I was shopping with a client for furniture recently and thinking about the last time I made a similar purchase. I was surprised to realize the last big-ticket item I purchased was my sofa, which I bought five years ago! Even though I work as an interior designer (as well as a professional organizer), I rarely buy new home furnishings. I considered this and realized the reason why is because of one simple fact: I ignore the trends in home decor.
I’ve written before about the fact that I’ve furnished my home with mostly vintage items. While mid-century modern design is having a moment currently, I fell in love with it a long time ago and have a number of pieces that I’ve moved from home to home over the last 15 years. I still love them as much as the day I brought them home (with much difficulty, I might add - they are HEAVY).
The reason why I haven’t gotten sick of my furniture is because it isn’t trendy. Even though I purchased much of it a long time ago, none of it screams 2004. It’s not in style currently, but it’s not exactly out of style, either. The things I own make me happy when I look at them and use them; they spark joy, as Marie Kondo would say. And for me, that’s more important than living in a home that might be featured on HGTV.
If you want to furnish your home in a way that will stand the test of time, try to focus on what you love, instead of what’s currently in style. If you’re unsure of your personal style, this post might help. Here are some other ways to ignore the trends and create a space you love:
Decorate with your favorite colors - Most people choose neutrals for their upholstered furniture to be safe, but colors tend to age better than the latest shade of tan, beige, or gray.
Decorate with your favorite styles - If the farmhouse style that’s everywhere right now doesn’t appeal to you, go with something else that does!
Decorate with things that have personal meaning - Use items that you’ve inherited or things from your travels. Let your home tell the story of your life.
Avoiding trendy purchases not only saves you money in the long run, it helps you create a home that you will enjoy today and in years to come.
If you found these tips helpful be sure to subscribe to the Pretty Neat weekly email! You'll get a short and sweet message each week with my best advice for a more beautiful and functional home. Click here to sign up, and you'll also receive my FREE guide: How to Get Rid of Stuff!
Make it fab!
Carrie