The Nest – Buying a Home, Money Advice, Decorating Ideas, Easy Recipes

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how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Buy a Duvet Cover

Step 1: Enter store. Step 2: Purchase duvet cover. Right? Almost. Here are expert tips on how to make it just about that easy.

Photo: Mark Lund

Switching up your duvet cover is the fastest way to give your bedroom a makeover. So, where do you start? Well, we went straight to the pros -- Susan Petersen, product manager at Crate & Barrel and Wendy Thayer, public relations manager at Garnet Hill -- for advice.

Home in on Your Style
Some people assume you have to be really careful with the color or the pattern, but the trick is sticking to a feeling that works with the rest of your room, not so much a specific color or pattern. You might be surprised how well a floral duvet cover goes with your striped sheets or geometric rug.

Know the Size
Sounds obvious, but double-check your filler to make sure its queen or full, or if you happened to have bought an extra long. There should be a little bit of room around all sides, but you don’t want too much or the middle will be puffy and the sides will fall flat.

Choose Your Fabric
For a smooth feel next to your skin, choose sateen, jersey knit, or flannel. For a crisp, colorful alternative to dress up your room, choose percale or linen.

Now that you've got your duvet cover, find out how to buy sheets and how to buy pillows.

-- Leticia Frazao