10 Styling Essentials That Have Stood The Test of Time
Over the past 15 years, I’ve styled countless spaces — for books, magazines, brands, and beautiful clients. And while every project is different, I often reach for the same timeless pieces time and again.
They’re the unsung heroes. The quiet pieces that subtly transform a space. They add texture, tone, and a lived-in quality that’s hard to replicate.
If I had to start from scratch, these would be the 10 styling essentials I’d take with me.
The Everyday Essentials Collection that I curated in 2016 stands the test of time.
Photography Chris Warnes
1. The Simple Linen Cushion
A good simple natural linen cushion can be used in many ways — from making a sofa feel more inviting, to softening a nook or adding a casual layer to a bed. It’s something I often take to photo shoots — I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve grabbed one last-minute for a photo shoot. I always opt for feather-filled cushions; they just sit better.
Shop: The Simple Linen Cushion
2. The Natural Basket
Whether it’s a classic French market tote or an African handmade basket, I never show up to a shoot without one. They perform double duty — carrying props and becoming one. Place them in the hallway under a bench, alongside a sofa, or in the laundry — much more appealing than a plastic tub. Useful and beautiful.
3. The Jute Rug
I love neutral rugs. They add the ideal foundation to any room, offering the right amount of texture, without overpowering a space. They are great as runners in hallways or underfoot in living spaces. They quietly anchor any space.
4. The Coffee Table Book
Yes, books are one of my favourite styling props. And there’s a good reason why This is Home has become the go-to prop for interior designers and stylists across the world. It’s timeless cover elevates any type of interior.
5. The Large Ceramic Bowl
This might seem too simple or too obvious, yet a good-sized ceramic bowl with the right tone and glaze can work in any space, and add just enough volume to a table, countertop or sideboard.
6. The Vintage Pot
Whether it’s from Turkey, the Ukraine or China, a vintage pot with a weathered patina can bring just the right amount of character to any space. I’m always drawn to their imperfect forms — no two are ever quite the same. Add branches, or let it stand alone. It always makes a quiet statement.
7. The Natural Throw Blanket
Similar to a natural cushion, a simple throw can work on a sofa, bed, or look at home on a chair. Opt for a textural weave or handmade details, if possible.
Shop: The Natural Throw Blanket
8. The Vintage Stool
Another staple that looks good in any style of home. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple stool or an aged bench, these pieces add just the right amount of character into any interior style. I use them in every room of the house, and the stools often are great as makeshift side tables on shoots.
9. The Vintage Serving Board
A round serving board adds volume and a great shape propped against a kitchen splash back or on a kitchen countertop or table. Bonus points for vintage. Again, the bigger, the better.
Shop: The Vintage Serving Board
10. The Vintage Vase
I bought a batch of ten large Turkish vases about 15 years ago, and I still use them constantly. They’ve travelled with me from one house to the next, one shoot to another. They’re sculptural, tactile, and always manage to introduce a subtle layer of visual interest.
The Takeaway: Trust What Lasts
In a world that’s constantly chasing what’s new, there’s something grounding about returning to what works.
These styling pieces have travelled with me through homes, shoots, and seasons of change. They’ve proven their value not by standing out — but by fitting in, again and again, in quietly powerful ways.
If you’re building your own styling kit — or just want to elevate your space — start here.
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