Our most interesting and cherished possessions are not always our most expensive; they are the unusual decorations that tell a story—the irreplaceable antiques or heirlooms that express history and heart. With ingenuity and an open mind, famed New Orleans designer Angèle Parlange sees potential in the offbeat yet sentimentally valuable. Using an eclectic array of heritage pieces, garage sale treasures, and unusual items that simply spark her interest, she creates quality pieces for the home that are as gorgeous as they are distinctive. In this stunning book filled with project ideas, recipes, whimsical stories, and enchanting "Creole Expressions," Parlange describes how she created some of her favorite designs—from a fabric pattern inspired by her ancestors'1830s calling cards, to a shower curtain based on a seventy-year-old college football program. Raised on Parlange Plantation, a national historical landmark in Louisiana, Parlange draws from her Southern heritage in both design and way of life. In a voice as charming as her signature style, she shares tips from her "Creole Thrift" philosophy that you can live first-class without spending a fortune, simply by being resourceful. Everyone has personal mementos or quirky knickknacks that can be transformed into beautiful "cocktail dresses for the home." Creole Thrift will inspire readers to explore their surroundings, unleash their imaginations, and create their own unique decorations full of personality and life.