Today I have the best decorating question to ask yourself.
You may be familiar with the popular 90’s phrase WWJD? (What would Jesus do?)
This thought provoking question aimed to direct your moral compass was written on bumper stickers and bracelets everywhere for a long spell in the 1990’s.
It’s a really good question.
It also happens to be a really good decorating question.
You see, sometimes in my own home I hit a slump in decorating. When you see things one way for so long your mind has a hard time imagining them any other way. Do you know what I mean? I can hardly imagine this chair over there or this picture in another room. It’s like decorating gridlock!!!
I was attempting to re-arrange things in my home one day when this deep and meaningful questions broke my stumped stupor.
My question changed by just one word…
What would Joanna do?
Insert the name of any one of your favorite decorators (maybe even just a neighbor who’s house you admire) and slip into their mind for a minute.
This simple question has caused me to pare down some spots and spice up others. It’s a fantastic litmus test when shopping. When you look through someone else’s eyes you can see things differently, and it’s nothing but amazing.
This way of thinking takes my thoughts off the table for a minute and allows someone else’s ideas to creep in. After marinating over what my style muse would do I marry those ideas with mine to make it my own, just a touch better.
If you have a décor style you’re chasing try this filter. If your favorite decorator wouldn’t have that sofa in their home then you won’t reach the goal you’re going for. Would they pick those pillows? Yes – then great, you’re on track. It’s that simple. Piece by piece you can replicate a look with one question.
So who’s style do you hope to infuse in your home?
Maybe Emily Henderson, Martha Stewart or Bunny Williams. Maybe it’s just an overall style like farmhouse, cottage or boho. Pay attention to the details of those you admire and think like they do. It works like a charm!
BTW – I still think the original WWJD? should is the best question ever. We could all use a reminder to model our self after Christ.
Let me know who’s style you love and if this question works for you. I’d love to hear how you use it!
Don’t forget sharing is caring. I always appreciate when you spread the word about this little blog!
Marlene Stephenson says
Sounds like a good plan,thanks and have a great day.
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Thanks Marlene!
Stephanie @ Casa Watkins Living says
LOL! I love it!!!! That’s a great tip!!!
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Glad you agree 😉
tractorsandglam says
What a great question and tip! I always try and think WW Joanna do? I need ship lap in my life STAT! I loved reading your post.
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Thanks, we could all use a little shiplap! lol
Karen Del Tatto says
Interesting approach to decorating! I LIKE it! 🙂
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Thanks, it works 😉
Sadie Moodie says
I like it
Kim at Hunt and Host says
it really does help 🙂
Nita says
Wonderful post; wonderful message. Now for an unexpected question. Is that your dog and, if so, what kind is he/she? It almost looks like a deer lying there.
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Hi – thank you and she is our dog! She is a greyhound named Gigi. She looks A LOT like a deer and can usually be found exactly as you see her, curled up sleeping, she is a lazy bone, but we love her!
Coralynn Thompson says
I love gleaning an idea from one of my favorite decorators AND it’s amazing when I stand back and look at something I’ve changed in my home and love-it makes me feel good about me!
Kim at Hunt and Host says
Yes! Sometimes we need those little victories!
Molly says
My goodness – your house is just lovely! It looks cozy, clean, defined, and utterly charming. I’ll definitely be asking myself: “What Would KIM Do?” ????
Kim at Salvaged Living says
girl, you just made my day! that is so sweet. This question really helps me scale back when I start going crazy in decorating!
Gilmer Gal says
I need at least 5 homes for my ‘style!’ Love the Hacienda! Fun feelings for Boho! Country is so darn cute! A bit of vintage would be great! Yet modern is so sleek and clean! Oh, and primitive is very cozy…
Kim at Salvaged Living says
I feel the same way! I love it all, so hard to decide what to do. Good news is you can mix it all! It is YOUR home 🙂
Dixie says
I love anything Joanna Gaines does. Love her style.
Kim at Salvaged Living says
she is seriously gifted for sure
Jolene says
A previous commenter beat me to a question about the blonde dog. I recognized the graceful shape of head and ‘couch potato’ style common with greyhounds. We’ve adopted two retired racers, the most recent one shared our home for 11 years. They’re such loving and mellow companions, and I love to see Gigi in your photos.
Kim at Salvaged Living says
we adore our Gigi she is the sweetest soul ever and you know exactly what I mean with yours! Love meeting a fellow couch potato lover.
Lynnett Ratchford says
Thanks, Kim, for a super suggestion. I met the creator of What Would Jesus Do? and heard the background story when I worked in the Christian gift sales industry. Some think it was a money making ploy, but the truth was it was God annointed and about spreading the gospel message.
My style? It’s an English Country Victorian Cottage mixture, but I do admire and appreciate other’s tastes and ideas, even if I’d never use them myself.