing up over Thanksgiving will reduce your stress levels while hosting, as well as reduce visual clutter and banish bad kitchen smells. Designating a zone specifically for dishes and ensuring you have enough trash bags in advance can make cleanup easier on the day.

5. Edit the Entryway

As the first impression of your home, there is merit in designing a timeless entryway to welcome your guests into your space. The goal is to make this area feel welcoming, not just practical.

Yes, quality entryway storage will go a long way to corralling guest clutter and preventing clutter creep, but focusing on lighting, fragrance, and even the temperature can start your party off on the right foot.

To prepare your entryway thoroughly for Thanksgiving, we suggest:

1. Decluttering: Edit your collection of coats, shoes, and bags to make space for incoming guests' belongings.
2. Adding seating: Seating such as entryway benches is one of the things most organized people have in their entryway, making it easier for guests to put on or remove their shoes without tracking mud through your home. Using multi-functional entryway bench furniture is particularly helpful in small spaces.
3. Boosting storage: Preempt the inevitable rush of shoes, scarves, coats, and more by providing ample storage solutions, such as hooks or storage baskets. The self-adhesive Naittoop, Adhesive Hooks or the Command Medium Designer Hooks are great small mudroom ideas if you're looking to add extra coat space in a hurry.
4. Prioritizing functional decor: With high traffic expected, your decor needs to be minimal to prevent adding to visual clutter. Consider decorating front doors with door mats with seasonal motifs, from Amazon, to add a seasonal touch without cluttering sideboards, for instance.
5. Considering lighting: Tasteful entryway lighting ideas are essential to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider floor or table lamps with soft, warm lighting. This will also make it easier for guests to see what they are doing as they come and go, preventing trips and slips.
6. Finding a fragrance: Our Home Fragrance Expert Ottilie Blackhall reminds us that our homes are often shut up against the cold in fall, trapping musty odors. She suggests using the best essential oil diffusers to scent the space and mask odors from shoes or cooking. Avoid candles, she adds, which could be knocked over in the bustle.

6. Bring Balance to Bathrooms

Guests are unlikely to spend much time in your bathroom, but they will be used at some point throughout the day. You do not need to spend lots of time here in advance beyond your usual bathroom cleaning routine and tidying away personal essentials.

As a general rule of thumb, it is best to stock the space with some designer-approved guest bathroom essentials; the idea being that your guests should not have to ask for anything while in your home.

Check the toilet paper stock, and ensure extras are kept in a tidy but obvious location. Swap out your hand towels for some pretty, freshly washed ones, and consider adding in a nice hand soap and a candle or diffuser to help mask odors and make guests feel more comfortable.

7. Don't Forget The Invisible Details

More often than not, making a home more welcoming is not about your design and hosting skills (although these certainly help), but about the tiny, invisible details that contribute to a comfortable home.

First and foremost, consider temperature. No one wants to be freezing cold or sweating while trying to enjoy their dinner. While the best temperature for a thermostat is a contested topic, experts generally recommend somewhere between 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit for everyday comfort in fall and winter.

Next, assess the lighting around your home, especially at the dinner table. Dining room lighting for hosting is a tricky balance to get right, begins Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight. The room should be lit intimately, but not left so dark that your guests can't see what is on their plate. He suggests starting by lighting candles for a soft, warm light that makes your home cozy for Thanksgiving, and then layer more functional lighting from there.

Scent is next. 'You should never underestimate the power of home fragrance for setting the mood when hosting,' explains our Home Fragrance Expert, Ottilie. 'Making a home smell like fall, with comforting spices and warming notes, can make your home feel more welcoming, while masking any odors that might arise from a closed house, piles of shoes, and cooking dinner. Use one fragrance around the home to build intensity without it becoming overwhelming.'

Finally, consider music, using connected speakers around your home to play calming, seasonal music at a background level. Not only does this help to set a comforting yet elevated mood, but it can help to fill any quieter lulls in conversation.

FAQs

How Can I Make Hosting Thanksgiving Easier?

To make Thanksgiving hosting smoother, remember to ask for help, or never turn down help from guests. Just because you are the host doesn’t mean you have to juggle everything alone; get your guests involved to make the event more communal and bring people together. It could be something as simple as a guest getting the drinking glasses out of the cabinet for you. Any help is a big help.

How Can You Make Thanksgiving Guests Feel at Home?

Caroline Roberts, Professional Home Organizer and Owner of This Simplified Island, suggests ensuring your guests can help themselves as much as possible, especially if they are staying the night.

'Post the WiFi password somewhere visible, place towels in their room, display basic toiletries in the bathroom, put an extra blanket on the bed, and show them where the dishes are and how to make coffee. They will feel welcome, and you will have a little bit less to do.'

It can also be helpful to include a welcome sheet with any additional information, such as the locations of light switches, how to use the climate control and shower, and where to find refreshments in the house. Don't be afraid to lay out some gentle boundaries or rules here, too.

How Do You Plan a Thanksgiving Meal?

Caroline says, 'The Thanksgiving meal can feel overwhelming. Create your menu well in advance and test any new recipes you are considering for the big day.

'Write down the cooking temperatures and cooking times for each item. Note which items can be prepared far in advance and frozen, which items require thawing, and which items can be prepared a day or two in advance. Once you have this information, create a timeline of when things will be prepared and cooked.

'Remember that people want to help! Ask guests to bring sides, desserts, or drinks. You don’t have to do it all yourself.'

If in doubt about where to clean, consider using the guest scanning method to spot dirt spots before they arrive.

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Wouldn’t it be nice to relive your childhood memories of Christmas? The handmade decorations hung on the tree, the mismatched stockings mounted by the fire, the humble simplicity of it all. Well, with GreenRow’s newly released Christmas collection, you can bring those nostalgic holiday memories back to life.

This collection is sentimental to its core – complete with all sorts of nostalgia-inducing Christmas decor ideas that’ll help you rediscover the childlike wonder of the holiday season itself. Think patchwork-patterned stockings, handwoven rattan trees, hand-painted plates, and even paper mache ornaments – all details that give this collection a strong sense of playfully homemade holiday charm.

Instead of the traditional Christmas color scheme of red and green, this collection expands the palette to include shades of pink, purple, blue, and yellow – a whimsical contrast of colors that might not scream Christmas, but when paired together, feel so right for this time of the year. And although the collection is grounded in a timeless, heritage-inspired aesthetic, there are a few trend-driven touches, too – bows being one of them. From the leftover fabric bow ornaments to the large Starry Patchwork Bow, this seasonal touch brings softness and warmth to any corner of the home.

With all of its handmade-inspired details – from the Floral Candle Clip Ornament and the Remnant Fabric Beaded Garland to the Floral Gingham Patchwork Stocking – this collection truly feels like stepping into a holiday memory. It’s welcoming, warm, and full of festive spirit – destined to make your home feel like the coziest house this holiday season.

So go ahead, make yourself feel like a kid again. Shop the most endearing pieces from GreenRow's holiday collection below.

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Beautiful bird houses add charm and character to a garden all year round. Hang one from a porch post or place one in a garden border, and it earns its place even before birds move in. There are plenty of bird house ideas that work just as well on a small patio as in a bigger, open backyard.

The right design can help garden birds in winter by giving them somewhere to shelter. Wood is generally a good choice, as it provides insulation and allows some moisture to escape, while metal can heat up quickly if it's in direct sunlight. Whatever material you choose, position it away from strong sun, wind and rain. Keeping it separate from your bird feeders so feeding birds don't disturb a nest.

With so many decorative designs to choose from, you don't need to compromise on style to make your outdoor space more welcoming to wildlife. Anthropologie's Victorian Manor Birdhouse is a standout option with its miniature mansion resemblance, but it also features a removable back wall to make cleaning easier. West Elm's Scout Regalia Birdhouse Kit comes ready to assemble, and can be decorated to suit your style, while Terrain's Woven Seagrass Birdhouse Hut offers a rustic charm but will need to be hung in a sheltered spot.

From traditional, practical designs to more elaborate statement pieces, we've rounded up 16 beautiful bird house designs to help encourage birds into your garden and make the space their home.

A beautiful bird house goes further alongside a few simple ways to help birds in October, and a bird bath in the right spot means visitors have fresh water close to home.

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When I moved into my New York City apartment back in the heat of summer, holiday decorating was the last thing on my mind. At the time, the more pressing matter was cramming my entire life into a studio.

Now that Christmas is just around the corner, however, I'm beginning to wonder how to bring the holiday spirit into my apartment when I have hardly any space to spare. Easy holiday decor ideas like festive pillows, scented candles, and seasonal tabletop trinkets make a slight difference, but they only go so far. I need a Christmas tree to make my space come to life – the only issue is I have absolutely nowhere to put it.

I thought about getting a small fake tree, but even that would look out of place considering every corner is already occupied and every tabletop is already filled. I even considered getting tiny tree-shaped trinkets for my dresser, but as someone who loves decorating for Christmas, I knew that wouldn't cut it. Then I found the winner: IKEA's VINTERFINT Wall Decoration.

IKEA's VINTERFINT Wall Decoration refashions the traditional Christmas tree into a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired wall decor idea for the holiday season. For those with small living rooms, it's the perfect alternative to a bulky, space-consuming tree. By mounting to the wall, this pine-crafted version saves floor space and doubles as an artful wall decoration – bringing a little seasonal spirit to a spot that would otherwise be left bare. Not only that, but it's so much more affordable than a standard Christmas tree at only $25.

Just like an accordion wall rack, this tree-shaped decoration can be stretched out to your desired width – from a slim, 1.5' tree to a wide 3.5' tree. And just like a standard Christmas tree, it can be decorated with any ornaments of your choosing.

Although it might not look like the Christmas trees I'm used to, IKEA's VINTERFINT Wall Decoration will signal the holiday season with the same timeless charm as a real Douglas fir, and it'll spare me the stress of trying to fit an actual tree in my tiny apartment.

Although IKEA's VINTERFINT Wall Decoration is, first and foremost, a Christmas decoration, its use isn't limited to just that. Because of the several protruding pegs attached to its frame, it can be used as a wall storage idea anywhere around the home, any time of year.

Out of the several 5-star reviews that this piece receives, one reviewer raved about its versatility: 'Whether used as an Advent calendar holder, a place for keepsakes, cards, keychains, a scarf and hat rack, a bathroom towel hook, or a belt and necklace holder… this thing is just super hands-on. Whether on the wall or on the door… it’s great,' they remark.

IKEA's top-rated VINTERFINT Wall Decoration is so much more than just a clever alternative to the Christmas tree. It's a space-saving holiday decorating idea, an adornment to beautify blank walls, and a makeshift storage idea for those with tight homes – for just $25. I have a feeling this won't stay in stock for very long, so get one for your home while you still can.

How I'd Style IKEA's VINTERFINT Wall Decoration for Christmas

More Christmas Decor From IKEA

The VINTERFINT Wall Decoration is just the start of IKEA's Christmas collection. Shop a few more playful and Scandi-inspired holiday accessories below.

The VINTERFINT Wall Decoration and everything else from IKEA's holiday line invites you to explore your playful side this holiday season – just like John Derian's Christmas collection at Target. Full of kitschy finds like a grouse-shaped pillow and a crowned bird serving platter, it'll make your home feel like a childlike wonderland this Christmas.

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Traditional Thanksgiving tablescapes tend to follow a familiar formula: an autumnal tablecloth sets the scene, special-occasion dinnerware takes centre stage, and seasonal gourds and garlands complete the look. It's a timeless approach, but one that can feel a little predictable – particularly when the same styling ideas appear on tables year after year.

That's what makes Anthropologie's Thanksgiving tableware feel so refreshing this season. With pastoral scenes on plates, farm animal-inspired accessories and a distinctive palette of blues, greens and browns, the collection offers a more imaginative take on traditional Thanksgiving table decor ideas. Rather than leaning into an overly rustic aesthetic, it embraces a romantic, whimsical style that feels both nostalgic and delightfully unexpected.

The effect is almost like stepping into a bucolic fantasy – a Rococo painting brought to life, complete with pastoral charm and an idyllic, storybook quality. The Judarn Dinner Plates capture this beautifully, with artfully detailed rims adorned with botanical and bird motifs. Natural wooden accents, including the Laguoile Flatware Set and the Wood Cheese Board, bring warmth and texture to the table, while playful finishing touches – from animal-shaped candle holders to decorative cheese knives – add a distinctly provincial charm.

The result is a Thanksgiving table that feels collected, characterful and a little more enchanting than the usual autumnal arrangement.

Rather than feeling overly themed, this decor offers a way to create a tablescape that feels fresh, uplifting and a little different from the usual Thanksgiving fare. The light, nature-inspired palette plays a big part, with blues, greens and browns taking the place of the auburns and burnt oranges traditionally associated with the holiday. These versatile shades also mean the dinnerware can be enjoyed well beyond Thanksgiving, bringing the same welcoming, storybook charm to your table throughout the year.

If your usual Thanksgiving setup is starting to feel a little tired, consider giving it a romantic, pastoral twist with Anthropologie's pastoral-inspired accessories. From characterful dinnerware to whimsical finishing touches, these are the pieces to help you create an idyllic tablescape of your own.

Shop Thanksgiving Table Decor from Anthropologie

With Anthropologie's Thanksgiving tableware, you can create a holiday tablescape that guests will remember long after the last plate has been cleared. And to make the whole occasion just as special, turn to our Thanksgiving hosting guide, packed with expert advice on everything from dinner and dessert to decorating your home for the celebrations.

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There's something about the colder weather of fall that leaves me wanting a sleep space I can truly cozy up in − a quality the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper makes easy to achieve.

With a soft and fluffy finish, it adds a layer of warmth and comfort to my mattress, without any added height, heat, or weight. That being said, that lack of height also results in a lack of pressure relief or edge support − this isn't the topper to choose if you're stuck with a sagging, uncomfortable mattress.

But, for making your favorite mattress that little bit more luxurious, it's a perfect pick. Here's how I got on during the testing period, and why I'd recommend it as one of the best mattress toppers for adding a cocooning layer you can sink right into.

Brooklinen Down Mattress Topper − Specifications

Brooklinen Down Mattress Topper − Unboxing and First Impressions

As much as I'm stressing that this mattress topper isn't the ideal pick for making an uncomfortable mattress more comfortable, I knew this from the off. On the website, you can see that it's more of a thinner, plushy profile type pick, and this was obvious when it arrived, too.

It came in a small, lightweight box, easy for me to carry on my own, and was packaged in a zippable, durable bag that I'll reuse for storing sheets and duvet inserts. There was nothing non-recyclable or non-reusable, which I always appreciate when opening a new product to test.

Putting it on the mattress was easy and very quick, and there was no off-gassing to speak of. As it has a slim profile, my bed sheets fitted easily over the top of it, and it was ready to sleep on that night, without the need to leave it to expand or breathe.

What's It Like to Sleep On the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper?

Lying on the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress topper, you immediately feel the plush comfort, with a sink-in surface that welcomes better sleep. That soft feel, though, means it would be unfair to rate this mattress on our usual categories, outlined in our guide to how we test mattress toppers, of pressure relief, edge support, and motion isolation: there's none to speak of. Instead, it's a topper for adding a pillowy layer of comfort, and that's where it really does sing.

There's also not much thermoregulation to comment on, either, though the topper does feature a cotton shell, which naturally regulates temperature. I'm not a hot sleeper, and temperatures are dipping as we head towards winter, but I haven't found myself too cold or too hot when sleeping on it.

Delivery was also a breeze, arriving conveniently packed in a small box straight to my door. It's light and easy to carry, so you won't need help from a friend or family member, unlike the Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper I've reviewed, or Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper, which I also recently reviewed. You also won't need to leave it to off-gas or expand, so it's ready to use straight out of the box.

Who Would the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper Suit?

• All sleep positions, depending on your needs: As the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper is soft and plush, though not particularly thick, it won't affect any sleep position. It's therefore suitable whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, though it won't offer any added support if you need added comfort for an aching back, shoulders, or knees. It depends on what you need − for simple, additional comfort, it's the perfect pick.
• Hot sleepers: As the topper features a cotton shell, it's naturally thermoregulating and won't trap heat. That said, it's not an actively cooling pick, and it doesn't claim to be.
• Children and people with pets: These aren't categories we usually include here, but as the topper features a waterproof barrier and is soft and squishy, yet not too thick, I'd suggest it as a good pick for adding cozy comfort to a child's bed. In this instance, I'd still put one of the best mattress protectors over the top, though. The same applies to adults who often share their bed with pets.

What Shoppers Say About the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper

With a 4.2 out of five-star rating, the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper is well-rated by shoppers.

For example, Cvetanka deems it a 'must-have,' adding, 'I started with one, then went back to get one for every bedroom! Can’t go back to not having this mattress pad. I wish they made it for a twin-size bed, too.'

Another similar review, from Lorna, echoes, 'Could not believe how much more comfortable this made my bed. I did not want much additional height on my lumpy mattress, so [I] thought loft sufficient to make that mattress comfortable was not possible. I was wrong. This is an amazing product. Thank you.'

A few reviews do also mention the ability of this topper to keep a bed cool, which is a good sign for any hot sleepers considering making the purchase.

I do have to mention that there are a few more negative reviews, but these are in the minority compared to the 181 five-star ratings.

The one-star reviews typically reference the flat profile of this topper, though, as I've said, this was obvious to me before I tested it, just from looking at the pictures and details on the website. A few also mention that it's not as straightforward to clean and care for this mattress topper. As I'm yet to wash mine, I can't comment, but I will update this page once I do.

As I always stress, anything that impacts your sleep space is subjective − what works for me may not work for you, and vice versa. Therefore, if you are considering making a purchase, I'd always suggest reading a few well-informed reviews and even going into a store to feel and see it in person where possible.

My Verdict

Overall, I've been thoroughly enjoying the Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper. It makes my bed feel cozy and luxurious as the fall weather gets colder, and I've found it's a simple and relatively affordable way to enhance a mattress while adding plush comfort.

If you've spotted any signs you're sleeping on a bad mattress, however, this won't be the right option for you. It's not a miracle fix for lumps and bumps, and won't add any extra support. If that's what you need, I'd recommend opting for the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper instead, which has a medium-firm feel and is infused with graphite to actively draw heat away from the body as you rest.

More to Shop

If you'd like to browse alternative mattress toppers, shop from a selection of top-rated favorites below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If an ultra-soft option like this isn't what you're browsing for, you can make a mattress firmer by turning your mattress or placing a plywood board beneath it.

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It's not quite the holiday season yet, but it is just around the corner. I'm already looking to cozy up my interiors for impending guests, focusing on creating an inviting sleep space that will suit a whole host of my friends and family.

One essential to any welcoming bedroom is a blanket or quilt − and I'm shopping the Sleep Number Plush Blanket to add a layer of luxurious warmth as temperatures drop.

It's a tasteful, top-rated way to keep you warm while you sleep, and the festive Rose colorway is now 50% off on clearance.

Making a guest bedroom feel more homey always begins with the bed. It's where people who come to stay will rest and recharge, so it's important that it's cozy and comfortable. And if there's one thing that will seriously disrupt any chance of a good night's sleep, it's being too cold.

A removable layer − just like the Sleep Number Plush Blanket − offers guests a comfortable addition to make bedding feel warmer, without overheating or feeling weighed down, particularly if they're a typically hot sleeper.

Once added to the bed to keep guests warm, it will add texture and layering to make a guest bedroom look beautiful, with a fluffy finish that welcomes relaxation. If you prefer to use more neutral colors in your home, the White Chevron colorway lends the look of a cable knit blanket, while the Gray Rib Knit is a stylish fall throw blanket for embracing the colder seasons.

Every color is also OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified, which guarantees the absence of over 1,000 harmful substances.

With a 4.84-star rating across 1,651 reviews, this Plush Blanket has proven popular with shoppers, too. Deziree describes it as 'Soft cloudy goodness.' 'This blanket is incredibly soft, and the way it falls and lies is like a cloud,' they say. 'It heats me quickly, which [I don't know] why I wasn't expecting it to be that warm. It's definitely a great winter or very cold house-type blanket.

'It doesn't shed, which is nice, and I washed it, and it came out with the same softness. I will be getting a twin size to use as an oversized blanket for the couch. I promise you will not regret this purchase.'

This admission that the Plush Blanket is easy to wash is important. Your throws and blankets see far more use, of course, in fall and winter than they do in spring and summer. Like everything in a home, it's crucial to wash, dry, and care for your blankets and throws correctly to keep them ready for use and lasting for years to come.

Another review adds, 'Soft and snuggly blanket. I love this blanket! It’s so soft and comfortable… the material is so breathable!

'It’s warm, but the weave of the fabric allows just enough of the heat to escape for a perfect sleep. Awesome design!'

For an easy way to add the layers of a cozy bedroom, you can't go wrong with this pick. It's simple yet stylish, and with a 50 per cent reduction in the Rose colorway, it's relatively budget-friendly, too.

More to Shop

Below, I've handpicked six more beautiful picks from Sleep Number's Holiday collection. Each makes a cozy addition to a guest bedroom space or a gift idea this holiday season.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Learning how to style throw blankets to make cozy spaces look more expensive is an easy way to elevate your home.

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When I’m hosting friends and family, my first priority is always the main course. It’s usually the most time-consuming part of the meal, taking up the bulk of my energy and, more often than not, most of the space in my oven. By the time it comes to dessert, there’s rarely room left to bake anything else.

That’s why this year, I’m considering moving more of my baking to my non-toxic air fryer. The glass Lékué Air Fryer Dishes, available at Amazon, look like just the thing for preparing perfectly portioned desserts without competing for precious oven space.

Available in a range of sizes for everything from mini loaves to round cakes, these glass dishes offer a flexible way to bake smaller batches with less fuss, making all the difference to my dessert prep.

In case you did not know, yes, you can bake a cake in an air fryer. While it's far from the traditional method, if your oven is stuffed full already, this countertop essential is the perfect backup for quick bakes.

The key is picking the right air fryer liners for the task. The glass Lékué dishes, also at Wayfair, are non-toxic and use silicone tabs for easy removal, so you do not have to worry about squashing or damaging sponges or crumbles as you lift them from the tray.

Better yet, the glass dishes are incredibly versatile, suitable for the oven, air fryer, and fridge, for baking and setting a wide range of sweet treats for any occasion. With plain glass sides, they can also go straight from the oven to the table for serving, making kitchen cleanup after dinner easier.

With hosting season rapidly approaching, I love the idea of having a dedicated set of dishes for air fryer baking, especially when oven space is at a premium. These glass essentials make it easier to turn out everything from individual puddings to small-batch cakes, helping ensure dessert is still on the menu, even when the oven is already working overtime.

What Else to Shop

I’ve rounded up a selection of alternative air fryer dishes and essential baking tools to help you perfect your recipes and get ahead of the busy hosting season.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I have also curated a list of other air fryer accessories I wouldn't be without to help prepare you for the busy hosting season.

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Whoever designed the kitchen in my New York City apartment way back in the '60s clearly was not thinking about the needs of someone living there six decades later. It's literally a square (a tiny one at that) with a sliver of countertop space, three overhead cabinets, and hardly any storage.

Since moving into the place, I've become well-versed in all sorts of kitchen storage ideas – from adding extra shelves within my cabinets to mounting magnetic storage to my fridge door. However, the lack of a proper pantry has been the hardest struggle – most of my snacks, spices, and spare cooking supplies end up piled on top of my kitchen table.

For a while, I thought I'd just have to accept that my small kitchen would always be slightly disorderly. But then I found my dream storage idea to maximize my kitchen's organization and amplify the room's aesthetic appeal: Wayfair's Corner Cabinet.

This corner cabinet is a big piece of furniture, yet it does such a remarkable job of organizing my small kitchen that I hardly notice the floor space it takes up. Its triangular shape is to thank for that – this corner cabinet can sit flush between two walls so it's pushed out of the way. It's not clunky or cumbersome; instead, it's neat, compact, and thoughtfully designed. Plus, its tall height helps make use of the walls for storage rather than the floors.

The modern farmhouse-inspired design is what drew me to it in the first place. It can add such character to a kitchen, and as it slides so neatly into a corner, it can look like a custom-built piece – tastefully balancing rustic charm and practical organization.

Although I envision it in the kitchen in my apartment, many reviewers have used it elsewhere. 'It fits perfectly in a corner of our bathroom that was wasted space,' one reviewer wrote. Another mentioned how they added it to their laundry room to organize detergents and household cleaning supplies. Beyond that, I see this cabinet – its storage capabilities and its rustic appeal – benefiting an awkward corner in a bedroom, the corner of a staircase landing, or even an empty entryway.

How I'd Style Wayfair's Corner Cabinet

For kitchens without a pantry, this corner cabinet is such a lifesaver. It'll help you organize your space, provide ample storage, and look good while doing so. Here's how I'd style Wayfair's Corner Cabinet to make the most of it.

Shop Similar Kitchen Storage Units from Wayfair

Whether your kitchen is small or not, having extra storage cabinets can help you make the most of the space – giving everything from spare pots, extra dinnerware, and food a proper place to live. Aside from the Corner Cabinet, here are three more top-rated storage units from Wayfair that are great for maximizing kitchen organization.

Wayfair's Corner Cabinet is a reminder that unused corners can become convenient storage zones for your home – it just takes the right furnishing to make that happen.

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I recently interviewed nearly a dozen designers on what to spend and what to save on in a living room. They all said the same thing: don’t spend real money on a coffee table. Despite sitting centrally in the room, our eyes (and our rears) go to sofas and other seats. Those book stacks and candles only weigh so much, so for this living room furniture category, incredible construction isn’t actually the smart splurge we think it is.

Of course, they didn’t recommend skimping on style, which is why I’m loving IKEA’s glass-topped TORSJÖ. At just $170, its Empire-style frame and shiny, gold-like finish suggest far more expensive origins. Styled correctly (a lovely vase, a pair of well-chosen vintage chairs), it could live quite happily in some swanky French château or Park Avenue penthouse.

So that’s the character I’d give it: heiress. Surround the $170 coffee table with the appropriate context clues. Not the requisite Tom Ford stack, but niche art books ostensibly collected on your travels. Underfoot, Ruggable’s designer collaborations supply the .001%-favorite details, from the Hilton's chambray blue and double borders to Scalamandré’s riff on the iconic ’60s Tigre. Atop the glass, a candleholder by an unimpeachable talent like Sophie Lou Jacobsen. At that point, who’s asking what the coffee table cost?

In a dream living room, we’d spend with reckless abandon, snapping up every extraordinarily fabulous Carrara marble surface in sight. But throwing money at a room only does so much. Taste is still required. And when the save option looks this good, surely there are better places to siphon a figurative trust fund.

More Expensive-Looking Coffee Tables

$170 looks a lot more like $1,700 when you spend it right. Keep your most discerning guests guessing with more impossibly posh-looking coffee tables.

Save on the coffee table. The sofa, as designers won’t ever let me forget, is another matter. With all that money you didn’t spend just now, peruse our edit of the best couches to finish the room.

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A laundry basket is one of the household essentials you use so regularly they usually just fade into the background of a busy home life. They are also often, and not unfairly, renowned for being a bit of an eyesore, pushed to the perimeters of a room yet never quite seamlessly suiting any space.

One of our favorite options for a hamper that isn't has long since been the Tota from Joseph Joseph, and with the Tota 2, available at Amazon, it's just had an upgrade.

It's a laundry room essential that unusually looks good enough to leave on show, and it's already proving a hit with shoppers.

We've previously tried and loved this Joseph Joseph Tota laundry organizer for sorting laundry, and dubbed it the secret to quick laundry. The Tota 2, available at Amazon, is an enhanced, improved model, but still includes everything we rated so highly about the original model.

Just like the original, it's designed to make sorting clothes for laundry easier than ever, and features separate sections comprised of three spacious 30-liter fabric tote bags. Each bag has convenient, easy-carry handles for one-handed transport to the washing machine, and a helper handle on the bottom for quick emptying. Each bag also self-locates back into the basket after use, making them easy to put away, and the whole thing is quick to assemble in about five minutes.

What sets this model apart from the original is the newly updated lid. Designed from chic felt, it cleverly conceals laundry before washing and conveniently docks onto the side of the basket during use.

As one Amazon customer explains, alongside a five-star review, the Tota 'turns one giant laundry pile into three ready-to-go loads.'

'Laundry has a funny way of looking like one big pile until I actually decide to wash it,' they say. 'Then I suddenly realize there are whites mixed with colors, towels buried underneath everything, and something I definitely don’t want going through the same cycle hiding at the bottom.

'The Tota 2 lets me do that sorting a few seconds at a time throughout the week instead of turning laundry day into a floor-covered organizational project.

'The felt lid does a surprisingly good job of making the whole thing look more polished. Dirty laundry disappears instead of sitting visibly in an open basket, and the lid docks along the side while I’m using the hamper, so I’m not constantly removing it and looking for somewhere to put it.

'At 23.5 by 16 by 29 inches, it’s substantial, but the footprint makes sense for something holding 90 liters and three separate categories of laundry. I actually prefer having one organized hamper in a fixed spot rather than scattering several baskets around the room. It keeps the whole setup looking much cleaner even though I’m still separating everything.'

As they go on to acknowledge, $149.99 is a lot for an indoor laundry accessory. But for a laundry basket that genuinely looks good and is equally as functional, it's a small price to pay for an option that won't leave you scrambling to hide your laundry basket.

More to Shop

Shop a selection of top-rated and tried-and-tested laundry essentials below, including more Joseph Joseph favorites.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.