When it comes to home decor, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest trends and end up spending hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to keep your space looking stylish and fresh. However, what if there was a way to create a unique, beautiful home without breaking the bank?
The good news is, there is! By shifting your shopping habits and letting go of some seemingly necessary items, you can save a significant amount of money. Here are the 10 things I quit buying that saved me hundreds on home decor.
1. Expensive Artwork
Art can transform a space, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are plenty of places to find affordable, unique art pieces that won’t break the bank.
Try visiting local art markets or online platforms that sell affordable art. You can also create your own artwork. There are plenty of online tutorials for creating abstract art, and you don’t need to be an artist to make something beautiful. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a piece of art that’s unique to your home.
2. Trendy Furniture
While it can be tempting to fall for the latest furniture trends, remember that trends are fleeting. Rather than spending a fortune on a piece that will be out of style in a few months, consider investing in timeless, high-quality furniture that will last.
For example, a mid-century modern sofa or a classic wooden dining table will never go out of style. These pieces may cost more upfront, but they’re worthwhile investments because they’ll last for years, if not decades. You’ll save money in the long run by not having to replace them every few years when the trends change.
3. Designer Pillows
Throw pillows are a great way to add a pop of color or texture to a room, but designer pillows can cost an arm and a leg. Rather than spending $50 or more on a single pillow, consider buying pillow covers and filling them with affordable inserts.
You can find beautiful, high-quality pillow covers for a fraction of the price of designer pillows. And the best part is, you can switch them out seasonally or whenever you want a change, without spending a fortune.
4. Fancy Lighting Fixtures
Lighting can make or break a space, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend hundreds on designer fixtures. There are plenty of affordable options that look just as good.
Check out discount stores or online marketplaces for affordable lighting options. You can also DIY your own lighting fixtures. With a little creativity, you can create a stunning, unique piece for a fraction of the price of a designer fixture.
5. High-End Rugs
While a high-quality rug can be a great investment, not all rooms need a pricey floor covering. In high-traffic areas or children’s rooms, an affordable, durable rug is a smarter choice.
There are plenty of places to find beautiful, affordable rugs. Discount stores, online marketplaces, and even second-hand shops often have a great selection. Just make sure to measure your space before you go shopping to ensure the rug will fit.
6. Expensive Curtains
Curtains can add a touch of elegance to any room, but designer curtains can be incredibly pricey. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable alternatives that look just as good.
Instead of splurging on expensive curtains, consider buying affordable ones and customizing them. With a little creativity, you can create custom, high-end looking curtains without the high-end price tag.
7. Brand New Furniture
While it’s nice to have brand new furniture, it’s not always necessary. Second-hand furniture can be just as good, and it’s often a fraction of the price.
Try shopping at thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces for used furniture. With a little TLC, you can transform a used piece into something beautiful and unique.
8. Matching Sets
While matching furniture sets can make decorating easier, they can also make a space feel generic. Plus, they’re often more expensive than buying individual pieces.
Instead of buying a matching set, try mixing and matching different pieces. This will give your space a unique, collected-over-time look, and it can often save you money.
9. Overpriced Bedding
Bedding can be incredibly expensive, especially if you’re buying from high-end brands. But the truth is, you can find high-quality bedding for a fraction of the price if you know where to look.
Try shopping at discount stores or online marketplaces for affordable bedding. Just make sure to check the thread count and material to ensure you’re getting a good quality set.
10. Unnecessary Accessories
While accessories can add personality to a space, it’s easy to go overboard and end up with a cluttered, disjointed room. Plus, all those little knick-knacks can add up quickly.
Instead of buying a ton of small accessories, consider investing in a few larger pieces that make a statement. This will give your space a more cohesive, intentional look, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run.