Yup, that's the first thought I had when I received an email from the editors of Etsy's blog, asking me to be a guest curator.
The subject read, "Etsy Loves 'Thoughts from Alice W."...that alone made my heart skip a few beats!
They wanted me to share tips on how to create my "cozy aesthetic" along with my picks from Etsy and my sources of inspiration.
I was thrilled...and I won't lie...quite a bit nervous too.
And then this afternoon my article was live~ so I thought I would share it here as well {they requested I spread the word ;)}...you can head over to Etsy to see the full deal...but here is the gist...
If one word could describe my lifestyle and design aesthetic, it would be romantic. Having always been a dreamer at heart, I love incorporating romantic details into every facet of my creative endeavors and home décor. Though my personal style may evolve with the times, one thing remains the same — finding beauty in the details and romance in the simple things.
For me, this is mainly achieved through antique and vintage finds. I spend all spring and summer scouring flea markets, thrift stores and the like, finding those one-of-a-kind treasures to fill my home. I love the history of pieces from earlier times. They exude mystery, whimsy and of course…romance. Anything French is sure to make my heart swoon. The best part about Etsy is that these finds can be found all throughout the year — you don’t have to wait for warmer weather to start collecting.
Vintage Etsy finds shown above that caught my eye:
Vintage Italian Tole Candelabra from thepetitemarket, Chandelier from kgentinetta, Antique French Dictionary Pages from elitas, Rescued Horsehair Brush from fadedprairie.
A staple of my design style is a monochromatic palette. I am a lover of white-on-white decorating with bits of black and brown thrown in for good measure. There is something so soothing about a palette filled with cream, ivory, beige, gray, ecru, sepia, etc. that speaks to my soul. When louder colors are eliminated, textures and finishes take center stage and are allowed to shine, such as ruffles and wrinkles of linen, the coarseness of burlap, as well as chipped surfaces and worn patinas. Bits of gold and silver sparkle in chandeliers, candlesticks and ornate mirrors.
Monochromatic textures from Etsy:
Burlap Table Runner - Ruffled by SimpleLinens, No. 231 Burlap Bolster by AlicesLookingGlass, Belgian Linen Ruffled Tablecloth by kgentinetta, Jelly Cupboard Early American Country by JosephSpinaleFurn.
Collections are another aspect to vintage romance that adds interest and appeal. Ironstone pottery and plain white china are favorites of mine. The more aged and crazed, the better. Vintage alarm clocks, religious relics and old photographs are among others. Curious finds gathered together are sure to become conversation pieces. Whatever it is that you love collecting, curating them strategically will have a bold impact.
Start your own collections with these curious and vintage finds:
Vintage Store Price Display Stand from oldohiofarmfinds, Vintage Alarm Clock Sevani From Armenia from ClockworkUniverse, Vintage Photos from rebeccasthriftshop.
Inspiration for this design aesthetic can be found in plenty of places. Two sources that I admire include the home and interior details of June from Laughing With Angels. Her elegant grace with gathering beautiful pieces together always serves as something to aspire to. Another favorite of mine is Andie Edwards, artist and lover of all things white. The simplistic beauty of her style exudes romance.
First three photos by June of Laughing with Angels, mosaic of photos by Andie Edwards
Some of my favorite blogs and websites for further inspiration:
Well, I do hope that you enjoy my post! And a very big thank you to Etsy for giving me such a fun opportunity!
Till next time...
