I understand that patterns are scary, but once you get past the initial fear that is a  reflex from having been picked on in your childhood for wearing mismatched socks, you’ll realize that it isn’t nearly as complicated or terrifying as it seems.

The number one rule for mixing patterns is…confidence! There’s no “one right way” to do anything, despite what a lot of people want to tell you. (Generally, those people are trying to sell you something anyway.)

Within the context of any room, you do want to stay within complimentary color palettes to make sure the overall effect is not shocking to the eye–but for the most part, you can take a variety of patterns–and even styles of patterns–and combine them for a really fascinating effect.

For example, consider using high-contrast blocks of color and added highly detailed, oriental or middle-eastern style accessories. You can even alternate contrasting patterns on the walls, or with fabrics on the furniture.

Beautiful decor is more than just trying to recreate a picture from a magazine. It is also about incorporating your life’s experiences in to your home. Choose patterns that reflect your ethnic heritage, your travels or your profession or education for highly personalized living space.