Its in the details...

Creating a luxurious atmosphere in ones home can seem like a daunting task, not to mention expensive. So to alleviate some of the stress and the cost I'll share a few hints.

First find the inspiration - it can be a great new painting, a new patterned rug, a shiver from the cooler night temperatures, or a vignette from a shopping trip or your latest copy of DECOR. Keep you eye focused on the goal.

Entire houses can seem overwhelming focus on a room at a time for a specified block of time. Set specific goals. I will spend today shopping for the Master bath I need to find towels, a shower curtain, and a bathmat. Rome nor Versailles were built in a day.

Realize that there is no race or finish line - you have all the time in the world to make the neccesary decisions. Can't find the color your searching for - no worries. Don't feel pressured to buy anything that you don't think will work - no matter how cute or convincing the sales clerk is. You may have to live with the purchase forever. (It is always good to double check return policies before purchasing especially for customization, special order, or scratch and dent and always get it in writing.)

Third is constant vigilance - its a bit extreme sounding but I keep pictures of my rooms in my cell phone, while I'm out shopping if I think something might fit I refer to the photo to see if it is needed. I have saved hundreds in time, money, and travel. I mistakenly kept thinking I needed rocks glasses for the the fine china for most of 2007 - when I needed water goblets. (Sorry Sarah at NM.)

Spend the money on the neccesities - Threadcount is not a random numbering system intended to confuse you. It is based on the number of threads per inch. The higher the number the finer the linen. Personally I like 1000 count. I often ignore name brands for tableware, drapery, and accesories. But I do believe you get what you pay for in regards to sheets and towels. These items are used everyday so buy multiples. I have a summer supply and a winter supply. Two complete sets for each season this alleviates any lag time when one is being washed or mended the room is not in disrepair.

Fashion items like a coverlet, duvet, or bedspread are easily changed to reflect trend, mood, or change in temperature. An immediate way to add class and sophistication is through layering. While I will buy a matching bedspread/bedskirt I don't believe in the bed in a bag philosophy. It looks as cheap and tawdry as it sounds. Spend the time finding coordinating throws, pillows, and shams.
See.

Be true to yourself - I have a few idiosycracies. I only use white towels and white sheets. I admit it is based in the practical rather than aestetic tastes. White linen and bleach make cleanliness a virtue. Incorporate such behavior into your design philosophy. It is easier to accept these behaviours than jump through hoops to deter them.