Meet Hygge: The New Trend That Will Boost Your Mood
Hygge (pronounced hue-gah) is tough to put into words. It's basically a warm hug, a fluffy rug, a cup of coffee at sunrise, or a sip of tea at sunset. Without an exact translation, it is the art of cozy, and the happiest countries in the world practice it.
Hygge hails from Scandinavian regions where the people have learned to appreciate the small things. A candle with dinner or a string of lights that illuminates your kitchen is enough to evoke feelings of comfort. In countries where the temperature dips below freezing and snow piles high, hygge is especially important. To live the hygge way, focus on friendship, wholesomeness, and happiness. Discover our favorite items will fill your home with comfy style.
This fluffy faux fur stool is too cute to pass up. The seating from Deco 79 is perfect for resting your feet in front of a roaring fire. When not in use, top it with your favorite reading material so you can kick back and relax at a moment's notice.
Buy It: Deco 79 Faux Fur Stool, $104.83
The inventors of hygge know how to beat the winter chills. Make sure every room in your home is stocked with warm wool blankets as temperatures dip. This way, you're never more than a few feet away from maximum warmth and comfort.
Buy It: Fjallnas Wool Blanket, $134
Related: How to Make an Arm-Knitted Blanket
Like we've said, hygge isn't just a home decor thing—it's a way of life. One way to feel warm and fuzzy on the inside is to send out handwritten notes. These can be to family, coworkers, friends, or anyone you admire. Share the love this season with monogram cards and a personalized note praising a loved one. This particular card set has ornate lettering with an almost storybook charm.
Buy It: Daisy Monogram Card, $7.50
There's something about nature that makes you feel grounded and full of gratitude. Both are essential to achieving hygge, so it's no wonder there's been an uptick in nature-inspired winter decor. If you don't want to go all-in on a live-edge wood table, consider small accents, such as this antler bottle opener. Each opener is made with naturally shed antlers found in the far north of Finland. Since they're real and not manufactured from a mold, each one is unique!
Buy It: Reindeer Antler Bottle Opener, $29.75
There's one thing every Dane seems to be in agreement with—candles. In your home, on the porch, during the day or night, candles are a hygge essential. We love Woodwick candles because the natural wooden wick crackles like a fire when lit. Enjoy a night in with a bonfire-scented candle, and get ready to cozy up for the evening; the 10-ounce jars last up to 100 hours!
Buy It: Woodwick Candle, $18.93
You might not realize it now, but those hardwood floors you love so much could be the thing preventing your home from achieving hygge. In living rooms, hallways, and kitchens, make sure there's a soft, warm place for your feet to land. Thick shag rugs are great for getting cozy because they basically give your toes a hug. And don't be afraid to layer rugs, too! In our opinion, the more cushion, the better.
Buy It: Hygge Shag Collection, $69.40
Related: How to Clean an Area Rug
