3 tips to avoid the trap of being a Boring Beige Betty

C’mon, we all know her. That one friend (or frenemy) who posts on social media from her meticulously clean living room that never has a pillow out place. The space is decorated well, it’s clean, it’s airy. There’s just one problem – EVERYTHING IS BEIGE!! The couch, the white-oak coffee table, the accents, the curtains. ALL. BEIGE. But that’s not the worst part. Not only does it look like an Apple store, but it’s BORING and looks like every other “minimalist living rooms” search result on Pinterest.

Now, I get it. I love Crate and Barrel and Pottery Barn just as much as any other millennial. And the neutral pillow section at HomeGoods?! Don’t threaten me with a good time! But here’s the thing, if you let your guard down, you too can become a Triple B and not even realize it. Here are 3 simple tips that will help you avoid this decorating trap.

1) Pick a pallet with 3-4 colors, one of which POPS.

One of my favorite color pallets right now is Beige, Oatmeal, White and Chocolate Brown. The first 3 colors are all in the same family and gives any space a serene feel. But adding a rich brown will make the space feel elevated.

Another of my favorite combos is beige, light brown and cognac. The gold undertone in cognac, paired with neutrals, gives a warm cozy feeling. Cognac is also very in right now. You can be more daring with a dark blue, emerald green, and cognac pallet, giving your space a sexy cigar lounge feel.

2) Use several different textures

Clients often don’t realize how big of an impact texture has on how a space looks. Adding velvet accent chairs, faux-mink pillows or cashmere/hand knitted throws can make your space feel curated yet approachable.

3) Art. Art. And More Art

As a designer, I only like my legs bare…not walls. The cool frame you snagged at that estate sale, HANG IT. That African mask you bought on your travels, HANG IT. That abstract art you painted yourself (a personal fav of mine to do), HANG IT! A Boring Beige Betty room serves as the perfect neutral backdrop to show off your favorite art.

Not that you’re equipped with 3 simple tips that will help you avoid being a 3-B, share this article with a friend who you think could use our help (but phrase it nicer than me).

Xoxo

D