Here’s how to get started:

Buy a few accessory pillows for $10 each (or less) in a new color palette. Take pillows of similar color, mix up the textures –like silk and chenille – and you’ve instantly go yourself a sophisticated monochromatic look. Try a romantic look with layers of pillows — large ones in the back and smaller ones up front.

A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference in the look of room and its fairly inexpensive to do. Think repainting the entire room is too big of project? Then break it down by focusing and painting only one wall and experimenting with a single area of the room. Want to create some texture with your older more detailed closet doors? Then paint the closet’s frame in a neutral color and the inset in a dark one. Giving a room a new life can be as simple as painting the furniture. Give an old dresser a faux antique finish or sponge paint a cabinet.

A new headboard can be rather expensive. Try something new and creative like getting an inexpensive wrought iron or picket fence at a flea market. Bed skirts make most beds look soft and sophisticated and are an inexpensive decorating investment. They’re available in several color, textures and patterns. By using a soft and neutral color you can get the most in both beauty and versatility. You do not want it to be the center of attention, but you do want it to accent your bed.

Window treatments are easier than people think. Want to try something inexpensive and not too dramatic? Try swag curtains. It will really add a feminine touch to the room. You can place bicycle or plants in the ceiling. Or opt for just a blind and an inexpensive garland or floral accent at the top of the window. We also love the look of a simple rod with funky finials and ready-made unlined drapes. Ikea, Kmart, Target, JCPenney and Pottery Barn carry a large selection of all of these items.

Do have a canopy or four-poster bed that could use a little sprucing up? Drape fabric over the poles and let a little of the fabric fall to floor to achieve that beautiful *puddle* effect. To get this effect all you need to do is add an extra 2 feet to the fabric before it’s cut. Candles are a decorative item that many people forget to use. While most people go with white candles, since they’re the most sophisticated, consider clustering colored candles to create a focal point on a night stand or dresser. Even numbers tend to be boring so go for odd numbered candle groupings. Try different heights and gather them as an altar on a shelf.

Hanging framed artwork and posters or mirrors is inexpensive and can go a long way in changing the look of room, but make sure it doesn’t clash with your current décor. Keep it simple with a neutral colored frame – black, gold, brown or white. For an easy decorating idea try simple wall shelves. Collections are perfect for displaying on a wall shelf, but try to stay away from small items. Loading shelves with a lot of tiny knick-knacks will make your shelf appear too busy. Try glass bottles for a minimal look (adorn with fresh flowers), or even use a shelf to prop up framed paintings or photos.

Sue  has almost 20 years of experience in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry. She owns and manages a popular furniture store in Los Angeles. They specialize in Mission style and Arts & Crafts bedroom, office and dining room wood furniture. Her store offers a line of furniture that not only looks great, but is built using Old World craftsmanship. Whether your trying to find Amish bedroom furniture or American made solid oak dining sets, they carry the largest selection at prices that won’t break the bank.