Stay True to Yourself – A Guide to Finding Your Authentic Style

Design trends change so quickly that by the time you notice one, it’s already outdated. So, how do you discover your own unique and authentic style? After almost 20 years in the design industry, I’ve come up with a fun and easy method!

“Modern Eclectic” with the feeling “Sophisticated”

“Modern Neutral” with the feeling “Calm”

Step 1

The most important step. Ask Yourself: “How do I want my space to feel?”

Some examples would be:

Warm, sexy, light, dramatic, sophisticated, cozy, formal, classy, bright, fun, clean, muted, calm, vibrant, chic, elegant, moody, earthy, luxurious

Step 2

Pinpoint your interior design style

This is often the most difficult step. For this, we will use two style words. Try the following options:

Contemporary, modern,, transitional, eclectic, neutral, traditional, minimalist, art deco, classic, sparse, maximalist

We very rarely fall into just one design style. That’s why using two words is helpful.

For instance, you might love modern furniture, but don’t like how sparse modern spaces typically feel. So maybe your design style is “Modern Eclectic”.

“Transitional Minimal” with the feeling “Earthy”

“Contemporary Minimal” with the feeling “Luxurious” (or “Lux”)

Step 3

Use sites like Pinterest to find inspiration

Type in your design style (two words) and see what images come up. For example, type:

“Modern Eclectic Living Room” or “Transitional Minimal Dining Room”

This is a process. Tweak your key words as you go if you aren’t liking the results. Try to figure out what you don’t like, and use that as a way to fine tune your style.

Remember, how do these spaces make your feel? The feeling is the end goal.

“Traditional Eclectic” with the feeling “Warm”

“Transitional Minimal” with the feeling “Moody”

Step 4

Make these words your philosophy. Consider them every time you’re decorating your home.

You might really like something (especially if it’s trendy) but chances are, if it’s not your authentic design style you will get sick of it.

This isn’t an exact science, and the examples above are my interpretations. That’s why this process is so fun! Anything goes. The point is figuring out what makes you feel good in your space.

Hopefully, the end result is to invest in “forever” pieces that speak to you for years to come. Invest in the right pieces, and they will be loved forever.

What do you think your style words are? Let me know below!

Dara Tannenbaum Realtor®