Styling Your Home
Create a space that tells your story—layer by layer, piece by piece
I had a bunch of you ask if I’d consider teaching some of my go-to tricks and tips on how to style a room. Sure thing, I’m happy to do that! First, let me say that styling your home isn't about following strict rules or chasing trends, it can be, but that’s not how I style rooms. To me, it's about telling your story through the things you love and getting in touch with the senses because that’s where the magic really is… When you can infuse mood and vibes into a space, oh la la!
Whether you’re just settling into a new space or refreshing a room that feels a little boring or like yesterday’s version of you, styling is your chance to play, experiment, and express yourself so by all means, DO THOSE THINGS and enjoy the process.
I thought that today I’d walk you through how to style your home in a way that feels effortless (doesn’t look “styled”), joyful, and totally you. Let’s dig right in.
Start with a Vibe, Lead with a Mood
Before you move a single vase or pull out the throw pillows for Spring, ask yourself: How do I want this room to feel?
Cozy? Bright? Energizing? Calm? Playful? Stylish? Eclectic? That mood or vibe becomes your north star, and everything else, from color choices to furniture placement, will revolve around that intention.
Try this:
Start a mood board (Pinterest or something on your wall at home) and gather inspiration but only include things that fit the vibe you’re going for. Start with a keyword that will embody the space like Cozy Office or Calm Seaside Guest Bath. Include colors, fabrics, art, patterns, furniture styles, even fashion or travel photos that bring the vibe together.
Layer, Layer, Layer
Great style doesn’t happen all at once, it’s layered over time. Think of your home like an outfit: you start with the basics, then build on with texture, pattern, and personality.
Here’s a simple layering formula to try:
Foundation: Rugs, curtains, large furniture pieces
Mid-layer: Lighting, art, mirrors, bookshelves
Top layer: Cushions, throws, vases, candles, decorative objects
Each layer adds depth and dimension. A room without layers can feel flat or unfinished, but one with the right balance feels alive and welcoming.
Mix Old and New
There’s magic in contrast. A pure white linen pendant suspected over a wooden, 18th century French farmhouse dining table, oh yes please. Add in some vintage Italian fiberglass tulip chairs, a Ferm Living Piece rug, and clay-based wall paint in Amsterdam by We Are Wow Makers, and you have the foundation of a great dining room loaded with style already.
Mixing styles, eras, and finishes brings soul and character to your home.
Don’t be afraid to pair:
Flea market finds with new pieces from your favorite brands
Family heirlooms with IKEA basics
Handmade ceramics with polished marble
It’s this unexpected mix that makes a space feel personal, not like a showroom.
Style in Vignettes
Instead of thinking of the whole room at once, try styling little moments or mini stories throughout your space. A vignette could be:
A console table with a lamp, a stack of books, and a framed photo
A bedside table with a carafe, a candle, and a small tray for jewelry
A windowsill with plants and pretty ceramics
These mini-scenes add charm and invite the eye to wander.
Tip: Play with height, texture, and color. Group in odd numbers (3 or 5) and always leave a little breathing room.
Let Color Follow The Mood
Color is powerful—it can lift your mood, ground a space, or spark creativity. Whether you love soft neutrals, bold brights, or deep moody tones, use color with intention.
If you’re unsure where to begin, pull your palette from something you love: a scarf, a painting, a favorite café. Then build out your room with tones that complement and contrast. You can even make a color mood board to guide your way.
Color styling tip: Choose 3–5 core colors for a space—one main, one secondary, and a few accents—and sprinkle them throughout the room for cohesion. Or, if you’re going mostly beige and cream, add in some browns or black for contrast.
Make It Yours
The most beautiful rooms have a little bit of you in every corner. Display your books, your travel souvenirs, your art… Even if it’s a postcard you love. Homes should be lived in, layered with meaning, and filled with the things that light you up, not a museum or something that looks clipped from the pages of a catalog.
Remember, there’s no rush. Style evolves. Let your home grow with you.
Also, styling your home is not about perfection, it’s about connection. Take your time, trust your instincts, and most of all, have fun with it. Your home should feel like a warm hug at the end of the day.
Quick Styling Checklist
What feeling do I want to create?
Do I have a mood board or color palette to guide me?
Have I layered foundation, mid-layer, and top-layer pieces?
Are there small vignettes throughout the space?
Have I mixed old + new to add character?
Does this space reflect me?
Thanks for including my paint collab with we are wow makers
Yes, I totally agree with all the layers. They add so much personality, right?!