Have you ever wondered where style trends come from? There has been this huge push for farmhouse, country, and shabby chic interiors, but do we really know which style is which and where they come from? This was a topic we tackled at ABC’s Morning Blend in the recent Design Undefined segment.

For me I understand the craze to follow trends however the issue with following trends is that they will be out of style just as fast as they are in style. In fact we are now seeing that Joanna Gaines is now all about the coastal look. Those of us in Florida an in coastal communities have been about coastal for a long time because this is not a trend it is a way of life. So does this mean everyone who did their homes in a farmhouse style are going to be changing things out for a coastal look? Unfortunately that is probably a yes for some. But let’s talk about how to do these looks and make them timeless, classic, always in style.

First, the most important thing to work with are high quality products that use traditional designs. These can be updated designs but they have to have their start in history. These pieces will add iron when appropriate. And it will be solid iron not another metal stained to look like iron. They will have a feel to the finish that can only be achieved in a multi step process. Think like when you buy a real handbag verse the knockoff at half the price. It looks good on the outside but it doesn’t hang the same way or last the same way. So here are some of my favorite choices for dining rooms to create a classic look, whether you are going for farmhouse, shabby chic, coastal or country.

Because these pieces are classic in design they can go to any of the styles mentioned. They are not trendy where they will go out of style and depending on what accessories you put around them you will give them the right feeling. From this starting point you can create so many great looks. If we just start with the area rug we can create tons of looks. You can go for the updated traditional area rug such as the bold colors, or over-dyed antique, or the monochromatic patchwork. All of these create an updated country or shabby chic look. Or you can go for the more farmhouse/coastal style and work with textural pieces like jute rugs. Or really go for the traditional style with a truly classic design of a traditional area rug.

Can you see how each of these pieces would completely change the look? When you know where the styles come from you have the ability to create a look that has a real depth. When you just follow trends you run the risk of it all looking like you shopped at the discount rack at Home Goods.

To truly pull off these looks you have to incorporate true vintage and antique pieces. We search for our clients for the perfect ones to work in their homes. These are not pieces that you find at flea markets (as much as the network tv shows want you to think they are) these are ones that we get from companies and collectors all over the world. Here are just a few that we have worked with over the years.

Don’t forget that the lighting in the space has a huge impact as well. The right lighting can completely change the feel to the space.

So when you are looking to design your home, walk away from the big box stores, turn off the tv and look to history to see where the designs come from originally. Or hire a designer who will be able to draw upon their knowledge of design to create a classic, timeless look for you.