Archive for September, 2009

Bed Canopies for Every Bedroom Style: From Minimalist to Boho Chic

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

A bed canopy isn’t just a decorative piece; it’s a statement that adds charm, elegance, and a touch of personal style to any bedroom. Whether you’re aiming for a serene minimalist space or a vibrant boho retreat, a canopy can effortlessly transform your bedroom into a cozy sanctuary. In this guide, we’ll explore how to adapt bed canopies to various aesthetics, helping you find the perfect match for your design vision.
1. Minimalist Elegance: Less is More

In minimalist bedrooms, simplicity and functionality are key. To complement this aesthetic, choose a bed canopy that emphasizes clean lines and muted colors. Opt for sheer fabrics like gauze or chiffon in soft neutrals such as white, beige, or light grey.

Styling Tip: Go for a ceiling-mounted canopy that drapes elegantly around the bed without overpowering the room’s simplicity. Pair it with light wood or metal bed frames to maintain a sense of openness and tranquility. This subtle touch adds texture without disrupting the serene, uncluttered vibe.
2. Scandinavian Serenity: Cozy and Practical

Scandinavian design blends minimalism with coziness, focusing on natural elements and functionality. A canopy made of lightweight linen or cotton fits perfectly in this style, offering warmth and comfort without feeling heavy.

Styling Tip: Opt for soft, earthy tones like soft browns, whites, or pale blues. A canopy that wraps around the bed or hangs from a single central point above the bed creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Pair it with wooden furniture and plush textiles to enhance the cozy, hygge-inspired feel.
3. Boho Chic: Free-Spirited and Eclectic

Boho chic bedrooms are all about mixing patterns, textures, and colors to create a laid-back yet stylish space. A bed canopy in this aesthetic can be as bold as your imagination. Think vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and playful designs.

Styling Tip: For an eclectic touch, choose a canopy with tassels, macramé, or fringe detailing in bold hues like burnt orange, deep teal, or mustard yellow. Drape it loosely over the bed or attach it to a four-poster frame for a whimsical, free-spirited look. Layer in colorful pillows, tapestries, and boho rugs to complete the vibe.
4. Modern Glam: Luxurious and Polished

If your bedroom is all about glamour, a luxurious bed canopy can be the perfect finishing touch. Opt for rich fabrics like velvet or satin in jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, or deep plum.

Styling Tip: Go for a dramatic ceiling-to-floor canopy with a bold, structured design. Combine this with a tufted headboard, mirrored furniture, and metallic accents to create a sophisticated, high-end look. This type of canopy serves as a focal point, adding instant drama and luxury to the space.
5. Farmhouse Charm: Rustic and Inviting

Farmhouse-style bedrooms are warm and welcoming, with an emphasis on rustic charm and comfort. A simple, flowing bed canopy made of cotton or muslin complements this aesthetic beautifully.

Styling Tip: Choose neutral shades like cream, ivory, or soft blush to maintain the room’s cozy atmosphere. Mount the canopy on a wooden frame or let it drape loosely from the ceiling for a relaxed, country-chic vibe. Complete the look with distressed wood furniture, soft quilts, and vintage accents.
6. Industrial Chic: Urban and Edgy

For a more industrial look, a canopy can still find its place, adding softness to an otherwise edgy aesthetic. Choose materials that contrast the room’s raw elements, like sheer fabrics against exposed brick or metal frames.

Styling Tip: Keep the canopy simple with straight lines and neutral colors like charcoal or black. A metal four-poster bed frame with a canopy draped loosely over it adds just the right touch of warmth to an urban, industrial bedroom. Pair it with concrete floors and statement lighting to balance softness with ruggedness.
7. Eclectic Mix: Playful and Bold

Eclectic bedrooms embrace the mix-and-match approach, blending various styles, patterns, and textures. A canopy in an eclectic room should stand out, whether through bold colors, dramatic shapes, or unconventional materials.

Styling Tip: Go for a statement canopy in a contrasting color to your walls and bedding. Whether you choose bold prints, velvet fabrics, or an unexpected shape, ensure your canopy feels like a curated piece of the room’s overall design. Add quirky décor pieces and layered textiles to bring your eclectic vision to life.
Versatile Focal Points for Every Room

No matter your bedroom style, bed canopies are incredibly versatile and can adapt to almost any aesthetic. The key is in the choice of materials, colors, and design that align with the room’s overall theme. Whether you prefer minimalist sophistication, boho charm, or industrial edge, a crib canopy can serve as the perfect focal point, enhancing both style and comfort in your space.
Visual Inspiration

To help you visualize these ideas, imagine a minimalist bedroom with a sleek, white canopy draped effortlessly around a low-profile bed, or a boho chic room with a vibrant canopy full of textures and colors, creating an artistic focal point. Each style offers endless possibilities for incorporating a bed canopy that speaks to your personal taste while elevating the room’s aesthetic.

Ready to transform your bedroom? Let these tips inspire you to incorporate a stylish bed canopy that complements your unique design style in 2024. Whether you’re seeking subtle elegance or bold creativity, there’s a canopy out there to fit your vision perfectly.

Posted in About Parental Wisdom, College Age, Parenting 101, Self Esteem, Teens | 9 Comments »

Silver vs. Gold: The Chain Debate – Which One Suits Your Style Best?

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

When it comes to choosing jewelry, one of the biggest decisions is whether to opt for silver or gold. Both metals have been treasured for centuries, offering distinct aesthetic qualities and practical advantages. But which one truly suits your personal style, and how do you choose between them? Let’s dive into the silver vs. gold chain debate, examining the differences, skin tone compatibility, symbolism, and more to help you determine which metal fits you best.
Aesthetic Appeal: Silver’s Cool Elegance vs. Gold’s Warm Luxury

The first major difference between silver and gold chains lies in their aesthetic appeal. Each metal brings its own unique vibe to your look, and the one you choose can change the entire feel of your outfit.

Silver chains offer a cool, modern elegance. With their sleek, understated shine, silver chains are versatile and effortlessly complement minimalist styles. Their neutral tone also makes them a great match for casual, everyday outfits, as well as polished professional looks.
Gold chains, on the other hand, exude warmth and luxury. Gold has long been associated with opulence, making it ideal for statement pieces and special occasions. Gold’s rich, vibrant hue adds a touch of sophistication and glamour, especially when paired with more formal attire.

While silver tends to have a modern and clean aesthetic, gold gives off a timeless, regal vibe, so the choice often comes down to your personal style and the occasion.
Skin Tone Compatibility: How to Choose Based on Complexion

One of the most important factors in choosing between silver and gold chains is how they complement your skin tone. Different metals flatter different complexions, and understanding this can help you make the best decision.

Silver chains are generally better suited for cool skin tones, which tend to have blue or pink undertones. If your veins appear blue or purple, or if you burn easily in the sun, you likely have a cool skin tone. Silver’s cool sheen highlights the natural glow of fair or cool-toned skin, making it an ideal choice.
Gold chains, on the other hand, flatter warm skin tones, which have yellow, peach, or olive undertones. If your veins appear green, or if you tan easily, your skin likely has warm undertones. Gold’s warm hue enhances the radiance of warm or darker skin tones.

For those with neutral skin tones, which have a mix of both warm and cool undertones, you’re in luck—both silver and gold can look equally stunning on you.
Symbolism: What Silver and Gold Represent

The symbolism behind silver and gold is another aspect that might influence your decision. These metals have long carried meaning in various cultures and contexts, often representing different qualities or ideals.

Silver is often associated with qualities like purity, clarity, and sophistication. It’s a metal that symbolizes emotional balance, femininity, and intuition. Because of its understated elegance, silver is frequently chosen by those who prefer subtlety and grace in their jewelry.
Gold, conversely, is often seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and success. Its association with the sun gives it a feeling of warmth and vitality. Throughout history, gold has been used to signify royalty and extravagance, making it the go-to choice for those who want to make a bold, confident statement.

Depending on the message or feeling you want your jewelry to convey, choosing between silver and gold can also be a matter of what symbolism resonates with you the most.
Practical Considerations: Durability, Tarnishing, and Maintenance

Aside from aesthetics, it’s also important to consider the practical aspects of silver and gold chains, particularly in terms of durability, tarnishing, and maintenance.

Silver chains (especially sterling silver) are prone to tarnishing over time due to exposure to air and moisture. However, this can be easily remedied with regular cleaning and proper storage. Silver is generally a soft metal, making it slightly less durable than gold, but with careful handling, it can last a lifetime.
Gold chains, especially those made of higher karat gold (such as 18K or 24K), are more durable and resistant to tarnishing. While gold can scratch or bend if not cared for properly, it’s typically more resilient than silver. Gold jewelry, however, comes with a higher price tag, which may factor into your decision.

If you’re looking for jewelry that requires minimal maintenance, gold might be a better option. But if you don’t mind occasional polishing and want a more affordable metal, silver is a great choice.
Styling Tips: When to Wear Silver vs. Gold Chains

Knowing how to style silver and gold chains for different outfits and occasions can help you make the most of each metal’s aesthetic.

Silver chains are the ideal accessory for casual, everyday wear or professional settings. Pair a simple silver chain with a crisp white shirt or tailored blazer for a polished office look. For casual outfits, silver adds a touch of sophistication without being too flashy. Its versatility makes it a great option for daytime events, minimalist styles, and cool-weather outfits.

Gold chains, on the other hand, are perfect for special occasions, formal events, or when you want to make a statement. A gold chain layered with pendants can instantly elevate an evening gown or cocktail dress. It also pairs beautifully with warm, earthy tones like beige, olive, or red, making it ideal for fall and winter occasions.

For mixed-metal enthusiasts, don’t be afraid to wear both! Mixing silver and gold chains can create a trendy, eclectic look, perfect for fashion-forward outfits.
Investment Value and Trends: Silver vs. Gold Jewelry

Both silver and gold chains hold investment value, but the potential return on investment differs between the two metals.

Gold has historically been a more valuable metal and tends to appreciate over time, making it a stronger investment. Its higher cost also reflects its scarcity and demand. For those looking to purchase jewelry with long-term value, gold chains are often seen as the better financial choice.
Silver, while less expensive, still holds value as a precious metal. It’s more affordable and accessible, which makes it popular among younger generations or those just starting their jewelry collections. However, silver’s price does not typically increase as dramatically as gold, so it’s often chosen more for its aesthetic appeal than for its investment potential.

In terms of trends, gold jewelry has made a strong comeback in recent years, especially with the rise of vintage and retro styles. Silver jewelry like a silver rope chain, however, remains a constant favorite, particularly for minimalist and modern looks. Both metals will continue to be fashionable, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and style.
Conclusion: Which Metal Suits You Best?

The silver vs. gold chain debate ultimately boils down to your personal style, skin tone, and practical needs. If you prefer a cool, modern aesthetic and don’t mind regular maintenance, silver chains offer a timeless and affordable option. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to warmth, luxury, and long-term value, gold chains are a bold, elegant choice. Whatever you choose, both metals provide endless possibilities for styling, allowing you to express your unique sense of fashion.

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Posted in Divorce, Family, Helping Families, Parenting 101 | 9 Comments »

Pets Help Kids Through Divorce: 6 Reasons Why

Monday, September 7th, 2009

kids pets

Can a pet be helpful to your children during a divorce and the transition after? In my opinion, without a doubt! If your family has one or more pets, let your children have access to them as much as they desire. There is a great emotional benefit to them and your children are fortunate that the pets they love can still be in their lives.

If you don’t already have a pet, I recommend getting one – but only if you are in a position to be responsible to that innocent animal during this time of additional stress in your life. If a family pet is out of the question, please consider giving your children time to play with the pets of friends and family. Take them to petting zoos. Allow them contact with other life forms that can give them joy at a time when they are likely experiencing stress and insecurity.

In the United States alone, close to 65%, or about 71 million households have pets. Statistics from the National Pet Owners Survey say 39% of these households own at least one dog and 34% one or more cats. This should come as no surprise since pets can be a blessing in the life of any human being at any age.

Here are six key benefits a pet provides for families coping with divorce:

1. Unconditional Love: It has been proven again and again that pets are a source of support and unconditional love for children. During and after divorce, when there is so much instability and insecurity in a child’s life, a beloved pet can be the bridge to sanity. While much around them may be changing, sweet Fluffy is still there to love them and be by their side.

2. A confidant. Children like to talk to their pets. For most children pets are a trusted friend in which they can confide and share their deepest fears. This is truly a gift to children and greatly helps with emotional resiliency. Pets are nonjudgmental. They listen attentively. They “understand,” And they always love you back. Isn’t that what your children need at a time like this?

3. Security. Pets have been shown to help children better cope with challenging times within a family including divorce, illness and death. They feel less alone and abandoned. The relationship with the pet provides a deep sense of security that can’t easily be duplicated. In early childhood a stuffed animal often serves much the same purpose. But kids rarely outgrow their bond with Fluffy, even when they mature into their teens.

4. Bridge to adults. Pets can bridge the emotional and communication gap between adults and children – especially when Mom and Dad are preoccupied with so many other time-consuming details during and after a divorce. They are a valued part of the family, a source of calm as the family moves through the storm of post-divorce transition.

5. Stress Reduction. Medical studies have shown that pets are just as beneficial for adults. Walking and talking to your dog or petting your cat can actually lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, not to mention overall stress. Pets also are a great source of laughter and joy, a reminder that there are other aspects of life that are still wonderful to experience.

6. Best Friend. Pets also provide unconditional love, nurturing and comfort to adults who greatly need it as they transition through the grief of divorce. They’re a best friend when you’re alone and an appreciative ear when you want to vent or shed tears.

Connecting to other life forms is also a wonderful way to get a perspective about our place in the universe and our responsibilities toward others. When life can feel life it’s crashing in around us it is valuable to remember we share this planet with other beings who depend on us for love, sustenance and nurturing as well.

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Rosalind Sedacca, CCT is a relationship seminar facilitator and author of the new ebook, How Do I Tell the Kids … about the Divorce? A Create-a-Storybook Guide to Preparing Your Children — with Love. For her free articles, blog, valuable resources  on child-centered divorce or to subscribe to her free ezine, go to: www.childcentereddivorce.com.

Posted in Divorce, Family, Helping Families | 2 Comments »