How-To Determine Your Design Style

Before you can have the home of your dreams, you need to know your style preferences. In my opinion, Domino, The Book of Decorating has the best advice:

• Cast a Wide Net in looking for ideas. Magazine and books- decorating and otherwise- are natural starting posting, but movies, art, fashion, nature and travel are also rich resources. Don't think about it too much- just grab what you love: Tear out or copy pages, save images from the Internet, gather photos and post cards (...) collect paint chips from the hardware store...
• Start a File of these favorite things. Depending on how you like to organize, you can use a basket, an accordion folder, a bulletin board or a binder...
• Look for Themes in the images you've compiled. After you've spent some time amassing, take stock. Have you picked several things that feature the same yellow? Lots of gilding? African-esque patterns?
  

Another great way to determine your style is to take some of the online style quizzes out there. I love these quizzes, because most of the time after they give the results, they link you to example rooms that fit your sense of style. Thanks to my SIL, here are some of my favorites:

HomeGoods Style Scope
I'm an "Elegant Classic"
You value creativity. You are stylish and fun loving, and can be an inspiration to others. You have a natural sense of drama, and you know you have to be willing to take risks—whether with colors, finishes, furniture choices, or ideas—for your home to stand out. Your home can be happy and lively and the place all of your friends want to be.

Ethan Allen- What's Your Style?
I'm "Glamour"
Glamour is the penthouse with a view, the Old Hollywood mansion, the home of the connoisseur. A knowing marriage of fashion with sumptuous comfort. A fearless blending of Art Déco, Chippendale, and Modern. Glamour is shamelessly smart, elegant, and timeless.

iVillage- What Does Your Home Say About You?

I'm an "Artisan"

You are a romantic who loves anything handmade. For you, the making of a home is a journey. It's a creative process that's never quite finished. Think of your home as a canvas telling a story about you, your family and the experiences you have had.

Once you have a good sense of the things you like, it's time to shop. You are more likely to obtain a furniture piece you will always love if you prepare before purchasing.

What is your decor style?

Come back tomorrow for my final segment on the Utah Valley Parade of Homes!