I’m a fan of the high-low mix. That goes for my approach to my shoe collection, clothing closet and makeup bag as well as my dinner table. Old Navy flip-flogs and Louboutins, CoverGirl and Chanel: When it works, it works.
With that in mind, I headed to my local Dollarama this week and discovered a dozen awesome finds that would be solid additions to the decorating collection of any high-style, budget-minded host.
Here, a snapshot of my Dollarama haul:
Clockwise, from top left:
1. Placemats: $1.75 each; found them in navy, olive green and a silvery taupe that was lovely.
2. Candlesticks: TBC but about $2-3 each; in blackened antique mirrored finish.
3. Stemless wine glasses: $2 each; spied these ones with pretty gold rims. Inexpensive and elegant!
Clockwise, from top left:
4-7. Vases/planters: $3-$4.50 each; in a rustic wicker look; in marble effect; in minimalist, white polished-ceramic; and a textured concrete look. Any of these would look stylish as a centrepiece on the table on in a tabletop vignette in a living and lounging space.
8. Classic martini glasses: $2 each; these are sturdy and serviceable, so you shouldn’t have to worry about their stems breaking in the dishwasher.
9. Mercury-glass look votives (see image above): $2 each; in black, pewter-look, gold, chrome, brass effects. A bunch of them with tea lights would moody glitter to the table.
10. LED tea lights: $1.25/2-pk; I used to think these were cheesy, but then I used them outside on a windy evening in the summer. They give great night-time twinkle and inside, I turn them on and tuck them away on the bar, on the stairs and all over during dinner parties. They’re inconspicuous and truly add to the atmosphere.
11. Dinner and serving plates: $3 each; on this trip, I discovered this array of blue and white patterned ones. Score!
12. Espresso cups: $1.50 each in fresh colours like this robin’s egg blue, navy and white. Very authentic looking.
I hope I’ve inspired you.
When you’re planning to entertain and to set a pretty table, head to the dollar store and use your imagination!
