My decorating style is not coastal. I don’t really know what it is, but beachy isn’t the vibe.
I do, however, love collecting shells, whether out in the wild or sourcing from thrift shops.
I style shells all over my house, so I need you to know that if you love shells like me, but don’t want a “beachy” aesthetic, you can still display your treasures!
I’ll probably share my shells in many posts, but let’s start with the entryway of my home.
Found this beauty at Goodwill! The plant pedestal is from Stone Button Studio.
Our entry table has…a lot goin’ on. But I’m not hating it, which might be a sign of aging. The older I get, the more hoard-y I get.
Please call me “maximalista” rather than hoarder, okay? Let me live in this fantasy.
Nothing compares to the endorphin rush that comes when finding a big, juicy shell in the wild, and I love displaying my big ones, but I also get really excited about the tiny, perfect babies I find, too.
I like to tuck those lil cuties in picture frames to display them; a corner morsel for the eye to land on.
Some of my shells are gifts from friends and family who find them on the beach or buy them at thrift shops for me, which is so sweet. I can remember where almost every shell is from – crazy shell lady for real.You’ll also note an eclectic collection of books, reflective of the individuals who live in my home. On my shelves and tables, I layer books, shells, and collected items from thrifting and travel. The little olive branch is from Greece!Character flaw: I hardly ever dust. My entry table has two glass top shelves, which I decorate in a “scrapbook style” (I made that up idk if that’s really a thing, but that’s the vibe). I apply the scrapbook vibes to lots of areas in my house, will share more in later posts! That heart box is from my childhood – I recently dug it out and shined it up. This is a paint-by-numbers I did with my bestie, proudly displayed with beach treasures.
I recently learned that shells have always had value, and throughout history have been used as currency across the world.
Literal treasures, and I’ll always be obsessed.
This week’s thrifted ‘fits & treasures round-up (featuring baby girl!):
Shirt – J. Crew, Skirt – Universal Thread, Bag – Coach (brand new! $30) Source: GoodwillAdorable sweater jacket – Kielo Dyson NY, Source: GoodwillA close-up of the detail – knitted stars and wooden beads. Love this piece. Super comfy, too.Shirt – Cynthia Rowley, Source: GoodwillAdorable doll cradle, Source: GoodwillBrand-new kilim pillow, Source: Quantum House ThriftTwo previously found pillows also thrifted from Quantum House Thrift & Trashe VintageSigned artwork “Goldberg”, Source: GoodwillAngel baby making her thrifted fashion debut. Shorts from Goodwill. Tee and skirt – hand-me-downs. (Message inaccurate – can confirm child is A LOT a bit sassy)
Writing about my hobbies - thrifting, decorating, and bringing eclectic charm to a cookie-cutter home built in 2020.
View all posts by Vanessa Moss
4 thoughts on “Crazy Shell Lady”
LOVE it. Funny: I see you addressed this in the blog: I was going to ask if they had a tee shirt reading, “A LOT sassy”! I’m really enjoying your stories.
Sooooo glad this blog is back!!!! Need more info on the book choices. It’s always the husband is a whole vibe on its own. Baby girl is the absolute highlight!
This is my hobby. 
LOVE it. Funny: I see you addressed this in the blog: I was going to ask if they had a tee shirt reading, “A LOT sassy”! I’m really enjoying your stories.
A lotttttt sassy!
Sooooo glad this blog is back!!!! Need more info on the book choices. It’s always the husband is a whole vibe on its own.
Baby girl is the absolute highlight!
Love a psychological thriller! Baby girl is a fashion icon in the making and will be featured in many posts — stay tuned. 😉