Patio Paradise: A Dozen DIY Outdoor Upgrades

Jun 16, 2014

As you head outside to dust off the grill and pull out the plants, you owe it to your summer self to make some outdoor upgrades. We’ve already shared these 25 stellar products to help you deck out your deck, but if you prefer to upgrade your patio, look no further. We’ve rounded up a dozen DIY projects that will have you soaking up the sun (or shade, if you prefer) in style. From quick and dirty hacks to all-out weekend projects, knock out a few of these do-it-yourself jobs and start spending more time on your little piece of patio paradise.

1. Built-In Cooler Table: There are countless DIY patio table ideas online but few are as functional as this one. The smart design gives you a cooler right in the center of the table so your ice cold brew is always within arms reach. (via Ana White)

2. Stenciled Patio Rug: Nothing turns patio dwellers off faster than a drab concrete slab. Dress it up with a stenciled + painted old rug (Upcycle FTW!). (via Domestically Speaking)

3. Backyard Bar: Who wouldn’t want a margarita served from this one-of-a-kind folding bar? Folded flat against the wall when not in use, the magical door pulls down to reveal storage and an instant work space for grilling, drink mixing or any other weekend activities. (via Turtles and Tails)

4. Planter Bench: If your patio is cramped, you’ll benefit from dual-purpose upgrades like this smart bench. It provides picture-perfect seating while planters on the side add visual interest to your outdoor space. (via My Daily Randomness)

5. Outdoor Movie Screen: Your patio experience will never be the same. Create this outdoor screen in your yard, and you'll never want to go back inside again! (via Running With Scissors)

6. Patio Block Seating: You’ve never seen cinderblocks like this before! This simple combination of blocks and just four pieces of lumber creates a unique seating option that’s sure to turn heads. (via Lena Sekine)

7. Patio Can Lights: This project is so simple your kids could make it. Select any design you like and punch holes to allow twinkling candlelight to shine through. Paint them in bright shades, and you’ll have small pops of color all over your patio. (via Narcissus Floral Studio)

8. Ladder Planter: Upgrade a ladder into a cheery tiered planter with just a few simple tools and some fresh paint. This planter is the ideal space saver for gardeners with small patios or the perfect cover up for unsightly outdoor fixtures. (via Good Housekeeping)

9. Cedar Picnic Table: Would you believe us if we said this table is built in just two steps? It’s true! The end product is a chic picnic piece that highlights the natural cedar grain. (via Better Homes & Gardens)

10. Concrete Planter: This simple patio upgrade packs a big punch. Use a cheap bag of concrete to create a one-of-a-kind industrial planter on wheels that can double as a mobile cooler! (via Homemade Modern)

11. Wine Bottle Tiki Torch: What better way to commemorate a memorable night than by turning a special wine bottle into dreamy patio lighting? A few pieces of hardware put your bottle on display and the flame provides function and ambiance. (via Design Sponge)

12. B + W Planters: We’re suckers for black and white stripes and chalkboard paint so it’s no surprise we’re big fans of these planters. The paint job gives a cohesive look to mismatched planters for an expensive-looking upgrade that is anything but. (via Our Wonderfilled Life)

What outdoor projects are you planning for your patio this summer? We’d love to hear about them below!

Design Your Dream Patio & Porch Space With These 17 Outdoor Wall Decor Ideas

Home decor can't replace the feeling of a tropical getaway, but your exterior space should still invoke some peace and tranquility. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a cozy deck, or a charming patio, outdoor wall decor is the perfect way to transform your home into your happy place.

To help inspire you, we've rounded up a myriad of possibilities from metal murals to functional accents. Get ready to discover how these decorative elements can transform your garden walls, or even your front door, into captivating focal points that add depth, character, and a touch of magic to your backyard and outdoor space.

Image via World Market

Black Metal Fern Panel Outdoor Wall Decor 3 Piece ($200)

This 3-piece set features intricately designed fern patterns that create a fascinating visual display. With its weather-resistant construction, this outdoor wall decor is built to withstand the elements and maintain its allure throughout the seasons, making it a perfect choice for enhancing your garden, patio, or porch.

Image via Living Spaces

Gray 36 Inch Metal Wall Art ($125)

Who doesn't want a little sunshine in their lives? This art exudes durability and longevity, as it is made from high-quality metal, allowing you to enjoy its modern aesthetic for years. Plus, at 36 inches it's big enough to make a real visual impact on your space.

Image via Crate and Barrel

Four Box Wall Mounted Indoor/Outdoor Planter ($149)

Easy to install and maintain, this planter set is designed to bring nature closer to you. Perfect for small areas or as a statement piece on your wall, the planter features four individual boxes that can hold a variety of plants, from herbs and succulents to colorful flowers. Its wall-mounted design saves valuable floor space and adds a modern, minimalist aesthetic to your decor.

Image via Target

Resin Classical Walled Fountain - Alpine Corporation ($225)

The LED lights create a beautiful ambiance, illuminating the flowing water for a mesmerizing effect. With its off-white color, this fountain seamlessly blends in with various decor styles, so it can fit into anyone's outdoor space!

Image via Living Spaces

Gold 36 Inch Metal Sun Moon Wall Decor ($125)

Even on a cloudy day, you can have the sun, moon, and stars with this piece of decor! It's a little kitschy and a lotta cute.

Image via World Market

Blue And Green Seaside 30 Bulb String Lights ($18, was $20)

Add a little character to your backyard with the Blue and Green Seaside 30-Bulb String. These colorful bulbs are deLIGHTful...okay, I'll see myself out for that one.

Image via Etsy

Metal Bird Wall Art ($70)

With its versatile design, the Metal Bird Wall Art can complement various decor styles. Hang it on a fence, wall, or tree to add the beauty of these graceful creatures to your surroundings.

Image via Etsy

Metal "Hello" Sign Front Door Decor ($116)

Welcome guests in style with the Metal "Hello" Sign Front Door Decor. The sleek black finish adds a touch of elegance, and its welcoming message makes it a perfect accent piece that sets a positive tone for visitors. Easy to install and maintain, this is a delightful way to add a personalized touch to your entryway.

Image via Etsy

"Life Is Better At The Pool” Sign ($95)

Add a touch of summer vibes to your garden with the "Life is Better at the Pool" sign. This charming wall decor features a playful and cheerful message perfect for poolside relaxation.

Image via Dazuma

Small Artificial Plants and Stones Outdoor Lights ($239)

Your backyard oasis won't be complete without this small artificial outdoor light. Featuring small, green faux plants and stones, this light can be mounted on your gate or the column that leads into your backyard. When lit at night, it creates a serene ambiance for you and your guests.

Image via Anthropologie

Tala Muse Wall Light ($325)

Add a touch of luxury to your front door area with this charming and simple sconce. It's got a soft glow, so it's not jarring to your guests at night, but still lights the way for them.

Image via Crate & Barrel

Caplet Outdoor Sconce Light ($117)

Install this sconce light on your porch, patio, or entryway to elevate the style and functionality of your area. The frosted glass shade provides a soft and diffused glow, creating a welcoming ambiance. The high-quality materials used ensure its longevity and ability to withstand outdoor conditions.

Image via Anthropologie

Bergs Fluted Hanging Wall Pot ($88)

Showcase your favorite plants and create a stunning vertical garden with these stylish wall pots! Their fluted design and neutral gray color somehow feel vintage and modern all at once.

Image via Terrain

Galvanized Iron Shelf ($74)

This Galvanized Iron Shelf provides ample space for displaying decor items, organizing books, or showcasing potted plants. Its iron construction ensures durability and a rustic charm give you form and function.

Image via Anthropologie

Pierce Outdoor Sconce ($198)

Constructed with high-quality materials, this sconce is built to withstand outdoor elements and provide long-lasting illumination. With its one-size-fits-all design, it seamlessly integrates into your backyard, front porch, or otherwise.

Image via West Elm

Iris Cement Indoor/Outdoor Wall Planters ($59 - $93)

These planters equipped with drainage holes prevent overwatering and promote healthy plant growth. With their generous size, you can plant a variety of flowers, herbs, or succulents, bringing natural beauty and a touch of nature to your home's exterior.

Image via West Elm

Portside Wood Wall Planter ($186)

The wall-mounted design saves room and allows you to create a beautiful vertical garden display. With its generous size, you can plant a variety of herbs, flowers, or trailing vines, instantly transforming your outdoor space into a lush oasis.

Looking for more home decor ideas? Sign up for our email newsletter!

Header image via Crate and Barrel

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15 Graduation Gifts Perfect For The Class Of 2024

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will always be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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7 Budget-Friendly Ways to Update Your Backyard And Outdoor Space

Grab your sunscreen and bug spray — summer is here. Or at least that’s what the thermometer says. If porch hangs are in your future plans, but your porch has seen better days, this one’s for you. Creating your backyard oasis is closer than you think. Here are my favorite budget-friendly ways to update your outdoor space.

Create A (Secondhand) Living Space

Consider how you want to use your space. Do you anticipate eating meals outside or just having a place to sit with friends and relax? Plan for that. And then head to Facebook Marketplace. All of my outdoor furniture has been secured secondhand and has saved me so much money. Outdoor furniture sets are not cheap, but often people who are moving or just over their current furniture are willing to let it go for very reasonable prices. The trick is to make their life easy. Offer cash, same-day pickup, or even slightly above their listing price to ensure you get to take your finds home. Most of the used outdoor furniture I’ve found just needs a hose down, quick clean, or light sand to bring it back to life.

Don’t underestimate the power of a little ambiance when it comes to your outdoor space. A simple way to make a space feel more welcoming and purposeful is to add a rug. There are so many affordable outdoor rug options that can easily be cleaned and will anchor the space in your backyard. Whether it’s on a patio, porch, or in the grass, a rug defines the living space, inviting others to relax and enjoy. If you’re not into the look or maintenance of an outdoor rug, try interlocking outdoor flooring options like these deck squares from IKEA.
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Don’t underestimate the power of a little ambiance when it comes to your outdoor space. A simple way to make a space feel more welcoming and purposeful is to add a rug. There are so many affordable outdoor rug options that can easily be cleaned and will anchor the space in your backyard. Whether it’s on a patio, porch, or in the grass, a rug defines the living space, inviting others to relax and enjoy. If you’re not into the look or maintenance of an outdoor rug, try interlocking outdoor flooring options like these deck squares from IKEA.
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Don’t underestimate the power of a little ambiance when it comes to your outdoor space. A simple way to make a space feel more welcoming and purposeful is to add a rug. There are so many affordable outdoor rug options that can easily be cleaned and will anchor the space in your backyard. Whether it’s on a patio, porch, or in the grass, a rug defines the living space, inviting others to relax and enjoy. If you’re not into the look or maintenance of an outdoor rug, try interlocking outdoor flooring options like these deck squares from IKEA.
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Keep the party going past dark by incorporating plenty of lighting options in your outdoor space. Overhead string or bistro lights are a must if you ask me. They’re affordable and easy to hang and will instantly transform an ordinary backyard into a romantic getaway. They soft light is enough for playing games or toasting with drinks, but subtle enough that you can still see the stars. Look for options that don’t require any plugs or batteries. Solar-powered pathway lights, accent lights, and lanterns are low-cost and still provide that high-end look without breaking the bank.
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Keep the party going past dark by incorporating plenty of lighting options in your outdoor space. Overhead string or bistro lights are a must if you ask me. They’re affordable and easy to hang and will instantly transform an ordinary backyard into a romantic getaway. They soft light is enough for playing games or toasting with drinks, but subtle enough that you can still see the stars. Look for options that don’t require any plugs or batteries. Solar-powered pathway lights, accent lights, and lanterns are low-cost and still provide that high-end look without breaking the bank.
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Keep the party going past dark by incorporating plenty of lighting options in your outdoor space. Overhead string or bistro lights are a must if you ask me. They’re affordable and easy to hang and will instantly transform an ordinary backyard into a romantic getaway. They soft light is enough for playing games or toasting with drinks, but subtle enough that you can still see the stars. Look for options that don’t require any plugs or batteries. Solar-powered pathway lights, accent lights, and lanterns are low-cost and still provide that high-end look without breaking the bank.
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You don’t have to be a master gardener to add a little life to you outdoor space. Potted plants, vertical gardens, and small raised beds are a great way to incorporate color and greenery into your outdoor space. While large plants at the store may cost more than you expected, you can plant a small herb garden for much less. Not only will it smell amazing and keep the bugs away, but you’ll have fresh garnishes for your guest’s drinks. Looking to build a larger garden? Try this hack for building a large garden bed without spending a fortune.
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You don’t have to be a master gardener to add a little life to you outdoor space. Potted plants, vertical gardens, and small raised beds are a great way to incorporate color and greenery into your outdoor space. While large plants at the store may cost more than you expected, you can plant a small herb garden for much less. Not only will it smell amazing and keep the bugs away, but you’ll have fresh garnishes for your guest’s drinks. Looking to build a larger garden? Try this hack for building a large garden bed without spending a fortune.
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You don’t have to be a master gardener to add a little life to you outdoor space. Potted plants, vertical gardens, and small raised beds are a great way to incorporate color and greenery into your outdoor space. While large plants at the store may cost more than you expected, you can plant a small herb garden for much less. Not only will it smell amazing and keep the bugs away, but you’ll have fresh garnishes for your guest’s drinks. Looking to build a larger garden? Try this hack for building a large garden bed without spending a fortune.
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If your backyard or patio space isn’t shaded, you may not want to spend a ton of time outside, but there’s an easy fix for that. Without splurging on a huge renovation or expensive pergola, opt for a sun shade like this one (or this one...or this one) that can be tied over your space to block the sun during peak hours. These are easy to clean, provide additional shade, and even protect you from harmful UV rays. They come in tons of colors and sizes to fit your space perfectly.
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If your backyard or patio space isn’t shaded, you may not want to spend a ton of time outside, but there’s an easy fix for that. Without splurging on a huge renovation or expensive pergola, opt for a sun shade like this (or this...or this) that can be tied over your space to block the sun during peak hours. These are easy to clean, provide additional shade, and even protect you from harmful UV rays. They come in tons of colors and sizes to fit your space perfectly.
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If your backyard or patio space isn’t shaded, you may not want to spend a ton of time outside, but there’s an easy fix for that. Without splurging on a huge renovation or expensive pergola, opt for a sun shade like this (or this...or this) that can be tied over your space to block the sun during peak hours. These are easy to clean, provide additional shade, and even protect you from harmful UV rays. They come in tons of colors and sizes to fit your space perfectly.
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For those of us who don’t live on 5 acres, accommodating a large group in a small space can often be an issue. The most affordable and space-saving way to add more comfortable seating is with floor poufs or cushions. These cozy additions give people plenty of room to unwind and get cozy. They can be stored under chairs or tables when not in use and pulled back out right before the party gets started.
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For those of us who don’t live on 5 acres, accommodating a large group in a small space can often be an issue. The most affordable and space-saving way to add more comfortable seating is with floor poufs or cushions. These cozy additions give people plenty of room to unwind and get cozy. They can be stored under chairs or tables when not in use and pulled back out right before the party gets started.
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For those of us who don’t live on 5 acres, accommodating a large group in a small space can often be an issue. The most affordable and space-saving way to add more comfortable seating is with floor poufs or cushions. These cozy additions give people plenty of room to unwind and get cozy. They can be stored under chairs or tables when not in use and pulled back out right before the party gets started.
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No one likes to be on display when you’re just trying to enjoy a good book or have a private conversation. Even if you live right on top of your neighbors, adding a privacy screen or wall can significantly help to make your space feel more intimate and hidden-away. Fences can be expensive and difficult to install and these budget-friendly options are a great alternative. Another great way to add privacy is by installing outdoor curtains. Not only does this provide some seclusion, but it also makes the space feel a bit cozier.
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No one likes to be on display when you’re just trying to enjoy a good book or have a private conversation. Even if you live right on top of your neighbors, adding a privacy screen or wall can significantly help to make your space feel more intimate and hidden-away. Fences can be expensive and difficult to install and these budget-friendly options are a great alternative. Another great way to add privacy is by installing outdoor curtains. Not only does this provide some seclusion, but it also makes the space feel a bit cozier.
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No one likes to be on display when you’re just trying to enjoy a good book or have a private conversation. Even if you live right on top of your neighbors, adding a privacy screen or wall can significantly help to make your space feel more intimate and hidden-away. Fences can be expensive and difficult to install and these budget-friendly options are a great alternative. Another great way to add privacy is by installing outdoor curtains. Not only does this provide some seclusion, but it also makes the space feel a bit cozier.
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Creating an outdoor haven at home doesn’t have to blow the budget. With a few thrifty tips and patience, you can transform your dull backyard or patio into a place all your friends want to spend their weekends. Add these finds to your cart then send out the invites — your next summer hangout is ready.

Want more DIY advice? Sign up for our email newsletter!

Header image via Wayfair

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Avoiding Your Next Haircut? Don’t Make The Same Mistakes As Me

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

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20 Nifty Gifts To Give Your Step Mom This Mother’s Day

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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