I see a lot of articles on home decor talking about trends to avoid.  Much like impulsive tattoos on your derriere, some trends just don’t stand the test of time.  Now, I’m a firm believer that if you love it – do it!  It’s YOUR home, and you are the one that has to live in it, so you might as well enjoy it.  But as with anything, trends are like tides….they come and they go.  If you don’t want to re-decorate regularly, it’s worth looking for timeless pieces that will carry you through the ebbs and flows.

Trend 1: Farmhouse Chic

Farmhouse has enjoyed a nice long run (and if you still love it, that’s great!) – but it’s on the wane.  Even “modern farmhouse” doesn’t seem to be holding.  As I’ve said before, what farmhouse style lacks in many cases is color; simply adding this missing element can really remove a lot of the “dated” feel of farmhouse.  PRO TIP: One of the most enduring and recognizable facets of farmhouse decor is the oversize signs packed with wording.  Update them with pretty wallpaper, a fun poster or just a splashy coat of paint for a whole new (non-farmy) look!

Trend 2: All White…Everywhere

White on white on white decor certainly had a moment. And if you have (or bought!) a house with the expensive pieces (cabinetry, tile, flooring, countertops, etc) that are white, it can feel like you are stuck.  Fortunately, you can really bring in a lot of color, pattern and texture with paint, rugs, art, and accessories!  PRO TIP: White kitchens can be especially difficult (and costly) to change.  Bring in color with cookbooks, trays and art pieces against the backsplash (that will help cover some of what is probably white subway tile!) and add squares of paint or wallpaper to the ends of the cabinets.  Instant color!

Trend 3: Fast Furniture

I’m only going to touch on this one lightly as I plan on taking a more in-depth look in a subsequent blog post.  But here is the thing – according to the EPA in 2018 (pre-pandemic, mind you) Americans discarded over 12 million tons of furniture and furnishings.  That is a shocking quantity of items that were created cheaply overseas, and intended only to be used for a short time.  (By contrast, in 1968 Americans discarded only 2.5 million tons of furniture and furnishings.)  It’s completely shocking.  The reality is fast furniture doesn’t last for two reasons – first, it lacks the quality and durability required to withstand daily life, and two it’s almost always trendy pieces that you will tire of quickly.  PRO TIP: I always like to shop vintage and second-hand for furniture; you can get great quality pieces at an affordable price!