By: Anastasia Barbuzzi
Though temperatures seem to be milder here in Downtown Toronto, we're in the dead of winter.
The dark, gloomy skies don't seem to be letting up any time soon, casting shadows on the pavement and inside our homes.
January is an awkward transition month between holidays too - Christmas decorations come down and sentiments of Valentines Day start to appear in the beginning of February.
Don't know how to keep things bright and cheery during this period?
Lifestyle blogger Kaylee Giffin of The Blondielocks is here to provide you with five of her own tips and tricks on how to keep things looking up in the darkest of times.
The dark, gloomy skies don't seem to be letting up any time soon, casting shadows on the pavement and inside our homes.
January is an awkward transition month between holidays too - Christmas decorations come down and sentiments of Valentines Day start to appear in the beginning of February.
Don't know how to keep things bright and cheery during this period?
Lifestyle blogger Kaylee Giffin of The Blondielocks is here to provide you with five of her own tips and tricks on how to keep things looking up in the darkest of times.
Stick to white fabrics in varied textures
"Natural light is so important to me because it makes everything look cleaner and more open. To bring more light into our home I opted for a white rug in our living room and light linen curtains. Our bedroom does get more light so I really wanted to show it off with a textured cream fabric headboard, white furniture and light, textured accents like a natural linen duvet and textured, layered rugs."
Keep things fresh
"During the winter months I love spending time at home, so keeping our space looking inviting and cozy is so important to me. I always have fresh flowers whether it’s a few sparse blooms or a pile of greenery. Flowers always have a way of cheering me up. Other than that, I think it’s important to embrace winter by having a ton of cozy blankets draped over the bed, couch and chairs, cozy slippers and pajamas close by, candles burning and glass of red wine. If you’re feeling super indulgent, might I suggest this salted caramel hot chocolate?"
De-clutter your life
"January is the perfect time to go through the house and de-clutter! You’d be so surprised at how much you are holding on to that you may not actually need. I always find that when I do a big clean out that my mind feels clearer and my house automatically looks better. After things are clean and de-cluttered maybe add some fun... new throw pillows to brighten things up and help you get through the long winter months."
Go with something different than usual
"Lately I have been loving pairing flowers like ranunculus with silver dollar eucalyptus or just having eucalyptus or cotton by itself in a vase. I do like to keep a few cute succulents around in unexpected vases like a marble salt bowl."
Burn seasonal scents
"Just like flowers, I love candles and always have one burning during the evenings. I have my own candle in collaboration with Foxhound Collection called Salt + Smoke that I burn frequently, my candle preference’s change based on the season. Right now I’m loving Kindred Home Market’s Noble Fir candle and James from By Rosie Jane. In the warmer months I love Leila Lou from By Rosie Jane, Grapefruit + Fig from Foxhound Collection and The Florist by Field Kit."
