“What’s your home style?” they ask. “Oh I dunno, I guess classic Americana with a touch of old-world European library?” you respond.
But as it turns out, most people fall into one of five simple categories when it comes to decor. That’s according to Christiane Lemieux, design expert and CEO of pattern and furniture company The Inside.
Read on for a breakdown, and to see where you shake out.
Says Lemieux: "You like the tried-and-true classics (like a ticking stripe or a chintz) mixed with a little bit of an edge for what’s trendy (animal print)."
Favorite colors: Neutrals, browns and dusty pinks
Secret weapon: Upholstered everything
Inspo: Joanna Gaines, Madeline's house in Big Little Lies
Get the Look: The Inside Ottoman ($499); McIntosh Area Rug ($162); The Inside Slipper Chair ($399)
Says Lemieux: "A layered, curated, collected look that feels like you’ve been shopping at bazaars around the world. Perfect for world travelers who like to display their finds. Must love lots of color and weaving in items that have a ‘found’ feeling."
Favorite colors: Deep red and burgundy, teal, natural woods
Secret weapon: Textures and layering
Inspo: The Anthropologie catalogue and the set of Eat, Pray, Love
Get the Look: The Inside Square Back Bed ($799); Aztec Kilm Rug ($235)
Says Lemieux: "You like what’s current, but through a pared-down, minimal lens. You’re attracted to straight lines, neutral tones and texture, and prefer solids over prints."
Favorite colors: White, gray, muted blues
Secret weapon: Scale
Inspo: Kelly Wearstler and the fanciest hotel you’ve ever been to
Get the look: The Inside Modern Platform Bed ($1,399); Poly & Bark Geometric Rug ($189); Serena & Lily Pendant Light ($448)
Says Lemieux: "This refers to an iconic design era where modern line meets organic shapes, and where form follows function. It incorporates a love of readily available materials such as bent plywood, leather and brass."
Favorite colors: Navy blue, gold, brass, mustard
Secret weapon: Tapered furniture legs, plant stands
Inspo: Palm Springs, Mad Men
Get the look: The Inside Cocktail Chair ($549); Pottery Barn Accent Stool ($299); Poly & Bark Rug ($159)
Says Lemieux: "If a beach house always appeals to you, and you tend to lead with the color blue, then this may be your look. Think: relaxed, casual, light-colored woods. Nothing formal about it."
Favorite colors: Blues, greens, neutrals
Secret weapon: Textiles and found objects as wall decor
Inspo: Coastal Living Magazine and Nancy Meyers movies
Get the look: The Inside Cabana Chair ($129); Safavieh Outdoor Table ($140); Leon Bean Bag Ottoman ($90)