Inspirations

Decorating for Dummies

Mirror, Mirror

As promised, here are some of our favorite smart but easy decorating tips that Woman’s Day included as a handy pull-out in their 75th anniversary issue (see last week’s post on timesaving tips for more!)  We love that the first tip appeared in the January issue in 1938 and it’s as valid today as it was then: Place a decorative mirror so it reflects a window to provide the illusion of space as well as a pleasing picture.  Others include…

Books Upon Books

#23 – Books are great for filling up empty spots.  Stand or stack them on shelves, tables and the mantel.

Soothing Neutrals

#37 – Neutral doesn’t have to mean “beige.”  Try pale shades or blue, green or pink for a hint of color that won’t fight with your furnishings.

Buds and Blossoms

#61 – If you like fresh flowers but bouquets are too costly, buy (or pick!) just three or four flowers and arrange them in small-necked vases.

Pillow Play

#31 – If you’re shy about using bold colors, use them as a lively accent in pillows.

Color, Scale and Design

#42 – Mixed patterns should share at least one of the elements: color, scale or design.

What are some of your favorite decorating tips?  We’d love to hear!  Happy fall to all.

Photos via Pinterest

 

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10 Comments

  • Reply pve September 21, 2012 at 2:41 am

    I think often leaving something out can lighten a space. Just like Chanel said, Remove one accessory before you leave. I think simplification appeals to me….less is more. Not so easy in this world of more…stuff~
    pve

  • Reply theenchantedhome September 21, 2012 at 6:55 am

    All great tips..yes agree on the mirror idea and especially the power of books and how easy they are to decorate with. Good practical information!

  • Reply diane September 21, 2012 at 9:42 am

    My favorite is always add a touch of black….in a lampshade, picture frame, upholstery welting etc. Love the flowers gathered in small vases…will have to try that

  • Reply Diana September 21, 2012 at 9:44 am

    ONe of our favorite tips is to have a statement piece somewhere in the room. This might be a small piece of artwork, an heirloom rug or even a splendid piece of hardware (obviously our favorite) that might catch someone’s eye. Enjoyed your article.

  • Reply Jeanne McKay Hartmann September 21, 2012 at 9:47 am

    All great tips – and so current. My tip? Make sure to have a few objects that are unique and special to you – something picked up on a trip or the flea market- so that your home reflects your personality.
    Happy Friday! XO

  • Reply StyleLinx September 21, 2012 at 11:15 am

    Great tips! …you know I love the books any which way. Sometimes I use them to give height for table scaping. I have that iridescent blue pillow in the first photo sitting on my white sofa–a splurge from ABC carpet and home– It makes the whole room pop!

  • Reply Stephanie @ La Dolce Vita September 21, 2012 at 3:26 pm

    Some great tips! Mine is to keep it personal – you don’t want to buy accessories just because they work together. Too hotel-decorating for me. Make sure the space reflects you.

  • Reply pretty pink tulips September 21, 2012 at 4:05 pm

    I am just happy to learn that I do almost all of the tips above. I’m all about setting the mood with flowers, candles and music!

    Happy Fall!!!
    xoxo Elizabeth

  • Reply stitchfork September 23, 2012 at 5:21 pm

    Ha – I own a number of the dummies books on various topics! Great tips!
    xo Cathy

  • Reply the zhush September 24, 2012 at 7:25 am

    Great tips, I like the idea of using odd numbers for almost anything…pillows, books, vignettes etc.:)

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