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Interior Styling Tips

Interior Styling Tips

Interior Styling 101

Interior Styling 101

“I am going to make everything around me beautiful," said every interior stylist ever (and Elsie De Wolfe).

First, without getting too tripped up on labels, we felt it was important to start by defining what interior styling even is. Interior styling is the art of decorating and arranging spaces in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It involves using various design elements we’ve covered (think color, texture, lighting, furniture, and accessories) to create a cohesive and attractive look within a given space. In short, interior styling is all about aesthetics and creating a space that feels just right. This would also explain why all of your favorite magazine cutouts make you swoon — they all have that *just right* feeling.

The goal of interior styling is to enhance a space's ambiance while reflecting the dweller's personality and style. So if you’re reading this with the goal of enhancing your own space, think about which pieces in your home feel the most like you. What brings you the most joy? Those are the things you’ll likely focus on while in styling mode.

First, without getting too tripped up on labels, we felt it was important to start by defining what interior styling even is. Interior styling is the art of decorating and arranging spaces in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It involves using various design elements we’ve covered (think color, texture, lighting, furniture, and accessories) to create a cohesive and attractive look within a given space. In short, interior styling is all about aesthetics and creating a space that feels just right. This would also explain why all of your favorite magazine cutouts make you swoon — they all have that *just right* feeling.

The goal of interior styling is to enhance a space's ambiance while reflecting the dweller's personality and style. So if you’re reading this with the goal of enhancing your own space, think about which pieces in your home feel the most like you. What brings you the most joy? Those are the things you’ll likely focus on while in styling mode.

“I am going to make everything around me beautiful," said every interior stylist ever (and Elsie De Wolfe).

First, without getting too tripped up on labels, we felt it was important to start by defining what interior styling even is. Interior styling is the art of decorating and arranging spaces in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It involves using various design elements we’ve covered (think color, texture, lighting, furniture, and accessories) to create a cohesive and attractive look within a given space. In short, interior styling is all about aesthetics and creating a space that feels just right. This would also explain why all of your favorite magazine cutouts make you swoon — they all have that *just right* feeling.

The goal of interior styling is to enhance a space's ambiance while reflecting the dweller's personality and style. So if you’re reading this with the goal of enhancing your own space, think about which pieces in your home feel the most like you. What brings you the most joy? Those are the things you’ll likely focus on while in styling mode.

First, without getting too tripped up on labels, we felt it was important to start by defining what interior styling even is. Interior styling is the art of decorating and arranging spaces in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It involves using various design elements we’ve covered (think color, texture, lighting, furniture, and accessories) to create a cohesive and attractive look within a given space. In short, interior styling is all about aesthetics and creating a space that feels just right. This would also explain why all of your favorite magazine cutouts make you swoon — they all have that *just right* feeling.

The goal of interior styling is to enhance a space's ambiance while reflecting the dweller's personality and style. So if you’re reading this with the goal of enhancing your own space, think about which pieces in your home feel the most like you. What brings you the most joy? Those are the things you’ll likely focus on while in styling mode.

Source: Tigger Hall Design
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Source: Helena Agusti
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Source: Sean A. Pritchard
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Source: Fredric Boukari
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Source: Tigger Hall Design
Source: Helena Agusti
Source: Sean A. Pritchard
Source: Fredric Boukari
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A QUICK REMINDER

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

A QUICK REMINDER

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

A QUICK REMINDER

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

A QUICK REMINDER

A QUICK REMINDER

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

A QUICK REMINDER

The worst enemy of creativity is self-doubt — so we’re here to (once again) remind you that you can embark on an interior styling journey. In fact, you already have. And there's no room for self-doubt here! 😉

Now, on with the show!

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Let’s talk about the five core elements related to interior styling!

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The purpose and functionality of a space should be the first thing to consider when styling interiors. Whether you’re styling for yourself or someone else makes no difference here! The design elements should then be selected to fit the intended use of the space to ensure everything is practical and fits like a glove. For example, if you’re styling an Airbnb for a magazine shoot, you can make bolder choices that might not work for someone who has kids and pets running around. Pssst... we're looking at you, all white furniture and expensive art.

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By now, you know that color is a powerful tool in design, and the same statement applies to interior styling. The right color palette can create a mood, evoke emotion, and tie together all the elements of a space. Choose colors that complement each other and create a cohesive look to really nail your design.

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Achieving balance and proportion in interior styling is very important. It means that the elements in the space are arranged in a way that is visually pleasing and harmonious (that’s code for delicious design). This can be achieved through symmetry, asymmetry, and scale. Without balance, the proportion will feel off, and vice versa. You need one as much as the other, like peanut butter and jelly (or whatever pairing you fancy). 

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Adding texture and pattern to a space can add depth and interest and make a plain ole space feel good. Different textures can create a tactile experience, while patterns can add visual interest and help tie together different elements of the space. Use both to achieve your dream space!

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Finally, and possibly most importantly, interior styling should reflect the personality and style of the person living there. We’re all unique individuals, so let the home reflect that! Adding personal touches, such as family photos or unique thrifted items, can make a space more inviting and homey. Nobody wants to be a carbon copy of someone else’s home. Create a space that feels like you.

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WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD INTERIOR STYLIST?

We’re not in the business of telling you what’s definitively good or bad, but we have a hunch that you mind find these characteristics helpful to harness as an aspiring an interior stylist.

Creativity: Without stating the obvious, interior styling is a creative field, so having a strong sense of creativity is essential. Thinking outside the box and creating unique and innovative design ideas is important for creating visually appealing spaces.

👀 Attention to detail: Interior stylists pay close attention to every element of a space, from the furniture and decor to the lighting and accessories, to ensure that everything is arranged in a visually pleasing and cohesive way. Pretend like you’re looking at everything with a magnifying glass — because you kind of are!

🤝 Adaptability: Interior styling projects can be unpredictable (even at home!), and plans can change quickly. Interior stylists have to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to pivot and adjust their design plans as needed. Channel that “go with the flow” mentality, or call your calm bestie to help you channel that energy.

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Eager to jump in, styling Jedi? Here are some helpful tips to get you started.

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Before you can start styling, you need to clear out all the junk that's cluttering up your space. Get rid of anything you don't need or love, and create a clean canvas to work with.

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Look for inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, your favorite Instagram accounts, or the Spoak Thingology feed. Figure out what styles and colors you're drawn to, and use that as a starting point for your design.

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Don't be afraid to mix and match styles and patterns. Combining different textures and colors can add interest and depth to a space.

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Mix up the scale of your decor elements. Use oversized art or furniture in a small space! Or small decor pieces on a large shelf! We don’t make the rules! You do! But this can create visual interest and keep things from looking too matchy-matchy.

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Layering your favorite items will create a cozy and inviting space. You can do this with throw pillows, blankets, and area rugs. And don't forget about lighting! Mix overhead lighting with lamps and candles for that warm and inviting glow we all know and love.

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The one “rule” we’ll always be sticklers about: You gotta have fun! Don't take this too seriously. Experiment with different ideas. Don't be afraid to try something new. It's your home, after all — make it reflect your personality and style!

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