Mixing Up a Great Decorating Style
I’ve grown increasingly appreciative of design over the years. As I discover new influences and ideas, my own style evolves. These days my aesthetic resists a single label — it’s not strictly cottage, traditional, modern, French, English or American. I even hesitate to call it “blogger style.”
There’s a liberating quality to not being able to pigeonhole your style — to avoid feeling boxed in by expectations.
What I admire most is a look that blends the unexpected: layers of pattern, texture and eras that sit together comfortably, expressing personality instead of predictability. That doesn’t mean a room must be wildly eclectic or loud; sometimes subtle mixes deliver the most sophisticated results.
I prefer collecting interesting, unique pieces and letting them coexist naturally rather than forcing a room to match a trend or look “designed.” A relaxed mix can radiate personal style even when you can’t precisely name the influences at play.
Still, that undefinable style can feel intimidating.
If you can’t describe it, how do you recreate it? It feels a bit like traveling without a map.
Trends can feel reassuring because we see them everywhere; they become familiar. That familiarity can tempt us to choose what’s popular rather than what truly reflects our taste.
Do you ever select something because you know others will like it — because it’s trending on Pinterest or blogland — even if it doesn’t reflect your personal style?
Worth thinking about.
Can we be brave enough to choose what we genuinely love, even if it’s not widely praised or expected?
That question matters especially for people who share their spaces online, like bloggers, who put personal style in front of an audience.
Recently I visited West Elm to see a fall collection inspired by South African artisans. The handcrafted pieces reinforced for me how distinctive and beautiful a personally curated style can be.
It’s easy to fall into a style rut if you only look locally or follow the same sources everyone else does. Travel and exposure to other cultures open you up to new color palettes, forms and craftsmanship that can refresh your approach.
Why do some people seem to express abundant personal style while others blend into the crowd? It’s not always obvious how to find and embrace what you love amid so many expectations and trends. But if you enjoy creativity, discovering your own voice is part of the journey.
So, without further ado, here are five practical tips to mix together an unexpectedly great style:
1. Go Global.
To create a distinct, personal look, include at least one piece from another country. Even better, collect items from different regions. Exploring global art and decor broadens your palette of ideas and helps your home reflect a wider range of influences. Step outside local trends occasionally and see what inspires you elsewhere — your style will benefit.
I appreciate that retailers sometimes partner with global artisans, making it easier to bring unique, handcrafted elements into our homes.
2. Mix Classic and Modern.
Pairing classic pieces with modern ones creates depth and character. If your home leans modern, introduce an antique or traditional item for contrast. If your house is very traditional, add a few contemporary elements to reinterpret that look. Don’t discard quality in the name of change — combine painted and natural wood finishes or layer old and new for a more dimensional, interesting space.
3. Keep It Fresh.
If you’re drawn to a popular pattern or trend, look for alternatives that echo that feel without copying it exactly. Choosing something slightly different can help your style endure beyond the moment. Classics remain timeless, but even a classic can be refreshed with a new color, scale, or application. Try textures and layered combinations you wouldn’t normally pick to create a fresh, personal interpretation.
4. Take a Risk.
Choose something a bit unexpected that you truly love. Use an object in a new way or select a fabric, color or piece that others might consider risky — too bold, too light, too dark or impractical. When you commit to what you love and live with it confidently, your home gains personality and authenticity.
5. Be Bold.
Playing it safe yields a quiet, forgettable room. Strategic bold choices — a dramatic pendant light, a large-scale pattern on a chair, a brightly colored sofa or an oversized mirror — announce confidence and make a statement. Balance is important, but a few bold elements can transform a space and communicate your taste without apology.