Torn between two styles, feeling like a fool? Having worked in design for several years, I am always on the look-out for new styles, trends and classics. I have decided that I simply appreciate good design regardless of the style. Staying true to my personal style, however, is critical to making my home a haven. Discovering your personal style can be a little tricky but once you've decided to be true to yourself, the process gets a lot easier.
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Discovering your design starts with defining what you love and why you love it. Once you have that established, mixing and matching other styles can add whimsy and relief to your decor.
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I teach 5 basic design styles - Classic, Country or Cottage, Contemporary, Chic and Cultural. To read more about these styles visit LifeandStylebyDesign.
Over the years I've learned that when a client is unhappy with their surroundings, it's usually because their personal style was not defined. Upon visiting in their home, it becomes clear that with a little editing, a personal style begins to emerge that feels like "home". I share the following BIG 3 with all of my clients. These are rules to live (and decorate) by:
- If you don't LOVE it, don't buy it!
- If you can't see yourself using the piece 3, 5 or 10 years from now, don't bring it home.
- Stay true to yourself. No two people are the same and no two interiors should be the same. Use other's style as inspiration and for ideas, but create spaces in your home that tell YOUR story.
I guess I'm rather like Dorothy -" There's no place like home". I love to travel and to visit wonderful places but at the end of the day, I'd rather be home than anywhere on earth. Until I see you again,
Happy Decorating!
~Alisa
8 comments:
Ah love this post Alisa and I couldn't agree more.
Dorothy's saying is the best!
Have a blessed week.
~Melissa :)
Very well put, Alisa! I totally agree!
Have a happy week!
;-D
I love what you had to say. It is so true. There is no place like home. Hugs, Terrie
Wise words! :D Jewel
Good advice! Now we can avoid those costly mistakes...hopefully (O:
I agree! Mine I think would be cultural because I seem to more drawn to Spain's earth tones that mimic the Philippines' and the Chinese furniture and dinnerware... I just wish I can afford them. Sigh... Great advice!
I love many different styles however my own personal style, whether it's for my home or my clothing, is best defined as "classic".
Some time a year or so ago, I got caught up in some of the home shows and I decided that I needed to update my living room and make it more "modern" looking. I changed a few things around and felt a bit better. I was beginning to feel that classic, traditional style was becoming a little dated. A few months later, I went back to my classic, traditional furnishings. It just wasn't me. I decided that it's o.k. to like feminine, classic things, even though I live in the midwest where modern and contemporary furnishings are all the rage. I am very happy now.
I agree with you that you must buy things you love. I tell my clients that all the time and they are finally getting it. As for traveling, it's wonderful to visit but there is nothing nicer than sleeping in my beautiful bedroom and having a wonderful dinner at home.
Alisa, this is so lovely! I always enjoy coming to your blog and seeing your fresh and beautiful ideas! Have a blessed weekend!
Debbie
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