Elaborating on My 'Ins' for 2025: How to Move Forward Beautifully and Intentionally
A whirlwind rundown of my 2025 'Ins' as January takes its final bow.
As January comes to a close (finally—did anyone else feel like this month was a year?), I’ve been reflecting on how to move forward with intention. January can be a tough month for everyone—it’s cold, it’s long, and let’s be honest, we’re all just trying to keep it together. So, consider this list a little dose of lightness as we step into February.
It’s so important to revisit what matters and double down on the things that spark joy and beauty. Life is too short not to surround yourself with things that make your heart sing—whether it’s a boldly upholstered chair, a perfectly layered bed, or just the right shade of monogrammed stationery.
Here’s what’s inspiring me in 2025 and how I’m planning to make this year one for the books.
Mixing Printed Bed Linens
Nothing says “cozy with a twist” like a bed layered with prints. Forget matching; it’s all about curating—stripes with florals, geometrics with block prints. Add a kantha quilt or an heirloom Amish piece for that handmade touch. My favorites? Schoolhouse, The Company Store, and LL Bean deliver quilts that feel storied and timeless. The result is a bed that feels personal, layered, and anything but boring.
Treasure Hunting at Antique Shows & Galleries
Few things make me happier than unearthing a hidden gem at an antique show or gallery. Shows like Brimfield and Round Top are treasure troves for finding unique pieces like a finial with patina for days or a moody oil painting that stops me in my tracks. And while I’m not exactly purchasing at larger fairs like the Armory Show, they’re amazing for inspiration and dreaming big. The best interiors aren’t perfectly polished; they’re layered with treasures that have history and character.
Reupholstery & Custom Design
You know my philosophy: if it has good bones, save it. Reupholstering isn’t just a design choice; it’s a lifestyle. Contrasting welting, bold trims, and unexpected fabrics are my love language. For example, my x-benches became a masterpiece with teal accents that tied the room together. They transitioned seamlessly from one space to another, proving how interchangeable and impactful small upholstered pieces can be. Trust me, the details make all the difference.
Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper continues to reign supreme for those of us who love change (or happen to rent). My Dumbo apartment doors are a testament to this—I wallpapered them with Society Social’s grasscloth peel-and-stick wallpaper, and it completely transformed the space. From wrapping doors to lining bookshelves, it’s the ultimate way to add personality without permanence. Pro tip: go bold in small spaces like a powder room or pantry for maximum impact with minimal effort.
Layering Rugs
A sisal rug is like a little black dress: a classic foundation. Pair it with a vibrant Turkish or Oriental rug to add personality, texture, and warmth. My go-to sisals come from Rush House—they’re durable, timeless, and the perfect backdrop for a layered look. This trick instantly makes a room feel cozy and collected.
Lampshades as Statement Pieces
Let’s talk about my obsession with lampshades—it’s real. I’ve been known to spend an entire paycheck on the perfect shade (my accountant can confirm this). But you don’t have to break the bank to get a fabulous look. Affordable and stylish options from Ballard Designs and Pooky are my go-tos for bold block prints, delicate stripes, or just the right texture. A great shade can transform even the humblest lamp, proving that good design doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
The Return of Snail Mail
There’s something undeniably chic about a handwritten note, especially when it’s on gorgeous stationery. My favorite sources include The Printery - Oyster Bay, Merimade, Crane, and Mrs. John L. Strong. Whether it’s a thank-you or a simple hello, snail mail feels like a small luxury—and let’s face it, we all need a little glamour in our inboxes (the real ones, not the digital kind).
Framing & Printing Photos
In a world dominated by digital, it’s time to rediscover the charm of printed photos. Whether it’s curating a gallery wall or showcasing a single standout shot, framed memories bring a deeply personal and grounding touch to any space. They’re a simple yet powerful way to make a house feel like home. For affordable and stylish options, I love Framebridge’s tortoise shell and bamboo Chippendale collections, as well as pre-fabricated frames from Etsy that offer unique and custom vibes.
Watching YouTube as TV
This one didn’t quite make my initial list, but it’s become a staple for me in 2025. When you feel like you’ve exhausted every corner of Netflix or Hulu, YouTube is the ultimate hidden gem. There’s so much amazing content out there that goes way beyond the typical “how-to” videos. I’ve been obsessed with streaming creators who share long-form storytelling, design journeys, and more. (Yes, I’ll shamelessly suggest my Homeworthy episodes—what can I say, I’m proud of them!) Streaming YouTube on your TV feels like discovering a whole new dimension of entertainment, perfect for those content droughts.
Intentional Living Through Design
This year is all about designing a life that feels as beautiful as it looks. From layering heirloom quilts on your bed to setting the table with your best china on a random Tuesday, it’s the little things that elevate the everyday. Because why wait for a special occasion to live beautifully?
Stay Tuned
As we dive into February, I’ll be sharing more on how to live beautifully, from further elaboration on my “Ins” to an upcoming post on my “Outs” (because yes, we all have a few things to leave behind). Be sure to subscribe to my Substack for more tips and ideas on making this year the best one yet. Let’s make 2025 a year of intention, beauty, and joy—together.
With Gratitude,
xx,
Hollis