As a lifelong natural blonde (no box dye here, thank you very much), I used to think the color yellow was my enemy. But then, I had my Andie Anderson ‘you’d be Ben’s partner’ moment — a yellow dress for my sorority’s semi-formal. After receiving flattering comments from my grandparents, yellow wasn’t just wearable anymore; it became my entire personality.
As I prepare to graduate from Rutgers University and shared kitchenware, I’ve been eyeing butter-yellow kitchen accessories that feel just as warm and joyful as that dress. If you want to stay on-trend and brighten up your cooking space this spring, here are the best finds to bring some sunshine into your home.
Espresso Cup & Saucer
Sure, an espresso shot alone could probably wake you up, but starting your day with something bright and warm might be just as effective. A butter-yellow espresso cup (or a demitasse cup for those who studied abroad in Italy, my apologies) could add a little sunshine to your morning routine.
And if you’re trying to break free from the $7 latte lifestyle, investing in an espresso machine (and a cute cup to go with it) makes ‘we have coffee at home’ feel like a treat rather than a sacrifice. Espresso cups are relatively inexpensive, but my favorites come from Etsy and Anthropology, which can get pricey, but sales are frequent.
Apron
Aprons have somehow become a surprisingly chic obsession of mine — they’re all over my Pinterest board at this point. A butter-yellow apron isn’t just practical. It’s a subtle way to add some serious style to your kitchen game. It gives off that “I’ve got this” energy, whether you’re whipping up a batch of cookies or hosting a dinner party.
It’s a timeless piece you’ll keep for years, making every meal feel a little more polished. It’s the perfect mix of function and flair because who says you can’t look chic while sauteing onions? I’m obsessed with this Shiraleah Gina one from Target.
Ceramic Berry Bowl
Spring and summer are all about fresh berries, and a butter-yellow ceramic berry bowl is the perfect way to display them brightly. The cheerful yellow contrasts beautifully with the reds, pinks, and blues of your strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, making each bite even more appealing.
Whether storing them in the fridge or showcasing them on your counter or table spread, this trendy bowl adds warmth to your kitchen while keeping your (expensive) berries fresh and ready to enjoy. This one from Michaels is affordable and cute.
Wine or Cocktail Glasses
I’ll admit it: my current wine and cocktail glasses are the cheap ones I snagged on final sale at TJMaxx (college kid cannon event). But now that I’m mentally preparing to embrace my post-grad, inner adult, I’m eyeing some prettier, more vibrant glasses to bring out for those spring and summer dinner parties that are sure to leave the group chat…eventually.
A set of fun, butter-yellow glasses would be the perfect way to add a splash of color to your table and make every toast feel more special. Whether sipping a spritz on a sunny afternoon or pouring a glass of the crispiest, crunchiest white wine, these glasses will set the tone for good times and great company. I like these from Birch Lane. They’re currently on sale for their Spring Cyber Week.
Dish Towels
Dish towels are often the afterthought of kitchen decor, but they can significantly impact the vibe of your space. A set of butter-yellow dish towels brings a cheerful pop of color to your countertops, instantly brightening your kitchen space. Plus, they’re easy to switch out based on the seasons if butter-yellow isn’t the vibe come fall.
Feeling crafty? Embroidery is a simple and rewarding way to add a personal touch to your towels, or you can shop for unique, handmade designs, which can be pricey. Either way, these yellow towels are the perfect way to inject sunshine into your kitchen routine.
Mixing Bowls
We all have that one mixing bowl in our kitchen – probably as old as you are – that’s mixed every birthday cake and comforted you through the stomach bug. It’s a sentimental piece, but it’s time for one of your own. A set of butter-yellow mixing bowls adds a cheerful pop of color to your kitchen and brings a little joy to baking (or just stirring up dinner.)
We all dream of a KitchenAid stand mixer, especially when in this year’s “Color of the Year,” but let’s face it, those are a little outside of that “college kid budget.” Instead, these bowls provide the same sunny vibe without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re making a family recipe or trying something new, they’ll brighten up your counter. Plus, they’re the perfect balance of nostalgia and functionality– just like that trusty old bowl, but with a modern twist. I like this one from World Market, but there are a bunch on Amazon that are also great.