As you probably know by now, I love U.S. retail, especially their homewares. It might be their extensive ranges, the creative way they merchandise or the outstanding customer service that sets them apart. Fortunately for us Aussies, many of the stores are now shipping to Australia. I know the exchange rate at the moment is not in our favour but the Americans do ‘sales’ very well. My first tip is to sign up to receive the store’s newsletters. This way you will be notified as soon as the sales commence. Sales are usually focussed around the U.S. Public Holidays and long weekends. I have found that Black Friday (the Friday after Thanksgiving Day) is the best time to pick up online bargains, even with our dodgy dollar and freight costs. Not surprisingly, stores stop at shipping larger pieces of furniture due to shipping costs. Here are a few of my favourite U.S. Homewares Stores That Ship To Australia.
1. Anthropologie
Many people would head straight to Anthropologie‘s fashion links on their website but I am all about their House and Home department. I particularly love their pretty and colourful ceramics. I have shared images from their Hawaii and New York stores in previous blogs. Their items arrive well packaged and thankfully I have not had any issues with breakages.
Their cotton teatowels are gorgeous too.
2. Jonathan Adler
I know that Coco Republic now stock an extensive range of Jonathan Adler furniture but you can’t beat the JA online store for homewares. I love their home decor range and they are on sale regularly. The candles and quirky ceramics are my favourite items.
3. Kate Spade
Kate Spade has just released a fabulous new Home Collection that embodies the brand’s whimsical and feminine style. Here are a couple of my favourite picks.
4. Ballard Designs
Ballard Designs started out selling solely via mail catalogue. Their online store is extensive with a wide range of bedding, kitchenware and accessories. Here are my top picks. I will be keeping my eye on post Christmas sales for these Chinoiserie decorations!
Edie Block Print Napkins – Set of 4
Chinoiserie Ornaments – Set of 3
5. Crate and Barrel
Although mainly selling furniture, C & B also offers an affordable range of homewares. I find their products similar to what we can now get at West Elm here but they do offer great sales and some unique finds. My favourites are this ‘grey wash’ bath accessory set (love the colour of this rattan!) and scalloped edge mirror that would be perfect for a girl’s bedroom.
6. Neiman Marcus
Not only a Mecca for designer shoes and fashion, the Neiman Marcus website is a haven for homewares. Americans seem to do towels so well. Whether it’s their superior ‘softness factor’, extensive range of colours or patterns. NM also offer free express global shipping for orders over $175 USD! I am keeping a close eye on these towels in the upcoming Black Friday sales, fingers crossed.
It is great that we are getting access to more beautiful homewares in Australia with the opening of stores such as Pottery Barn and West Elm. I do endeavour to support our local businesses too. In saying that though, sometimes it is exciting to purchase a piece that is more unique that you can’t buy here. One final word of warning, always read the returns policy. Many U.S. stores will not provide a refund for goods shipped internationally. Happy shopping my friends!
Belinda XO