{Thirsty Thursday}

Happy Thirsty Thursday! 

In the spirit of the hot home decor trend we're about to show you, we're updating a traditional Gimlet and hoping to start a trend of our own:

Cucumber Gimlet

Ingredients
1/2 English cucumber, chopped, plus slices for garnish (optional)
2 tablespoons water
2 ounces gin
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup (recipe below)

Directions
Puree the cucumber and water in a blender until smooth. For each cocktail, shake three ounces cucumber juice, the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice for 30 seconds; strain into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with cucumber slices.

Simple Syrup: Heat one cup each of water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves; let cool and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator up to one month.

Lately, I have been mulling over what makes a space look professionally designed. What gives it that extra kick of style that has houseguests saying "wow!"? Stay tuned for the full list...

For now I will give you a sneak peak at one item that I will definitely be making that list: mismatched pillows. They are a huge trend we're following right now. When mixed just right way they create a highly stylized, unique look that will definitely elevate the design of your space. 

Here are 5 ways to master the trend: 

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One tried and true mixing formula:
1. Stripe + Geometirc + Floral
For a cohesive look one of the patterns, typically the floral, should incorporate the two colors from its sister pillows.

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2. Neutrals 
Ralph Lauren expertly mixes neutrals with texture 

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3.Unifying Element
Use artwork to unify your color palette
Don't be afraid to mix all shapes and sizes 

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We all learned it in grade school:
4. K-I-S-S
"Keep-It-Simple-Stupid"
Keeping the other elements in the room neutral gives you free license to play with pillows. Note the simple beige rug, curtains and the absence of pattern for the furniture. 
Be sure to balance your prints accordingly. Only do one pillow in a large print and then choose a more intricate pattern for the other. Throw some solids in between and voila! 

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5. The Easy Way
Ease your way into the mismatching arena by using two pairs of matching pillows and then introducing two unique pillows to add character and charm.