Let There Be Light! 19 Festive Holiday Light Ideas

No matter what holiday you celebrate, no one can deny the festive awesomeness of Christmas lights. For weddings, birthdays, and holiday parties, the right string of lights is crucial to any event.

You can go ahead and cue up All of the Lights by Kanye now.

1. Starry Silver Lights ($12-$89): These teeny tiny lights are a great way to add sparkle to any part of your home. Great for a mini-tree!

Christmas Lights on a Bike

If you don’t have a tree or home to decorate, why not illuminate your trusty two-wheeled chariot? (via Millenion Design)

3. Paper Pyramid Lights ($42-$68): These gorgeous lights are made from printmaking paper scraps!

4. White & Green Cotton Ball Lights ($13): For a rustic but still colorful vibe, go for handmade cotton lanterns.

Outdoor Stars

Martha Stewart)

String Light Wall Tree

Martha Stewart)
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/EWWFmhJKJW8?feature=oembed&wmode=transparent expand=1]

Dixie Cup Garland

Hey Gorgeous)

Mirror Garland & White Lights

Apartment Therapy)

16. Star Wars Lights ($30): Gotta get our geek points on.

Scrappy Ribbon Garland

Whitney Caroline Designs)

Star Lights

Why limit yourself to just one star this Christmas? (image via Pinterest, DIY tutorial here)

19. Bulb Lights Necklace ($12): Or you can always wear your love of lights! This necklace actually lights up.

How will you decorate for the holidays? Any DIY projects or fun products we should know about? Talk to us in the comments below.

Modern desk lamps are working hard for your money these days. Many come with built-in wireless charging pads, USB ports and touchpad settings that let you adjust the brightness and color with a simple tap. There are the task masters with adjustable arms and swivel heads for more control over the direction of thelight, which is particularly useful if you’re sharing a desk space or working on a specific task.

Energy efficiency is also a big plus — LED lights consume less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, so the planet will thank you too for the upgrade. They can even help reduce eye strain and accommodate different activities, whether you’re doing computer work, reading, or focusing on a specific craft.

Whatever you're looking for, Amazon has a great selection of desk lamps to choose from – here are our favorites in different styles to suit your home’s aesthetic.

Amazon

Globe Electric 18" Desk Lamp

This mid-century-inspired desk lamp in a classic matte brass comes with an adjustable arm so you can focus on the task at hand. Automate brightness based on season or time of day from your phone by adding a Globe Electric Smart bulb too!

Amazon

LED Dimmable Desk Lamp

This LED desk lamp has a dimmable feature with 50 different lighting choices to keep your eyes happy, day and night – no flickering light or harsh glare here. Recharge your smart phone via the built-in USB port too.

Amazon

Globe Electric 15" Desk Lamp

Mushroom shades are all the rage. This desk lamp is compatible with LED or incandescent bulbs and comes in a few fun colors.

Amazon

Modern Industrial Desk Lamp 22.2“

This LED lamp has a luxe finish with brass trimmings and an adjustable lampshade so you can put the spotlight on your work, creative or otherwise.

Amazon

Fenmzee Bedside Table Lamp

This dimmable lamp has a touch-sensitive sensor so you can adjust it to low, medium, and high. Power up to three devices at once too!

Amazon

Foldable Portable Desk Lamp

Bunny fans, here's one for you: This cute portable desk lamp has a built-in rechargeable battery and flicker-free, glare-free LED light.

Amazon

LED Desk Lamp with USB Charging Port

Color lovers will enjoy this LED desk lamp with USB charging port and auto-dimming feature, plus a goose-neck that flexes.

Amazon

Cordless LED Table Lamp with Dimmer

Old meets new with this antique brass cordless LED lamp, which offers a dimmer, built-in rechargeable battery, and three levels of brightness.

Amazon

Industrial Table Lamp with 2 USB Ports

This vintage-style desk lamp has a three-way dimmer and two USB ports to charge your devices while you work or sleep.

Amazon

Small Desk Lamp With Touch Control

Add some wee charm to your desk with this small touch-control LED lamp with a 360° adjustable neck and 20 levels of brightness. Pop your pens and things in the organizer base. It's great for kids too!

Amazon

Small Desk Lamp with Warm LED Bulb

This modern desk lamp with warm LED bulb comes in a unique frosted opal glass shade. The rotary switch design is super sleek and offers 20 levels of brightness to meet your needs, from morning meditation to burning the midnight oil.

Amazon

ED Desk Lamp with USB Port

Upgrade your workspace with this satin brass LED desk lamp that moves, head to arm. It has a built-in USB charging port too!

Amazon

Creative Desk Lamp with Changeable Shape

Sit back and get to work with this natural wood "person" lamp that can adjust to multiple positions, including seated on a stack of your favorite books. It's compatible with e26, LED, and incandescent bulbs.

Amazon

Mid-Century Modern Globe Desk lamp

Add some green shimmer, deskside, with this portable glass lamp inspired by mid-century lamps.

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

Lead image via Amazon

Amazon’s famedBig Deal Days returns on October 8-9, but you don’t have to wait until then to get your shop on! There are tons ofearly Prime Day deals to scoop up right now, from beauty and fashion to home goods and appliances that’ll literally save you hundreds. This Prime member-exclusive savings event also comes at the perfect time ahead of the holiday season, so you have the chance to check everyone off your gifting list with plenty of time to spare before December’s here.

Jump to our favorite early deals:

Since we’re all about saving, here are all the absolute best early Prime Big Deal Days deals to start shopping now!

Early Beauty Deals

Amazon

SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream

$13, with option to save 10% more with Subscribe + Save

This luscious curl cream works for a wide range of curly hair types. From enhancing subtle waves to making sure tight coils stay in place, it sure is effective for such a low price. In addition to helping curls hold, this product reduces frizz and creates "brilliant shine."

Amazon

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

$17, was $25

This multi-hyphenate serum (4.6 out of 5-stars rating, Amazon best-seller, and viral fave) is beloved for a reason. It's super gentle on the skin, all while delivering unparalleled hydration and moisture when you really need it. Even if you're not looking for a skincare restock, someone on your holiday shopping list will love this as a stocking stuffer!

Amazon

Hempz Smoothing Herbal Koa & Sweet Almond Body Moisturizer

$19, was $28

Hempz makes some of our all-time favorite body lotionssince they're super hydrating. Give your bod the TLC it's been craving as temperatures cool down with this sweet-smelling formula made with thick, nourishing shea butter! Shoppers love it for its ability to maintain "supple and irresistibly soft" skin.

Amazon

Wavytalk Ionic Hair Dryer

$40, was $55, with option to use $8 off coupon

This salon-quality hair dryer is small, but mighty. It's powered by a 1875-watt motor, 3 temperature settings, and 2 airflow speeds to help you achieve the exact style you're looking for. It's earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from Amazon shoppers for being a great value, efficient at drying, and quiet during operation.

Amazon

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel

$16, was $20

This derm-recommended water-based moisturizer is packed with 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for "immediate and long-lasting hydration." It's the perfect product to deliver the moisture your skin needs without feeling heavy or sticky on the face.

Amazon

Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Whiten Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

$100, was $150

Prime Day is the perfect time to re-up your oral care game since a lot of electric toothbrushes tend to be on deals. This model's "advanced" tech allows you to remove 100% more plaque and (even 2.5 times more in between your teeth) for a very fresh feel. It can sense if you're brushing too lightly or too hard, plus it's equipped with a handy 2-minute timer for the ideal brushing experience. The coordinating case makes traveling with your expert-approved toothbrush super easy!

Amazon

Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

$235, was $300

This beloved hair tool from Shark is shoppable on sale ahead of Prime Day, saving you $50! It dries and styles your hair simultaneously using low heat, but powerful airflow. This minimizes heat damage to your luscious locks, which is always welcome! You can easily customize your desired hairstyle using 4 heat and 3 airflow settings, plus 5 interchangeable attachments.

Amazon

Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit

$22, was $50

The same sentiment goes for all things oral care – these whitening strips are a whopping 50% off right now, offering the perfect opportunity to stock up. These American Dental Association-approved strips are specially formulated for sensitive teeth so you can use them safely.

Amazon

Olay Super Serum

$30, was $35

This serum essentially acts as 5 serums in one single bottle! It's packed with niacinamide, vitamin C, collagen peptides, vitamin E, and AHAs to simultaneously hydrate, soothe, smooth, and gently exfoliate your skin – all with visible results. It goes on lightweight and absorbs quickly so you can easily layer on your typical moisturizer and SPF!

Amazon

Stila Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo

$30, was $32

This luxe 2-in-1 bronzer and blush boasts a gel-based formula that not only bronzes and blushes, but leaves a "dewy, non-oily, glow-from-within" look on your skin. It's fairly sheer and buildable, so it works equally well across bare skin or foundation. This pick would also make an epic stocking stuffer for the makeup aficionado in your life!

Amazon

Anua 10% Niacinamide+ 4% Tranexamic Acid Serum

$19, was $24

A combo of 10% niacinamide, 4% tranexamic acid, and 2% arbutin is put to work in this serum to effectively target dull skin and enlarged pores. It also soothes and hydrates the skin with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, ensuring you don't lose any precious moisture.

Amazon

Filorga Time-Filler Eyes Daily Anti-Aging Eye Cream

$68, was $72

This cream claims to reduce dark circles, wrinkles, fine lines, lift sagging eyelids, and thicken eyelashes in just 7 days. It's packed with a powerful amount of hyaluronic acid and peptides in order to tackle this wide range of skincare concerns. Don't just take our word for it – 82% of users saw reduced eye wrinkles over a week-long period, plus this product boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating for being noticeably effective.

Amazon

Keranique Hair Mask

$34, was $36

This fan-loved hair mask treats dry, distressed hair to transform it into healthy, bouncy, and thicker-looking locks. The GMO-free, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formula is the perfect mix to incorporate into your har care routine one to two times a week for stronger hair!

Early Fashion Deals

Amazon

Anrabess Open Front Knit Lightweight Cardigan

$47, was $70

If your fall and winter 'fits are craving something a bit more (and some extra warmth), this on-sale longline cardigan is the perfect light layer to throw on. It comes in 24 stunning colors to match your personal style. The open collar and front pockets make it look super sophisticated – even though it's currently 51% off. 👀

Amazon

Anrabess Striped Oversized Sweatshirt

$20, was $31

It's giving Free People, but for way less. This colorful striped sweatshirt is sure to make a statement wherever you go, and you have a ton of color options to shop, including this vibrant blue-pink-green colorway. It's designed for an oversized fit, which is ideal for fall and winter layering.

Amazon

Shupua Pointed Toe Ballet Flats

$26, was $31

These adorable red flats are a perfectly chic addition to any outfit, thanks to the pointed toes and lil' bows on top. The shoes themselves are soft and flexible, and boast padded heel cushions for an extra-comfy wear. The upper parts of the flats are made of a breathable mesh material, so your feet won't feel overly restricted, even after wearing them all day!

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Women's Teddy Bear Fleece Oversized-Fit Lapel Jacket

$45, was $62

This roomy jacket is just the thing you need to throw on a layer of warmth over your fall and winter looks. The teddy fleece sherpa fabric will keep you extremely snug, all while looking stylish. The large collar adds a nice touch of sophistication so you can easily rock it on the way to the office!

Amazon

Anrabess Oversized Long Sleeve Quarter Zip

$40, was $50

Look luxe for a fraction of the price with this super-soft quarter-zip pullover. Whether you wear it for WFH days or grocery store trips, it'll keep you warm and cozy with a plush ribbed knit material. The longline hem and raised collar will give you extra coverage on those especially-cold days.

Amazon

Cicy Bell Barrel Jeans

$30, was $45

Barrel jeans are *the* style to have right now. They're extra-wide across the thighs and knees, then tapered down around the ankles for a unique shape that wears well with flats and boots alike. This pair in particular has some slight distressing, shown in the frayed bottom hems and tiny rips around the hips. The comfy, baggy fit will become your BFF for days you have to dress up a bit, but don't really feel like gong all-out!

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Women's Crop Puffer Jacket

$58, was $69

Prepare for the extra-cold temps coming our way by snagging a dependable puffer jacket on sale for Prime Day now. This extra-puffy cropped jacket mixes practicality with style – the thick filling, stand collar, and elastic bands around the waist and wrists will keep you warm, while the cropped length, concealed front zipper, and side pockets have you looking stylish AF, even in the snow.

Amazon

Anrabess Double-Lined Long Sleeve Crop Top

$15, was $20 with option to use 10% off coupon

This "comfortable and stretchy" long sleeve top comes in so many colors to suit only your best layered outfits for fall and winter. It's made of a soft 92% rayon and 8% elastane material which is doubled over to give your look more coverage. The square neckline is ultimately super flattering for any body type, and the slightly-cropped length pairs just as well with high-rise pants as it does low-rise styles!

$40, was $66

Athlefit Chelsea Boots

$43, was $66

If there's anything we truly love, it's a boot. These black ankle boots boast timeless details that allow you to wear them with a multitude of 'fits! The chunky heel and sole gives these shoes a bit of edge while also supplying a hefty amount of traction for comfortably walking far distances. They're super easy to slip into, thanks to the elastic panels on the sides.

Early Kitchen Deals

Amazon

Nutribullet Pro+ Personal Blender

$100, was $130

This Pro+ personal blender from Nutribullet delivers "more extraction power, more convenience, and more functionality" than their original model, saving you effort and time in the kitchen where it's needed the most. The best part is it doesn't take up nearly as much real estate on your counters like a traditional blender would (small space-friendly)! Save 23% now, ahead of October's Prime Day event.

Amazon

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

$705, was $1,000

Splurge, anyone? This insanely luxe at-home espresso machine crafts the perfect cup with 6 pre-set beverage options, an efficient milk frother, and an adjustable bean grinder to achieve the ideal brew. It sounds intricate, but is actually super easy to use with high-visibility buttons and dishwasher-safe components for easy cleanup. Upgrade your current coffee routine right now.

Amazon

Carote Pots And Pans 11-Piece Set

$70, was $120 with option to use 10% off coupon

These gorgeous pots and pans are such an easy kitchen upgrade, especially since they're half-off. They're uniquely designed with detachable lids and handles to seamlessly fit inside your cabinets, saving ample space. The non-stick cookware surface delivers "rapid and even" heat to any dish you please! This set would also make a stunning gift to someone who's just moved to a new spot.

Amazon

Ninja Foodi 11-In-1 Air Fryer Pressure Cooker

$132, was $200

This 6.5-quart air fryer and pressure cooker does much more than air fry and pressure-cook. It's fitted with 11 different settings that range from steaming to broiling, and even dehydrating. It's gonna be a massively worthwhile kitchen upgrade if you tend to cook for the whole family or large potluck groups. If you're craving more easy meal ideas, it comes equipped with a 45+ recipe guide!

Amazon

Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill & Smoker

$300, was $400

If you've got a griller at home, they'll adore this grill, smoker, and air fryer all in one! It delivers the same char and searing that a large propane-powered grill would, taking up way less space. It's conveniently powered by electricity, but is compatible with Ninja's real burning wood pellets for added smoky flavor. It includes an attached thermometer that allows you to check the temps of whatever you're cooking with ease.

Amazon

KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set

$15, was $35

The deal on these mitts is insane! They're made of a heat resistant silicone (up to 500 degrees F) that's also super grippy so you won't risk annoying slips and spills. The material is conveniently easy to clean with an easy rinse and wipe, too. If you're looking for an affordable upgrade for your worn-out oven mitts, this Prime Day deal is your sign.

Amazon

Cosori 9-in-1 Air Fryer

$85, was $120

Having a multi-function kitchen appliance like this one is life-changing. This 9-in-1 air fryer can cook up everything from crispy tots to baked chicken in literal minutes!

Early Home Deals

Amazon

Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock

$170, was $200

This science-backed sunrise alarm clock is a total game-changer in supporting your natural circadian rhythm. It can send you to bed with a variety of white noise settings and nature sounds, then will wake you up calmly with a gentle light that mimics the rising sun. Tons of Amazon shoppers attest to its transformative properties – and the fact that it looks gorgeous on a nightstand.

Amazon

Urevo Under Desk Treadmill

$250, was $330 with option to use $70 off coupon

With 5 layers of anti-slip belt, 8 silicone shock absorbers, and 2 soft rubber pads, this under-desk treadmill provides a comfortable experience for getting your daily step goal in. The "powerful motor" is surprisingly quiet, so you won't have to worry about noisy distractions. The included remote control makes adjusting the speed easy, up to 4 miles per hour.

Amazon

Blueair Large Room Air Purifier

$190, was $350

This top-rated air purifier cleans up to 3,048 square feet in 60 minutes, removing "at least 99.97%" of tiny airborne particles like smoke, dust, and dander to keep the air in your home feeling (and smelling) fresh. The coordinating mobile app makes it super easy to monitor the device's performance, and will even notify you when it's time for a filter change! Its compact size allows you to place it out of the way of traffic for a seamless experience.

Amazon

Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum

$417, was $470

This Dyson deal is too good. Known for its high power and ability to clean every nook and cranny, this cordless vacuum is such a powerhouse. It comes with 3 attachments to target your desired space, and can operate up to 40 minutes on a full charge.

Amazon

FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair

$150, was $170 with option to use $30 off coupon

Ditch your current creaky desk chair for a fancy new upgrade. This ergonomic design provides 5 supporting points across your head, shoulders, back, hips, and hands with proper lumbar support to prevent those pesky workday aches and pains. You'll enjoy the breathability of the mesh backing and the ability to adjust the chair's height to your liking. It comes in 9 stylish colors in addition to this all-black pick!

Amazon

TushGuard Memory Foam Seat Cushion

$20, was $27

We're no stranger to work-induced back pain. This memory foam seat cushion can be used at your desk, at the kitchen table, in the car, or even on stadium bleachers to support a healthy sitting position! The material on top is soft and breathable, while the bottom boasts a rubber coating to prevent annoying slips. The u-shaped design fits your hips to "effectively support" the coccyx, relieving any pain from sitting in the same place for extended amounts of time.

Amazon

HiLife Clothes Steamer

$37, was $60 with option to use $5 off coupon

If you reside in too small a space to whip out an iron and ironing board frequently, this compact clothes steamer is gonna be a lifesaver. It uses high-temperature steam and a metal panel to smooth out wrinkles for a range of fabrics. It's also equipped with an efficiently-designed 300-milliliter water tank that's capable of steaming up to 6 garments on a single fill.

Amazon

Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

$100, was $124

This conveniently compact carpet cleaner can tackle tough pet spots and stains on carpet, upholstery, and car interiors. It's lightweight, easy to use with interchangeable attachments, and capable of tackling lots of mileage on a single fill from the 48-ounce water or cleaning product tank.

Early Tech Deals

Amazon

Ring Spotlight Cam Plus

$110, was $170

This easy-install security camera offers wide-angle, 1080p HD video with color night vision at all times of day so you can check in on your front porch, living room, or backyard when you need to. Its motion-sensing technology will set off two powerful LED lights when movement is indicated in its view. It also features two-way talk so you can communicate with guests from the comfort of your home. Invest in extra peace of mind with this $60-off deal!

Amazon

Oura Ring Gen 3

$299, was $349

This sleek health-tracking ring helps you monitor your sleep activity, workouts, stress levels, heart rate and more. Its small, but mighty sensors can detect over 20 different biometrics to give you a well-rounded glimpse into your wellbeing. The Oura Ring is definitely more discreet than a watch would be, plus it's very stylish. The titanium it's made of is lightweight and built to last, and it can easily fit into your everyday jewelry stack since it's available in silver, gold, black, rose gold, and more. You can currently snag it in ring sizes 6-13, use it with iOS or Android devices and apps, and even save more on your purchase since it's eligible for reimbursement with FSA / HSA funds!

Amazon

Apple AirPods Max

$399, was $549

The AirPods Max claim to bring "high-fidelity audio" and "breakthrough listening experiences" to every user. In addition to the high-quality sound, these luxe headphones also boast active noise cancellation to block out the world around you, plus a transparency mode that allows to you listen to both your headphone audio and the outside world simultaneously. The mesh band and memory foam ear cushions provide an "exceptional" over-ear fit, also sealing in sound when you need some focus time studying or working out. You can get up to 20 hours of listening time on a single battery charge, which is ideal for those constantly on-the-go.

Amazon

Amazon Fire TV 40" 2-Series HD Smart TV

$160, was $200

This Prime member-exclusive deal is too good to pass up. Watch your favorite TV shows and movies in HD with this Amazon Fire screen – it gives you "quick access" to all your go-to's, including games and music, too. Its remote is equipped with Alexa, so you can easily navigate to your desired watch via voice control.

Amazon

Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera

$398, was $500

This small, but mighty camera (capable of capturing 1080p and 4K resolutions) is a must-buy for the photographer, family documentarian, or just the person who loves to capture daily memories. It's fitted with a 20mm wide-angle lens – ideal for vlogging – to capture everything in close range clearly. It even comes with a discreet microphone and wind screen to eliminate extra background noise.

Amazon

Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle

$135, was $205

This Kindle's screen reads like real paper in any environment to supply the ideal reading experience, no matter where you are. This bundle makes the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life – they can enjoy over 2 million book titles along with thousands of audiobooks using a Kindle Unlimited subscription.

Amazon

Marshall Willen Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$70, was $120

This powerful portable bluetooth speaker can travel with you practically anywhere, from friends' places to the park. With 15+ hours of playtime on a single charge, you'll never lose your groove. It also comes complete with a built-in microphone so you can answer calls and command Siri to play your favorite tunes!

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

This post has been updated.

For those of us who are passionate about design and decorating, of course, we want our homes to look stylish and put-together, but sometimes life gets in the way and our homes start to look a little neglected. I bought my home four years ago and I'm starting to notice smudges on the walls (lots of 'em), furniture that could use an upgrade, clutter where I never intended, and a lack of cohesion from room to room. This is all to say, no shame if you're guilty of making a few home decor mistakes – we've all been there! But if you're looking to make a few upgrades, here's where you can start, without spending a ton of money. Lighting, maintenance, and just clearing up clutter can make a huge difference in how your home looks, from rags to riches.;)

Home Decor Mistakes Making Your Space Look Cheap

Dated Lighting

Photo by Lina Kivaka

Instead: Look For Sculptural Lighting

Let's start from the top. Sometimes a simple upgrade like new lighting can make such an impact in the room, instantly giving it a more upscale look. Statement lighting in sculptural shapes are on trend and timeless. Think in levels too -- from ceiling to table lamps to create ambience. Too harsh or too dim can make a room feel uninviting and drab too so pay attention to lighting in a room before you completely overhaul it.

Cramped, Cluttered Spaces

Photo by Rachel Claire

Instead: Be Selective With Furniture And Decor

Less is more when it comes to looking elegant, and frankly, not cheap. Remove anything that doesn't feel right in a space (you may find a better spot for it later) and start with the bare minimum. Now start to fill it with furniture and decor that fits the space well and looks like they pair well. Overfilled rooms can make them look cramped and chaotic, and too much decor or mess can create visual clutter, which is not inviting.

Mismatched Styles

Photo by Element5 Digital

Instead: Create A Point Of View

As a home decor enthusiast, I love almost all of it: art deco, modern, vintage, all the trends. Not to say, these trends can't all go together – they totally can! But create a space where they all work together so it feels cohesive. Make sure furniture works well with each other (even ask design advice from retailers). If you add art deco elements to a modern space, keep that thread going throughout the home with similar shapes, materials and textures (without going overboard). Start with an idea, pair down to the necessities, and slowly add what feels right.

Old Paint, Broken Anything

Photo by Pixabay

Instead: Keep Up With Repairs

Walls with chipped or peeling paint can make a home look neglected so a fresh coat is always a good idea after three or so years. Fix broken fixtures too like light switches, faucets, or doorknobs to keep your home from looking old and unkempt.

Cheap Materials

Photo: Shutterstock

Instead: Opt For Natural Materials

Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon can appear low-end so use them sparingly. Of course, there are sometimes budget concerns but opting for a few quality linens, upholstery, or real wood furniture can elevate your home.

Dated Fixtures

Photography by Joao Canziani | Design: Arterberry Cooke,

Instead: Upgrade faucets, knobs, and handles

My mom was ready to remodel her whole bathroom until I told her that it was fine — she just needed to upgrade her faucet. She did and was so happy with the results. Something as small as a new bathroom faucet, kitchen handles, or new doorknobs can bring your home on trend and help eliminate embarrassing home decor mistakes.

Rental Blinds

Shutterstock

Instead: Don't Treat Windows As An Afterthought

While I do love the bare window look, it can sometimes make a room feel unfinished, especially if the windows are not new. As a renter, I couldn't stand the look of cheap rental blinds too. I'd remove them, make my own shades, and reinstall them when I moved out. Using flimsy or outdated blinds can ruin a perfectly beautiful room. It's like the final accessory to complete the look!

Lack of Scale And Proportion

Photo: Nils Timm

Instead: Create Balance

Area rugs should extend beyond the sofa and not be too small compared to the size of the room. Find furniture that fits the space and hang artwork that balances the room vs. puts it off kilter. This room by L.A. design firm House of Rolison feels harmonious and complete.

Generic Decor

Photo: Nils Timm | Design: House of Rolison

Instead: Add Personal Touches

Using generic, mass-produced decor items can make a home feel impersonal and bland. Create a sense of space and character by incorporating personal touches, such as family photos or unique decor and art pieces.

Overly Themed Rooms

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Instead: Scale Back On Thematic Pieces

Overdoing a specific theme, such as nautical or rustic, can feel kitschy and less sophisticated. Instead, use elements of a theme sparingly, like this woodland-themed kids room that features an animal print and little trinkets on a shelf for an adorable touch.

Main Photo by Rachel Claire

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I spent many way-too-early mornings standing behind the coffee bar at Starbucks. Barista-ing, though stressful at times, was honestly so satisfying. I felt good when I poured the perfect drink for my customers, but I felt even better when I found the best beverages to make for myself.

Having unlimited hot drinks at my disposal during my shifts was definitely one of the best perks about being a Starbucks barista. I worked the opening shift there quite frequently through the dreadfully bleak winter season (I’m talking sub-10 degrees every morning), so warming up – caffeine included – was crucial.

My Starbucks era taught me that everyone takes their coffee differently, and there are countless ways to customize a drink. If you’re looking to switch things up and transition into the chilly season with a new hot drink order, please take some suggestions from me – a former barista who knows all about it. Now, I present to you: the 18 best Starbucks hot drinks.

Starbucks

Hot Matcha Latte with Oat Milk and Peppermint Syrup

People are always surprised when I tell them that peppermint is available year-round at Starbies – it's not just reserved for the winter-exclusive Peppermint Mocha – and it's most delectable when you add it to a hot matcha. The earthier feel of the matcha gets balanced out super well among the minty-ness of this syrup, though I wouldn't overdo it on the number of pumps. I found that two pumps in a grande worked best for my taste.

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte with Oat Milk

This Starbucks hot drink is the way to go if you like nutty flavors. Chestnut and praline notes combine with some strong signature espresso, turning this pick into dessert inside a cup. I *loved* drinking it with oat milk the most, because it rounded out the flavors so beautifully (plus, I just have a general preference for plant-based milks).

Starbucks

London Fog with Almond Milk

NGL, Starbucks has a pretty amazingLondon Fog drink. It's essentially an Earl Grey tea with vanilla syrup and steamed milk of your choice, and it makes for a deliciously light and creamy beverage. I'd recommend ordering it with almond milk because the Starbucks milk is quite flavorful on its own, and it can really enhance (and possibly transform) what you thought you knew about a London Fog.

Starbucks

Hot Matcha Latte with Oat Milk and Hazelnut Syrup

I must say, I'm a matcha latte fiend. Thus, I'm noting yet another green tea powder-based order on the Starbucks hot drinks ranking. When prepped with hazelnut syrup, the chain's matcha earns some extra sweetness. So, if you have a sweet tooth (like me), this gently-caffeinated drink will do you very good. Not that into sugar? Order it with half pumps to lighten your sip up.

Starbucks

Honey Almond Milk Flat White, sub Honey Packets for Syrup

The Honey Almond Milk Flat White is a permanent staple on Starbucks' menu, but I don't think a lot of people know about it. Starbies' flat whites are typically made with whole milk, but this riff actually utilizes almond milk for a lighter (and more dairy-free-friendly) option. The honey sweetens things up perfectly, but the OG recipe calls for honey syrup – which, to me, does *not* taste like honey in any way. Luckily, you can customize the drink with a more natural substitute: actual honey packets. I like to do 3 packets for a grande size, but I suggest you go with your gut and taste-test it from there.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte

Based on my experience working behind the bar, this is one of the most divisive Starbucks hot drinks on the holiday menu. From what I remember, the debate mainly circled around the latte's *very intense* sweetness – so, go ahead and scroll on if you're not a massive sweets fan. If you are, the Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte brings forth that desired sugar cookie-ness that amps up the winter season when ordered hot AF. Pro tip: you can actually order drinks extra-hot at Starbs! Sadly, this sip is only seasonally available.

Starbucks

Pistachio Latte with Almond Milk

This is one of my favorite Starbucks hot drinks (though it's really good iced, too). It's a latte built with some nutty-sweet pistachio syrup, and it's addicting. I prefer to order it with almond milk to really amplify the nuttiness – it pairs insanely well with the strong espresso!

Raphael Loquellano / PEXELS

Hot Matcha Latte with 2 Pumps White Mocha Sauce

Again with the matcha! Okay, okay, this is the last matcha hot drink I'll speak on. Believe me, though – it's *so* tasty. White mocha sauce provides a gentle, sweet creaminess to the Starbucks matcha, regardless of what kind of milk you order it with. Typically, grande-sized drinks have a default number of 4 syrup pumps, so to dampen down the overly-sugary impression, I like to order this offering with half pumps.

Starbucks

Cinnamon Dolce Latte

This permanent Starbucks menu classic is all about the spice. Cinnamon swirls each and every sip, thanks to the addition of Starbucks' sweet cinnamon dolce syrup. You're in for an extra treat when you order this Starbucks hot drink, too, because it's topped with sweet whipped cream and a cinnamon-sugar dusting! I think the cinnamon notes are a chilly fall day's BFF, so hold this one close when you're craving a dose of seasonal vibes.

Starbucks

Caffè Misto with Oat Milk

This is one of the best Starbucks hot drinks for someone who isn't into all of the syrupy stuff. All the Caffè Misto promises is a 1-1 ratio of hot brewed coffee to your choice of steamed milk. I found the best milk to be, of course, oat milk, but you do you, boo.

Starbucks

Dirty Chai Latte with Almond Milk

Throw a couple of espresso shots in here, and you've got a killer drink – literally. If you need to be productive on a particular day, order a Dirty Chai. I just love the balance between sweetness and spice that Starbucks' chai has. It definitely leans sweet, though, so if you're used to a chai with bite, prepare yourself.

Starbucks

Honey Citrus Mint Tea

The Honey Citrus Mint Tea (AKA the Medicine Ball) may be a scrappy DIY way to cure you of your head colds, but I also think it's a massively tasty beverage for simply sipping in good health. It's zingy, minty, and lemony, which offers a really nice break from the milky, sweet, espresso-filled drinks people usually order from Starbucks.

Starbucks

Pumpkin Spice Latte with Half Pumps

Ah – a true classic when it comes to the Starbucks fall menu. PSLs are perfectly sweetened with pumpkin, but can be a lot sometimes. That's why I recommend ordering your next Pumpkin Spice Latte with half pumps. Don't worry – the pumpkin will definitely still shine through – it just won't be fully in your face with this Starbucks hot drink.

Starbucks

Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato

There was a customer I had that ordered this Starbucks hot drink almost every single day when I was a barista there. I didn't understand their undying love for the seasonal drink until I tried it! The Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato is like if you poured out a hot, steaming cup of fall. It has undertones of famed apple desserts (like pie!), but gets a caffeinated punch from the blonde espresso. I love it as-is, but again, you can always customize your drink based on how sweet you want it.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha with Half Pumps

The Peppermint Mocha is undeniably an icon. You can be pretty sneaky and order it year-round, too! Like I mentioned, Starbs keeps their peppermint syrup stocked at all times, so all you have to do to get your paws on this Starbucks hot drink is order a latte with mocha and peppermint pumps. Easy. Since this bev can easily overwhelm with syrup (like the PSL), I'd suggest trying it with half pumps if you're not ready for an instant sugar rush.

Starbucks

Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte with Blonde Espresso

One Starbucks barista noted on Redditthat a latte with Brown Sugar syrup, oat milk, and Blonde espresso is their go-to drink. They said it "tastes like an oatmeal cookie," which sounds *so* delectable. I will add that Blonde espresso is a little bit sweeter than Starbucks' signature espresso shots, so it's always a nice substitute if you're craving extra oomph.

Starbucks

Hot Blonde Vanilla Latte with Whipped Cream, Plus Two Extra Pumps of Vanilla and Caramel

This commenter likes their Starbucks hot drinks sweet AF. With extra syrups and whipped cream, there's truly no telling just how decadent this vanilla latte is.

Starbucks

Blonde Flat White with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Powder Steamed into the Milk

This flat white, suggested by another barista, gets its charm from some cinnamon steamed into the milk. Yes, you can in fact order your milk that way at Starbucks, and it's heavenly.

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This post has been updated.

What would you do if your worst nightmare came true? You hope you'd be level-headed, ready to tackle any problem that came your way. But no one really knows what they'd do in an emergency until they find themselves in one — and that's exactly what All Her Fault's Marissa finds out when she arrives to pick up her son from a playdate, a stranger opens the door, and her son is nowhere to be found.

There's something extra spooky about the idea something could happen in a place you know so well, and that makes this Peacock limited series even more terrifying than it already was. But one silver lining? The thriller features some of our favorite Hollywood names.

​Who's in the All Her Fault cast?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival/Amy Sussman/Getty Images

All Her Fault Cast

All Her Fault stars our favorite names in television right now: the show will be led by Succession's Sarah Snook as Marissa alongside Dakota Fanning (The Perfect Couple), Abby Elliot (The Bear), Jake Lacy (Apples Never Fall), Sophia Lillis (It), Jay Ellis (Top Gun: Maverick), Thomas Cocquerel, Daniel Monks, Duke McCloud, Kartiah Vergara, and Michael Peña.

​When is All Her Fault coming out?

Andres Ayrton/Pexels

All Her Fault Release Date

We don't have an official release date for the show yet, but considering they've already entered production, we can expect to see it sometime in 2025! Check back here for Peacock's official release date.

​What is All Her Fault about?

Amazon

All Her Fault Plot

Based on the novel by Andrea Mara, All Her Fault follows Marissa Irvine, who arrives to 14 Tudor Grove to pick up her son Milo from a playdate with a new friend. But when a woman she's never met opens the door, and Milo is nowhere to be found, Marissa finds herself in the middle of a waking nightmare. There are four women who could be held responsible — but only one of them might have him.

​Where is All Her Fault filming?

Tiff Ng/Pexels

All Her Fault is filming across Australia, and at the beginning of October, they were seen filming in Docklands (in Melbourne). The show is set in Chicago.

​Who is the director of All Her Fault?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Minkie Spiro will direct the first episode of the series, while Megan Gallagher will write the script and executive produce. Gareth Neame, Nigel Marchant, and Joanna Strevens will also executive produce for Carnival Films.

Check back here — and on Facebook! — for the latest All Her Fault news.

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