The living room and other lounging quarters of the home are traditionally those where we put our best feet forward, while we reserve our mess and everyday clutter for the more private quarters of the home. Also, these formal sitting areas of the home will ensure that you always look your best in terms of style as well as neatness.

When we speak of neatness, we also speak of taking care of our upholstery in this area of the home, even as we hide the stains that are more permanent in nature.

For this, many people also resort to the use of slip covers for their couches, chairs and sofas, because these seating pieces enjoy maximum traffic as well as dust and grime that guests may carry from outside. So come and have a look at these guides to decorate with your slip covers.

Myths and facts about slip covers:
Slip covers are traditionally pieces that can be tied or buttoned over the pieces that you are looking to cover. But many people seem to think that these old school covers will only look good when you have a classic or countryside style of design in your space. This is not true! Today, you can have your slip covers designed and rendered in a way that will fit even a chic and sleek design environment.

Colors:
Choose your slip cover colors well. While you may be tempted to go dark on your slip covers, especially if these come off when you have guests over, then you may want to give this a rethink. This is because a dark slip cover will not show you the stains very well and you will not realize when to clean these pieces so as to keep your surroundings hygienic. So try and choose a more neutral hue that will instantly show you the stains. However, if you want to entertain your guests with the slip covers on, then you may want to choose something a little more bright and bold so that it looks good.

Pattern:
It would be a good idea to play around with patterns. This fits right in when your scheme is a classic one with retro touches. But you can have zany patterns for a modern decor scheme with an abstract print or pattern splashed artistically over the couch, thanks to the slip covers. So do not be afraid of playing with patterns. At the same time, do not overdo it. Try and have one pattern per room and neutral solid hues for the rest of the pieces. Also, you can take on colors from the pattern and do up one piece in each hue for a wholesome look.

Styling:
You can choose slip covers that have various kinds of techniques for a neat look. To begin with, you can try elastic slip covers, which glide right over the couch. Also, you can have drawstring or buttons attached to the slip covers so that they can come on and off more easily.