These Are The Coziest IKEA Finds For Creating A Hygge Home This Winter

9 Affordable Ways To A Cozy, Hygge Home This Winter

As the colder weather comes in, nothing feels more appealing than hunkering down inside for hours on end. And what better way to do this than by following the Scandinavian way of hygge. This practice of achieving wellness and contentment is all about comfort, in both living and decorating. And we're here to tell you how to bring that into your own home in an attainable way (because let's be honest, our bank accounts are a little sad after the holiday). Keep scrolling on to get all the affordable inspo!

Our Pick: NJUTNING Scented Candle ($20)

Call for Candles: If you ask almost anyone, their #1 way to hygge living most certainly includes candles. (Bonus if they have an inviting scent.) From candlelit dinners to ambient decor, options like these NJUTNING Scented Candles ($20) are perfect for brightening the long winter months.

Our Pick: KNIXHULT Floor Lamp ($55)

Let There Be (More!) Light: On the topic of lights, we'd recommend supplementing candles with soft floor lighting ot create a warm atmosphere in almost any room. This KNIXHULT Floor Lamp ($55) is designed with a minimal eco footprint (another aspect of hygge) by using parts of the bamboo plant that would otherwise go to waste.

Our pick: OFELIA Throw ($30)

Create a Neutral Zone: Keep a minimal yet cozy palette with neutrals (think greys, taupes, and, yes, even basic white), from accents in your living room to bedroom textiles like this affordable and plushy OFELIA Throw ($30).

Our Pick: RABBLA Box ($20)

Keep It Simple: Do as the Danes do and simplify. Baskets like the RABBLA Box ($20) are the best way to keep clutter at bay so you can sit back and enjoy your homey oasis in peace.

Our Pick: SANDARED Pouffe ($50)

Try This Rustic Remix: Pay homage to the great outdoors with wooden furnishings and rustic seating options. Since buying a handmade birch table set isn't the most cost-effective, we love getting creative with unique seating options that simulate the vibe, like this beige SANDARED Pouffe ($50).

Our Pick: SKOLD Cushion Cover ($30)

Bring on the Textures: Just in time for harsher temps in most of the country comes chunky knits, wool blends and faux furs. This last one in particular is a much-loved way to evoke comforting vibes, from SKOLD Cushion Cover ($30) and toasty-warm rugs to throws for furniture.

Our Pick: SVARTRÅ LED String Light ($30)

Pull Some String (Lights): Deck your walls in the modern accessory that'll keep you feeling extra snug once the lights go down. This SVARTRÅ LED String Light ($30) does the job and looks great wherever friends gather.

Our Pick: VÄGMÅLLA Throw ($15)

Snuggle Into Throws Galore: There's nothing cozier, or more hygge, than sitting in a comfy chair wrapped in a throw. Go with this muted VÄGMÅLLA Throw ($15) with a stylish, textured print. (At under-$20, you can buy more than one!).

Our Pick: YPPERLIG Bench ($39)

Keep a Welcome Entrance: Enjoying life's simple pleasures starts at your front door. Swap in a wooden bench (YPPERLIG Bench ($39)) and add some simple hooks or a textured mat to keep guests (and hey, even yourself) feeling at home from the moment they step inside.

Back before everyone outside of the Scandinavian countries collectively learned about hygge, most of us spent our winters dreaming of sunshine, beaches, and suntans. While we can certainly get on board with all of the above, it's been a nice change of pace to start finally appreciating coziness in all its cold-weather glory. From snowy ski chalets to sips of spicy red wine in front of a cackling fireplace, these winter vacation ideas prove that there's no time like the early wintertime to really wrap yourself in something fuzzy and create a quaint, old-world ambience.

MyDatingAdvisor recently rounded up some of the coziest destinations in the US, and we were inspired to put together a winter wonderland vacay vision board. We've compiled some amazing small towns to visit, quaint Airbnbs to stay in, and our favorite cozy products to create a winter retreat that'll warm you to your toes. Make the world feel a little smaller (in a good way) with these cozy winter vacation ideas practically guaranteed to calm your senses and help clear your mind.

Where To Go: Cozy Vacation Destinations

Image courtesy of MyDatingAdvisor

Stockholm, Wisconsin

With a population of just 80 people, it doesn't get much tinier than Stockholm. Don't mistake the town for being desolate, though — it sits right on Lake Pepin, and enjoys frequent visits from boaters and bikers during the summer, and ice fishers, snow shoers, and other winter sport lovers during the winter. The tiny main street is dotted with picturesque shops and restaurants, and there are super cute antique shops, galleries, handmade furniture stores, and even a performing arts center in town.

Image courtesy of MyDatingAdvisor

Stanley, Idaho

If you're looking to get outside and adventure before retreating into a cozy, warm cabin before nightfall, Stanley is the place to go. There's plenty of cold-weather fun to be had, from navigating the Fishhook Creek Trail to riding horses at Mystic Saddle Ranch. The Boat Box Hot Springs are also nearby if you're in the mood to warm up a bit.

Image courtesy of MyDatingAdvisor

Ellicottville, New York

Ellicottville is one of those small towns where everything looks insanely picturesque. A common retreat for New Yorkers, it consists of a cute historic downtown surrounded by vast swaths of forests and mountains, including the Allegheny National Forest.

Image courtesy of MyDatingAdvisor

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is situated right where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet, and also right between the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the main body of the state. This liminal location is no doubt part of what gives Mackinac such an other-worldly charm that has kept tourists coming here for decades. Sample the island's famous fudge or just spend your days perusing it snowy and historic downtown streets.

Where To Stay: Cozy Airbnbs + Accomodations

Tye Haus in Skykomish, Washington

How stunning is this A-frame cabin in the woods? We challenge you to come up with a winter vacation destination prettier than this.

Off-Grid Cabin in West Bolton, Vermont

If you're hoping to really rough it, look no further than this off-grid cabin perfect for getting away from it all.

Hygge House in Cable, Wisconsin

Yours truly, popping in here to say that I've personally stayed at the Hygge House, and it was the coziest New Year's Eve of my life. From the Anthro-inspired decor to the tiny house layout, this little hideaway is truly adorable.

Big Bear Quonset Lodge in Big Bear City, California

Talk about a cute little refuge from the outside world. This little Airbnb is sweet enough to put on a postcard.

What To Bring: Our Favorite Robes + Wares

Brooklinen Checkerboard Robe ($100, was $125)

We're still obsessed with anything checker print, so we'll be wrapping up in this next to a roaring fireplace.

UGG Scuff Sis Slippers ($100)

After you've made yourself a cup of hot chocolate, slip these silky-soft slippers onto your feet.

Limited-Edition Handmade Mug, by Franca NYC ($48)

That aforementioned hot chocolate? Sip it out of this artsy limited-edition mug.

Avaline The Essentials Trio ($72)

A nice glass of wine will make any chilly evening feel a little warmer... and a little cozier.

Victrola Eastwood Record Player ($99)

Ditch the screens for a weekend and bring a portable record player with you to get a taste of the good life. Your favorite vinyl is better than any TV show you're planning to watch, we promise.

Love these winter vacation ideas? Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel recs!

Featured photo Mikhail Nilov/Pexels.

Eating out as a vegan can be a true challenge, especially if you don’t exactly know that what you’re ordering is 100% vegan. Fast food faves like McDonald’s and Taco Bell are secretly packed with vegan items, and Starbucks is no exception. From oat milk coffees to satisfyingly savory snacks, you’ve actually got plenty of plant-based choices when you pull up at your local Starbucks.

Scroll on to explore every vegan Starbucks drink and food item you can add to your order!

Vegan Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks

1. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado

This new-to-the-menu espresso drink combines brown sugar syrup and oat milk to balance out the punchy coffee notes.

Starbucks

2. Latte (Iced + Hot)

You can totally enjoy a latte at Starbucks if you're vegan. Their oat, almond, coconut, and soy milks are vegan, plus many of their syrups qualify as vegan, too, if you want to flavor up your drink. According to this Starbucks supervisor, all of Starbucks "clear" syrups are vegan and dairy-free. Starbucks' regular and white mocha sauces and caramel drizzle are also vegan and dairy-free.

Starbucks

3. Americano (Iced + Hot)

Starbucks' Americanos are just water and espresso, so you don't have to worry about any dairy being in there. Optionally, you could ask for a splash of non-dairy milk and pumps of your fave syrup.

Starbucks

4. Brewed Coffee (Iced + Hot)

Same goes for their brewed coffees, including iced coffee. Easily ask your barista to add in some non-dairy milk and a few pumps of syrup if you desire!

Starbucks

5. Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

This vegan cold brew drink is crafted with non-dairy cold foam that's flavored with salted caramel – and it's delish!

Starbucks

6. Nitro Cold Brew

A plain nitro cold brew from Starbucks is fully vegan and dairy-free. You can choose to add a splash of non-dairy milk, if you wish your sip to be a bit smoother and creamier.

Starbucks

7. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

This one's a classic: shots of espresso get shaken up with ice and brown sugar syrup to create a frothy foam, then the drink is topped off with oat milk to cut the bitterness. It's quite a delectable order, even if you're not eating fully vegan.

Starbucks

8. Starbucks Refreshers

All of Starbucks' fruity Refreshers are vegan. Plus, you can can add lemonade, tea, other flavor inclusions like strawberry and peach to add some extra oomph.

Starbucks

9. Iced Black Tea

Their refreshing iced black tea is certifiably vegan, too.

Starbucks

10. Iced Green Tea

If you prefer green tea, Starbucks' offering is vegan-friendly. If you tend to take your tea a bit sweeter, just order it with however many packets of your preferred sweetener, and your barista will add it in.

Starbucks

11. Lemonade

You truly can't go wrong with a lemonade!

Starbucks

12. Hot Teas

Starbucks' hot teas are totally vegan, too. If you want to make them fancier, ask for an additional splash of your go-to non-dairy milk!

Vegan Starbucks Foods

Starbucks

1. Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Now onto the food! First up is Starbucks' oatmeal, which you can fancy up with nuts, berries, and brown sugar. Make sure to order it with water to ensure it stays vegan.

Starbucks

2. Plain Bagel

Surprisingly, Starbucks' bagels are also vegan.

Starbucks

3. Everything Bagel

The plain and everything bagels will work for any vegan eater.

Starbucks

4. Avocado Spread

Plus, you can order your bagel with a side of this delicious avocado spread for a nutritious boost!

Starbucks

5. Spicy Falafel Pocket

This 100% vegan snack pocket is new to the Starbucks menu, but it's already become a fan-favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.

Starbucks

6. Chipotle Almond Dip

You can order the Spicy Falafel Pocket with a side of this fully-vegan Chipotle Almond Dip (AKA Bitchin’ Sauce). Yum.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing Starbucks orders!

We used to think minimalist, organized interiors meant sparse, empty spaces — until we were introduced to Scandinavian furniture. The region's interior style relies on simple pieces with clean aesthetics while embracing the Danish notion of hygge, which is all about creating cozy, welcoming spaces of contentment. It also often incorporates mid-century style shapes, which might be why we can't stop pinning the style to all our home mood boards. Now, you can turn your Scandi interior dreams into reality with these online furniture finds that don't require an all-day trek to IKEA.

Scandinavian Designs Alonso Bench ($179)

Scandinavian Designs is an obvious place to start for your Scandi-inspired makeover. Our first pick would be a simple slatted bench to set the mood in your entryway.

Amazon Pre Assembled Shell Chairs ($95)

Knowing you can get an entire Scandi-style dining chair set for under $100 is reason alone to choose the style for your home.

Wayfair Jordana 60'' Dining Table ($258)

Pair your new chairs with this modern dining table made for gathering.

Stripe Break Rug by Sarah Sherman Samuel – Lulu and Georgia ($98+)

Cozy rugs warm up a minimal room and this modern classic from one of our favorite designers fits the minimal + cozy bill.

West Elm Oliver Sofa ($599)

Practice the pillars of Hygge and add a few cozy throws and furry pillows to a mid-century style couch that will blend right in with the rest of your space.


H&M Large Folding Basket ($18)

Set a large basket by your couch or bed to add to the aesthetic (and store all those extra throws).

Amazon Nordic Side Table ($33)

Choose a minimalist side table so you can pile it high with all the decor elements of hygge: candles, bookstacks, and more.

Castelry Hagen Rattan Armchair ($299)

Rattan chairs with clean lines and metal frames can be styled outdoors with pillows or indoors with cozy throws for a truly Scandinavian feel.

Fringe Fruit Basket by Jungalow ($70)

Natural fibers and texture are enough to add some visual interest without overpowering a room. This fruit basket by Justina Blakeney is fun, functional, and all about the fringe.

Amazon Natural Maple & White TV Stand ($233)

This sleek, modular TV console will only look expensive in your Scandi-style living room.

Target Abacus Ladder Bookshelf ($190)

Oak a-frame and leaning style book cases will feel right at home with the rest of your decor.

Amazon Oslo 1-Drawer Desk ($139)

Take the Hygge approach to your WFH space with this simple yet stylish desk.

Urban Outfitters Huron Bench ($429)

Surrounded by simpler pieces, this gorgeous bench will cozy up any space.

Pottery Barn Cayman Platform Bed ($499)

A minimalist, wood bedframe is all you need for this aesthetic.

Amazon Sazena Floating Nightstand ($59)

Floating shelves not only look sleek, but will also help you lead a minimal lifestyle without the space to add clutter to your bedside.

Urban Outfitters Amelia 6-Drawer Dresser ($849)

When simplicity is key, this natural wood dresser delivers (and comes in a few other drawer sizes).

Wayfair Platform Bed ($187)

If you already have ample wood pieces in your bedroom, try a minimalist metal frame and pile high with pillows and blankets.

Amazon Nordic Rocking Chair ($280)

Give yourself permission to relax with this simple, modern rocker.

Amazon Faux Sheepskin ($19)

Virtually any piece of furniture can be given a Scandi touch when topped with a faux sheepskin throw. No home can be hygge without it!

What do you think about Scandinavian furniture? Let us know on Twitter and subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest home content from B+C!

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

What is it about family sagas that seem to make book clubs more interesting? Maybe it's because we know interpersonal relationships can be a little dysfunctional. It could be that we still don't know how to communicate with the people we love the most. Even if we love our parents and siblings, reading about other families' fictional twists and turns gives us a rush of adrenaline.

So it's no wonder Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick feels like something we can read without putting down. It's full of complicated relationship dynamics, love, and reconciling one's identity with their past. You can say it's the perfect read to kick off your 2025 reading goals!

Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club pick and fall in love with one character's journey of self-discovery.

Amazon

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight

Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.

Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.

@readwithjenna/Instagram

Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus

Jenna Bush Hager thinks readers will love The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus because "it's a rich novel" with themes of "friendship and motherhood" (via Instagram). It's so good, she's sure "it will sweep you off your feet (via Instagram).

We hope you enjoy reading about Penn's journey in The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus and encourage you to check out Reese Witherspoon's January book club pick next!

Trader Joe’s loves to keep us on our toes when it comes to their new arrivals. We’re constantly monitoring the aisles to discover all the new TJ’s sweet treats and savory snacks they launch – and these 7 new picks for January 2025 are not to be missed! All of these Trader Joe’s products will run you less than $5, which only makes sealing the deal on your grocery bill easier.

From delicious dips to a very enticing new frozen meal, these are the 7 best new Trader Joe’s finds you absolutely need to try in January 2025.

Trader Joe's

1. Teensy Candy Bars

These tiny little candy bar bites ($2.99) resemble Snickers in the best way possible: layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts are enveloped in a delicious chocolate coating for maximum snackage. We're gonna have to resist eating the whole bag! TJ's even suggests using these bits as decoration for other desserts, like sprinkling some on a scoop of ice cream or baking them into some cookies.

Trader Joe's

2. Olive Tapenade Hummus

Trader Joe's array of dips is simply too good to resist, and this newcomer hummus ($3.49) is no exception! It's a tub of "smooth and nutty" hummus topped with a tapenade comprised of black olives, manzanilla olives, capers, and olive oil to give it a salty effect. It's gonna taste so great as a dip for crackers or as a spread on a Mediterranean pita wrap.

Trader Joe's

3. Organic Concord Grape Jelly

This squeezable grape jelly ($3.49) is nothing short of nostalgic. Trader Joe's says it's "super smooth, joyously juicy, and potently purple," which immediately has us sold on making PB&Js every day now.

Trader Joe's

4. Spicy Chicken Nuggets

Oh, yeah. Bring on the spice with these spicy nuggs ($3.99) that make the perfect easy meal no matter the time of day! Made from all-natural chicken breast and rib meat, breaded with wheat, rice and corn flours, then covered in hot sauce and lightly fried, TJ's has their texture down to a tee. You can easily cook 'em in the air fryer, oven, or microwave before chowing down!

Trader Joe's

5. Crispy Potato & Poblano Pepper Tacos

These halved and fried frozen tacos ($4.99) will totally crush your Taco Bell cravings, since they come together super quickly and contain flavors with mind-blowing authenticity! Each taco is filled with a blend of seasoned mashed potatoes and some "ever-so- slightly spicy" poblano peppers that'll work so well with any dipping sauce, from TJ's salsa to their creamy Jalapeño Sauce.

Trader Joe's

6. Strawberry Mini Hold The Cone!

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Trader Joe's is debuting a new flavor ($3.99) of their classic Hold The Cone! frozen dessert: strawberry! These tiny, chocolate-covered cones are lined with even more "rich" chocolate on the inside, then packed with strawberry ice cream, which TJ's says is crafted with plenty of strawberry purée.

Trader Joe's

7. Caesar Salad Dip

Trader Joe's shoppers have said this new Caesar Salad Dip ($3.69) makes a perfect girl dinner addition– which, if you get it, you get it! The tub starts with a "creamy" base that's then loaded up with Caesar-seasoned sour cream, mayo, anchovy paste, Parmesan, and finely shredded Romaine for the crunch. It's best enjoyed with crackers or veggie sticks to dip, but you could also smatter fried chicken or seared steak in it for some ahh-mazing flavor!

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