The One Mistake Fashion Girls Make When Decorating Their Homes

POPSUGAR: How do the fashion and interior design industries compare?

Jeremiah Brent: Design is really having the same moment that fashion did a decade ago. People are reaching the understanding that your home — how you live and what you are drawn to — is a direct correlation to who you are. Your home is the truest expression of identity. It's your story — where have you been, where are you now, and where do you want to be?

PS: What are some cues we should take from our wardrobe when decorating?

JB: Invest in staples. A beautiful suit, dress, or wool coat are items that you will have forever. You should address your home in the same vein. Choose a sofa with clean lines and a timeless silhouette. Just as you would accessorize an outfit with jewelry, think of decorative pieces like lighting, pillows, and decor as the jewelry of your home.

PS: What is the number one mistake fashion girls make when decorating their homes?

JB: Ironically I think a lot of my friends in fashion get nervous when it comes to interior design. They are afraid to take some of the same risks in their home that they would with their clothing — and it takes a lot of encouragement to get them over that mental barrier.

PS: Do we have to spend big bucks to have a fashionable home?

JB: While spending money on fashion has become more accepted and usual, people are still deterred from investing in their interiors because of a presumed high price tag. This seems to be a common misconception — designing and curating your home doesn't have to cost you your life savings. With so many great affordable brands emerging, there are more and more inexpensive, high-look items that you can bring into your home without the worry about breaking the bank.

PS: What are your go-to brands for a high fashion home look at an affordable price?

JB: My husband, Nate Berkus, has an incredible line at Target that is a great resource for high design, low cost accessories. I am also a huge fan of Zara Home — they have an incredible, undiscovered accessories line for the home. I also find amazing decor objects at the more “big box” design stores like CB2 and West Elm.

PS: What's your biggest advice for fashion girls when it comes to home decorating?

JB: I always try to steer people away from trends. Instead, look for things that you have a personal connection with — those are the pieces that you'll never regret, and that will stick with you through your lifetime.

PS: What are some easy ways to make our home reflect our personal style?

JB: Edit, edit, edit. I say this all the time: your home should be a reflection of your past, a representation of your present, and still have room in it for the future. The most successful rooms I have been in aren't because they cost a fortune — they're successful because they are the truest and most honest reflection of the people who live in them. Take some risks and be adventurous as you approach your home design. Nine times out of ten, it's going to all work out and you'll probably find that you learn something about yourself along the way.

PS: What are some specific ways you and Nate have incorporated your personal style into your home's design?

JB: Our home is the direct reflection of our travels. I have items from all over the world displayed throughout my home. I tend to start with a neutral, clean palette when designing, so that throughout time I can incorporate pieces from different periods, cultures, and styles. If you build up from a basic foundation, you'll be surprised to find that adding in those pieces from various travels and adventures feels more cohesive than cluttered.