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Update 2.2.23: You may want to check out my interview in The Washington Post, in which I visit this very store!
Hello, Gentle Readers! The “Shop With Me” series on my TikTok has proven to be surprisingly popular, so I thought I would do a little version of it here.
This will be the YAY! version, in which I show you only things I like. Nothing negative! As you can imagine, when I’m let loose in a discount retailer like HomeGoods, much of what I see is…not awesome. And it’s hard not to talk about those things. But right here, right now, I’m going to focus on the positive.
Okay! Here we go!
These ceramic lamps are great. They’re a versatile height at 28″, an interesting blueish color, the shades are cloth, and they even come with bulbs.
I’d definitely buy this large striped storage basket — especially for $25.
This pencil rattan tray table is adorable! You’d need the right room for it (or a screened porch), but I think it’s quirky and cool.
I hate paying retail for sheets and towels, so I’m always on the lookout. I think these patterned sheets are quite sweet, and they’re 100% cotton percale.
I really like this dipped-leg stool. It’s super cute, and it’s a great size. The 12″ diameter and flat top make it a great little drinks table, and the 19″ height makes it easy for a (slender) grownup to perch on it for a while. I wish it were a little less expensive (it’s 50 bucks), but if it’s nice and heavy, I think it’s worth it.
You know how I feel about trays, and I think this one is so pretty. It’s fluted blue glass, not plastic, and it would be so cute on a dresser or long vanity top.
Finally, if you like kitschy holiday decorations, which I do, HomeGoods is MECCA! I especially like the ones that look handmade, like this…this…felt heart gnome string thing. I actually have one for Christmas ;)
There’s one important thing to keep in mind when you’re toodling around discount stores: the definition of “bargain.” A bargain is when you find something GREAT — good quality, attractive, and/or just plain awesome — for a low price. Just because something is inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s a bargain. Right?
Just so’s ya know, things I tend to avoid at discount home stores like HomeGoods are upholstered furniture, large case goods (tables, cabinets), and fake flowers. And other stuff, but…you know…I’m focusing on the positive here ;)
Annie Elliott Design is based in Washington, DC with offices in St. Michaels, Maryland, and Middlebury, Vermont.