When decorating your space, small choices can have a big impact on how expensive or cheap it looks. Often, you might not realize that certain decor items make your room seem less polished or less high-end, even if everything else in your home is well put together.
Knowing which decor pieces to avoid can help you create a more cohesive and stylish environment without spending a lot more money. By being mindful of what brings down your space’s overall look, you can make smarter decisions that elevate your home’s feel effortlessly.
Outdated window treatments like worn-out blinds or faded curtains
Your window treatments can quickly date a room if they look tired or worn. Blinds that are cracked or broken and curtains that have faded from too much sun tend to make your space feel less polished.
Choosing old styles like heavy drapes, lace cafe curtains, or stained blinds can also bring down the overall vibe. Fresh, simple treatments like lightweight curtains or modern shades will instantly lift your room’s look.
Updating these is a small change that makes a big difference in how expensive and cared-for your space feels.
Cheap plastic photo frames that catch the eye for the wrong reasons
You might think cheap plastic photo frames are an easy way to save money. But often, these frames look flimsy and can cheapen your decor. Thin plastic can warp or break easily, making your space feel less polished.
Many cheap frames lack sturdy back support, causing photos to slip or tilt. Their glossy finish sometimes reflects light awkwardly, drawing attention away from your pictures.
If you want frames that enhance your photos without standing out for the wrong reasons, it’s worth choosing options with better thickness and quality, even if they cost a little more.
Low-quality faux plants that look obviously artificial
You want your space to feel fresh, not cheap. Low-quality faux plants often have shiny plastic leaves and unnatural colors that stand out in a negative way.
If the texture feels stiff or overly glossy, it’s a sign the plant isn’t realistic. Avoid these, as they make your decor look less thoughtful.
Look for subtle details like varied leaf shapes and natural tones. When you choose carefully, faux plants can add life without compromising style.
Overly cluttered shelves with random decor items
When your shelves are packed with a mix of random decor, it can quickly make the space feel messy and less polished. Too many small items, like knickknacks and toys, can overwhelm the eye and hide the charm of your room.
Try to be selective. Group similar items and leave some empty space to give your shelves room to breathe.
Mix different shapes and sizes thoughtfully instead of lining up everything at the same height. This simple balance can make your shelves look curated and more expensive.
Generic artwork with low resolution or pixelated prints
When you choose artwork for your space, make sure the images are sharp and clear. Pixelated or blurry prints can quickly make a room feel cheap and unfinished.
Low-resolution art often looks fuzzy or unclear, which distracts from your décor instead of enhancing it. Crisp lines and vibrant colors give a sense of quality and care.
Avoid mass-produced prints that don’t focus on detail. Instead, pick pieces with clear, well-defined images that suit your style and make your space feel thoughtful and put-together.
Flimsy LED string lights with uneven brightness
If your string lights flicker or have uneven brightness, they can make your space feel cheap instead of cozy. When lights are flimsy, they often lack consistent quality, which shows in how they glow.
You want lights that offer a steady, warm shine without dim spots. Choosing well-made LED string lights with reliable wiring helps your space look more polished and inviting.
Battery-operated options can reduce clutter, but make sure they don’t sacrifice brightness or durability. A balanced, quality string of lights adds charm without drawing attention to poor construction.