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Published on March 28, 2008

Practically however, how many of us can afford to do this? More importantly, what does that say about our choices when it comes to home furnishings?

Yes, we have all made mistakes when it comes to choosing our own style.  And we might make mistakes again.

However, I am here to offer some help in avoiding some bad decisions.

It is always fun to think that we are trendy and cool. However, blindly following trends in home furnishings will only lead to disappointment.

Furniture has basically been the same shape and proportion for years.  It works. Choosing poorly will only be a very bad investment and lead you down the wrong path to spending more while trying to get it right.

Choose less but choose better.  Think carefully when buying:

n A timeless sofa with an appropriate choice of a time-tested fabric or leather.

n A bed that is well built

n A top-of-the-line mattress. You spend nearly one-third of your life on it.

n The best cotton sheets that you can afford. Beware, thread count was devised by marketers (people like me) to sell more sheets at higher prices.

n Real art does not have to be expensive.  Just keep it real.

n Choose accessories that mean something to you. Collect accessories on your travels and buy something that is meaningful to you.

n Good frames for your family photos. A few family photos are always good, but a home gallery is too much.

True style comes from within.  It is the culmination of years of trying to get it right.

Having style does not always mean following fashion, but it does mean being comfortable in your surroundings, your home and your life.

The Nation