Decorating a Small Space? Make Our DIY Wall Mantel

Got a tiny apartment with an even tinier Christmas tree? Then it’s time to hack it up this holiday season with our on-the-wall mantel! With With gorgeous fabrics from Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores® and garland ties, hooks, and tape from Velcro Industries, it’s easy to make your very own colorful holiday scene.

Materials:
– 2 yards of any pattern fabric (we’re partial to chevron)

– 1 yard of plain red fabric

– 1 yard of plain green fabric

– VELCRO® Brand Indoor/Outdoor Hanging Clips

– VELCRO® Brand Red Garland Tie

– VELCRO® Brand Sticky Back Black Coins

Tools:
– sewing machine

First thing to do is get your mantel ready. We’re creating a flat fabric mantel to attach to any wall – you could even take it on the go if you’re doing more than one Christmas this year.

Our mantel is definitely on the tiny side, and could be larger. But if you’re going for the small look, we cut ours to 52 inches wide by 30 inches tall. Turn your fabric over and measure a 3 inch seam allowance. Iron! Turn back over and mark the 3 inch line.

Pin the VELCRO® Brand Red Garland Tie on the front of your fabric so that it also holds the seam in place. You’re creating a mantel, so you want to create a mantel shape on the front.

Now, sew!! Not only are you sewing your red garland tie onto the front, but you’re sewing up in the seam in the back so you have clean edges. We love a hack that lets you do two things at once!

To attach your mantel to the wall, use VELCRO® Brand Sticky Back Black Coins.

So cute!

Next up, you’ve gotta make your stockings. We printed out this template and traced it onto our red and green fabrics. Make sure you cut out two pieces for each stocking. Now, back to the sewing machine. We like the exposed stitching on this one for that homemade look, so we stitched along the front.

Use some of your excess mantel fabric to add loops and your stockings are done!

Back to the mantel. Use VELCRO® Brand Indoor/Outdoor Hanging Clips as stocking hooks. They’ll attach perfectly to the VELCRO® Brand Red Garland Tie you sewed onto your mantel.

Hang the stockings, fill with presents, and your small space will be filled with holiday cheer!

How do you decorate your small space for the holidays? Tell us in the comments below. Happy Holidays!

Small kitchens are a minimalist's dream design challenge, mostly because they don't require a major overhaul to look functional and stylish. It's all about making sure you use only the essentials, finding multi-purpose appliances, smart storage, and even taking design cues from larger kitchens. Small kitchens, in fact, are on trend in a sort of cottagecore, European aesthetic. Whatever your style though, there are plenty of small changes you can do to make your small kitchen look spacious. Now let's get cooking.

Idea #1: Pretend You Just Moved In

Ksenia Chernaya

Let's start with the idea that you just moved in by doing an inventory of your kitchen haul. Pull out the things that you don't use daily and find another place for them (maybe a closet or garage). Declutter and organize: Keep quality items, reduce plastic as much as you can, and find your inner minimalist by keeping the kitchen clutter-free by only storing essential items. Then decide where you could use organizers, dividers, and bins to keep drawers and cabinets tidy.

The Container Store

Elfa Over-The-Door Rack

Idea #2: Maximize Your Counter Space

Dmitry Zvolskiy

Counter space is essential in a small kitchen, so shed any non-essentials sitting on top of it. Can you move a microwave you barely use to a small island? Your juicer into a cabinet? Choose smaller or multi-functional appliances to save on counter space, and install cutting boards that can slide over the sink or stove. Foldable or extendable counters that can be tucked away and used only when needed are another great idea for small yet functional spaces.

Idea #3: Play With Vertical Space

Taryn Elliott

Think high when designing a small kitchen. Maximize vertical storage if you have tall cabinets. Use hooks or racks for pots, pans, and utensils to free up cabinet space. And add shelves for frequently used items to create an airy feel and make the most of wall space.

Idea #4: Embrace Light Colors + Reflective Surfaces

Beazy

Light colors for walls, cabinets, and counters can make the space feel larger and bring more light in. Reflective surfaces like glossy cabinets, glass tiles, or stainless steel can enhance light too.

Idea #5: Install Layers Of Lighting

ArtHouse Studio

A small kitchen can really benefit from lighting high and low, especially if you're not graced with a lot of natural light. Look for a fun (but small) pendant, install under-cabinet lighting to brighten up your cooking stations, add wall sconces to add extra charm.

Idea #6: Keep Your Design Consistent

Dane Deaner

Beyond decluttering and organize, use a consistent style for containers, cookware and organizers to create a cohesive look and feel.

Idea #7: Label Everything

Jason Leung

Label containers and shelves to keep everything organized and easy to find. Use clear containers too so you don't inadvertently double up on items. Now enjoy your clean and happy space!

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Main image via ArtHouse Studio and cottonbro studio

I simply cannot get enough of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Their adorable romance really does make me feel "So High School" — and I'm not mad about it! These two have already accomplished so much in the short year and a half they've been together, from their romantic trip to Lake Como to celebrating peak moments of their careers together (hello, Super Bowl AND Grammy wins!). Oh, and obviously professing their love for each other on various, various platforms (podcasts, award shows, etc.).

So what haven't Taylor and Travis done yet? And what do we think they'll do next? Well, I'm glad you asked! Here are my top predictions for where and how TayVis can take things to the next level in their relationship.

1. Collaborate On A Project Together

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for MTV, Jamie Squire/Getty Images

TBH, I wouldn't be surprised if Taylor and Travis collaborate on a project together before anything else. Tay loves to incorporate her favorite people in projects (the Haim sisters in the "Bejeweled" music video never gets old), so we wouldn't be surprised if she includes Travis in the "So Highschool" music video. I can't help but picture how freaking adorable they would be — and he's already proven his performance skills at the Eras Tour this year, so he'll be just great at fitting into her world on camera.

She could even feature Travis in Taylor's Eras Tour documentary that she's probably working on, too. Taylor's never been shy about featuring previous boyfriends in her documentaries before — Joe Alwyn was in Miss Americana , and he wasn't even as open to being out in public with her. Imagine the possibilities with Travis, given how serious their relationship is! Plus, it's clear that Travis seems to be very close with her cast and crew on the tour!

2. Dual In-Feed Instagram Post

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Going along with the idea of them working together, I could also see them both promoting their collaborations on Instagram as a dual post. Since they've both been very public and forth-coming about their love for each other, this doesn't seem that unlikely. In fact, Travis has already been featured on Taylor's IG and her Tiktok, which is very new for her! So, we're definitely expecting to see that soon! It would break the internet, for sure...

3. Get Engaged By The New Year

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Taylor and Travis are approaching a year and a half together, and it's clear these two are serious about each other. Taylor has been more public and open and free to be herself than any relationship prior — and Travis seems all about it! From their careers to events with their closest friends and family, the two seemed to be completely synced. With that being said, I think an engagement around the New Year is practically imminent!

4. Rule The Super Bowl & Grammys — Again

Noam Galai/Getty Images for MTV, Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images

This is contingent on a handful of different factors, but hear me out! Given the GOAT'ed duo of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce – and the fact that the Kansas City Chiefs are the only undefeated team left in the NFL — I definitely think the Chiefs will make it to the Super Bowl. And with the Super Bowl comes the potential for even more fun with these two! I mean, last year's kiss was pretty monumental!

As for Taylor getting Grammy nominations, her incredible success with The Tortured Poet's Department leads me to believe she'll have no problems there! Call it wishful thinking, but we're hoping to Travis celebrate another Best Album of the Year award with Taylor!

These two really are "the greatest in the league"!

5. Taylor Drops An Album About Travis

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

We all know (and love) that Taylor really can't go that long without dropping an album — and I'm absolutely positive her next drop will be full of Travis-inspired anthems. They've only been together for a year and a half, and he's already scored multiple songs about him. (Not to mention that also like every surprise song seems to be dedicated straight to him.) Fingers crossed we get more "The Alchemy" and "So High School" vibes soon! I'm guessing we'll get this in Spring 2025, so buckle up!

Hopefully these two finally enjoy a long break together after all this — it's more than well-deserved!

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Lounging on a sectional sofa makes reading a book and Netflix binges all the more cozy. But sometimes a small space doesn't have the square footage to accommodate a sofa and chaise, and fears of Ross's pivot scene in Friends (still cracks me up) start to creep up. Not to worry, though. We've rounded up sleek sectional sofas that don't take up too much space, provide tons of comfort, and look stylish to boot. Sit back, relax, and scroll for the comfiest couch made for you.

Anthropologie Kori Modular Armless Sofa

Great way to save space? Lose the arms! With this comfortable modular sofa you can do just that. We are digging this clay color too. It's 100% linen, has a tropical hardwood frame, and there's no assembly required on your part!

Castlery Hamilton Sofa (Performance Brilliance White)

This sectional is a minimalist lover’s dream while the removable cushion covers makes it easy to keep it clean. You'll receive the maximum amount of coziness without sacrificing the contemporary aesthetic you're going for.

LEISLAND Modern Sectional

Pet-friendly chenille fabric in a gorgeous blue will cheer up any small space. Two arm cushions make it extra cozy.

Albany Park Kova Sofa + Ottoman

Get sucked in for all your movie nights with this deep and cozy, cloud-soft sofa. The ottoman provides extra storage too!

Living Spaces Emery Chiffon Sofa With Reversible Chaise

This affordable sectional seats three comfortably and gives you the option to move your chaise from left to right and vice versa (the extension below the chair cushion is detached). Available with an optional storage ottoman too.

Novogratz Magnolia Sectional

This small space sectional sofa with reversible chaise has what's called a slender mailbox arm that maximizes seating space. Extra throw pillows included!

Modway Revive Modern Upholstered Right or Left Sectional

Clean lines with mid-century vibes make this sleek sofa in a rich jewel tone an easy fit for your snug space.

UO Modular Velvet Sofa

Small sectional sofas should be super cozy and chic like this modular design.

Available in a bunch of candy-colored hues, this velvet sofa is super versatile, featuring three separate pieces that you can arrange to suit your space.

Ami Sun Sofa With Reversible Chaise

Soft, suede-like fabric make this reversible chaise sofa an elegant addition to any small space, from living room to office.

Geo 2-Piece Vegan Leather Sectional

This sleek silhouette, reversible sofa and chaise is made in vegan leather upholstery that's super easy to clean.

All Modern 2-Piece Reversible Chaise Sectional (Burnt Orange Performance Velvet)

This space-conscious sofa doesn’t overwhelm a room and it's upholstery stands up to sun and spills, win-win!

Etta Avenue Chella Upholstered Sectional (Gray)

This black velvet chaise lounge has a bit of Old Hollywood vibes. It's reversible and has a unique tufted feature on the back rest. Two round pillows included — score!

Eafurn Convertible Modular Sectional Sofa

This modular sofar is easy to assemble, super affordable, and comes in a soft corduroy upholstery.

West Elm Oliver 2-Piece Chaise Sectional

West Elm has great sofas and this one is totally affordable and small-space-friendly at just under 80 inches wide.

APT2B Harper Reversible Chaise Sleeper Sofa (Blush Velvet)

You’ll get to have one of the cutest sectional sofas out there while creating a sleepover situation with the sleeper option! It’ll be ready 30 days after you make your purchase because it’s made to order!

IKEA FRIHETEN Sectional (Skiftebo Blue)

This convertible sleeper sofa is great for studio dwellers and comes with built-in storage to boot.

Burrow Field 3-Piece Sectional Lounger

This compact, two-seater with chaise has deep seats, plush cushions, and comes with an ottoman (you can also add seating as you grow into a larger space).

Mario Capasa Feathers Sectional (Grey)

This washable sectional is water-resistant and stain-resistant and the feather-and-fiber blend batting make it so cozy.

Best Choice Linen Sectional Sofa w/ Chaise Lounge (Black)

For less than $800, you’ll be able to say that you have one of the best sectional sofas that doesn't require you to spend a ton of cash. I’m all about finding ways to save money so I made sure this linen beauty is at the top of my list.

It’s a modular sofa that comes with a reversible ottoman and is designed to fit three people comfortably. This works perfectly if you’re in the mood to catch up on Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1 with your besties.

Latitude Run 2-Piece Corduroy Sectional (Dark Green)

With its 4.8 rating on Wayfair, this is one of the best sectional sofas you’ll find under $1000. You’ll get free white glove delivery (such an advantage) so you can spend more time worrying about how many naps you can take on it.

It’s incredibly comfortable with its deep seating and has a moderate height that comfortably fits short and taller people. If it’s just you and your roommate or S.O., you should definitely consider this two-seater!

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Header image via Albany Park

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams.

I live in the intersection of loving Halloween and fashion, so this month is my time to shine. Bu with so many fashion icons to dress up as, it's always a bit of a struggle to pick out a costume! Between my undying love for Sex and the City, all the stunning Bridgertonseason 3 looks, and the endless appeal of The Devil Wears Prada, I'm at a serious fashion crossroads. In order to help me narrow down my dilemna, I thought I'd share my top 20 costume contenders with you.

If you're looking for a show-stopping, Anna Wintour-approved Halloween costume, then look no further!!

Carrie Bradshaw

HBO

I have to start with my #1 icon of all time: Carrie Bradshaw. This costume is unbelievably easy, because you just have to take risks, which is what Carrie always does. She's not afraid to show off her body, mix some patterns, or wear loud, bold colors. Just make sure to wear some heels and run leisurely across the street — New York style.

How To Dress Like

13 Going On Thirty

Columbia Pictures

The early 2000's are back and better than ever, so obviously we have to address the 13 Going On 30 of it all. There's no one that does early 2000s like Jenna. Simply grab your best Y2K outfit, and especially make sure to do this costume if you hit the big 3-0 this year! I can't think of a more opportunity to dress up and dance the night away!

How To Dress Like Jenna:

Blair Waldorf

Warner Bros. Entertainment

One of my favorite TV show fashion icons of all time has to be none other than Blair Waldorf. She's an icon, she's everything, and she's the perfect person to dress up as this Halloween. I honestly don't know how someone makes a uniform look that chic, but I'm sure gonna try!

How To Dress Like Blair Waldorf:

Margot Tenenbaum

Touchstone Pictures

This is probably the easiest and hardest costume all at once, which is partly why I love it. The costume is relatively simple: fur coat and Hermes bag. But that's also a $20,000 outfit so it's not as easy to recreate as you may think. I'm thinking of opting for a fur coat from the thrift store, and just a brown, oversized or slouchy bag to achieve the same look. Because Margot is such an icon, and this look is simply too good.

How To Dress Like Margot Tenenbaum:

Bridgerton

Netflix

This show was all anyone could talk about this year, so I have a feeling many people will dress up as Bridgertoncharacters this year — and I don't blame them! The outfits are ideal for any fashion girlies who are just dying to show up and show out. Grab a cottagecore gown, and get ready to dance the waltz all night. I know I'll be on the lookout for some matching gloves to rally complete the look. Now, if only I could get my husband to dress up as Colin...

How To Dress Like Bridgerton:

Grace Kelly

Paramount PIctures

My #1 style icon? Well, thank you for asking! I truly have style icons for just about every decade, but my #1 overall will always be Grace Kelly. She was beauty, she was grace (probably why she was named that), she was a literal princes... Plus, her style was classy and unbeatable! You could wear just about any classy, 50s-inspired look with a blonde wig, and people would know exactly who you are. But for me, I'm trying to find a dress similar to this her undeniably chic look in To Catch A Thief!

How To Dress Like Grace Kelly:

Emily In Paris

Netflix

This costume is a top contender for me, because (hot take alert) I actually love Emily's style in the show! It's loud, unique, and giving Carrie Bradshaw a run for her money. For this costume, it's very similar to Carrie Bradshaw's. Go for loud, statement pieces and make sure to accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. Better yet: make your bestie dress up as Ashley Park and go together! And make sure to keep your phone on hand — just like Emily Cooper would.

How To Dress Like Emily:

Vivian in Pretty Woman

Touchstone Pictures

I see people dress like Vivian from Pretty Woman every year, but it's always the outfit she has on at the beginning of the movie! People totally miss out on the fact that Vivian is a complete style icon in this film, though. From her casual daytime looks and her gorgeous wild curls to this breathtaking red gown with gloves, Vivian pulls out look after look.

How To Dress Like Vivian:

Miranda Priestly in Devil Wears Prada

20th Century Fox Pictures

Anne Hathaway this, Emily Blunt that. No — I want to see more people going as our queen, Meryl Streep, playing the ever-iconic Miranda Priestly. She's better dressed, her lines are everything, and it gives you an excuse to judge everyone around you. (Only kidding!)

How To Dress Like Miranda:

Eve in Life Size

Disney

This movie is so good, and I honestly don't see people dress up as this often! It's no question that Eve was (and is) an icon with all the best Y2K looks. Keke Palmer actually recreated this exact look for Halloween 2023, and it was everything! I definitely think this is a fabulous costume to pull out for this year — you'll be an absolute doll!

How To Dress Like Eve:

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Though often overlooked, one of life’s little luxuries is a dang good body wash. In the same way I shop for face cleansers that don’t strip my skin of its natural moisture (but still leaves it feelin’ fresh and clean), I’ve found the best body wash is one that’s undeniably moisturizing. Body washes with moisturizing and hydrating properties are great fits for any and all skin types – hydration is essential for preventing dryness, supplementing the skin’s elasticity, and strengthening the skin barrier – essentially giving your skin the best line of defense against accelerated signs of aging, environmental damage, and breakouts.

These are the best moisturizing body washes to banish dryness:

What body wash should I use for dry skin?

Amazon

Any hydrating body wash with a creamy or oily consistency can be beneficial for dry skin, helping deposit more moisture during the cleansing process without disturbing your skin’s barrier. We recommend Naturium’s The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash, which boasts a nourishing oil-to-lather formula. If you have dry, flaky skin, it also may be best to avoid body washes that have fragrances as they can dry you out even more. Gentle, fragrance-free body washes like Aveeno’s Triple Oat Skin Relief Body Wash are typically a safe, soothing choice.

Target

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

I personally used this body wash from Dove all throughout my high school years, where every single skincare concern I had on my face suddenly migrated to my body. I'm talkin' cystic acne, blackheads, and flaky patches. It was notenjoyable. While this body wash wasn't an immediate fix for what my extremely hormonal teenage skin was going through, it certainly helped soothe the intense dryness and didn't aggravate the other various issues at all. I can attest that it's definitely friendly for sensitive skin-havers! Plus, at $10 for around 30 fluid ounces of product, it's also easy on the wallet.

Target

Method Simply Nourish Body Wash

I was on a good Method body wash stint for a while and probably kept this $8 bottle on rotation for about a years worth of showers. I'd be lying if I said I loved it for its moisturizing qualities only – this body wash also smells like pure heaven, which really adds to the experience of using it. It boasts a nice balance of coconut, rice milk, and shea butter, which work for your skin, not against it. Just a warning though: the fragrance may be a bit harsh for those with especially sensitive skin.

Amazon

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Body Wash

First, I fell in love with SheaMoisture's Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream. Then, their body wash came along – it's only made my love for the brand grow, especially because it's given me undeniably nourished skin every time I hop out of the shower. According to SheaMoisture, this $12 pick is formulated to leave melanin-rich skin "visibly moisturized." I don't have melanin-rich skin by any means, but I still feel super moisturized after using this body wash, likely from the rich blend of shea butter, frankincense, myrrh, and ceramides in its formula.

Amazon

Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash

This $15 oil-to-cream body wash is the epitome of treat yourself. I really like that the bottle design can instantly upgrade to your shower set up, making every self-care night that much more luxurious. Not only does it look beautiful, it feels beautiful, too. This moisturizing body wash is made with glycerin, squalene, and a variety of rich oils that help replenish your skin's natural moisture and add even more nourishment with each use.

Sephora

Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra-Soothing + Moisturizing Body Wash

This $32 water-oil body wash formula lathers up just enough to lift and wash away impurities on your skin without being super harsh or amplifying dry skin woes. In fact, 100% of users in a product study agreed it was non-irritating for skin, and 91% of them said their skin felt more moisturized and comfortable over time – and I agree! To combat the noticeably-dry skin on my legs this fall, I've been using it routinely alongside Soft Services' Green Banana Buffing Bar and love how soft and supple my skin feels post-shower.

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