Today, I’m sharing an easy decorating tip that you can try in your own home. It’s all about layering, a simple way to add interest to your space!
I had planned on doing a tour of our Dallas apartment shortly after moving in, but I quickly realized how over ambitious I was being. You’ll have to settle for a peek here and there at this point!
After living in a tiny NYC apartment for over three years, our new Texas space feels huge and a little empty. We could use a larger couch, a bigger desk, a table and chairs, a few bookcases, and more.
Of course, all of that costs money, something we don’t have a lot of after an expensive move. So in the meantime, I’m working with what we have to make our apartment feel more like home, and I wanted to share an easy decorating tip with you.
As I looked around my apartment the other day, I started thinking about layering. Layering is all about taking something simple and adding accessories to make it more interesting. Like displaying a pretty patterned blanket on the back of a plain grey couch.
The thing I love about layering is that you can usually use items you already own or purchase a few affordable accessories. So it’s either free or inexpensive … no big commitments to be made!
I thought I’d share a few ways you can try this easy decorating tip in your own home. For starters, instead of selecting matching pillows for your couch, try pairing pillows with coordinating colors or patterns like I did on my sofa.
It’s much more interesting than two matching pillows on opposite ends of the couch, right? When layering fabrics, look for a similar color to tie everything together, pair a small pattern with a larger pattern, select pillows of varying sizes and shapes, or throw out the rules and just have fun with it!
I added two pillows to my living room chair, too, and I love how the animal print pairs with the sequins. It’s a little unexpected and definitely fun!
Another way to introduce layering in your home is by adding trims or tassels. Having fun picking out and attaching trims to curtains, pillows, decorative blankets, or even lampshades. Add tassels to drawers or anything with a handle.
I love how this DIY Suede Tassel looks hanging from my favorite lamp.
Sadly, I broke the matching lamp (after our move!), and now this one is an orphan. We live in a loft, and it actually looks better having a single lamp next to a chair, rather than a pair bookending our couch. So maybe it was meant to be … at least that’s what I’m telling myself!
The other tassel is sitting next to the lamp until I find a home for it. The table the lamp sits on was a little short, so I added a stack of books under the lamp to raise it to the correct height.
Using books as a decorative accent is another easy decorating tip related to layering. Books add a pop of color, a little height, and they show off your interests, too.
We have a lot of coffee table and decorating books. Rather than hide them away in a bookcase that’s overflowing anyway, I have them neatly stacked throughout our apartment. I even added a few books under the lamps in our bedroom.
Sometimes, I’ll top the books with a decorative object like this adorable vintage brass elephant or a favorite candle.
Do you have any collections? Instead of spreading them throughout your home, which can make it appear cluttered, gather them together in one spot.
I have a small collection of bells from my mom that I like to display them on a bookshelf. In this apartment, I have them layered in front of my DIY Cigar Box Chalkboard that I made a few weeks ago … on top of a stack of books, of course!
I also like layering artwork. This can be trickier than pairing pillows or arranging books, but I love how it looks when done well.
My new apartment has soaring ceilings, so I propped a large photograph on top of a tall bookcase. Gradually, I started layering in other items, including a vintage globe, a decorative vase, and a small ceramic bird. It was missing something, but I couldn’t quite find the right thing!
One day, I came across the Vintage Number Sign I made a few years ago and propped it up there. It’s the perfect size, and I love how it looks.
Do you want to try layering in your own home? It really is a fun and affordable way to add character to your space. These tips should get you started.
Easy Decorating Tips for Layering Success:
- Pair down to avoid clutter. Layering sounds like you’re adding more, and while that’s technically true, it’s not about cluttering up your space. Be intentional about what you add and remove the rest.
- Introduce contrasting textures and patterns. An easy way to begin layering is by using contrasting materials. Try pairing smooth cotton with rough wool or sparkly sequins. Once you gain a little confidence, start introducing multiple patterns into your home … that’s where it gets really fun!
- Consolidate collections. Cut down on clutter by gathering your collections together and displaying them as a whole. Group family photos on an empty tabletop or hang them together in a gallery wall. Select your favorite figurines and display them on a bookshelf. You don’t have to put out everything you own either. Pack away the extras and rotate these items in when you’re ready for a change.
- Incorporate decorative books as a colorful accent. If you love books, stack them on tables, under lamps, or on a coffee table. You’ll have easier access to them, and they’ll add color and interest to your space.
- When layering art, pair items of varying heights and shapes together. Layering art can be a little tricky. Start by choosing one piece as the focal point. Then pair it with other artworks or decorative items that vary in height, size, and shape.
- Think in terms of odd numbers. When layering items, odd numbers usually look best. If something looks askew in an even numbered arrangement, either add something or take something away. Of course, this rule doesn’t apply 100% of the time (I wouldn’t put three pillows on a small chair, for example), but it’s a good starting point.
- Take your time and keep moving things around until you get it right. Does something look a little weird in your arrangement? Step back and give it a little time. Add something new or remove something that looks off. Eventually, you’ll settle on a look you love!
Have you ever tried layering in your home?
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