Listen to Tips on Turning a Bachelor Pad into a Crib that will Win Points with Chicks: MP3 File
So the time has come to invite her over to your place. Are you ready?
Well if you're straight, and not overly metro -- and your pad reflects these facts -- don't you worry. Fashiontribes got L.A. based interior designer Angela Beach to share some easy tips to help you transform that skanky bachelor pad into a woo-worthy looooove nest.
- Get a Slipcover: okay, so you still have that lame ass couch from college. A quick, effective solution is a slipcover. It's "an easy way to change your couch from college dorm to city sophisticate," promises Beach. Choose fabric in a rich caramel color, a dark gray or even a neutral tan -- it hides those gross stains on the couch, and when your buddies spill beer on the couch, you can just take it off & throw it in the washing machine. Try polyester ultrasuede - it feels amazing (chicks dig that - I should know), it's virtually impervious to stains, and machine washable. Add contrast with some oversize black or red pillows, not to mention something soft to lay your head on, and you're set.
- Coffee Table: Ditch the packing box you've been eating your Chinese takeout over while watching the game, and spring for a sturdy wood number. A sleek dark wood coffee table can take a beating but still look good.
- Area Rug: Roll out an exotic area rug under the coffee table to add some pizazz. It livens up your digs while hiding the stains from last week's poker party.
- Get a Green Thumb: Add a tall plant or two to an otherwise sullen space. If you don't kill the damn thing, it's instant points! (It proves you have a nurturing side & can be responsible for a living thing...guaranteed to impress).
- Gizmo Cabinet: You know you're obsessed with gadgets. Don't fight the urge, merely channel it into an entertainment center. Put each item on its own shelf -- not only can you show off your trophies, but it hides that mess of chick-repelling wires and speaker parts.
- Paint Already! Plain white is so boring, and makes the room shout "cave". Try a rich color like sage green, a dark putty gray or even a deep, rich red. It opens up a room and adds drama (it's a myth that color make rooms seem darker).
- Stash the Sports Illustrated Calenders: Hide them -- trust me on this -- and hang a big piece of artwork, maybe a colorful print or a large canvas painted in only one or two colors. Creates an instant aura of sophistication (whether it's true or not....well....)
The key is not to go overboard, less really is more. A few really cool, well placed & big items will make a room look great, whereas a bunch of little things looks cluttered and messy. A touch of color here or there, and your place will look trendy and lived in.
And if you make you home cozy, she might even consider staying awhile.
