The One Home Decor Item Aly Raisman Always Buys at T.J. Maxx

I always say that shopping is my favorite full-contact sport. It’s fitting, then, that a large part of my job involves shopping — you could say I’ve gone pro. But recently, I had the chance to shop at one of my favorite stores with one of my favorite (actual) athletes. 

Last week, I met up with Aly Raisman, six-time Olympic medal-winning gymnast, to shop for spring home finds at T.J. Maxx — and I can assure you, she’s just as amazing in the aisles as she is on the gymnasium floor! As a lifelong “Maxxinista,” Raisman had plenty of shopping’ tips and tales to share with me. 

As we strolled the aisles, perusing and chatting about our favorite finds, Raisman told me that there’s *one* decor item she always picks up at T.J. Maxx: any and all things rattan.

Rattan, a woven material, is a great way to add some natural vibes and texture to any space. “I love being outside, and I love being in nature,” Raisman tells me; and her home style mirrors that. “My home is very neutral,” full of different “woods and earthy tones and rattan accents,” she explains. Rattan can be a great way to add a pop of texture to an otherwise neutral space. 

The rattan look is often very boho-inspired, although it goes back hundreds (even thousands) of years; but now, it’s a ubiquitous material that can be integrated into just about any home aesthetic.  From baskets and lamps, to servingware and outdoor furniture, you can get all sorts of these natural, textural accents at T.J. Maxx. 

While shopping in-store, Aly and I found several rattan and rattan-inspired gems; it seemed there was one for just about any space and situation you could imagine. I love a throughline when it comes to design, so I’m really into the idea of incorporating small rattan accents throughout different spaces. It adds the perfect pop of texture, and just the right amount of consistency. 

So Olympians — they’re just like us, right? Perhaps not when it comes to athletic performance … but shopping habits? Sure thing! “There’s just so much great stuff here,” Raisman tells me. “I don’t think people realize [just] how much … you can get all of your shopping done in one day.” 

So next time you find yourself at T.J. Maxx, keep an eye out for one of these Olympian-approved, boho-inspired accents. Or, shop a few of our faves online below!