Home   I   Publishers Message  I  Business Directory  I  Articles
Local Events
 I  Classifieds   I  Meet our Cover Artists   I  Advertising   I  Distribution   I  Subscribing

RISING WOMEN EXPERT ADVICE...

How can I keep up with decorating trends? I am always afraid of choosing something new for fear it goes out of style too soon.

There is no doubt that trends, whether in decorating or fashion or what have you, come and go as fast as the seasons. Trying to keep up with every change is impossible (who has that kind of time or money?), not to mention, totally unnecessary. Your home does not have to look as if it leapt directly from the pages of the latest decorating magazine to be in style. Decorating is about discovering your own style, and how you can incorporate a balance of the classics and the trends when expressing that style.

The best place to start is at the beginning. Just as with your wardrobe, choose the basics first, and build around that. A great pair of black pants can carry you for years. It’s the new top you choose to go with them that keeps you looking hip. The same rules apply to your home. If you choose a classic backdrop, and leave the trends to the accessories, it will be much easier to keep your home looking current and stylish.

In this case, a “basic” would be your furniture. Sofas, chairs, dining tables, etc., are generally big-ticket items, and not ones you want to replace every year or so. With this in mind, it may not be a great idea to buy a new couch in the latest hot colour of the season. You will probably have to live with that couch for many years, and the last thing you want is to be stuck with an expensive piece that screams it’s age. Instead of buying a couch in a chartreuse green, try a neutral shade of fabric or a classic brown leather. Add the hip colours to the room using pillows or throws, or by painting one feature wall. Accent the room with new lighting and some fun artwork. Suddenly, you’ve mixed-and-matched, and put together the perfect “outfit” without having to buy a whole new wardrobe.

The most important thing to remember is that, regardless of the trends, you have to like it. Just as you select clothing based on what looks good on you, always keep that same perspective in decorating whenever you feel you must choose between what’s “in” and what’s “you”.

 By Vicky Blaine of Inner Space Home Styling.

****
 
Rising Women Magazine
Calgary, Alberta   

Head Office: 403 228-7874   I   Toll Free: 1 877 418-7874
media@risingwomen.com