OKE NAPA: 2013

photos courtesy of Models Jam

The couture shows in Paris this week have provided some killer looks from two totally different schools of style: The crazy couture that floated down the runway unaffected by the weather outside, and then the heavy duty over coats, leather pants and boots that were made for braving the elements. While they may have been in corsets and full skirts just hours before, our favorite models showed off their street clothes with the same sophistication and ease that they do on the runway. The best street style snaps highlight a model’s individuality and unique style choices. It’s the real deal! So we are so glad our friends at Models Jam were able to catch it all from Cara Delevingne’s sneakers and travel pillow to Martha Hunt’s quilted motorcycle jacket, we love it all!

For the best model street style from the couture shows click through the slideshow below!

See the full slideshow

Listed below are the top 10 gaffes when buying furniture.

1. Overlooked to get the dimension of your room

When buying furniture, it is necessary that you measure the room. This will give you an exact idea of the size of furniture that you need. Some people tend to forget this and so they are faced with problems such as bringing the furniture inside the home or room. You also need to consider the size of your hallway, doors and stairs (if you have them).

2. Paying no attention to the size of the furniture

It is not advised to calculate. Calculating the size of the furniture you saw online or from your local store and imagining that it will fit into the room is always a flaw. If you find an item that you like, such as a sofa, get its dimensions first and check it at home. If you are just buying a piece to pair it off with your current set, you must ensure that they are of the same scale.

3. Disregarding the color

The best thing to do here is to request for a few color swatch and bring it home. Check if it will look nice in your home and if it will harmonize with your current furniture. If you are buying online, request a fabric swatch, as what appears on your monitor may not be the same on a real couch.

4. Focusing too much on the trends

Do not focus too much on what is in style or the current trend. Choose furniture that appeals to you and one that will lasts you longer. Those that are in fashion easily fades, hence, you will have to change them in a few months.

5. Disregarding the users of the furniture

You may be wondering why this must be included in your list. It is for the simple reason that you will know what material and type of furniture is appropriate for your home. With children and pets around the home, you need to make sure that you will not end up having damaged furniture or ending up with accidents that may have hurt or injure your children and pets. You would not want furniture that will be tarnished with the dirty hands of your kids or the mucky paws of your pet. Likewise, you would not want your lacquered coffee table to have dents or scratches caused by people who put their feet up on its top.

6. Forgetting to test the furniture prior to purchase

Whether you are buying a bed, sofa, chair or recliner, you always need to examine it to test its quality and sturdiness. You need to sit on the sofa and feel its cushions. Check every detail of the material as well as the legs of the chair. It is the same way with beds. You need to check the bolts and verify it they are properly fastened. You need to open the drawers and check on the shelves if they are sturdy.

7. Purchasing based on hunch or impulse

Impulse buying has never been satisfying. You always end up feeling sorry for yourself, as the item you bought is not what it really was as presented. Do not buy just because it looks good and the price is cheap. Do not hurry with your decision. You have to check on every detail and verify if it is the appropriate furniture for your needs.

8. Solicit a lot of advice and opinions.

When shopping, choose one person who has the same taste as yours to help you in your decision. It can be your husband or a friend.

9. Not requesting for assistance

If there are some questions that you want to clarify, seek the assistance of the sales staff. That is the reason why they are assigned in the store - to help customers.

10. Giving more attention to your furniture

Do not just focus on what you want. You can always check if they have incoming sales or discounts. This way, you save a big amount on the same furniture instead of buying it now. Most online furniture stores and local stores conduct discount sales.

Buying furniture can be tricky and easy depending on the buyer. It will be easy once you know what you want and the essential elements that you need to look into. Tricky if you are one person who easily is enthralled by its appearance and found out that it was a mistake.