Trends come and go, which is why it is so vital to design with basics in mind. It’s very similar to a capsule wardrobe, just instead of your staple sweaters and jeans, you now have your basic pillow inserts and bed linens. These core home decor elements allow you the flexibility to follow suit with some of the trends without breaking the bank and all the while still incorporating your favorite classic pieces.
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How do you design with basics?
As I mentioned, home basics are quite similar to the staple pieces in a capsule wardrobe. These will be the core elements that never truly go out of style and can mix and match with any trend or style. For instance, a white duvet will work with practically any other color or trend that comes in. Whether you have a colorful accent wall or a neutral space, the white bed linens lend perfectly to any style.
I find it extremely important to make sure the core of your decorations are basics. This way your home remains timeless and it doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg to update it with the latest and greatest design trends. Follow along to discover how to create a versatile home with the following staple home decor basics.
Pillow Inserts
Throw pillows, especially quality ones, are extraordinarily expensive. I’m embarrassed to say that I’ve even shelled out close to $200 for two smaller ones. Then they go out of style or don’t match your aesthetic and you feel like you’ve wasted your money on something you thought was a quality purchase. Instead of chasing down the perfect throw pillow, opt for finding quality pillow inserts.
Do a little home recon to decide which pillow sizes you need. You can never go wrong with 24″x24″, 22″x22″, or 18″x18″. These are all fairly common pillow sizes that you can use in either your bedroom or a living room. I also recommend at least a couple of smaller lumbar ones to help finish off any arrangement on your couch or bed.
I also always recommend sizing up one from the size of your pillow cover for a fuller look. Then you can find time to search for the proper pillow cover combination for your space.
White Bedding
One thing that will never go out of style is quality white bedding. I know white linens can be intimidating as you don’t want to ruin them, but as easily as they get dirty you can clean them. That’s why hotels always have white linens. They can easily throw them in hot water with bleach and get out almost any stain or dirt.
Besides being easier to clean, a white comforter or duvet also provides the perfect touch to any space. Whether you want a neutral room or a colorful accent wall with bright-colored throw pillows, white linens will make the perfect backdrop for both. It’s extremely versatile and will never truly go out of style.
A Timeless Rug
Think of a good rug as those expensive, yet classic heels that can go with any outfit. They are your classic stiletto that will never go out of style. Just like with heels, this won’t apply to all rugs. Some of them will be far too trendy or be made of the wrong material, regardless, you will want to find that classic rug that can withstand the test of time.
Here’s what you will want to avoid:
- Large geometric shapes and patterns
- Overly shaggy rugs
- Cheap, non-quality rugs
Instead, you will want to find classic rugs that have already proven to be timeless in interior design. Persian rugs, wool or woven rugs, and any quality rug with a traditional pattern are the perfect option when looking for a rug to withstand the test of time. More muted or neutral tones will also allow you to have some versatility with changing colors and trends, but don’t discount a more colorful Persian rug either!
A Classic Mirror
Lastly, you always need to top your outfit off with a few accessories. Mirrors are the accessories of your home. You need a few classical jewelry pieces such as earrings, rings, and necklaces that you can always wear with any outfit. For me, my classic piece is my grandmother’s gold necklace.
The necklace is a unique gold pendant with a crescent moon and several small diamonds within it. Even with its unique design, I can still wear it with any outfit and layer it under any other necklace. That’s exactly what you want to find in your mirror.
A good mirror is a great example of how to design with basics. Find a mirror (or two) with a unique frame and design that you absolutely love. This will help you find a classical piece that will last throughout the changing design trends.
