CREDIT: PANTONE.COM

This is the time where last year's trends go out of style and new ones arise. Designers and decorators are ranting and raving about the do's and don't's for 2014, so let's start off the New Year right by knowing the latest trends!

Two of the most important trends to know for 2014 are the colour of the year and the look of the year. As students, some of us want our homes to be in style but only can do so with a lower budget. This week, I will explain the latest trends and tips on how to style up your home in the least expensive way for 2014.

Last year's Emerald Green has been kicked to the curb, so it's time to make some room for 2014's colour of the year: Pantone's Radiant Orchid. It's a dramatic change to go from bold emerald green to soft and calming orchid, and it can be expensive to make such a big change in your living space.

The most inexpensive way to keep your home trendy with the colour of the year is to add subtle accents of this colour. Painting is too expensive (and in rez is a big no-no), and small touches such as accent pillows, vases, picture frames and throws are the simplest ways to add a little 2014 style to your home. If you are in love with this colour, you can always purchase artwork and area rugs with colour in it. Keeping up with 2014's colour of the year is easier than you thought!

According to Canada's magazine House & Home, the look for 2014 is “relaxed refinement.” This look is all about saying no to neutral colours and contemporary furniture and yes to bold colours, pattern, and organic-feeling furniture. Relaxed refinement is about being daring with choosing a variety of bold colours and textures, a look that will leave a lasting impression. This style is about having organic feeling furniture, and no, this is not about the material used. The organic feel is about having furniture that has more natural curves than contemporary boxy and square shapes that are commonly used today.

Students wanting to keep up with the style of the year may find it difficult because buying new furniture is expensive. Like keeping up with the colour of the year, you can use those same simple tips, buying less expensive items such as accent pillows, throws, vases, areas rugs and artwork. Instead of having these accents with the one colour, Radiant Orchid, buy these pieces in a variety of bold colours and patterns.

It is the time of year when we say goodbye to old, outdated trends and hello to the newest trend of 2014. Knowing the colour of the year and the style of the year is a step in the right direction to having a trendy home for 2014. Student or not, keeping up with these trends is easier than you think!

Wishing you all the best and style for 2014!