making your own style…

trendy or not trendy?  which are you?

With the two dozen or so daily email blasts I get about new products, new twists on old products, green products, new trends etc; I decided that it was time I share a little secret of mine about avoiding the pitfalls of trying to keep up with today’s trends in home decor and just be yourself.  When I work with clients I often get questions about what color is in, what style is in, and I always come back with my own set of questions such as-what colors do you like?  what style do you like?

Now some of you might be thinking -isn’t that what they are paying you for?  to figure it out for them?  And the answers is yes and no!

Yes, it is my job to help my clients figure out what they like, dislike and about how their lifestyle, their family and how their environment needs to work for them; but MOST times the client already knows the answers but just hasn’t yet realized them.  My clients will often say they can recognize good design but just don’t know how to go about implementing it.  That is where I can help.

There is nothing more exciting than to help someone realize and implement their own personal taste and style to create a unique and comfortable, functioning environment to live in, relax and enjoy.  Staying true to your own style compass is what will get you through the twists and turns of interior trends and keep you from staring at last years trends while dreaming of the next big thing to hit the market-not to mention it will leave more money in your wallet.

The trick is to look for pieces and styles with longevity and to shop alone with your designer; one the most difficult ways to shop is with your husband, mom, best friend or cousin by your side telling you what they think is nice.  This situation will surely bring you a mix of purchases that someone else loves and leave you wondering why you now don’t like it.

Another tip is to splurge on everyday high end pieces like sofas, window coverings, decorative pillows, bedding, and dining furniture. The majority of your secondary pieces such as extra seating, lamps, and accessories can come from less expensive sources, providing of-the-moment interest without buyer’s remorse if styles change too soon.

Other timeless buys?  Interesting and formidable metal tables and chairs can be found everywhere right now. These sturdy furnishings add to a room’s eclectic layer and are  additions worth the investment.

Other things I love?   Numbers and letters as pattern; geometric, two color fabric prints; limed or white washed finishes on dark woods; and green materials.

What to avoid? Plastic anything, water features, “brown furniture,” Hollywood Regency, stacks of art books you won’t read and chenille!  Yes, I said it!!  Chenille!

Ready to start? The most important thing to remember is to embrace your own sense of style and choose pieces you really like!!  Ready? set?  Go!!!