Step 3: Describe the Look You Love
Ask yourself these questions:

• Are you attracted to contemporary styles, country themes, traditional looks or eclectic mixes?
• Is your lifestyle casual or formal?

For some people, defining the look they love is difficult. The choices are many and complicated by the fact that, today, the lines between styles are not drawn as rigidly as they once were. This is evident in the popularity of eclectic-style decorating, which incorporates furnishings that span many periods and "looks."

The best way to establish a style preference is to cut out magazine pictures of rooms and furnishings that you find appealing and file them together in a folder or binder. Collect color samples, and wallcovering and fabric swatches. Soon, you'll see a trend emerge, as your "ideas file" reveals repeated patterns, colors and styles of decorating.

			Your lifestyle is also a consideration. If you are a casual person and like to "put your feet up," you'll want to decorate in a way where comfort and ease are paramount. If, on the other hand, you are a more traditional person and like things to be orderly and formal, you'll likely be most happy in an environment that is upscale and elegant, sophisticated and balanced.