Alright, friends. I see you. You’re standing in the paint aisle, staring at that swatch of bold crimson red or daring cobalt blue, but your hand is hovering over the same ol’ shade of tan. Let me guess—you want to take the plunge into the world of color, but something’s holding you back. Maybe it’s fear of getting it “wrong.” Maybe you’re worried about what other people will think when they walk into your home and see (gasp) an actual color on the walls. Or maybe you’ve just convinced yourself that color isn’t for you.
Well, darling, let me stop you right there. I’m here to tell you that color is for you. And if you’re thinking “But I could never pull that off,” I’m going to challenge you to flip the script. I mean, if you’re constantly playing it safe in your home (and let’s be real, probably other areas of life too), where’s the joy in that? Consider this your friendly but firm nudge off the color-phobic ledge.
Why Color Is Not the Enemy (Beige Is)
Look, I get it. Beige is easy. It’s safe, it’s neutral, it won’t offend anyone. But guess what? It won’t inspire anyone either, least of all you. A home decked out in nothing but neutrals might work if your goal is to look like part of a sepia-toned Instagram filter, but I think life is for making bold moves, not blending into the scenery.
Color, on the other hand, is alive. It breathes energy, joy, and personality into your space. It reflects you. And here’s a little secret—color is not as scary as you think it is. It’s just paint. It’s just fabric. You’re not making a lifelong commitment here. You can always change it up, but trust me, once you bring color into your life, you’re going to wonder why you ever hesitated in the first place.
But What If I Get It Wrong?
First off, let’s clear something up: There’s no such thing as “getting it wrong” when it comes to decorating your home. This isn’t a pop quiz. This is about you and what makes you happy. And guess what? If you try a color and don’t love it, you can change it. You’re not married to that wall color. Your home isn’t going to file for divorce if you decide that bold fuchsia just isn’t for you.
Think of decorating like trying on clothes. Some things fit, some don’t. That doesn’t mean you should stick to black just because you’re not sure you can pull off bright red. In fact, the only way to find out what does work is to be brave enough to give it a try.
Why You Need to Stop Caring What Other People Think
Here’s another big one: You need to stop giving a damn about what other people think of your home–and you for that matter. Seriously. So what if your neighbor Susan comes over and thinks your bold floral dining room is too much? Guess what, Susan? You’re not paying my mortgage. Your home is for you, not for the judgment of people who probably haven’t colored outside the lines since kindergarten.
The only person who has to love your space is YOU. Your home should feel like a reflection of your personality, your passions, and your joy—not someone else’s idea of what’s “sophisticated.” Newsflash: Neutrals aren’t the only path to sophistication. Bold color can be chic. It can be fabulous. And more importantly, it can make you feel ALIVE. Isn’t that what we’re after?
How to Dip Your Toes into the Color Pool
Now, if you’re still breaking out in hives at the thought of painting your whole house fire-engine red, don’t panic. You don’t have to dive into the deep end of the color pool just yet. Let’s ease into this, shall we?
Here are some baby steps for incorporating color into your home without giving yourself a full-blown panic attack:
Start Small: No one’s saying you need to paint your entire living room a wild shade of purple right off the bat. Start with smaller, more manageable areas—a colorful throw pillow, a bright piece of art, or a funky lamp. It’s like dating color before you commit to a serious relationship.
Go for an Accent Wall: Though many professional designer peers of mine abhor an accent wall, they can actually be done well, and again, why do we care what others think? So if you’re not ready to go all-in, pick one wall and make it your bold statement. A deep emerald green or a pop of orange can add instant personality without overwhelming your entire space. It’s a great way to test the waters without feeling like you’ve gone too far. (pro tip: For accent walls I suggest you choose a focal wall without lots of windows or doors on it. Think behind the sofa or the bed, or the fireplace wall–something that will command attention in the room but not be interrupted with lots of architectural details.)
Try It in Smaller Spaces: Sometimes, the smaller rooms in your home—like a powder room or entryway—are the perfect spots to experiment with color. These areas don’t have to be neutral, and you’ll be amazed at how a little boldness can transform them.
Layer Color Through Accessories: Still a little gun-shy? No problem. Bring in color through accessories. Throw blankets, vases, rugs, and artwork are perfect for injecting some personality without feeling like you’re making a huge commitment.
Pick Colors You Already Love: This one is key. Think about the colors you naturally gravitate toward in your wardrobe or when you’re out shopping. Do you have a favorite bold color you love to wear? Chances are, you’ll love living with it too. Color isn’t some mysterious thing you’re unfamiliar with—it’s already part of your life. Now, let’s make it part of your home.
The Confidence to Be Bold
I’m not here to convince you that you need to turn your home into a kaleidoscope. But I am here to tell you that color has the power to transform your space—and your mood—in ways you’ve probably never imagined. The fear of color is really just the fear of standing out, of being bold, of not blending in. But let’s be honest—when has blending in ever been fun? Ok, maybe you like being a fly on the wall–but it’s time you stretch yourself while you’re still young enough to enjoy it!
Taking that first step into color might feel scary, but you know what’s scarier? Living in a home that doesn’t make you feel anything at all.
So, what are you waiting for? Buy the bold paint. Order the patterned couch. Hang that crazy bright art piece. Add the bold wallpaper to a space and then pour yourself a glass of something fabulous, sit back, and bask in the glory of finally telling beige to take a hike. You did it!
Welcome to the world of color, where playing it safe is overrated and your space is officially a mood.
Xo,
Tobi
