Accessories are the finishing touch to any space that really help bring it to life and complete the whole design. Adding accessories brings layers and dimension to your space, and not to mention- are so fun! Whether you are finding those perfect items to finish off your new built-ins or new coffee table, adding the right accessories can transform your space. So how exactly do you choose the right accessories and where do you find them? I have consolidated all the ways I shop for accessories to help you find inspiration for your next project!
Items you already have:
Sometimes the items you may need can be the items you already have or the ones that are packed away from passed down generations. Oftentimes, it is hard for us to look at our accent pieces or accessories and see them in a fresh light. This is the first place I always look.
I start by breaking down what I love, and frankly, what is junk. After many holidays and birthdays, you may start to realize you have collected more little candles and trinkets than you know what to do with. Those are the items I purge. Yes, that mostly used Christmas candle or that one coaster that has a logo for a place you have never even been and you aren’t even sure where it came from- those can probably see their way out. By purging these items you can give the visual focus to the items of more value in your life. And when I say value it doesn’t always mean monetary, it can be personal value as well.
Once you have purged the crap. You can gather the items you know you love and want to showcase. Look at those items and see if there is any similarity or repetition. Do you have ten picture frames but only one book, or five candles but no vases? That is when you can evaluate what you are missing and what you might have plenty of. This helps you avoid duplicates while shopping and helps you get the most out of what you already have! Think of it as the same thing you do with your clothes and you shop for more items to add to your wardrobe.
Store-bought accessories:
A lot of people ask where I like to shop for accessories and the honest answer is, everywhere! I am a fan of a method I like to call “High Low”. This method is based on what you like and what you feel comfortable spending money on. I am going to use a clothing example again, because well I love clothing. When putting together my wardrobe I love to find inexpensive jeans and dress them up with an expensive shoe or bag. Or say I take a 10 dollar t-shirt and pair it with an expensive jacket. I am taking a high-end item that I find value in and want to spend the money on and pairing it with a low-price item that I am ok paying a lower price point on. Now everyone can be different in what they choose to have high-end or what they would rather pay a lower price for, but that is the beauty of it- it is all up to what you find value in!
So in terms of accessories, I do the same thing. I find items that have value in putting the budget towards and other items where it might not make much of a difference what you pay for it because you will never see the difference.
Some items that I suggest putting your budget towards could be a gorgeous coffee table book, a beautiful statement lamp, good quality pillow inserts, a statement vase, and wow-worthy art. These are items that you will see an actual difference in if you try to bargain shop them too much. No one wants a wobbly lamp or a pillow insert that will fall flat after two uses.
Some items that I suggest saving a bit could be a decorative bowl, candle holders, some decorative beads, or even picture frames. These are items that you may switch out frequently or even by season. That money could be reallocated elsewhere in the budget where you might want to buy something a little nicer. So yes, I love a good Target and Home Goods find- it is a great way to find what you are looking for but not break the bank!
Antiques:
When most people think of antiques they think of dusty places full of stuff your grandmother would have had. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes they are, but there are always some great finds in antique shops. If you are looking for a stoneware jar with a bit of character and charm, there is a good chance you will find it- you just might have to dig a bit! So if you are into a good hunt or just looking through some interesting shops, an antique shop is a great spot to find some one-of-a-kind pieces with some character and charm. By adding antiques to your space you can help it feel a bit warmer, more lived-in, and bring in some visual interest that you might not see elsewhere. Depending on what you are looking for and where antiques can vary in price. But always remember there is a good chance you can strike a deal and if not then just remember that most of these items are likely not mass-produced and have a bit more craftsmanship that has gone into them. I mean hey if they have lasted long enough to be an antique then there is a good shot that it was made fairly well.
The key takeaway for accessory shopping is- to find what you love and to have your space speak to you and your style! There is nothing better than a home that has some fun character and that makes you smile every time you walk into it. Happy accessorizing!