{shower in style}

I am sure you have noticed that most of the bathrooms featured in today's shelter magazines are spacious spa-like oases with glass encased showers and free standing tubs. These personal spaces are beautiful, and many of them have made their way to my inspiration files. But they cause me to beg the question, what are those of us with small, humdrum bathrooms to to spruce things up without ripping out walls? Shower curtains are quick easy and affordable way to give your old or generic bath a new and affordable lease on life.

This is probably one of my most favorite "small" bathrooms. With all white walls, polished nickel hardware and a Porthault shower curtain (made from a sheet!) and matching towels who needs a personal spa?

This pre-war bathroom, belonging to Ralph Lauren executives Tom Bezucha and Margaret Hamilton, was given a fresh look with a cheerful red and white striped shower curtain and an antique side chair. I do love seating in a bathroom!

This tired tub was perked up by designer Sara Gilbane with a shower curtain made from Raoul Textiles fabric. Creating a custom shower curtain out of your favorite fabric is an easy way to personalize your private space.

This distinctly feminine bathroom was featured in Domino Magazine several years ago. It is hard to see but the shower is framed by two curtains that tie back on either side. This gives the tub a more finished and room-like feel.

Kate and Andy Spade's guest bathroom is punctuated by the bold black banded shower curtains that so beautifully complement the Scalamandre Zebra print wallpaper.

If you are searching for a shower curtain to bring new life to your bath, here are a few suggestions:

Target sells these polka dot shower curtains in black, red, or green. They have a "Kate Spade" feel at a fraction of the price. These would be prefect in a child's bath as they are fun without being too juvenile.

I am loving this red damask shower curtain offered through Amazon. It would be a stunning statement in an otherwise all white bath.

This Greek key embroidered shower curtain is a handsome classic. For a similar look you could apply a Greek key tape trim like this one to a plain white shower curtain.

Home textile company, India Rose offers this smart seersucker shower curtain.

John Robshaw offers a variety of beautiful block-printed shower curtains with a global flair.

Anthropologie is another great source for unique shower curtains with a romantic vibe. This Flamenco curtain would be perfect for a teen's bathroom.