January ushers in a new year as well as new trends in home and fashion. Along with the excitement of something fresh comes the dilemma of making these styles approachable and livable. Doing what I love best, I spent the day at the AmericasMart Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market and The Atlanta International Area Rug Market. What a mouthful — and the multi-building complex told the same story. You would have to possess super-human powers to complete the tour in one day, but I saw enough to say that you are already on the right track and on-trend. Here’s what’s happening now:

Gray paint is still a consumer favorite for walls, and now it is finding a home on ceilings. This neutral base allows for any color combination you can dream of while maintaining a look of easy sophistication.

Fill your home with investment pieces. Consider purchasing one or two items each year at the best quality you can afford. Furniture like this timeless Louis XV style has maintained its popularity for eons and will only vary in color and/or finish.

Textured wallpaper was also a big hit in showrooms. Seagrass is still all the rage, but I do believe creamier tones are on the rise. Remember, you heard it here first!