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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 Marry Masculine and Feminine Styles

Photo: Mark Lund

This is one marriage that might be more difficult than the actual “I do” itself. Here are a few ways to get styles that fit both of your genders without going too far in either direction.

Don’t lean too far either way

For couples, the most important thing is not to embrace one style over the other. For example, don’t outfit your entire home in wood paneling, dark paints and leather club chairs. But, on the flip side, not everyone loves an entire home done in toile wallpaper and romantic furnishings.

Look for pieces you agree on

Balance is the key here, as are neutral spots in the house that balance the male and female energies in the home. If one of you has a strong objection to a piece, there’s a reason for it. And if both of you like something, definitely go for it -- it’ll help contribute to a less gender-specific environment.

Focus on the bedroom

The bedroom is one area that often leans especially toward the feminine side. Compromise with a clean, luxurious style in white or another neutral, or pick a pattern with a slightly bold detail or a simple stitch.

Change the cheap stuff

Keep furniture neutral and experiment with accessories. Buying furniture upholstery is expensive, while repainting walls or getting a new throw pillow or slipcover is a lot cheaper.

Nestpert: Grayson Handy, co-owner and creative director of Prudence Designs and Events and author of new book Flowers for the Home: Inspirations from the World Over.

Want more decor tricks?

Feng Shui for Couples

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Colorful Kitchen Accents Under $100

-- Paula Kashtan

See More: Decor Tricks , How to , Newlywed Central