If you’ve ever stood in a home decor aisle wondering what truly fits your space, you’re not alone. The best home decor ideas aren’t about trends; they’re about finding pieces that feel like home—pieces that will stand the test of time in both function and sentiment.
Home decor can be something that makes or breaks a space. However, when you are seeking authentic style home decorating becomes a fun process.
In this post we will explore home decor ideas that will stand the test of time in your life (and survive almost any move you make and not get the ax). Honing in on your authentic style is not only fulfilling, it saves time and money.
Authentic Style
Authenticity: it can feel like a trendy word, but it is a timeless principle to adhere to. Not only is it a valuable standard to live, but can also be used in your home decorating ideas.
When your space is authentic to who you are and your style, a deep and soul-satisfying experience occurs. A bit melodramatic, but absolutely true.
I used to think that if I had more money I could buy the things I really loved and love my space more. But the reality was that I wasn’t tapping into who I was to find the authentic style I craved.
Deep down I hated trends and only wanted to invest in home decor that “felt like me” and “made me happy”. If you are anything like me, you have had this same internal struggle and conversation with yourself.
It was when I tapped into my early fond memories of decorating that I was able to find joy in a lot of decor ideas and items I already had.
Using What You Have
Once I realized I was already in possession of things I truly love I was able to decorate with more confidence and satisfaction. Anytime I start scheming about re-vamping a space in my home, my first thoughts are immediately to take inventory of what I already own and how it can cunningly be used to serve my vision.
Like most systems this is not a perfect one, but is a fantastic place to start. Without becoming a hoarder, I have managed to keep items around that have served many uses and function in our home over the years, while also fitting into my authentic style framework.
For instance, I have an old kitchen cart. I purchased this vintage piece many years ago and it has served as a printer stand, a coffee cart, an island in our camper and most recently it has circled back around to our printer stand. It is a very nondescript piece, but sturdy and now holds fond memories of the different spaces it has lived and functioned in.
This vintage kitchen cart fits in with my authentic style, because I have honed in on what that style is. It checks my dusty and rusty box (also known as vintage), my functions-as-many-things box, and my good memories box.
This is just one example of a decor item that I have held onto over the years that fulfills my desire to stay true to my style and functions well in my space.
Here are a few questions I ask myself when it comes to finding items in my home that reflect my authentic style:
- Do I LOVE this item?
- Will I LOVE this item in 1,2, or 10 years?
- Will this item serve me well?
- Does it have good sentimental value? (some things we own have a negative sentiment)
- Can I easily replace it?
Try coming up with a list of your own that helps you make quick decisions when it comes to honing in on your authentic style with items you already own.
DIY Home Decor Ideas
When it comes to home decor ideas and using what you already have, a DIY project is just what the doctor ordered. Upcycling, recycling, repurposing and reinventing is a favorite past-time of mine.
While this usually requires a time investment, there is something so deeply satisfying about taking something I already own and giving it new purpose. Whether it is recovering old books with simple craft paper, filling an old frame with delightful scrapbook paper, or recovering an old footstool with vintage fabric, a DIY project can help you in more ways than one.
DIY projects are a great way to personalize your space without breaking the bank. Here are a few home decor ideas that can refresh your home in an afternoon.
- Using scrap of wallpaper or scrapbook paper in an empty frame
- Paint a watercolor and frame it (this is a really fun and relaxing way to DIY and you don’t have to be an artist)
- Make a simple seasonal wreath or arrangement from dried flowers
- Recover hardback books with wrapping paper, scrapbook paper or even wallpaper
- Create a table scape with seasonal items or potted plants and candles (keep it a low profile, so you can still visit at mealtime)
- Rearrange your living room furniture (this is free and can really change the feel of the entire home)
- Refresh your kitchen with by cleaning up items off the countertops and add a green plant or two
Each of these DIY ideas can easily be accomplished and with little or no money to spend. These low risk projects bring quick change to a space and let you try out your new authentic style framework. It doesn’t have to be a special occasion. It can just be a Tuesday afternoon. Just remember to keep it simple and enjoy the process.
Purchasing New Items
If you are eager to try out your new authentic style framework in a retail setting, try using this simple guidelines for purchasing “new” items. Start with the first 3 questions (mentioned above) and then ask these as well:
- Does it remind me of something from my past?
- What purpose will it serve in my home?
- Will it fit well into my home as my home evolves?
- Is it versatile and functional?
When it comes to making an investment in new home decor items one of my main goals is to invest in something that I want to have for a long time. I don’t want the trendiest item on the market, I want the piece that brings me the most fulfillment and feels the most authentic to me and my family.
Sometimes this means I do not find what I am looking for very quickly. I have learned to be patient over the years in order to only invest pieces that will serve me well.
That is not to say that I haven’t made some hasty decisions, but this framework has given me the foundation I needed to build the home decor inventory I envisioned and last for years to come.
Home Decor Style is a Journey
Home decor ideas don’t have to be overwhelming. Start by identifying what already works, experiment with small DIY projects, and invest in pieces that truly speak to you. Your home should feel like you—not a showroom
Authentic style takes time and intentional work, but investing in your home is always a worthy cause. Give yourself space and grace as you start building your framework.
Your home should be a reflection of you, not a catalog. Start small—rediscover a piece you love, embrace your memories, and build a space that feels like home. What are some pieces that you love in your current home decor? Share in the comments below. If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask.
