Make a Plan

Let's face it, getting new furniture is fun! But not so much fun that you want to do it again every year. To make sure you're choosing pieces that will look great in your home for a good long time, it's important to put some thought into what you really want. For example, what's your decorating style? What colors appeal to you? Will the finished look be welcoming, balanced and attractive? Below is a guideline for selecting furniture that will meet all your requirements and keep you comfortable for years to come.

Know Your Personal Style

Although everyone's personal taste is unique, most decorating schemes seem to revolve around one of just a few broad styles. Three of the most popular styles today are traditional, casual/contemporary and country/cottage, with countless variations of each. Here are a few tips to help distinguish each basic style.

Traditional Style

Overall feeling of grace and elegance . Classic design elements that stay in style forever. Influences are from the French countryside, 18th-century England, Italy or the Far East. Features warm woods, rich colors, straight lines and gentle curves. Fabrics may be solids or multicolored florals in opulent fibers such as brocades or damasks, accented with details such as fringes, buttons or pleats.

Casual/Contemporary Style

Overall feeling of warm, inviting comfort . Comfortable, oversized and overstuffed, with simple details. Influences range from sparse urban lofts to comfy coffee-house style to hip art-deco. Features all shades of woods, neutral palettes and occasional colorful accents. Fabrics in a casual room tend to be primarily neutral and textured (such as canvas, microfiber or denim) with a few bolder, darker-colored accents.

Country / Cottage Style

Overall feeling of being a personal retreat from the world . A mixture of old and new that reflects your personal interests. Influences come from one's own life, often marked by vintage items, family mementos or small collections. Features rustic or distressed woods and metals, cool palettes and cheery accents. Fabrics are an intentional mix of solids, patterns, textures and smooth surfaces for ultimate comfort; combine florals, stripes and solids from the same color "temperature".

Find out more, and shop online for quality furniture at JCPenney.com