We all dress ourselves every day, usually with no trouble at all. So why is it that so many people seem paralyzed by decorating decisions?
We decided to take a look at some basic fashion rules. Most of these you’ll recognize as conventional wisdom. But did you know that these same fashion rules can apply to decorating your home as well?
Find out how with these 8 simple fashion rules for home interiors.
Fashion Rule #1
Invest in classic pieces.
- Decorating Takeaway
Spend the biggest portion of your decorating budget on pieces that will have a long life: a beautiful dining table, well-constructed sofa, a classic rug, or a gorgeous armoire.FOR MORE: Decorating Inspiration: Where to Find It
Fashion Rule #2
Neutrals as a steady diet could be boring; spice it up with color!
- Decorating Takeaway
Color is cheap. In fact, color is free. So next time you’re tempted to paint the walls off-white (again!) – remember that a can of luscious sky blue, ruby red, or fresh apple green paint costs exactly the same as boring beige.FOR MORE: Tips on Choosing Paint Color
Fashion Rule #3
Too tight a fit is uncomfortable; too loose is unattractive.
- Decorating Takeaway
Scale your furnishings to your room: a huge canopy bed in a teensy room is a gamble. Likewise, a tiny settee in front of an oversize fireplace will look ridiculous.FOR MORE: Decorating Dos and Don’ts
Fashion Rule #4
Highlight features you like; play down what you don’t love.
- Decorating Takeaway
Call attention to your room’s best features by using color, lighting, or furniture placement. Likewise, downplay less-than-attractive parts of a room by “painting them out” with matching wall paint (good for items like pipes and vent covers), or by disguising them with clever cover-ups. Have a great view or lovely fireplace? Arrange furniture so these best features are the center of attention.FOR MORE: How to Read Decorating Magazines
Read about More Fashion Rules That Apply to Decorating on Page 2.