EmmyLew_Decorates on LTK

How many things have you had for 25 years? Be honest! I feel like things today are made to be thrown away. These Crate & Barrel dishes and glasses are the definition of buy it once. I’ve had mine for over 25 years, and they still look brand new… and the crazy part? Crate & Barrel STILL sells the exact same ones today because they never went out of style. If you need a gift for a new homeowner, a newlywed, or if you are finally building a kitchen that lasts — these are such a classic choice. Perfect for hosting, everyday use, holidays… all of it. You can buy them by the piece or on a set. I have the tea cups too! And the Direction glasses come in several styles as well (and they are on sale for Black Friday) Everything is linked here on my LTK 🤍 LTKHome LTKKitchen LTKGiftGuide LTKHolidayHosting ⸻ Crate & Barrel dishes Crate & Barrel glassware best everyday dishes timeless kitchen pieces classic white dishes durable dinnerware set wedding gift ideas new homeowner gifts holiday hosting essentials kitchen basics that last neutral dinnerware set long-lasting home products LTKWedding LTKHome LTKGiftGuide

Shop this post

Paid links

Staccato White Porcelain Dinner Plate + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Staccato White Porcelain Salad Plate + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Staccato Cereal Bowl + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Staccato 11-oz. White Porcelain Mug + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Staccato White Porcelain 4-Piece Place Setting + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Direction 17-Oz. Pilsner Beer Glass + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

Direction 12-Oz. Highball Glass + Reviews | Crate & Barrel | Crate & Barrel

From classroom to content creator 📚➡️📲
Hi, I’m Emily! After 25 years teaching high school Marketing, I retired early and started sharing the way I style, update, and truly live in our family home in Florida.
Married at 36, mom at 40, and now raising our 7-year-old in our 12th (!!) house.
I’ve always loved finding homes with potential and updating them to feel high-end on a real-life budget.
Follow along for DIYs, decor tips, Amazon & Target finds, and everyday life at the lagoon 🏖️
#BuilderGradeGlowUp #FloridaMomLife #NeutralHomeStyle

The whimsy of our daughter’s playroom is so sweet 💕 the abundant storage cabinets and curtains are the necessity but the rest I can have a little fun with so I added some ruffles and lace! May I always remember that little girls are so precious 🫶🏻 #targetfind #anthropologie #playroom #littlegirls #neutralrooms #simpledecor

#LTKKids #LTKHome

Welcome to my LTK! I am Emily and I am 47 years old and I love simple but stylish home decor and outfits for myself and our 7 year old daughter! Hope to see you around 🫶🏻

#LTKKids #LTKOver40 #LTKHome

I wanted something to highlight our wedding photo without dealing with wiring… but I also didn’t want anything that looked cheap or too casual for this space.

This wireless sconce ended up being the perfect find. It has a matte gold finish with a glass shade, so it feels elevated and works really well with the wood tones and darker brass we already have in our bedroom.

It mounts right to the wall, uses a battery bulb, and you can change the lighting with a remote (warm, natural, or cooler tones).

One of those small upgrades that makes a space feel way more finished without a big expense.

I linked the exact sconce with bulb here if you’re adding lighting anywhere without wiring.

#LTKWedding #LTKHome

Her new room is small so I wanted a closet that gave us more storage without actually doing anything custom.

This setup made such a difference — the rods adjust as she grows, there’s space for shoes and drawers, and I use baskets so she can actually reach everything herself

the exact system we used isn’t available anymore, but I found similar options that work the same way on @Wayfair

linking everything here if you’re working with a closet like this

#LTKKids #LTKmomlife #LTKHome

I’m starting to collect pieces for an Americana-style gallery wall in our stairway and this was such a good find on Etsy.

I love mixing in things that aren’t just framed art, and this canvas pennant adds so much texture and interest.

It comes in a few colors and sizes, and would be so cute in a boy’s room, a man cave, or layered into a gallery wall like this.

@Etsy

#LTKHome

I’ve wallpapered 7 rooms in this house at this point… (and some in others houses)

I’ve tried peel & stick, pre-pasted, and traditional wallpaper — and learned what actually works (and what doesn’t)

I’m putting together a full wallpaper series next week with all my tips if you’ve been thinking about trying it!

#LTKHome

These are the 3 main pieces we used in my daughter’s playroom

The rug, drapes, and storage cabinets made the biggest difference in making the space feel finished but still work for everyday use. You will be shocked by the Rifle Paper Co x Loloi rug price!!

I especially love the storage — it keeps everything contained but still looks nice

@wayfair

#LTKHome #LTKKids

If you have wire pantry shelves, this made ours so much more functional.

We didn’t replace them — just added an organizer to the inside of the door, pull-out drawers, and bins

How did we go it?
The hacks:
1. We zip tied the drawers to the shelf so they stay in place
2. Got an "over the door" rack that can also attach to the back of the door so it does not show on the top (because no way lol)

Linking everything we used here if you’re working with a similar pantry setup.

Kitchen Organization
Spring Cleaning

#LTKHome

What actually makes a guest room feel cozy (not just look nice).

It’s really just a few simple things — making it comfortable, thinking through the little details, and setting things up so it actually functions for someone staying there

I always try to make it feel ready, not like a spare room

I linked a few of the pieces I use if you’re setting up a guest space and my guest room set (PS: they have it in a darker color that I wish I got!)

#LTKHome

This is what finally made our playroom feel manageable again.

We didn’t need more space… just better systems.

adding cabinets for hidden storage, a rolling cart for everyday use, and using the walls made the biggest difference.

I linked everything we used here + the bins, bags, and baskets that help keep it all organized.

#LTKmomlife #LTKHome #LTKKids

I know this season is busy, so I kept Easter decor really simple this year.

I just swapped a few things out using what I already had and it made everything feel fresh again in like 15 minutes!

Sharing the pieces I used here + a few similar options if you’re pulling something together last minute

______
easter decor, spring home decor, seasonal decor, neutral easter decor, simple decorating ideas, quick home refresh, coffee table decor, tray styling, spring styling, home decor ideas

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHome

This chair has been in my family for years… but it didn’t quite fit our home anymore.

Instead of getting rid of it, I refinished it—and now it looks like something straight out of Restoration Hardware.

Proof you don’t always need to buy new to get the look 🤍

#LTKHome

We accidentally created an $8,000 bed for under $2,000 and I’m not even exaggerating

We paired an affordable foam mattress with a Tempur-Pedic topper and it completely changed how our bed feels

The Tuft & Needle foam mattress gives both my husband and I the support we need for our backs, but the topper adds that softer layer I need as a side sleeper — my shoulder used to get sore after sleeping and that’s completely gone now 🤯

It honestly feels like a luxury hotel bed

Linking everything here if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your mattress without spending a fortune

And yes you can get them on Amazon! Tip- get the 2” topper. The bigger one is too thick.

#LTKHome

A few of you asked about these after I shared them on stories 🥹

Dave wrote these books and they’re honestly the kind of gift that millennial parents love — they read to the rhythm of songs you actually know, so they’re just as funny for you as they are for your kids

Ella still goes through them and we always end up laughing 😂

one of you even said you added them to your baby registry which meant so much to our family 🤍

I added them here if you’re looking for a unique baby gift or something fun to switch up your bedtime routine!

#LTKBump #LTKmomlife #LTKKids

These lamps are on sale for Wayfair’s Spring Cyber Week right now for $100 🤯

I looked forever for something that felt high-end but wasn’t crazy expensive

they have a really pretty texture + a soft neutral shade (not stark white) so they look like $400 lamps.
Notice ❗️When you click on the product you will notice their photos are more brown. My pictures show you what Mike look like and they are less dark brown on the bottom.

Now is the time to grab these & elevate your room with expensive looking lamps 🙌🏻

@Wayfair

#LTKSaleAlert #LTKHome

This is one of those pieces that works in so many spaces.

This bench is from Wayfair, and I currently have it at the end of our guest bed, but it would also be so cute in an entryway, under a piece of art, or even in a kid’s room. The scallop detail gives it that Magnolia-style look without the higher price.

I also linked the rug and headboard (also from Wayfair) from this room so you can recreate the look if you’re styling something similar.

If you’re deciding between finishes, I love the black for contrast, but the wood version would be so cute in a little girl’s room 🤍

@Wayfair

#LTKHome

I couldn’t find a long TV console I liked that wasn’t thousands, so I made my own using four Target cabinets — and it ended up over 120” long.

This was such a good solution for getting the scale right under a larger TV, and it completely changed how finished the whole wall feels.

I used the glass door version so I could style inside (I love how it adds a little contrast and makes decor pop), but I also linked a solid door option I would buy if you want more hidden storage — especially good for playrooms or busy living spaces.

If you’re recreating this, I recommend:
• using 3–4 cabinets depending on your wall size
• keeping them the same finish for a seamless look
• styling the top like one long console (lamps, books, trays, etc.)

Such a good affordable alternative to oversized media consoles.

@Target

#LTKHome

If you have sheer curtains that you want to keep because for me, they match other curtains in the room, but you also still need to have your blinds on the outside for the HOA and you need a room to be darker. This is a great solution for you too!

I used an inexpensive shade and a cheap tension rod both from Amazon and I’ll link those. You can get the shade and all different colors to match whatever shade your curtains are so that you can’t see it underneath.

#LTKHome

This is how we made a pre-made closet system feel custom (for way less)

We used a system from Lowe’s and then customized it by adding extra pieces, cutting a few to fit, and adjusting the layout to work with our closet

We even added another rod for more hanging space and use the top shelves for things like extra pillows and gifts

The wallpaper was the finishing touch that made it feel more custom and pulled everything together

I linked the pieces we used if you’re planning something similar

@lowes #CustomCloset

#LTKHome

Some of my favorite pieces that made our home feel more high-end without a full renovation

It’s always the small details (and a few key furniture pieces) that completely change how a space looks and feels

I focused on things that:
• look elevated
• are actually affordable
• and make a big impact in everyday spaces

Everything I used is linked here if you’re styling your home too 🤍

⸻

home decor ideas, affordable home decor, high end home on a budget, living room decor ideas, bedroom decor ideas, neutral home decor, modern classic home, pottery barn style, designer look for less, home styling tips, coffee table decor, bedroom styling, curtain styling, home lighting ideas, shelf styling, bathroom decor ideas

#LTKHome

One of my favorite playroom organization hacks has been using zipper storage bags for puzzles, games, Lego sets, and cards.

Before, we could only fit about four bulky game boxes in this cabinet. Once we switched to zipper bags, we were able to organize 15 different games and activities in one bin.

It keeps everything contained so pieces don’t get lost, and it makes it so much easier for kids to grab what they want and clean up afterward.

I linked the zipper bags here because they’ve been such a simple solution for organizing toys and games.

#LTKHome #LTKKids

Hot take: you don’t need expensive furniture to have a beautiful home.

Some of the most complimented pieces in our house are actually from Wayfair including this sofa, our coffee table, and the rug in our living room. I love finding pieces that look beautiful but are still realistic for everyday family life.

I linked the pieces here if you’re curious or decorating a living room right now. Wayfair has been one of my favorite places to find affordable furniture that still feels elevated.

Wayfair living room, green sofa living room, affordable living room furniture, Wayfair sofa review, neutral living room rug, coffee table styling ideas, affordable home decor, cozy living room inspiration, modern traditional living room

As a Florida mom, sunscreen is something we use every single day ☀️

You definitely don’t need to spend $100 on sunscreen, but I do think it’s one of the most important choices we make for our families. Between beach days, sports, school drop-off, and just living in the sun — we go through a lot of it.

These are the ones I keep buying again and again for our family. They’re easy to apply, actually get used (which matters with kids), and everything here is available on Amazon.

For my face I love Supergoop, and for the rest of the family we use Sun Bum all the time. It’s been a great combo for everyday Florida life and beach days.

I linked everything here if you’re getting ready for spring break or stocking up for summer ☀️

@Supergoop!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKTravel

3 ways I styled these brass coasters around my home.

I originally bought these from Magnolia as actual coasters, but they’ve turned out to be one of my favorite little styling pieces. I’ve used them as a small tray on our coffee bar, a riser on a bathroom counter, and on my desk to hold a candle.

Sometimes the smallest decor pieces make the biggest difference when you’re styling a space.

brass coasters, Magnolia home decor, coffee table styling, bathroom counter decor, shelf styling ideas, neutral home decor, decorating trays, small decor styling

#LTKHome

Playroom storage trick that saves so much space.

Game boxes take up a lot of room, so I started putting puzzles, Legos, cards, and games into zipper storage bags instead.

The same cabinet that used to hold 4 boxes now fits 15 games in one basket, and it’s way easier for kids to grab what they want and clean up.

Zipper bags and bins and my playroom cabinets are linked if you’re looking for them.

#LTKKids #LTKHome

One of my favorite easy decorating tricks is using faux stems to soften a space.

I move them around the house depending on the season, but they always make a room feel a little more finished.

I’m actually really picky about faux greenery because I don’t like anything that looks fake. These are some of the ones I’ve found that look good in a room but also aren’t crazy expensive.

Sources are linked if you’re looking for Spring decor inspo. The Michaels stems are on sale 60% right now.!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHome #LTKSaleAlert

Pink waterproof Birkenstocks are the perfect beach shoe for my 8 year old daughter! She got a size 2.
She also got a bikini at Target for the beach. She got an 8 in that.
Grabbed a cute floral top with bow straps from Target Art Class too of course. She got that in an M(8) but could have gotten a S(6-7) due to the strap length.

#BeachOutfit #KidsShoes

#LTKootd #LTKSwim #LTKKids

My brass eat-in area light is on sale for $100 off!

#LTKHome

Cane headboard guest bedroom idea that looks high-end for less.

This stained cane headboard in our guest room was about $250 and completely changed the look of the bed. We just attached it to a simple frame and suddenly the whole space feels much more custom.

I linked the headboard plus the other pieces in this room — the mirror, bedding, rug, side table, and a bed frame that works perfectly with this headboard if you want to recreate the look.

It’s one of my favorite tricks for making a bedroom feel designer without buying a whole new bed.

@Wayfair

#LTKHome

I used this peel-and-stick wallpaper to line our DIY closet before installing the shelving system, and it ended up being one of my favorite details in the space.

It’s the Genevieve Gorder (HGTV) crane pattern from Amazon and the color we used is Chalk. The pattern repeats nicely so it lines up well when installing, and the backing is gray which helps keep the wall color from showing through.

Our walls are textured in this house, so I did lightly sand them first before applying the wallpaper and that helped it stick really well.

I linked the paper and the closet system that we used to build this out and also the clear acrylic dividers. I used to organize my purse and bags.

#LTKHome

This magnetic chore chart has been really helpful in our house. We love that it also lets kids track how much they’re earning from each chore.

As entrepreneurs we believe in her being able to track her progress and getting paid for putting in work!

#LTKKids

My husband is really picky about his clothes, so when he finds something he actually likes I make note of it 😅 ’

This Amazon tank from Ododos is one he keeps reaching for. The fabric is really soft and the fit is athletic so it’s not boxy like a lot of men’s tanks. The arm holes and back aren’t oversized either, and it’s not that super thin fabric that shows everything through.

It honestly gives the same look and fit as some of those higher-end athletic tanks (great Vuori-style dupe).

It comes in 13 colors and the one he’s wearing here is Aspen Heather.

For reference he’s 6’1” wearing an XL.
If you’re shopping for a husband who’s picky about clothes 🤪, this one is a win.

Vuori dupe, mens athletic tank top, mens workout tank, mens Amazon clothing finds, athletic fit tank top, mens gym tank, mens summer outfit basics, Amazon mens clothing

#LTKMens

This is one of the few things I’ve moved with us through three houses. I’ve had this Parker Field rug in our entryway every time because the pattern hides everyday life (kids + dog) but still looks really elevated.

If you’re looking for a neutral rug that works with everything, this one has been a favorite for years. I saved the exact one in my sources.

@Walmart

#LTKHome

OK, don’t let the way these stems look in the package freak you out when you get them. They’re all curled up in there, but they fan out beautifully once you style them.
They are tall but they bend easily to adjust height.
Perfect neutral spring stem
Replacement for my winter greenery!

#LTKHome