How Would You Describe Your Style?

Whenever someone asks me, “How would you describe your style?” I usually hesitate. Not because I don’t know—but because it’s still becoming. Right now, I’d say it’s rooted in earthy tones, natural textures, and warmth. It’s a little vintage, a little modern, layered and lived-in. It’s shifting, growing, and finding its rhythm in a new place.

When we moved from our custom-built home in St. Louis to this new house in Georgia, I thought my style would come with me. The last house was wide open and filled with natural light—bright, airy, and calm, with light wood tones and minimal pattern. Everything felt clean and intentional. I’d curated that style for years, and it worked beautifully in that space.

But this house is different. The rooms are more closed off. The natural light is limited—thanks to the terrain and window placement. At first, I tried to replicate what had worked before: light furniture, pale woods, white walls. And it all just felt… wrong. The house looked darker. The light colors felt washed out. I realized I was trying to force an old version of my style into a space that was asking for something else entirely.

Learning to Let the House Speak

In architecture school, we were taught to listen to the site—to work with the landscape, the light, the constraints, and let those things guide the design. So I took a step back and asked myself: What is this house telling me?

The answer? Contrast.

That was the turning point. I started dipping my toes into slightly darker tones (not too dark yet) and bolder patterns.

The Cabinets That Changed Everything

When our kitchen cabinets arrived, they were way darker than the sample I had approved—like, VERY different. But the minute I saw them installed, I loved them. I think it was a mistake by the cabinet maker, but it was a happy accident, honestly. The lighter version I was expecting probably would have blended into the floors, but these darker cabinets added depth and warmth that the space was craving.

That unexpected richness gave me permission to embrace deeper tones throughout the house—dark wood furniture, moody textiles, vintage-inspired pieces with history and soul.

My Style Is Evolving—and I’m Here for It

Now, instead of trying to keep everything light and minimal, I’m leaning into cozy contrast. I’ve started layering in patterns I never would’ve touched before—intense florals, diamonds, block prints, stripes, all living together and making each other better. I’m mixing old and new, high and low, modern silhouettes with antique textures. It’s less styled, more collected. And more me.

Where my old house was bright, open, and minimalist—this one is layered, a little moody, and full of character. I think I’ve always had these two style personalities living inside me: the clean and modern, and the vintage and soulful. And now I’m finally getting to explore the latter in a real way.

So… How Would I Describe My Style Now?

It’s a blend. A soft kind of modern that’s rooted in timeworn details. A little English country. A little French farmhouse. Some California casual thrown in. It’s inspired by designers like Amber Lewis, AKB Design, and Ashley Montgomery–spaces with soul, depth, and patina. I’m loving the balance of relaxed lines with richer tones and curated moments.

I can’t decide on a name yet, but if I gave it a try I would say–European Transitional.

Why? When I think of European Transitional, I think of:

• Traditional silhouettes with updated, cleaner lines
• Darker woods and rich finishes (like my new kitchen)
• Layered textiles and patterns (not maximal, but thoughtful and warm)
• A cozy, layered vibe without feeling cluttered
• A little romantic, a little rustic, with some age/patina
• Rooms that feel collected, not staged (although I do clean up for my photos!)
• Use of both light and shadow–some moody contrast without going full dark academia

In a nutshell it is refined, cozy and collected. But honestly? It’s just me, listening to my home and learning how to live in it—one room, one pattern, one vintage Etsy find at a time.

A Final Thought

Styles change. We grow. Homes evolve. And when you stop fighting what was and lean into what is, that’s where the real magic happens.