Global decor is having a hot moment right now and that is awesome. Even more traditionally decorated spaces are getting a fun pop with moroccan inspired tiles and mexican textiles. It’s a trend you totally ought to give a chance. Besides the obvious choices of baskets, tiles and pillows. What kinds of things can you use to infuse the styles of other parts of the world in other rooms of the house? Specifically a space like the bathroom, you know, because most of us aren’t using a ton of throw pillows in our bathroom.
Since I’ve been working on my own bathroom remodel with a strong emphasis on incorporating global sourced and inspired pieces, I thought it’d be a great time to share with you where I’m sourcing those items. It’s kindof my segway to letting you know I’m diving into One Room Challenge later this week and won’t be talking about the bathroom for another two weeks.
So where do you buy global inspired and sourced bathroom accessories? Let’s chat…
The ring of “Handmade in Guatemala” has a really cool sound, right? And you may be baffled why you can jump on Amazon and find really cool gems for reasonable prices only to find them elsewhere for a whole lot more. Is it a joke? Are the more expensive ones a rip off?
I promise not to make this whole post one big ethics speech, but I do want to point out that the “bargain” globally made items are more than likely made with slave and/or other forms of forced labor. Our buying power is strong and supporting fair trade companies is a really big step towards equality in the world. If it’s not “Made in the USA” or made in another company with clear and enforced labor laws, business owners care about money and you should know that your dollar supports the unfair treatment of people.
1. Artisan Connect (now merged with Nest)
That’s why I’ve really enjoyed perusing Artisan Connect. I stumbled onto this site when looking for Le Souk Ceramique for sale. They do exactly what their name implies, they’re the connecting force between artisans and us. Here’s an excerpt from their “Impact” page:
“We source exclusively from organizations that provide fair wages and social services to their artisans and the communities where they live, promoting the broader goals of empowerment, inclusion and self-esteem.”
Here are a few items you can find in stores like West Elm and Madewell:
2. Etsy
Looking for more selection or something specific? Everyone’s favorite handmade and vintage retailer is a great place to look. Vintage is my favorite because you can find really unique mirrors, wall art and textiles. And handmade is fantastic for supporting artist. Handmade towels and soaps are some of the best you’ll use!
I’ve admitted to having a soap problem in the past. One of shops I discovered at the Coastal Virginia Home and Garden Show is Symphl Creations and they even made vegan soaps so they get a huge recommendation from me. But any reputable shop on Etsy is going to be a fantastic alternative to buying chemical laden soaps at the drugstore. And you’ll support someone’s craft!
And who doesn’t love a candlelit bath? One of the Etsy shops I discovered through GlobeIn is Sundos and I did because of a candle I received in one of my boxes. It smelled beautiful and did everything I wanted from a candle and it’s organic, fair trade and no GMO. Winning!
African Fabric Picture Frame | Floral Mango Wood Jewelry Box |
3. GlobeIn
And speaking of GlobeIn, they’re also a fantastic resource for bath products. I pay for an Artisan box monthly subscription service and each month is a different theme.
The main point of the service is the subscription service. It’s a curated box that supports remote artisans and farmers. Every box includes a handwoven basket and a few other items specially chosen for their support of small artisans around the world. A little booklet is included each month that explains where the finds came from and information about the person behind the product.
50% off 1st Box on any 3-month “GlobeIn Premium Subscription Box” – with code “TRYUS50”
But there’s also “the shop” where you can buy items from past boxes as well as other items that haven’t been included in a box. Like, body lotion, soaps, shampoos, towels, makeup cases, and more.
4. Anthropologie
Anthro has got the classy boho thing down. And a lot of their pieces are influenced by the patterns, styles and crafts of other countries and especially artisans. Mixing a piece or two or a lot with your existing decor or decor from the other sources is an easy way to get a gathered look.
- Anthropologie Artist Collabs – supporting a diverse group of artists
- Eco Friendly & Sustainable Textiles – organic, eco fabrics, artisan-made
I’m pretty heart eyed emoji stricken for their shower curtains. But their towels rods and soap dishes are also really beautiful. They’ve pretty much got everything you’ll ever need to decorate a bathroom but even with their massive inventory, I still say it’s best to source from multiple places since it’ll give your space a more real life look than if it were all sourced from the same space.
5. World Market
No global decor source list would be complete without including WORLD market. Right? It’s in the name! This store can get pretty addicting to walk around. I have better luck going in store than online because so many items are for purchase in store only. But with departments clearly laid out and all the awesomeness in one building, it’s worth the drive for me.
I especially like their bathmats, but their towels are also stunning. They also have good candles to choose from, too. Oh, and I love the soap dish I included below. Like, love that thing.
6. Home Depot
I’m throwing this one in as a bonus because they’ve really been on top of the encaustic tile look alikes. And since those tiles are the absolute must to stay on top of your home decor trends, I figured I’d include my three faves as part of this resource for globally inspired and sources bathroom decor 😉
Gretchen@BoxyColonial says
ooh, so much prettiness! A couple of these are new to me…I’ll have to check them out!