This is a guest post by Alex Berger
When we normally think about the words, “fashion” and “style,” we think about what we are wearing that day, or when the next runway show is taking place. I typically talk about lifestyle and style topics and today I want to bring those two topics together: style and fashion for your home.
When you think about putting together an outfit, you are designing what you are going to wear that day, week, and/or month. It’s the same when it comes to your home: you are designing it and that takes a sense of style – your own individual sense of style. The funny thing about this is that it looks so different for everyone.
I could walk into someone’s house and not like what they have done with it, but that is their own style and they might absolutely love it because just like with fashion in clothing, fashion in homes differs from person to person. For me, I have noticed that elegant home decor options can be hard to come by nowadays. So many of the times I’ve found myself walking into stores and just wondering who they are trying to appeal to. It seems like the majority of stores are targeting the younger crowd now, which is not necessarily a bad thing – it can just be harder to find specific decor pieces to really show off my home in an elegant way. I’m just not really a huge fan of large plastic turquoise pineapples for my mantle and although the majority of the decor offered at larger stores does fall into the plastic pineapple category, I am still able to create elegant home decor options for myself that fits my own fashion sense and I know you will be able to, as well.
The best part is that you do not need to spend a million bucks to create elegant decor options. In fact, it doesn’t really matter how much money you have or don’t have, I’m always going to want my elegant and sophisticated style to show through on the best prices I can find. Being frugal isn’t about being cheap or dirt poor. It’s about spending whatever money you DO have, wisely, so that you can have the life you want…on less. I’ve always liked quality, brand name items, and I’ve always found creative ways of getting what I want, cheaper than the off-brand junk. So, in a general sense, here are a few ways that you can bring an elegant style into your home, no matter what kind of budget or fashion preferences you have:
Play With Different Colors
Colors can make a room your own. Think about it this way – if two homes have the exact same furniture, they will look pretty similar, right? What can you change about that room? The small decor, the layout (obviously), and the paint colors. The thing that will change the room the most is the colors, in my opinion. Go neutral, or go wild with them — whatever you choose will make it your own and it will definitely show your sense of style.
Textures
Another great way to make your home stylish is to add textures throughout the room. Roll out a rug, add in plants, install curtains or plantation shutters, maybe think about adding in some textured wallpaper, play with natural fibers, add in baskets, or think about chunky throws. There are so many ways to add in textures throughout the rooms in your home – get creative with it
Drapery
Curtains and draperies are chameleons. They work hard at blocking light and sound, heat and cold. They’re also extraordinarily decorative and add enormous personality to a room. What’s the difference between curtains and draperies — and does it even matter? Traditionally, windows were treated to three types of curtains: a sash curtain (to filter light), a draw curtain (to block out light), and an over-drapery (which was purely decorative and is now just called a drapery). In very formal rooms (with sufficiently high ceilings), all of this was topped with a cornice or valance (to hide the hardware). This traditional treatment carries on today in period or very formal or dressy rooms. The modern tendency is to think of curtains as sash curtains (often unlined and in a variety of lengths), and draperies (never drapes) as those that draw, completely closing off the window. Another modern move is to drape and swag fabric loosely over a decorative rod or pole, in a nod to conventional valances and swags. Often, swags serve no function, but earn their keep by looking dramatic. Adding curtains or drapery can enhance your room, keep the warmth in, and make it feel quite a bit more cozy, too, and the great thing about them is that no matter what your style preferences are, you can find something that fits your likes and needs.
It’s The Bones of The Home That Matter
Last but not least, it’s the bones of your home that matter the most. Some of us really cannot afford to completely redo their home and look for new pieces to add to your home to style it up. Or, maybe you just do not care to do so. Either way, if this sounds like you, just know that it’s about the actual home and what is inside of the home (ie. the laughter, the love, the people) that matter the most. When you are looking for a home with your real estate agent, make sure you find one that has good bones – one that will stand the test of time. If you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to this, ask your agent! For example, Jax Historic Realty knows Jacksonville like the back of his hand – especially when it comes to Murray Hills homes for sale. He is the best of Zillow realtor, specializing in Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods. He enjoys sharing his wealth of knowledge with clients, he knows how to accurately price homes, and can walk you throughout the entire home buying or selling process with ease. Erin, who prides himself on close attention to detail and quick response to clients, has put together a support team of contractors and other professionals who help transactions go smoothly. He, or your real estate agent, can guide you through the process, helping you find a house of your own with GREAT bones.
There you have it – just a few tips to help you bring style into your home. Do you have any other additional tips?!