A Sneak Peak at the Top 6 Decor Trends from IKEA’s 2017 Catalog

It’s that time of year again, folks. The time when your favorite budget-friendly store puts together their yearly masterpiece of small-space solutions, affordable furniture and colorful, modern minimalism that will make any design-loving heart melt. While the IKEA 2017 catalog isn’t actually available until August 8, we chatted with IKEA Design Spokesperson Janice Simonsen to get a sneak peak at some of the top decor trends and talk about how you can bring them into your very own home. Whether you’re looking to organize your life or simply add a little more functionality to your everyday, these six practical, stylish and genius tips will help you finally achieve those #decorgoals. And if you aren’t sure how to bring these trends home, there are plenty of product recommendations to start adding to your wishlist today.

1. Flexibility in Living Spaces: A happy living space is a functional living space. You can combine storage, comfort and convenience in every corner of your home with some multi-purpose furniture and storage solutions. The ELVARI storage system can be used within a walk-in wardrobe, in a hallway or as a retail solution. The gorgeous new VALLENTUNA modular sofa is flexible for seating, sleeping *and* storage.

2. Customization: These days, it’s all about making your living space 100% Y-O-U. Whether that means incorporating your favorite color or adding a bit more minimalist style to your plain kitchen, every little bit counts. The LIXHULT cabinets can be stacked for any number of combinations, depending on need. They’re perfect for using up corner spaces or between windows. In the kitchen, the BARKABODA countertop can be customized and cut to any length.

3. Multi-Use of Rooms: It’s all about that work-life balance when it comes to home workspaces. Creating a zone with transitional furniture will let you get your work done whenever, wherever. The KNOTTEN standing desk can be used just about anywhere in the home for email or as a standing workspace. The VITTSJÖ laptop table can also serve as a small desk in a hallway or wherever a tiny office can fit.

4. Meals on the Go: More and more meals are eaten in different areas of the home, or even outside on that small balcony. The TINGBY table allows for an instant dining table to be pulled up anywhere. With the GLADOM tray table, you can use the removable tray for serving all over your home.

5. Bringing the Outdoors, Indoors: As more and more people are moving to urban areas, there is a growing need to connect with nature in that concrete jungle we call home. Using natural materials such as rattan, wood and terra cotta make a home feel earthly and tranquil. For the ultimate garden-inspired lounge area, the GRÖNADAL rocking chair will help you get that secret garden vibe. And to get that IRL garden going, the INGEFÄRA plant pots are just the essentials you need. Bonus points if you paint them to go with your existing color scheme.

6. Open Storage for Food: Research has shown that people eat what they can see. Reduce waste and make your kitchen that much more inviting with open shelving and see-through containers. The IVAR open shelving unit is great for all your storage needs, and the KORKEN jars and TILLSLUTA dry food jars are just the things to fill it with.

What trends are you loving? Follow us on Pinterest for even more decor trends and IKEA finds.

Kitchen renovations are no joke – they're a major investment, so you’ll want to think twice before committing to fleeting trends — especially for big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. I’ll admit it: I’m still without a backsplash five years later because I can’t commit! While it’s perfectly fine to follow your heart if you love a particular look, kitchens can quickly feel outdated when you lean too heavily on short-lived fads. To help you create a timeless, stylish space, we’ve rounded up outdated kitchen trends to avoid — and easy ways to modernize if your kitchen is stuck in the past.

Scroll to see if you have these outdated kitchen trends in your house right now!

Mark McCammon

1. All-White Kitchens

The all-white kitchen craze has officially run its course, often feeling cold and sterile — like say a doctor’s office. Today’s kitchens are all about warmth and character, with palettes in soft neutrals, earthy greens, or bold, moody shades like oxblood and midnight blue. Choose a color that speaks to you for a timeless, inviting space you'll love for years to come.

Pixabay

2. Granite Countertops

This early 2000s trend has been overdone and feels so dated now. Marble, sleek quartz, even butcher block are more classic choices.

Curtis Adams

3. Ornate Cabinetry

The color and detail of this traditional kitchen feels drab and dated. Instead, look for flat-panel or Shaker-style cabinets with clean, minimal lines.

Terry Magallanes

4. Farmhouse Decor

This kitchen is a lesson is don'ts. The grey vinyl flooring (especially hideous!), farmhouse stools, and white cabinetry hail from a decades-old trend that needs to disappear in 2025.

Home Depot

5. Glass Mosaic Tiles

Glass mosaics, popular in the 2000s and 2010s, tend to lean toward a transitional aesthetic, which is the opposite of an organic, minimalist, or vintage-inspired design kitchen are craving now. The grout lines are bit difficult to clean too between all the tiny tiles. Zellige tile or a slab of marble are a more sophisticated look for today's kitchens.

Level 23 Media

6. Black & White

The stark contrast between black and white can come across as harsh and overly dramatic, a look that peaked in the 2010s. The farmhouse sign doesn't help warm it up either. Soften the look with earthy, natural tones.

Curtis Adams

7. Subway Tile

Subway tile is classic, so there’s no need to rip it out if it still brings you joy. However, the white subway tile paired with dark grout has overstayed its welcome. This overdone trend became so ubiquitous that it lost its charm and individuality, leaving kitchens looking more cookie-cutter than full of character.

Amazon

8. Industrial Lighting

This nod to the past needs to, sorry, stay in the past. Look for organic, natural forms and lighting that reflects your kitchen's unique aesthetic.

Shutterstock

9. Tuscan Style

This rustic kitchen feels dated with its heavy, ornate features like dark wood cabinetry and trim. Go for clean, brighter spaces.

Shutterstock

10. Tile Countertops

Natural stone, marble, and wood are trending for 2025. Grout-filled countertops like this one are not. Time to go!

Max Vakhtbovycn

11. Moroccan Mosaic Tile

Kitchens are becoming elegant places to cook, eat, and gather. This busy design can look cheap. The white mid-century Eames-style chairs, sorry to say, are also out.

Andrea Davis

12. Barn Doors

Using barn doors between the kitchen and other spaces is a look that is officially out. They proved to be not that functional and the look is now dated and too kitschy. Buh bye!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Did Tom Holland and Zendaya spike the air with love following their engagement news? I mean, it seems like everyone's popping the question these days! If you've recently said "yes" to the love of your life's big question, all that's left to do now is start planning so you can walk down the aisle into the next chapter of your relationship's story.

Before you start randomly choosing wedding dates, you may want to take advice from Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events, Tara Fay of Tara Fay Events, and Wendee Vezzetti of Custom Weddings of Colorado because they have keen tips to help you avoid a few faux pas. Think of it as their way of helping you avoid further stress.

"While every couple's wedding day is special, there are a few dates that might cause more stress than celebration — both on the day and in the years to come," says Vezzetti.

Scroll to see the worst days to have your wedding!

Khaki Bedford

1. New Years Eve

December 31 may have come and gone, but there's always more NYE events to come. It's just one of the worst days to have your wedding. No, I mean it. Abbott suggests this isn't the time to pack two celebratory events into one. As the owner and creative director of Amy Abbott Events, she's helped plan luxurious weddings for some of Hollywood's top celebrities and athletes — including Simone Biles!

So, why no fabulous wedding on NYE? She says, "You’ll end up paying almost 50 percent more as vendors typically charge much higher rates." But, that's just the tip of the iceberg. She also adds, "For destination weddings during this time of year, hotels often enforce 5- to 7-night minimum stays, with hotel rates being nearly double. This can make it almost impossible for your guests to commit to attending your wedding." Even if you think money isn't an issue, she advises "it's just a very costly option."

That's not the only issue you could face. "To add to the challenge, some of the best vendors often take the entire holiday season off, making availability a significant issue." This just made our jaws drop because we didn't know this! But we can imagine this feels like one of the times they get to catch their breath before prepping for such a huge moment in people's lives so it's not unbelievable!

Jim Trice

2. Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is such a romantic day that deserves to be reserved for celebrating how much you're in love. But, please don't think your wedding has to be on February 14. Vezzetti says this day along with NYE "may sound romantic," but they're not in "reality."

She says, "These dates are super popular for weddings and other celebrations, which means venues and vendors charge a premium." And guess what? She says you're not even considering "future anniversaries."

Her advice if you decide to forge ahead is: "Good luck booking a cozy dinner reservation when everyone else is celebrating too."

Khaki Bedford for Amy Abbott Events

3. Super Bowl Sunday

Another thing Fay says couples "often forget about" are "major sporting events." Her rule of thumb is to "try to understand the guest list and audience" so her team can be "conscious of their experiences."

It's the reason she's against have a wedding on Super Bowl Sunday. She says, "It may leave guests less present at your event, even if you're not a football fan. So we [the Tara Fay Events team] try to be conscious of big cultural and sporting events like this."

Always be aware of times close to major holidays. If guests have to travel distances and be away from their families, that may impact your rsvp’s. Plus, it’s typically more expensive to travel those times of year. Don’t forget about international holidays as well, Diwali for example.

Amy Abbott Events

4. Labor Day

Vezzetti also discourages scheduling a wedding on Labor Day. The rule used to be that you couldn't wear white after this holiday passed, but now you need to rethink your plans if you plan to trade 'I Do's" on this date.

"Long holiday weekends may seem ideal for travel, but they also come with headaches. First, heavy traffic," says Vezzetti. She and her team "have seen travel times TRIPLE on Colorado roadways during these holidays." This fact alone made our hearts skip a beat because we caught of a flash of you potentially being late your own wedding!

Also, Vezzetti says you won't be the only person in town for a holiday like this. "Because everyone else is traveling, lodging and restaurants are hard to come by, especially popular mountain retreats in places like Colorado."

Amy Abbott Events

5. Memorial Day

Sigh... We don't know why anyone would want to have a wedding on Memorial Day, but personal preference always plays a factor in decisions like this. The issue, Vezzetti warns, is that you're risking a lot by doing so. "Before you set the date, do a little research as to local annual events," she advises.

For example, Boulder, Colorado is a "great destination with amazing scenery, warm weather, and world-class dining" according to her. "But Memorial Day in Boulder, Colorado brings more than 50,000 runners into town. So definitely check the local calendar for your wedding destination and make sure you aren't going to share your special day with thousands of others."

Can you imagine having an outdoor wedding where your guests are torn between watching you emotionally exchange vows as marathon runners sprint nearby?

Taryn Baxter for Amy Abbott Events

I'm kind of scared I'll choose the wrong date. What are good days or months to have my wedding?

This sounds like a "how-to" guide of everything you shouldn't do when choosing your wedding date, but there's still a large window of opportunity! "The best months to get married for tropical destination weddings are October 15th through July 15th," Abbott says.

But, there's a catch. "Once you go beyond that, you risk running into hurricane season. Even if you're fortunate enough to avoid a storm, the intense heat and relentless bugs can take away from the enjoyment of your day," she adds. All in all, "it's simply not an ideal time of year" because "the weather can significantly impact your overall experience," according to her.

Amy Abbott Events

Fay agrees with this by adding "major weather events are important to consider" at all times. She also added you should "take note of monsoon months" along with "hurricane season." She knows no one can really "predict bad weather," but she wants you to "aim for months that more often provide the experience you're looking to have."

Vezzetti says "popular dates in Colorado are the summer months (June-September) because of the scenic outdoor backdrops and warm weather." But she knows there are "trade-offs" like "venues and vendors" booking early, plus the chance "you might pay higher prices" even though the "gorgeous sand makes it worth it!"

The truth is that your special day should feel as seamless as possible. Something is sure not to go according to plan, but it shouldn't involve something interrupting the entire date you've chosen to have your weeding. Fay's final piece of advice, "If you want to get married in Europe, be aware of when Europeans go on holiday and try to avoid August which is the busiest time for major European countries.

But, the trade-offs are that venues and vendors book early and you might pay higher prices (but it's gorgeous sand worth it!). But, if you want to save, In Colorado late spring (April–May) and late fall (November) are excellent for the value. Plus, venues and vendors often have more availability. This concept can be applied to other destinations, but they may have seasonal variations. So, be sure to check the seasonal highs and lows in whatever area you are planning to tie the knot.

Amy Abbott Events

A tip you may not have considered is doing "a little research on when courthouses in the destination issue marriage licenses." Vezzetti suggests doing this so you're well-prepared and can "plan with enough travel time so you are not scrambling to get your legal documents."

Not sure when to go? Vezzetti says, "In most States, courthouses are only open during banking hours (Mon-Fri, generally), and while the process may quick (in Colorado, expect 15 minutes, tops), couples without a plan might find themselves in panic mode." Didn't we say we don't want you passing out before your big day even arrives? Take Vezzetti's advice and "do a little research" so you can "plan to arrive a day early!"

Before you panic, Abbott has one last thing to share. "The good news? There are nearly nine and a half months of perfect timing for wedding planning, giving couples plenty of options to make their big day truly unforgettable!"

Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding inspo!

My home is nearly clear of holiday clutter and that means I'm in major nesting mode. I returned from my holiday vacation with visions of crossing off my home decor to do list, including refreshing my daughter's vintage dresser (I already have the new pulls and walnut stain), repairing my favorite chair that my boyfriend's puppy used as a chew toy, painting my lower kitchen cabinets, and many other tasks. But I'm also on a budget (with design caviar dreams). So I'm taking it slow, looking at what I have around the house that I can rearrange to satisfy my nesting fix for free.

Here are easy, low-cost ways to upgrade your home in not a lot of time for not a lot of money.

Anthropologie

New Pillowcases

I was ready to completely redo my daughter's room, until I realized that I had bedding stored away that would be perfect for her tween room. (I ordered her a dragon pillow at her request too). For my guest room, I decided to refresh with just pillowcases vs. a whole new sheet set. I adore this color palette from Anthropologie, and I'm in LOVE with all of the colorful options at Society of Wanderers.

Lulu & Georgia

Wallpaper

I'm in love with this Sarah Samuel Sherman Painterly Stripe Wallpaper. I looked at more affordable options, but I decided I'm going to go with what I really want if I'm going to make a permanent commitment like this. Never settle when it comes to home decor is my motto! It's going in my small bath in the hallway so I only need one roll. For more affordable ideas, check out Rebel Walls and Chasing Paper's Peel and Stick wallpapers.

Etsy

Cute Table Lamp

I purchased this Etsy lamp and it instantly made my entry console feel refreshed and kind of adorable. I thought about ordering two for my bedroom side tables, but my budget only allowed for one and I'm glad I managed a little restraint. One was enough. Magnolia's Farrah Table Lamp has a similar vibe. Here's a similar and affordable one from Amazon too.

DeVOL Kitchens

Painting Kitchen Cabinets

UK-based DeVOL kitchens are so dreamy and the perfect inspiration for a kitchen refresh. I painted my lower kitchen cabinets a dark blue five years ago and they are desperately in need of a refresh. I'm leaning toward this Benjamin Moore's Oak Grove color for an earthy look.

Amazon

New Drawer Pulls

I bought my daughter's rough-around-the-edges vintage dresser a few years ago, but never got around to fixing it up. I bought these affordable wood drawer handles on Amazon and plan on sanding and staining it for a much-needed upgrade. Excited for this weekend's DIY!

Soil to Studio

Throw Pillows

I love the swoon-worthy pillows in this Soil to Studio collection. They are such an easy way to instantly upgrade your living or bedroom space without spending a ton of money. Quality vs. quantity! Greenrow also has fun cabana striped ones.

Etsy

Vintage Art

Scouring thrift stores for art that you love is an affordable way to upgrade and personalize your space. Like the frame, not the art? Grab it and find affordable art on places like Etsy and Desenio for a colorful wall upgrade.

Anthropologie

Picture Frames

Preserve your favorite 2024 photos in picture frames you can hang on the wall and leave on tabletops around the house. It's such a personal and lovely way to upgrade your space. You can DIY vintage frames or buy at places like Anthropologie and TJ Maxx.

Black Sheep White Light

Seat Cushions

Since my favorite desk chair suffered a puppy chewing attack, I haven't been able to find an upholsterer to mend the rope seating. Instead, I decided to buy a $50 sheepskin seat cushion and I love it! It's cozy and hides the eyesore underneath.

Kaboompics.com

A Good Deep Cleaning

Sometimes a good deep cleaning can cure the nesting itch. Check out our 2025 Cleaning Guide for all the things you'll want to watch out for in your annual deep cleaning. A clean home feels like new.

West Elm

Refreshed Shower Curtain and Lining

My shower lining has seen better days. I'm going to try soaking it in the tub with vinegar or tossing in the washing machine on gentle cycle with warm water and a mild detergent. I don't currently have a curtain with it, so I may opt for this affordable one from West Elm, giving my bathroom a sweet little refresh.

W Concept

New and Clean Rugs

Whether you invest in a rug cleaner (I purchased this affordable one recommended by Wirecutter) or replace your old (dog-worn) rugs like I just did, there's nothing better than refreshing a clean room with a clean and/or new rug. While you're at it, upgrade your bath towels too!

Mustard Made

Get Organized

Organizing your drawers and closets is a great way to kick off the new year. These Mustard Made containers are cute and practical for everything from kids' toys to bathroom essentials.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I'm a hardcore drugstore makeup gal. My vanity is full of ELF products, Colourpop eyeshadow, and NYX lip oils, but when it comes to lip products, I'm pretty set on what I have for one reason: the drugstore lipstick I've purchased since high school makes my lips look so good, I never want to buy another product.

Now as a type-A eldest daughter, I love sticking to products I know work for me...until they start getting boring. But this L'Oreal lipstick literally never feels like a bore. Every single time I put it on, I'm surprised at just how good it looks. Even though I've been buying it since 2015, it never fails to bring me joy! And TBH, that's what makeup is all about.

Here's everything you need to know about the $7 L'Oreal lipstick.

This L'Oreal lipstick is flattering & moisturizing.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick is a hydrating formula that features Omega 3, Vitamin E, and Argan Oil to moisturize your lips while also providing the perfect amount of color. It's not overwhelming but I can definitely tell when I'm wearing it — and I feel more confident when I do so!

The formula also glides on so smoothly, and doesn't feel tacky, sticky, or cakey like other lipsticks I've tried. And other reviewers agree! "I bought two lipsticks as I needed them in a pinch and I am very pleased with the color and the quality of these lipsticks," one customer said on the Target site. "Great value and they are pretty moisturizing as well."

"I have used it for a long time," another customer said. "It feels good on my lips. It has staying power. I like the different shades."

I also love the simplicity of the tube. It feels modern and minimalist at the same time, and it fits in my smallest handbag which makes touch-ups on a night out easier than ever.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

I've been buying shade 754, Sugar Plum, since I was a senior in high school, and it's the most flattering lipstick I've ever worn. It truly looks like my lips, but better! And one of the best parts is that I can just swipe it on without even looking in a mirror.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

There are also matte options but I prefer the slight shimmer and glow of the satin lipstick — clearly, because I've worn this tube almost all the way down! I definitely need to buy another tube (or two) in the near future. And as we get closer to Valentine's Day, you might want to as well ;).

Are you a fan of L'Oreal lipsticks? Check out Brit + Co's other Best Drugstore Lipstick and Best Drugstore Lip Stain for even more ideas because we are right in the throes of kissing season y'all!!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Anthropologie (AKA our fave place) is truly your one-stop shop for all things Valentine’s Day – from home decor and date night outfitsto gifts for treating that special someone (or even just yourself), they’ve got all the cuteness! These 15 giftable finds feel oh-so-special for V-Day, no matter how or who you're celebrating.

Get ready to fall head over heels for these perfect Anthropologie Valentine’s Day gifts!

Anthropologie

Lost Pattern 3-Piece Silk Gift Set

This nifty, gifty trio includes a pillowcase, a sleep mask, and a scrunchie, all crafted from luxe-feeling mulberry silk. Your skin and hair are gonna love how soft it feels when you're ready to sleep.

Anthropologie

Knipschildt Valentine's Day Chocolate Truffles

These artsy truffles are perfect for celebrating the lovey-dovey holiday! The box comes complete with 29 pieces with different decadent flavors.

Anthropologie

Espresso Martini Baby Wall Art

Ah, the espresso martini – our one true love! 😭 All jokes aside, this adorable print makes a great Valentine's Day gift for the cocktail lover in your life. They'll want to keep it up all year long!

Anthropologie

Lips Icon Juice Glass

This signature drinking glass from Anthro is dotted in tiny lil' lips that recall the Valentine's Day spirit perfectly.

Anthropologie

Heart Charms Necklace

Charm necklaces are all the rage right now. This one is fixed up with plenty of heart-shaped pieces to reflect all things V-Day!

Anthropologie

Staub Heart Cocotte

The home chef is gonna go absolutely bonkers for this professional-grade cocotte. It's made of cast iron, heating its contents up with impressive evenness, plus, the interior boasts a rough texture that results in "exceptional browning." Oh yeah, and it's also shaped like a heart!

Anthropologie

Juliette Has A Gun Eau De Parfum

Perfume will never not be an exceptional gift! This sultry scent features a delicious balance of vanilla and neroli that "regales the senses" and "provokes immediate pleasure." Sounds very suitable for V-Day.

Anthropologie

Terrain Copper Heart Bird Feeder

If your giftee spends more time outside than inside, this heart-shaped bird feeder will definitely enlighten their time on the patio or in the backyard! The design allows enough space for a little birdie to perch inside the heart – so cute!

Anthropologie

Aota Sarah Bag

For the fashionista, a sleek bag like this one will surely make the perfect gift. The small strap has a bow design on top of it for cutesy shoulder carrying, though you can also whip out the detachable crossbody strap to easily go hands-free.

Anthropologie

Warmies Heart Plush

This snuggle-worthy weighted plush can be warmed in the microwave or chilled in the freezer to help relieve cramps, back and neck pains, headaches, and the like. Either way, this heart-shaped cutie will soothe and calm you with the scent of fresh-dried French lavender!

Anthropologie

Silver Cloud Heart Print Satin Gift Set

This sweet gift set encourages the deepest, comfiest sleep so you can wake up to be your very best self.

Anthropologie

Metallic Bow Match Striker + Holder

This match striker and holder combo piece would totally complete a candle for a swoon-worthy Valentine's Day gift!

Anthropologie

Cherry Drop Earrings

A great match for V-Day season and beyond, these cherry-shaped earrings add a dash of sweetness to any outfit.

Anthropologie

Capri Blue Volcano Valentine Jar Candle

The signature Volcano scent from Capri Blue highlights notes of tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons, and limes for an uplifting feel. This year, it's shoppable in this stunning Valentine's Day-themed glass to go with the rest of your seasonal decor.

Anthropologie

Le Mini Macaron Gel Manicure Set

An at-home mani is the epitome of self care! Gift them this set so they can slay their nails themselves – it comes in plenty of different colors suitable for V-Day!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.