Den Transitional Living Room, Providence

Slipcover cons: 1. Style. While they can create a relaxed, cottage style, readymade, "over-the-counter" slipcovers also can be loose fitting and distract from the lines of your furniture, unlike the well-fitting slipcovers in this image. 2. Fit. Over-the-counter slipcovers are designed for standard furniture sizes and created to fit mass-market furniture pieces. This can lead to a frustrating laundering experience, since it requires quite a bit of work to get on and off and may leave you with a sloppy look. 3. Wrinkling. If the slipcover doesn't fit tightly, you may see quite a bit of wrinkling after use due to the loose fit. The image above is a great example of how a well fitted slipcover can reduce wrinkling.

Easygoing spaces. Crisp white cotton slipcovers can be unexpectedly kid and pet friendly — just throw them in the washing machine to keep them looking fresh. If you crave something softer underfoot, try a 100 percent wool rug or a wool-silk blend for a luxurious feel. Bamboo blinds are a decorator staple that can go solo for a casual, beachy vibe or be combined with drapes for a sophisticated layered look.

9. Choose sophisticated neutral colors. Now is not the time to experiment with that "fun"-looking lime green. But that doesn't mean you need to go all white, either. Rich midtone neutrals like mocha and "greige" create a sophisticated backdrop that makes everything look more pulled together.

Because of its lightweight and durable characteristics, bamboo works well as a material for blinds. Moisture resistant, it's easy to wipe down, but most important, bamboo blinds create a wonderful sunscreen while still allowing you to see out.