We went through our Shabby Chic period -- couches covered in billowing white sheets, paint chipped tables displaying shell-encrusted knickknacks, flower paintings -- and we would've said that we have no desire to return there. And yet...

When we saw this picture on DesignFormula, we had a pang of recognition for our old white denim covered couch. There's a lesson here in decorating your home. Start with that piece you love -- the comfy down covered sofa with the soft lines and rolled arms -- and modernize it with accessories. A contemporary lamp instead of a frilly table lamp. A sleek coffee table with a gloss of paint instead of a paint chipped finish. Minimal tchotckes. Like building a wardrobe, investing in "protein" furniture, pieces that we love and want to keep, we can keep our homes current by swapping out accessories. It's cheaper, more personal and it means that your home will always look modern, whatever the current definition happens to be.

[Image via Design Formula]