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My best realization through years of decorating is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home look and feel effortlessly good. Sometimes (read: almost always), the subtlest decor can make the biggest impact. It’s all about balancing the occasional splurge-worthy items with tiny touches that make a room sing. When I look at some of my favorite home finds, they’re either handmade or something I thrifted for a steal, like my secondhand Delft tile that doubles as a coaster.
Curious to see if others agreed, I asked designers for their take on which home decor items under $50 they consider their go-tos, and the answers did not disappoint. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to get more creative with your decor (or both), reference this list the next time you crave a little decorative treat to spark joy in your home.
Tassels
Here’s a recommendation I will absolutely implement in my home soon: tassels. Designer Isabel Ladd is known for her colorful and bold interiors, so it’s no surprise that this is an essential on her list. “Tassels are such an easy, inexpensive way to add detail and flair to a space,” she says. “Dangle them on a cabinet knob, a lamp switch, or a curtain tieback for instant sass.” You probably have an area in your home that could use a little more of that energy — I know I do!
Buy: Pompom Tassel by ColorJoyCo, $13
Tapered Candles
An underrated item you’ve probably had lying around the house at some point is tapered candles. You can style these in so many different ways (I love it when my favorite boutiques hang colorful ones on a wall) and still burn them. Designer Taylor Simon claims that tapers are all over her space. “You can get sets of 100 tapered candles for cheap, and I’ve thrifted tons of candlestick holders throughout the years,” she says. “They’re a great way to add an element of light, and they always set a moody, romantic vibe in the space.”
Buy: 20-Pack Tapered Candles, $19 at Amazon
Ikebana Stem Holders
For anyone looking to elevate their everyday floral arrangement, Ally Doman of Doman Decors recommends turning to ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging. “These ikebana stem holders instantly transform a lackluster bouquet into an artful [and sculptural] arrangement, and you only need a few stems to achieve this perky floral look,” she explains of the tablescape pictured above. “You can pop them into all your favorite vases (they come in multiple sizes), style them on their own, or pair them with a matching ceramic holder like I’ve done for this dining room centerpiece.”
Buy: Kenzan Flower Holder, $14.90-$29.90 at Zara Home, Kenzan Ceramic Accessory, $9.90-$22.90 at Zara Home
Pendant Light Cord Kits
Ask any designer how important lighting is in a home, and they’ll wax poetic about the different ways you can use it to transform the feel of your space. Doman has another treasured find, though, especially when designing for renters. “I usually have to get creative when it comes to adding extra lighting without hiring an electrician, so I like to utilize plug-in swag lights,” she explains. “This kit is my favorite because it’s lightweight, and the hemp rope adds an organic texture to the room.” Bonus points for the versatile finishes: antique brass, chrome, and rose gold.
Buy: Pendant Light Cord Kit, $18.99 at Amazon
Dimmable Frosted Bulbs
You can’t pull off the perfect mood lighting without investing in the source itself: bulbs. With so many different options, it can be overwhelming to pick the best ones. When in doubt, try Doman’s tried-and-true, budget-friendly dimmable bulbs from Amazon, which she loves for their soft and even glow. Plus, they come in various color temperatures to satisfy different preferences. “The matte white texture works well when an exposed bulb is required,” she adds. Styling tip: Pair these with the above cord!
Buy: Dimmable Frosted Bulbs, $28.99 at Amazon
Ceramic Pitcher
Designer Diana Farberov loves finding beauty in the mundane, so her pick is naturally something that can often be missed: a ceramic pitcher. “This is a really simple decor piece that is often overlooked but easily elevates your home,” she says. “Drinking water or lemonade is instantly more chic when poured from a pitcher, and it can double as a flower vase.” She recommends finding a pitcher you love in a neutral color; that way, it can match any floral bouquet or table setting. Any material will do, but ceramic gives the whole situation a more elevated feel.
Buy: Wavy Handled Pitcher, $42 at Hawkins New York
Further Reading
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Article’s DTC Furniture
See How a Stager Used Paint to Transform a 1950s Living Room
We Asked 8 Pro Travelers What They Never Pack in Their Carry-On, and Here’s What They Said
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