If you're anything like me, you've already evolved through several different decorating styles. We all search for the perfect style that "feels" right. I've done the "traditional" route and at one point leaned toward a country decor, but still hadn't found that comfort zone......that is, until I discovered cottage style. I initially gravitated toward Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic, but eventually found that, although I loved many elements of shabby chic, I also wanted a little more color and pattern in my surroundings. Cottage style was perfect!

Here are the elements that I think of when speaking of Cottage Style:

* Whitewashed furniture. These can be new pieces, but I think half the fun with cottage decor is scrounging flea markets and antique shops for that perfect table with great lines that can be painted. Lightly sand a few areas where it would have naturally worn and you have that true cottage feel.

*Slipcovers - These do not have to be expensive. The true beauty of slipcovers is the ease of care. Cottage style decorating is relaxed, which means comfortable. Slipcovers are perfect, especially with a house full of kids. Just toss them in the washer when they're soiled. Try a couple of sets....one for winter and lighter color and weight for summer. Changing slipcovers with the seasons is the easiest way to do a total room makeover.

*Patterns - I love the look of soft, pastel roses. Along with slipcovers, pillows and quilts can totally change the look of a room. Use a combination of floral fabrics along with stripes and solids. These can all easily be mixed and matched as long as you stay within a common color or two.

*Lighting - Now I love chandeliers. They need not be formal, but I think a painted chandelier full of sparkling crystals is the perfect accent to the casual cottage style. It lends elegance to any decor. These do not have to be large chandeliers. Small, petite chandeliers can be hung anywhere....in an entrance hall, corner of a bedroom or baby's room. They can be hardwired or swagged with a wall plug, painted to match your decor and can be very affordable.

*Hang up your Grandma's plates! Put out her teacups and teapots. Don't hide these pieces away in a cupboard, but use them for decor. When I moved into my current home, my mother brought me a box of handpainted plates that my grandmother and her friends had painted many years ago. They fill the walls of my kitchen now and mean so much more than anything I could have purchased.

*Window Treatments - Forget heavy draperies and keep your windows light and airy. Lace curtains are perfect for softening windows, but also let lots of light in. If you need privacy, consider wide wood blinds that can be opened or raised during the day.

*Floors - I love the look of hardwood floors, but also want the warmth of carpet. Get both by using large area rugs. These can be dhurrie or hooked or even regular carpet cut to size and bound along the edges.

*Walls - If you're like me and like to hang lots of paintings, plates, pictures, etc., you'll want to keep your walls plain. Off white, pale pink and light green are great colors for walls. I also am still a fan of small areas of wallpaper, especially floral. I will ALWAYS have a floral wallpaper in my bathroom! I think wallpaper can add so much warmth to a room.

Whether you incorporate all or just a few of these ideas into your romantic cottage, just remember to surround yourself with things you love!