Developing Your Personal Style

Remember those avocado green refrigerators? It's hard to believe, but they were once all the rage. Now, those drab green appliances stand as an iconic symbol of a fad gone bad. They prove that what starts as a ?must have? style in home d'cor often turns into a decorating embarrassment.

D'cor is constantly evolving. That's what makes it so exciting. However, we never want to follow trends so closely that we become home fashion victims. Each month, I like to use this newsletter to update you on the latest in interior design. However, this month, I'd like to focus on developing your own personal style. By discovering and honoring your unique taste, you'll be able to create a home that looks both up-to-date and classic at the same time.

Imagine your ideal room. Is it filled with warm and cozy plaids or cool and spa-like neutrals? Are the floors slick wood or soft carpet? Now think about how each room in your home makes you feel. If it puts a smile on your face, you've already mastered your personal style. If not, it's time to make your real space more like your ideal space. Really concentrate on what colors, textures, and furniture shapes appeal most to you.

Keep trends in perspective. In my limited spare time, I love to relax with a home and garden magazine. I often find inspiration in the sheer perfection of the photographed rooms. Staying on top of the latest trends in home d'cor is not only my passion ? it's my job. Still, sometimes you need to know when to say, ?Enough is enough.? For instance, if you love understated colors, resist the urge to paint your bedroom bright yellow just because a magazine editor tells you it is the hot new color.

Concentrate on quality, not quantity. Quality never goes out of style. Need proof? Handmade Persian rugs, Waterford crystal, and rustic, Stickley mission-style chairs have looked great in ?trendy? homes for decades. When you absolutely must have the latest fad, buy a few fun accessories. For major purchases, stick to classics that reflect your personal style.

Be confident in your choices. We're not talking life and death here. Remember, interior design is supposed to be fun. If you really love something, experiment with it. You're bound to make some mistakes along the way. That's part of learning what you really want and what will work for you.

Now, back to the avocado refrigerators. Before we are too hard on people who bought them the first time around, I need to warn you. Some industry experts say ?retro? colors are coming back. Avocado could be the new stainless steel! My advice: stay strong and remember your personal style.

Ask J.West

Dear J. West,

I'm looking for a high impact, focal point for my formal living room, but nothing seems to suit me. I want the decor to be unique but classic. Thanks, Sara V.

Dear Sara,

I think I have just the thing for you.

Cut out, mat, and frame 20 pages of a book featuring botanical illustrations or architectural sketches. Mount them on a single wall to achieve the collective impact of one large work of art. Take your time finding the perfect book. In order to achieve a harmonious affect, the book must have enough beautiful illustrations that will compliment your preferred color scheme. While you can sometimes find some amazing books at second hand stores, new books can work out just as well. You'll be amazed at the beautiful art books you can find at most large book stores.