Bradshaw's Bedroom on a Budget

You're probably wondering why we're still chattering on about Carrie's bedroom when it's been a year after the Sex and the City movie storm swept the world into a fashion, design and New York City frenzy.

Here's the deal --- I have a really bad habit of pretending that movie characters exist. I like to think that even after the credits roll, the sexy NYC foursome is still living large and in charge. I know, I know. It's a terrible habit that I like to keep on my shelf of secrets, right between "Drinking Too Much Coffee" and "Skipping Yoga Class to Get a Pedicure."

With that said, I can't help but wonder (oh yes, I'm channeling my inner Bradshaw) how Carrie would be living today with all of this talk about recession, stimulus packages and financial woes. Would her apartment be just as fabulous as before, or would she be forego the updates and spend her hard-earned cash on the old faithful -- more shoes?

I'd hope her apartment would stay just as chic as when production designer Jeremy Conway and set decorator Lydia Marks first laid hands on the glamorous interior. So I took it upon myself to recreate the look of her superstar bedroom -- on a major budget. I like to call this the "Recession-Friendly Bradshaw Abode."

PAINT
Although Jeremy Conway often mixes his own paint, according to an interview at Casa Sugar, he notes that the glorious shade of blue is in fact very close to a Benjamin Moore shade -- Electric Blue. I love the cool, calming effect of this hue and think it's the perfect shade for a modern bedroom. Better yet, it's just around $40 for the gallon.

FURNISHINGS
Carrie's headboard is reminiscent of the Erickson model at Hillsdale Furniture, which is priced at just $399. I'd DIY my own version by painting (carefully) over the dark brown with a stark white so the canvas is a bit more polished and blends together.

To replace the piece to the right of Carrie's bed, I spotted a similar mirrored console at Georgia hot-spot Pieces, Inc. for a hefty price tag, but that simply won't do for today's recession standards. Instead, try securing mirrors to any console a la this tutorial from Better Homes & Gardens.

I love the concept of an ottoman to replace a footboard on any bed, and the one in Carrie's bedroom is beautiful. I'd try this Home Decorators Collection model (just $179!) in brown leather to add some texture to the monochramatic bedding.

Try a lamp similar to the Holly Jar porcelain model at Lamp's Plus and replace it with a basic white drum shade. The hue of blue will look fantastic against that crisp wall paint.

TEXTILES
For Carrie's chocolate bedding, I'd try this Park Avenue set for just $99, and of course you can snag those breezy curtains from IKEA.

Last, but certainly not least, try a montage of artwork in basic black frames. Keep the artwork color scheme similar, as I've done in my own home. For Carrie's bedroom, add a mix of mustards, beiges and deep browns to complement the bedding and wall color.

Of course, we can't guarantee you'll marry your Mr. Big, or even land a few shoes worthy of Ms. Bradshaw, but at least your apartment will be Carrie-chic on an even chicer budget. Happy decorating!


Tell Us: What's your silver screen dream bedroom?