This Millennial Pink-Inspired Backyard Makeover Is What Outdoor Living Is All About

Having a backyard is both a blessing and a curse. You get that coveted outdoor space, but then you also need to fill it with furniture and plants *and* maintain it. Our DIY Kit Designer Marianne Koo recently moved into her new San Francisco digs and inherited a yard that needed some serious TLC. On this edition of Make It Over, we'll show you her gorgeous transformation, along with a few DIYs that helped her reach #plantlady status.

The Before

Koo's yard had a bit of wear and tear (not to mention a leaning fence). It was basically a blank slate that was begging for an overhaul. She wanted a stylish space that would work for entertaining, lounging, and her growing plant collection.

The After

Koo's (below left) minimalist style came out in all of our design choices — from the millennial pink-inspired tablescape to the modern outdoor fireplace nook. And we even got to replace that sad fence with a beautiful stained wood version.

After settling on a color palette of blacks, whites, and pinks, we sourced our hero pieces: the teak dining table from Article and the bold patterned rug from The Mine. Then we added pops of blush and terra cotta to warm things up. And for that extra wow factor, we brought in brass candle holders and flatware.

FEATURED PRODUCTS

None

Pink Modern Dinnerware Set

$69
None

Block Carres Ivory Rug

$313
None

Gold Metallic Flatware Set

$56

Since adding additional seating was a must in this big yard, we found these gorgeous armchairs and added pops and texture with pillows. The concrete side table is the perfect size to hold some canned rosé.

In order to house Koo's growing plant collection, we got her an actual house — well, a greenhouse. This find not only added more storage but really filled up the yard and added architectural elements. “I love my new plant house and can't wait to watch my jungalow grow!" exclaimed Koo.

FEATURED PRODUCTS

None

Tassel Bolster Pillow

$49
None

Anson Fire Bowl

$358
None

Barbara Ceramic Pot

$31

There she goes, getting started on it already. Happy planting, girl!

Check out our DIYs below and scroll down for all the shoppable links to get the look on your own.

The DIYS

With such an empty yard, we really needed to bring in planters to add more interest and personality. We put Koo to work on a few DIYs that would look amazing in any yard (or indoor garden, if that's what you're working with).

VERTICAL GARDEN

These affordable vertical gardens (like this one on Amazon for just $11!) are easy to dress up with paint to make a bold statement piece in your garden.

Simply lay out your design with the masking tape. Be sure to press the edges down firmly so that paint doesn't seep underneath. Then paint between the pieces of tape. It took us two layers to achieve an opaque look. When making these, be sure to allow the paint to dry overnight and then remove the tape.

OUTDOOR PLANT BENCH

Trust us; this outdoor bench is actually surprisingly easy to put together. Most hardware stores will cut the 2×4's down for you for a small price. We recommend using redwood for any outdoor project, as it naturally resists decay. Feel free to use cedar as well, which exhibits the same properties but is a little pricier.

Butt up a 15-inch piece of wood against a 17-inch piece of wood. Use a spare piece of wood to keep the first two pieces aligned. Secure the two pieces of wood together with two screws.

Repeat the previous step and secure the two “L" shaped pieces together. Repeat these two steps to make two squares.

Arrange the four 48-inch pieces of wood on top of the two squared, making sure to leave an even amount of space between each piece.

Your bench should mirror the layout shown above.

Lay a strip of tape across all of the planks to make sure the screws are aligned and use two screws to secure each top plank into the base. Repeat the previous step on the other end of the bench and remove the tape.

Use the masking tape to create a template for paint. Make sure you use exterior paint. Allow the paint to dry overnight before removing the tape.

Shop the Look

Outdoor Dining Table: Article Teaka Dining Table ($1099), Article Sala Chair ($189), The Mine Orian Blocks Carres Ivory Area Rug ($150), World Market Large Bodega Glass Set of 6 ($12), World Market Ivory Linen Napkins ($24, set of four), World Market White and Brown Jute Table Runner ($25), All Modern Elkhart 3-Piece Vase Set ($46), Urban Outfitters Umbra Shift Pleated Succulent Planter ($79), Urban Outfitters Umbra Shift Pleated Vase ($79), Urban Outfitters 12-Piece Metallic Flatware Set in Gold ($56), Urban Outfitters 12-Piece Modern Dinnerware in Pink ($69)

Outdoor Fireplace Area: Luxe Decor Zuo Outdoor Teak Arm Chair ($698), Urban Outfitters Venice Net Tassel Bolster Pillow ($49), The Mine Real Flame Anson Fire Bowl ($358), The Mine Safavieh Torre Concrete Accent ($101), AllModern Barbara Ceramic Pot Planter ($31)

Greenhouse: Wayfair Glory Greenhouse ($2210), AllModern Valve Ceramic Pot Planter ($38)

Photography: Brittany Griffin

Are you looking to make over your own home? Follow us on Pinterest for more inspo!

Products provided by Article, The Mine, Luxe Decor Urban Outfitters, Wayfair, AllModern, and Cost Plus World Market.

Cameron Diaz's home exchange in Nancy Meyers' The Holiday is a cozy girl's dreamy holiday escape. And while Jude Law totally crushed our dreams by telling us that house isn't actually real, I found an IRL home that's totally just as good. This charming cottage is straight out of a storybook, with stacks of books, a literal crackling fireplace, and vintage-style furniture that beg you to curl up with a cup of tea. Cue this 1923 sbtorybook cottage in Los Angeles. Kirsten Blazek of LA-based a1000xbetter leaned into her warm and cozy side and embraced whimsical wallpapers and comfy furniture when restoring the '90s-era remodel back to its original charm, while also making sure it made sense for a modern, young family.

See the quaint, Nancy Meyers-inspired cottage remodel here!

1. Rich, Warm Colors

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose a cohesive color palette throughout the home to give the overall feeling of warmth. The home features classic prints, curated art, and furniture that nods to the home’s past.

2. Luxe, Comfy Furniture

Michael P.H. Clifford

Furnishings from home decor shops like Soho Home, Arhaus, and Maiden Home, paired with bold Morris & Co wallpaper and vintage rugs creates a warm, cozy, and inviting space. Think cottagecore but elevated!

3. Larger-Than-Life Bookshelves

Michael P.H. Clifford

Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves frame the outdoors and give the home an old-world English cottage feel.

4. 1920s-Inspired Decor

Michael P.H. Clifford

But it's this bath that stopped me in my tracks. So stunning! The home hails from the roaring '20s and elements like unlacquered brass hardware, natural stone countertops, and a B&W silent film print make subtle calls to that era. I adore the scalloped backsplash.

5. Whimsical Wallpaper

Michael P.H. Clifford

"We wanted to choose a wallpaper for the child bedroom that was also whimsical but had a level of sophistication that meant it wouldn’t feel too young as the years progressed," says Kirsten.

6. Cozy Lamps

Michael P.H. Clifford

The Lawns Prospect Park Mural Wallpaper was the starting point for Kirsten's other choices in the room that include a vintage bed and table lamps from Amazon.

7. Vintage-Inspired Lighting

Michael P.H. Clifford

Vintage-style sconces and handmade ceramic tile in the master bathroom echo the past in a freshly designed bathroom. Love the idea of a table lamp here too.

8. Antique Furniture Accents

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose an arched alcove around the bath with a tall vintage chair. "The alcove adds depth and interest to the room and felt aligned with the intrinsic architecture in the home," she says. What a happy ending!

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

Christmas has come early for two reasons: Carpool Karaoke is back — and so is Lady Gaga! Wondering what they have in common? Everything!

The 2010's sensation gave us amazing celebrity appearances with James Corden as driver extraordinaire, and stars like Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Selena Gomez. Lady Gaga joined the carpool in 2016 — with over 88 million views on Youtube — singing songs like "Million Reasons" and "Bad Romance" to her heart's content.

Finally, the pop star — and the show itself, TBH — made a return this week! And more than that? Lady Gaga even debuted her new Christmas song. I've already played it multiple times, so I know it's about to top my most-played Christmas songs. Excited? Here's everything you need to know about the surprise song drop, the return of Carpool Karaoke, and more!

See how Carpool Karaoke gave us the biggest surprise of 2024 — a new Lady Gaga Christmas song!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

In an unexpected trailer for A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, Zane Lowe can be seen accepting a phone call from the one and only James Corden who has a huge favor to ask. The first passenger Lowe picks up is the "Bad Romance" songstress herself — followed by Chappelle Roan and Dua Lipa's own individual appearances.

The car's decked out in green wreaths and festive red bows which adds to the Christmas spirit as everyone sings along to famous holiday songs. Lady Gaga can also be heard singing "Christmas Tree" which has fans in the trailer's comment section besides themselves with glee!

According to Deadline, the special premiered on Apple TV+ December 15, so it's not too late to watch it if you're just as excited as we are. But that's not all!

The outlet also reported Lady Gaga and Lowe released a new version of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" on all streaming music platforms! This means you get to hear the pop star give the nostalgic song a punk rock vibe that's now stuck in our heads.

If Lady Gaga tells us not to pout or cry, we're going to listen! (And sing along while we're at it 😉)

Follow us on Facebook for more fun celeb news!

The recent trend toward warmer hues like burgundy, terra cotta, olive, and brown, has had me rethinking my blue-leaning home. I've been sprinkling in things like pale pink pillowcases, a burgundy throw blanket, and olive green rug, and loving my warmer aesthetic. But then Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn, of celeb-loved design firm House of Rolison, stopped me in my redecorating tracks with their latest bathroom renovation.

Take a look at this stunning blue bathroom renovation that I can't get enough of — plus tips on how to transform your own space!

Nils Timm

In the middle of an earthy 1940s Spanish Colonial home, this stunning cobalt blue bath alcove feels like a refreshing, bold and unexpected moment of calm. And I'm obsessed.

"Historically, Spanish-style homes did incorporate deep blues and greens and we wanted to honor that as well as just a fun play on words given the iconic street name, Bluebird Ave," says Amanda. I love that homage. Once a closet, the bath's arch opening creates a tucked-in feeling around the tub with Zia Tile in Night Blue as the dramatic facade.

Nils Timm

"We made sure to wrap the home in windows, which brought the landscaping into the color palette giving us the opportunity to mix greens, blues, reds and dusty olives into the design," says Taylor.

The pair took a fresh take on Spanish design while keeping the home's soul intact. A deep low-profile sofa sets the tone for its elevated yet warm and casual vibe. "We appreciate structural and architectural integrity while allowing every room to tell a story," says Amanda.

Nils Timm

Each room feels like a chapter in a book, woven together with earthy tones, Spanish Colonial charm, and sleek contemporary design. “We love to play around with various monochromatic palettes," adds Amanda. "Generally people stray from cold colors and right now burgundy and reds are trending, which fall very heavily on the warm scale. We found a way to compliment both."

Nils Timm

The design duo, who are also engaged!, used Viola marble throughout the home to add unique texture, a bold statement, and an organic feel.

Nils Timm

The rich hues create an old-world feel throughout, including in the master bedroom's lounge area. Black-framed windows and elements with darker tones pair perfectly with warm woods and the dramatic stone featured in the kitchen and bath.

Nils Timm

The result is a soothing palette designed for sleep, rest, and relaxation. The fireplace adds a cozy touch, while the room's connection to the outdoors creates a harmonious vibe.

Nils Timm

The rustic and moody dining room is the perfect counterbalance to the sunny outdoors of the Hollywood Hills home. I’m in love with the cozy intimacy of a round dining table, which draws everyone together vs. apart at the center.

Nils Timm

This deep red-hued bedroom hints to the home's Spanish influence while still feeling fresh and contemporary.

Nils Timm

House of Rolison's best bathroom renovation advice?

"Don’t be afraid to get a little weird! Have fun with it. We always say “cool or too weird?” Which is really an homage to how we look at them," says Taylor.

Amanda adds: "To us, a bathroom is like a pop of color or texture to a bedroom. It’s like the jewelry of the space. Use paint, wall texture, paneling, Roman clay, wainscoting et cetera to give the walls some movement. Pick stones that you like for no other reason than because you like them. You may have to trial and error complimenting colors, but it’ll come together. Bathrooms are an easy place to get creative and take risks."

Nils Timm

Each bedroom does feel like a reflection of the bathrooms, telling its own story but feeling cohesive to the space. I love this pop of reddish-brown in a sphere pillow paired with the striped bolster in an otherwise neutral space.

Nils Timm

The era of all-white homes is clearly fading. Drenching walls in rich color while balancing them with lighter tones creates a look that feels warm and welcoming rather than stark and cold.

Nils Timm

Thoughtful details, expressed by collaborator Olive Ateliers, like a three-light floor lamp in the reading nook, vintage artwork, and stone pots add character and charm to create an inviting guest room.

Nils Timm

The bar area in its own intimate nook complements the kitchen with the same bold marble and similar chain pendant.

Nils Timm

I spy a pop of blue tile near the pool in the backyard too!

Nils Timm

The dramatic entryway arch sets the stage for the style and character of the home's stunning interior. Thanks Amanda and Taylor for sharing this beautiful space, and congratulations!

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I knew beauty trends were officially headed in a different direction when latte makeup dominated social media last year. Everything about it gave the appearance of soft features, making this millennial appreciate the ‘no makeup’ look more and more. And while I'm working on staying up-to-date on all the latest makeup trends, it also reminded me there are outdated trends that unintentionally age people...and definitelyneedto go.

Wanna look younger and more on-trend, too? From super metallic eyeshadow to contour that dominates your face, here are the 8 outdate makeup trends to leave in the early ‘90s to mid-2000s.

The 8 outdated makeup trends you need to stop ASAP!

1. Full Coverage Foundation

KoolShooters

There was a time where wearing full-coverage foundation was all the rage. From drugstore to high-end brands, it seems like they were consistently shoved in consumers’ faces to help us achieve a ‘full beat’ without sitting in a makeup artist’s chair. Also, those of us with dark spots or hyperpigmentation may have relied on them when we were in the thick of our skincare woes.

But these days, wearing too much foundation isn’t as popular as natural and skincare makeup are prioritized. If anything, more people are interested in wearing light-to-medium coverage foundation, skin tints, or tinted moisturizers.

2. Too Much Concealer

George Milton

It wasn’t until I watched this video by makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes that I realized some of us have been too heavy-handed with our concealers. There’s no reason we should be slapping products under the thinnest parts of our face, but we didn’t know any better!

Now that you know you can still get the desired effect with a minimal amount of concealer, don’t revert back to painting your under eyes!

3. 'Baking' Your Setting Powder

Chidi Young

Before you throw away your setting powders, step away from your makeup drawer and have a sit-down chat with me. There isn’t anything wrong with applying them to your face to help ‘set’ your foundation and concealer. However, spending over 10 minutes ‘baking’ your powder (AKA letting it sit untouched) doesn’t work for everyone.

It can lead to creased makeup which can derail your look, plus it’s a pain to correct when you’re halfway through your routine!

4. Overlining Lips

Kaboompics.com

I love a good lip liner, especially if it mirrors my favorite ‘90s makeup look. But, there’s such a thing as overdoing it. The key to lining your lips is following the natural flow of them. Going out of your way to draw above and under your lips’ lines comes off as comical and exaggerated. If anything, use a lip plumping gloss to help your lips look fuller.

5. Overtweezing Your Eyebrows

Getty Images

I don’t even have the words for this outdated makeup look besides wanting to say “no” 20 times in a row. But, I’ll bite and say why this shouldn’t be on your 2025 beauty moodboard.

Some people naturally have thinner eyebrows which is A-okay! However, purposely tweezing your eyebrows to smithereens is cringey. If you truly want to wear this look, here’s what you can do instead of tweezing:

  • Create a faux bleached look by applying a skin tone colored setting powder all over your brows.
  • Once they’ve ‘disappeared,’ take an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner to draw a thin line over them.

I’m…wondering what the ramifications of telling you how to do this will be, but only use go for this look if it’s a part of a themed party…like Halloween.

6. Exaggerated Highlighter On Cheeks

Milad Farhani

The shimmery look is in since it’s winter, but please don’t make it look like you dipped your cheeks into a vat of glitter. You can lightly dust highlighter onto your cheeks for a more natural glow that flows with the rest of your look. Otherwise you’ll look like a walking disco ball which could be the opposite of what you were going for.

7. Heavy Contour Or Bronzer

Laura Garcia

I know the ‘sculpted’ look is popular, but too much contour or bronzer can overpower the rest of your makeup and face. While it’s not impossible to fix if you do it by mistake, using the wrong shade of contour or bronzer may still peep through no matter how much you try to buff it out.

When in doubt, be gentle with your contour or bronzer application!

8. Incredibly Matte Makeup

Nataliia Yatsiuk

Matte makeup that didn’t budge was the ‘It Girl’ look for oily and combination skin girls! We thought it was the answer to our skin’s incessant need to hydrate our faces instead of actually using skincare products that focused on combatting that issue (psst…Vitamin C serums help!).

But now’s the time to break up with this look for good for one reason: dewy skin looks healthier.

While we have you here, learn about the outdated shoe trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025 either.

As much as I love the wholesome parts of the holidays (like decorating Christmas cookies and opening gifts in the morning), one of my absolute favorite parts about the end of the year is ringing in a new one. 2025 is on its way, baby, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already scheming up a New Year's party plan. The key to a good time is definitely having a great outfit – and these 12 Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses are actually perfect for the occasion. I’m talkin’ sequins, mesh, and even leopard print.

Get ready to stand out this season in these drop-dead gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Drop waists will always get me. Plus, they're so flattering! This flowy maxi can be conveniently worn with or without straps to suit your personal style.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Sheer Hem Mini Dress

The scooped neckline on this stunning mini dress is mirrored along the back, which dips a bit lower for a sultry vibe. Pair with some basic heels, and your 'fit is complete.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Collared Zip-Up Midi Dress

The ruching along the front of this zip-up dress is super flattering, drawing eyes to your waistline. The high leg slit feels flirtatious as ever, which could be just the vibe you're needing for your New Year's plans.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Slip Maxi Dress

Slip dresses are simply timeless and so easy to style. Lean more '90s with this foxy leopard print. I'd def wear it with some black boots and a black faux fur jacket for the drama (and more importantly, the warmth).

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Mesh Maxi Dress

This meshy maxi comes with a mini-length slip along the inside so you won't have to constantly worry about coverage. The material still shows your skin in all the right places!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Pleated Skort Dress

This preppy piece can easily be played up for a party – if anything, I think the tailored look gives the impression that you're super polished. Slip into this strapless skort dress (yep, there's built-ini shorts!), step into some cute kitten heels, throw on a shaggy coat, and you're set!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

I could see this one working just as well for a Christmas dinner as it would for a rather lit New Year's get-together. The off-the-shoulder look is simply so sweet!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Straight Neck Sequin Midi Dress

Sequins. Need I say more?! You'll immediately stand out among the crazy New Year's crowds in this fancy, disco ball-esque frock.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Off-The-Shoulder Rhinestone Maxi Dress

If full-on sequins aren't quite your thing, you can still put on a bit of shimmer with this dress that's dotted in tiny rhinestones. It comes in this amazing nude color or black to best suit your style!

Abercrombie & Fitch

High-Neck Satin Sculpt Midi Dress

While the front of this sleek midi is more modest, the back features an open design that lets you show some more skin. It's definitely on the elegant side, so I'd advise wearing it to a fancy cocktail hour or more low-key NYE party this year.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Skort Dress

Polka dots always feel super energetic to me, so if you want to be the one to get the party started, this is the dress for you! Plus, it'll make for some super cute Instagram pics. The design includes some built-in shorts, so coverage won't be an issue throughout the night.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Embellished Strapless Mini Dress

Oh, this one is perfect. The tiny rhinestone embellishments will certainly have heads tuning your way.

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