Back in the olden days—as in pre-social media—maybe we would see the interiors of a beautiful house in a magazine or in the movies (hello Nancy Meyers), but most of the time we were quite literally in the dark when it came to seeing the houses of the affluent. Yes, maybe we get to see some great art or furniture in these editorial spreads, but what about the little details that make a home a home and a classy one at that? Like putting multiple frames on a table or having a beautiful silver little bowl for all your rings.
But now that we have Instagram and TikTok not only can we see some of those exquisite details bring even the smallest of apartments up an aesthetic level, we are also literally instructed on how to do it. And thanks to the land of Amazon and other accessible retailers we can now emulate all those little details and at more affordable prices. Here are just a few little timeless home decor pieces—from monogrammed towels to vintage mirrors—that effortlessly elevate your space with elegance and sophistication.
Bowl of Match Boxes
If you are a foodie or avid traveller this small item has dual meaning: it serves as decor and a record of all the places you’ve been.
Crystal Decorative Bowl from Amazon
Fresh Flowers or High-Quality Faux Flowers
Whether it’s a fresh bouquet of peonies or a delicate orchid, flowers are one of the easiest ways to instantly elevate a space. Now though nothing can quite match the elegance of fresh flowers on a table in a beautiful vase, that can be a lot of work (and quite expensive.) Amazon has some beautiful faux flowers (faux sounds so much better than fake) that will still add that special touch to any room.
Artificial Chrysanthemum Balls
Monogrammed Towels or Linens
You can never go wrong with monogram. I would monogram everything if I could. Monogramming adds a personal touch to any home. It could be anything from towels to napkins to sterling silver frames or even bedding. Monogrammed items feel uniquely yours and bring a sense of old-world charm and attention to detail that’s impossible to ignore. Heck, display a monogrammed L.L. Bean boat tote in the front hall (I really want to get one that says, “Piper, noooo!” IFYKYK.) They have become their own ironic status symbol in the last few years.
Small Lamps with Elegant Shade
A small, beautifully designed lamp can work wonders in creating ambiance. On a small hallway table or even in the kitchen on a surface, can add a cozy aesthetic you didn’t even know you wanted. Look for lamps with high-quality materials like marble, brass, or glass, and add a statement lampshade that complements your overall aesthetic. This rechargeable one from Mackenzie-Childs is beautiful.
Mackenzie-Childs Rosy Check LED Rechargeable Cafe Table Lamp
Rug in the Kitchen
While many think rugs belong only in living rooms or bedrooms, placing a soft, plush rug in the kitchen can add unexpected charm and coziness to a space that’s typically more utilitarian. Opt for a neutral color or classic pattern that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic.
A Coffee Table Book or Two
Obviously people have been using coffee table books for decor for years and coffee table books have really stepped up their game (Assouline travel books literally became a requirement for any women to have displayed in their apartment in their 20s.) But there are countless others. I love the Carolyn Besette one and the Sofia Coppola’s Archive.
Palm Beach Assouline Coffee Table Book
A Perfectly Aesthetic Nightstand
There is an art to a perfectly curated nightstand (and if you use an elegant side table as your nightstand bonus points.) Think a small jewelry dish, a candle, maybe a beautiful lotion bottle and a book or two with reading glasses on top. Maybe a leaning romantic photograph. There is an entire nightstand decor inspo canon on TikTok. After all, doesn’t your nightstand truly represent you?
Vintage Mirrors
And when we say vintage mirror, we also mean that one from Anthropologie that went viral and then everyone figured out how to make cheaper. It’s a simple yet powerful design element that can make your space feel bigger, brighter, and infinitely more sophisticated. Just having it a lean against a wall completely works.
Kate and Laurel Myrcelle Traditional Arched Mirror
Scented Candles in Elegant Holders
A beautifully scented candle does more than just add fragrance—it elevates the entire mood of a room. Choose candles in elegant holders, whether they’re made of marble, glass, or brass, and pick scents that are subtle yet sophisticated. Think lavender, bergamot, or sandalwood for a luxurious ambiance.
Hints of Animal Print
Maybe it is just a leopard print throw pillow or a small bench at the end of your bed. But there is something about just a little animal print thrown in with other patterns that says, ‘Hey world, I take a walk on the wild side…sometimes.”
Meredith is the former editor in chief of the women’s career site, The Grindstone. Her work has appeared in Marie Claire @ Work, The Jane Dough, DailyWorth, SheKnows.com, Business Insider and Learnvest. She earned her Masters in Magazine, Newspaper and Online journalism from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Meredith resides in New York full time and enjoys reading, jogging, SoulCycle and playing with her small dog, Otis.
