3 Ways to Decorate Your Teeny Tiny Outdoor Space

May 11, 2016

May marks the beginning of a (hopefully) long season of outdoor living and entertaining. But when you don’t have a sprawling lawn or snazzy rooftop garden, it’s easy to dismiss any hopes of a dreamy outdoor space. However, if you are lucky enough to call a small balcony or patio your own, there are still plenty of ways to decorate. When it comes to upgrading your outdoor space, it helps to just think of it as any other room: Hang some string lights, set up a tray table for drinks and watch your tiny outdoor space transform into a mini oasis. Grab your potted plants and scroll down to see how we’d style a tiny outdoor area for a boho-chic home, the minimalist abode and a preppy space.

Add ambiance and charm to your small space by stringing outdoor globe lights across your balcony railing or overhead across your patio. Even a single strand will make your petite outdoor escape feel thoughtful and decorated. Bring all the boho textures into play with glossy gold planters, a chunky wood side table and a bold throw pillow.

H&M Metal Candle Holder ($10), H&M Patterned Cushion Cover ($13), Threshold Pierced Diamond String Lights ($30), Dot & Bo Lori Large Planter ($33), Dot & Bo Prism Hanging Planter ($78), H&M Large Metal Candlestick ($25), Dot & Bo Arden Ceramic Flower Pot ($30), Dot & Bo Arcata Metal Flower Pot ($51), CB2 Plus Side Table ($299), West Elm Catskill Wood + Wicker Chair ($399)

HOW TO DECORATE A MINIMALIST OUTDOOR SPACE

Just because your outdoor space is small doesn’t mean it should lack style and life. Plant stands and wall-mounted planters are a great way to elevate potted greenery for a jolt of color. It’s also a good way to accommodate several pots since their height gives you more floor space. Boost a monochromatic color scheme with a chartreuse throw pillow, cheeky typography and metallics.

CB2 Brass Watering Can ($45), CB2 Chartreuse Outdoor Pillow ($30), H&M Cushion Cover ($10), H&M Pot in Brushed Metal ($18), Light + Ladder Set Of 3 Leather Spora ($130), CB2 Basic Planters ($30+), IKEA PS SANDSKÄR Tray Table ($35), IKEA VIKTIGT Basket ($25), Threshold Carag 3-Piece Sling Rope Chat Set ($250)

HOW TO DECORATE A PREPPY OUTDOOR SPACE

A folding sling chair is a no-brainer for compact balconies and patios. When you’re not basking in the sun with your latest read, you can fold it up and store it away to make more floor space for mingling over cocktails or tending to your potted plants. Inject color and texture into your space with a bold side table, cheery planters and a chic gold tray for serving all your favorite summertime cocktails.

Dot & Bo Long-Neck Planter ($29), Marimekko for Target Indoor/Outdoor Square Pillow ($25), H&M Metal Lantern ($5), CB2 Chunky White Block Planter ($40), IKEA GILTIG Carafe ($7), Dot & Bo Yellow Brick Road Wall Planter ($30), Serena & Lily Sebastopol Stool ($195), H&M Metal Tray ($25), Serena & Lily Sling Chair ($350)

We want to see how you’ve decorated your outdoor space! Show us your patio by tagging us on Instagram + using the hashtag #iamcreative.

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

These Cozy Sectional Sofas Are Actually Small Space-Friendly

Lounging on a sectional sofa makes reading a book and Netflix binges all the more cozy. But sometimes a small space doesn't have the square footage to accommodate a sofa and chaise, and fears of Ross's pivot scene in Friends (still cracks me up) start to creep up. Not to worry, though. We've rounded up sleek sectional sofas that don't take up too much space, provide tons of comfort, and look stylish to boot. Sit back, relax, and scroll for the comfiest couch made for you.

Anthropologie Kori Modular Armless Sofa ($1,119)

Great way to save space? Lose the arms! With this comfortable modular sofa you can do just that. We are digging this clay color too.

Kohl's 4-seat Linen Sectional With 3 Pillows

This small-space friendly sectional is all the comfort you need, from comfy linen fabric cushions to throw pillows you can lean back on through any Netflix binge session.

Castlery Jonathan Left Chaise ($1,079)

This well-made, modular chaise sectional can be moved around to suit your space -- and it's so comfy!

LEISLAND Modern Sectional ($499)

Pet-friendly chenille fabric in a sunny yellow will cheer up any small space. Two arm cushions make it extra cozy.

Albany Park Kova Sofa + Ottoman ($1,729)

Get sucked in for all your movie nights with this deep and cozy, cloud-soft sofa. The ottoman provides extra storage too!

Living Spaces Emery Chiffon Sofa With Reversible Chaise ($495)

This affordable sectional seats three comfortably and gives you the option to move your chaise from left to right and vice versa (the extension below the chair cushion is detached). Available with an optional storage ottoman too.

Novogratz Magnolia Sectional ($620)

This small space sectional sofa with reversible chaise has what's called a slender mailbox arm that maximizes seating space. Extra throw pillows included!

Modway Revive Modern Upholstered Right or Left Sectional ($521)

Clean lines with mid-century vibes make this sleek sofa in a rich jewel tone an easy fit for your snug space.

UO Modular Velvet Sofa ($479+)

Available in a bunch of candy-colored hues, this velvet sofa is super versatile, featuring three separate pieces that you can arrange to suit your space.

Ami Sun Sofa With Reversible Chaise ($595)

Soft, suede-like fabric make this reversible chaise sofa an elegant addition to any small space, from living room to office.

Geo 2-Piece Vegan Leather Sectional ($1,070)

This sleek silhouette, reversible sofa and chaise is made in vegan leather upholstery that's super easy to clean.

World Market Camile Velvet Right Facing Sectional Sofa ($1,700)

Available in three colors, this velvety sectional features a loveseat and a chaise, plus deep comfy seats in a stain-resistant fabric!

All Modern 2-Piece Reversible Chaise Sectional ($1,000)

This space-conscious sofa doesn’t overwhelm a room and it's upholstery stands up to sun and spills, win-win!

Etta Avenue Chella Upholstered Sectional ($1,000)

This black velvet chaise lounge has a bit of Old Hollywood vibes. It's reversible and has a unique tufted feature on the back rest. Two round pillows included — score!

Eafurn Convertible Modular Sectional Sofa ($579)

This modular sofar is easy to assemble, super affordable, and comes in a soft corduroy upholstery.

West Elm Oliver 2-Piece Chaise Sectional ($999)

West Elm has great sofas and this one is totally affordable and small-space-friendly at just under 80 inches wide.

Nathanel Sofa and Chaise in Ginger ($880)

Corduroy upholstery make this ginger-colored sofa all the more cozy.

IKEA FRIHETEN Sectional ($899)

This convertible sleeper sofa is great for studio dwellers and comes with built-in storage to boot.

Burrow Field 3-Piece Sectional Lounger ($1,490)

This compact, two-seater with chaise has deep seats, plush cushions, and comes with an ottoman (you can also add seating as you grow into a larger space).

Mario Capasa Feathers Sectional ($1,500)

This washable sectional is water-resistant and stain-resistant and the feather-and-fiber blend batting make it so cozy.

Wayfair Tufted Modular Sofa With Memory Foam ($1,400)

You can move these extremely cozy and lounge-y seats around to your liking to fit your space. Try a square!

Find more home decor inspo on our Home page and follow us on Pinterest!

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

Header image via Albany Park

“Emily In Paris” Trades France For This Uber-Romantic European Destination

After Emily in Paris season 3 dropped on Netflix in December of 2022, we were hoping to get the fourth installment of the hit show in 2023. But production halted when the WGA writers' strike, then the SAG-AFTRA actors' strike went to affect, and our beloved cast and crew campaigned for better wages and industry protection. But with the end of the writers' strike, and new SAG negotiations, Emily in Paris season 4 finally began production in February 2024 — and I can already tell you there's sure to be plenty of drama and French fashion this time around.

Not only will we see Emily in Paris (see what I did there?!) but she's also pulling an Audrey Hepburn and taking a little Roman Holiday. That's right — our favorite Parisians are heading to Italy! If that doesn't sound like a dreamy comfort show then I don't know what does. Here's everything we know about the upcoming season of your favorite TV brain candy!!

Is Emily in Paris season 4 coming soon?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Via Variety, Emily in Paris season 4 began production in Paris the week of January 15! "Did someone say Saison Quatre?!" Lily Collins says in her Instagram post announcing production. "Finally reunited with my @emilyinparis fam back in Paris and it feels so good. Although, I may need to brush up on my selfie skills for Emily’s sake…"

But this year won't be a normal year of filming for the show (although, because of COVID, what does "normal filming" even mean anymore?). Because of the 2024 Paris Olympics, all filming in the city will be shut down from June to September. Netflix's co-CEO just spilled on the release date (via The Hollywood Reporter) and great news — it's sooner than I expected! Alongside the new seasons of Squid Game and Outer Banks, we'll see Emily in Paris season 4 before the end of the year. I'm hoping for a fall release because Emily in Paris is the perfect escapist show for hibernation season, but season 2 and season 3 both premiered in December of their respective years so we could also see it just in time for the holidays!

Is Emily in Paris filmed in Paris?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Yes, Emily in Paris is filmed on location in Paris! We got our first look at Emily in Paris season 4 when Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the City of Love (via Daily Mail). The costumes for the series are still as bold and bright as ever, with Ashley's Mindy wearing cobalt and metallic boots, and Lily's Emily dressed head-to-toe in lemon yellow. I can't wait to see what these best friends get up to this season! Check out our Paris travel recommendations to live out your own Emily in Paris dreams ;).

On April 27, Lily Collins confirmed Emily in Paris season 4 had wrapped its France shoot and that the cast & crew have swapped the City of Love for the Eternal City! "When you’re the first ones on the dance floor at the Paris wrap party. Next stop: Rome!" she says on Instagram. Late spring is literally the perfect time to film in Italy and I just know this season is going to give me more wanderlust than ever before. I need gelato!

What's Emily In Paris season 4 about?

Image via Netflix

Season 3 left us with a huge cliffhanger: Alfie breaks up with Emily, Camille learns she's pregnant with Gabriel's baby, Benoit's "Mon Soleil" has been chosen for the Eurovision Song Contest, and Emily and Gabriel realize they've been in love with each other the whole time. Whew.

Emily in Paris season 4 will have a ton of cliffhangers to bring full circle, and a bunch of damage that all the characters need to heal. We know from the Netflix TUDUM fan event that we might also see Emily have to deal with an ultimatum head-on, as well as an unexpected twist. Plus, it looks like she's heading on a "Roman holiday," according to lead actress Lily Collins. We'll take any nod to an Audrey Hepburn movie, please and thank you!

Is Alfie coming back in season 4 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Netflix

We don't have OFFICIAL word on whether Alfie (played by Lucien Laviscount) will return for Emily in Paris season 4, but we're hoping for his sake that he gets some closure. Lucien wants to come back as well! "[The dream is] to keep this gravy train going and just to kind of really live in this world a little bit longer," he says in an interview with Elle. " The writers on the show and the creators behind it and everyone that comes into contact with it is so amazing and fantastic. Their minds [have] way, way, way, way surpassed mine. So, yeah. I’ll let them do their thing.”

Who else is in the Emily in Paris season 4 cast?

Image via Netflix

We can expect the rest of the cast — Lily Collins as Emily, Lucas Bravo as Gabriel, Ashley Park as Mindy, Camille Razat as Camille, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie, Samuel Arnold as Julian, and Bruno Gouery as Luc — to return.

Will there be a season 5 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

It looks like Emily in Paris season 4 will not be the final season, according to creator Darren Star. “There’s a lot more story to tell here and we’re not wrapping things up anytime soon,” Star tells Elle. “And also hopefully season four isn’t the end either. I feel like we’re all creatively feeling like we’re in the middle of something not heading towards the end.”

Darren also told Deadline season 4 is "not necessarily conceived as a final chapter. I think like every other show, it’s a rich ensemble. There’s no end in sight until everybody feels like it’s time to end. And I don’t think this show is limited by a number of seasons, I think it’s limited by everybody’s enthusiasm and excitement about doing it and telling stories about these characters."

We'll take as many seasons of Emily in Paris as they'll give us!!

What has the cast said about Emily in Paris season 4?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

Lucas Bravo told People he's excited for a coming-of-age for Gabriel. "When you start a character, then there's a year where you experience the world and you mature, you become another person and you come back and it's exactly the day you left off," he says. "I'm happy that in season four I'll be able to bring more of what I became and what I've experienced in the past four years."

Even though Lily Collins is now an executive producer, she doesn't want to know TOO much about the future of the show. “Darren and I speak, on occasion, about where he’s thinking of going, but he also doesn’t wanna spoil too much for me because there is a fine line,” she tells Collider. “I don’t wanna know everything because I want to be led with the writing, but I am also curious because, as a producer wanting to celebrate the other characters, I’m very curious to see what their trajectories are."

What happened at the end of Emily in Paris season 3?

Image via Netflix

To be fully prepared for Emily in Paris season 4, it's important to remember just what happened during season 3! The junior season was a bumpy ride for Emily, and it ends with the craziest finale yet. After Camille and Gabriel decide to get married, Camille stops the wedding, saying she knows Gabriel is in love with Emily instead of her. This declaration leads Alfie to break up with our leading lady because he refuses to be her second choice (and honestly, I respect it). That's not the only shocker because Camille also reveals that she's pregnant with Gabriel's child, which comes as a surprise to everyone. Meanwhile, Mindy learns Benoit has submitted a song (specifically "Mon Soleil") to the Eurovision Song Contest and Laurent has his heart set on opening a club in Paris.

Are you excited for Emily in Paris Season 4? Give us your craziest theory in the comments, and check out our Facebook for more pop culture news. Read up on how This Emily In Paris Theory Could Be Why Emily And Gabriel Aren’t Together (Yet).

Lead image via Netflix.

This post has been updated.

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Hack Your At-Home Workout With IKEA's New Collection

Whether you bought this year’s viral walking pad or are looking for entirely new ways to work out, IKEA’s new workout collection will fill out your routine in the most stylish way. DAJLIEN, the fitness-focused drop, launches in January 2024 and is all about makingexercise more accessible, and furthermore, at-home exercise more streamlined.

“Not everyone feels safe or comfortable going to a gym and at home we often deal with small space and time constraints. DAJLIEN was born from the desire to find smart solutions that address these limitations and help people create a convenient and motivating place for exercise", says Sarah Fager, Designer at IKEA of Sweden. “We wanted to create smart, beautiful products to inspire and redefine training as a fun, easy and natural everyday activity.”

Many of the products in the new collection are part training equipment, part storage, making them an easy, inconspicuous fit into your home spaces, even if they’re small. Not everything included in the new IKEA workout collection is for working out, though – there are plenty of choices for cooling down and relieving stress, which is a major part of each and every one of our well being!

If you’re ready to focus more on creating healthy habits at home, get ready to throw on your best sports braandleggings, and shop the DAJLIEN collection in January. Here’s a sneak peek of what will be available!

The New IKEA Workout Collection At A Glance

The new IKEA workout collection includes everything from steps, mats, dumbbells, and bands for working out. When you finish your run, yoga routine, or cardio sesh, then IKEA also has accessories for cooling down, such as stretch bands, towels, and gym bags. The entire collection leans heavily into serene shades of green, and energizing bright yellows.

This bench-desk hybrid piece of IKEA furniture can store your workout gear for at-home exercise. When you're not using it to sweat it out, this piece can double as a small coffee table or entryway bench.

These light pink stretching bands are adorable and practical. They adjust to different lengths so that you can personalize your warm-up and cool-down!

Get that jammin'workout playlist going using this wireless speaker in the IKEA workout collection! Our mix of high-energy sounds will motivate you to do your best every single day.

You're going to feel like a total boss carrying this gym bag around. The mesh material makes this pick super breathable, and the wide straps allow easy transport to and from the park, the gym, and your home.

You can totally still get your run on with the IKEA workout collection – this simple belt bag (fit for keys, cards, etc.) is proof.

The best thing about these yellow slides is that they can be worn for active days and lazy ones, too. Obsessed with that.

IKEA really made it easy to centralize all your at-home workout gear with this chic rolling cart. Place everything you need to succeed in here, from mats to bags, and water bottles to pre-workout snacks.

A basic yoga mat is crucial for at-home fitness. This deep green one will support an array of movements and catch all that sweat you're burning off.

We can tell these circular dumbbells are already one of our favorite products. The sleek design can really double as decor if you choose to put them on display.

The IKEA workout collection will include these oval-shaped workout mats that come in a few different soothing greens. The wider design makes more room for your at-home stretches and yoga routines.

Sign up for our weekend scroll for more can't-miss home decor drops!

Images via IKEA.

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12 Vibrant Summer Nail Colors To Inspire Your Next Mani

Now that flowers are starting to bloom, it’s due time to swap out the sad beiges and dark burgundies of your winter color palette with bright pinks, electric blues, and more. If you love a little paint on your nails at all times, these summer nail colors instantly evoke the carefree, childlike, and wondrous qualities of the best season around: summertime. ☀️

Essie 'Break It Sundown'

This orange feels like the epitome of a summer sunset. We can always count on Essie's vegan polish to deliver an opaque, satisfying wash of color, so this bottle will go a long way for your most colorful summer manis.

OPI 'Teal the Cows Come Home'

This summer nail color reminds us of crystal-clear pool water, so if you need that kind of energy in your life, go bold with a teal-blue.

Nailboo 'Amethyst' Gel Polish

It's giving "Lavender Haze," and we're obsessed. This shimmery shade is made from a gel formulation, so it goes on nice and smooth, and will last for a while. You could try layering it on top of another basic shade or style it on its own.

Nailboo 'Pink Lemonade' Gel Polish

Barbie would be proud of this summer nail color, for sure. Namely titled 'Pink Lemonade,' this vibrant pink hue is a nice refreshment for your nails and to welcome the warmer months.

PaintLab 'Fruity' Press-On Nails

It's time for a fun and flirty summer. Start the season off right by decking out your nails in some playful nail art, like these tiny little rainbow fruits from PaintLab! Some small silver gems join the party for extra stunning shine.

PLA 'Oopsie Daisy'

This pale yellow polish pairs extremely well with a tan. You can snag it in a gel formula or a regular polish, depending on how you like your summer manicures!

Nailboo 'Blueberry Milk' Gel Polish

First, there was latte makeup. Then, there were blueberry milk nails. This luxurious polish from Nailboo serves up a gorgeous wash of light blue with a slight purple tone for added visual interest.

Glamnetic 'Jelly Bean' Short Press-On Nails

Can't land on one summer nail color? Choose some tips like these that feature a few! You'll adore the practicality of the short almond shape, all while marveling at the colorful magic on your nails. Take only 5 minutes to apply these nails, then wear them for weeks!

Nailboo 'Cutecumber' Gel Polish

Your next summer mani is gonna be lookin' as cute as a cucumber with just a few layers this light green shade. The gel formulation ensures you get solid wear for days or even weeks. Vacay, here we come!

PaintLab 'Daisy Pink' Press-On Nails

Reflect the season's best blooms with these cutesy press-ons that have dotted daisies on them. The pink background just screams 'hot girl summer.' Putting these nail tips on is made easy with an included cuticle pusher, nail file, and tube of nail glue.

PLA 'Okay, Bloomer'

This easygoing lilac nail color delivers a super-shiny effect when you pair it with a nice clear top coat. Though pastels feel more spring-like, they're sure to look stunning even in the summer.

Chillhouse '90's Supermodel' Chill Tips

These eye-catching press-ons will help you paint the town red. Get out there and start testing the red nail theory for yourself. This nail kit comes complete with everything you need to stick the tips on, including a compact cuticle pusher, nail file, and nail glue. The best part is you can wear 'em over and over again.

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The Best Running Shoes For Every Type Of Runner, According To A Literal Marathoner

As the weather warms up and more and more people take to the streets and trails to pick up jogging or training for their next race, you might be wondering where to start your own running journey. As a lifelong runner, 4x marathoner, and former running store employee, I believe that finding the the best running shoes for you is the first step to falling in love with running.

There are a few things to look for when buying a running shoe. If you want the personalized experience, I recommend going to a run specialty store to get fitted and have your gait analyzed. However, here are some basic tips to help if you don’t want to do that.

Image via MarathonFoto.com

First, most people wear their running shoes too small. Almost everyone I have had to fit for running shoes for the first time has had to go a half to a full size up. Remember:

Running shoes do not stretch like leather shoes
Running shoes should notneed a break in period
Your feet do swell when you're running and walking

A good rule to follow is that you should have a finger tip’s length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This ensures your feet can swell properly, you won’t lose toenails, and you'll have less risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.

Next, there are two types of running shoes: neutral and stability shoes.

Neutral shoes are for people who do not overpronate
Stability shoes are for those who do overpronate.

Overpronation is when one’s arches and ankles collapse/roll inwards when standing on one leg, running, or walking. If you have low arches or flat feet, you will likely need a stability shoe as it will provide better arch support. Many people assume that if you have high arches you need a stability shoe with more arch support, but this is rarely the case. If you have a high arch and a neutral gait (no overpronation), you should let your feet and ankles do the work and not rely on a stability shoe. Luckily there are dozens of options for both types of feet, so let’s get into some of my favorites.

Best Running Shoes For Neutral Runners

Brooks Glycerin 21

The Glycerin 21 is a popular, highly-cushioned running shoe from Brooks. The Glycerin has become a fan favorite for its soft feel and unmatched bounce. Plus, being in its 21st iteration, you can feel secure knowing that the Glycerin has served runners well for years.

Best Running Shoes For Stability Runners

Asics GT 2000 12

The Asics GT 2000 version 12 is a lightweight and bouncy stability option from Asics. Many stability shoes feel heavy and clunky, but Asics has found a way to alleviate overpronation without sacrificing lightweight performance

Best Running Shoes For Trail Running

Brooks Cascadia 17

If you’re looking to hit the trails for a run, getting a shoe with better traction and grip is the best option. Trail shoes have lugs on the outsole that help with stabilizing your feet on wet rocks and slick mud. The Brooks Cascadia is a no frills, do it all shoe that will make trail miles fly by in comfort.

Best Running Shoes For A Lightweight Option

Hoka Mach 6

Whether you're doing sprints on the treadmill or have a 5k goal race in mind, a lightweight running shoe may be the best option for you. The Hoka Mach 6 is a neutral running shoe that weighs less than most shoes on the market, making it perfect if you want to pick up the pace or feel less weighed down.

Best Running Shoes For Looks

On Cloudeclipse

Although this is super subjective, I think On has some of the best looking running shoes out there. With a chunky midsole and a unique look, the On Cloudeclipse delivers on fashion and function. While this shoe may be categorized as neutral, there are stability elements, such as a plastic speedboard to add rigidity to the foam, making it a great shoe for people with all arch types.

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Header image via MarathonFoto.com

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