Have you noticed a correlation between how early you decorate your home for the holidays and how quickly you put away the ornamentation after the 25th? 


I actually saw a denuded tree lying beside the curb on Christmas night.  That's cold.

With 5 days 'til the dawning of 2012, it's time to add the finishing touches to your New Year Decorating Resolutions list.  


Here are a few suggestions for the DON'T column:


1.  Black chalkboard paint is a no.  It's a cute idea and uber contemporary but decorators forget to remind us that writing with chalk is quite messy. 

Source:  Apartment Therapy

2.  Decorating with skulls - again a no unless you're a college freshman,  a rebellious 15 year old girl, or you intentionally hire an over-priced decorator who thinks you should live with a 'shock factor' element.  




3.  While I totally appreciate the vast wisdom conveyed in the Keep Calm posters, they're also a no.  Two words:  over done.

4.  Ghost Furniture - you know, clear acrylic or Lucite tables and chairs.   It's just too futuristic and looks cold and uncomfortable.  

Source:  House Beautiful

Source:  Deeply Madly Living

5.  Burlap.  I know, I know.  Burlap is awesome and I really, really like it.  But some decorators have gone a little overboard with the use of this charming fabric and it's tottering on the brink of tacky.  




Well, just wanted to give you a few things to consider as you narrow down your decorating resolutions.  

You're welcome.