Picture Perfect

As any designer can tell you, often the devil is in the details when it comes to putting together fab interiors. Last week we posted about how something as simple as an orchid can elevate a room from simple to superb, and without a doubt, picture frames can have the same effect.

We'll start with this inspiring picture of designer Michael Kors's picture frame arrangement in his home (photo courtesy of InStyle). Yes, there are quite a few photos on display, but the frames are cohesive, which means that what you notice first are the pictures inside of them rather than a jumbled mishmash of frames. We also love the mix of black and white and color photos.

We have a few self-imposed rules about picture frames:

1) Keep it simple. Don't let a frame overshadow the important part- the photo inside of it!

2) Keep it streamlined. Sometimes more is just more. One fabulous 8x10 frame gets or vote over several smaller frames any day.

3) Keep it cohesive. Frames should complement the decor, not compete with it. Don't be afraid to give away the frames that just aren't working for you any more and start building your collection from scratch. It's an easy way to add instant polish to a room.

Silver Favorites

When in doubt, you can never, ever go wrong with a classic sterling or silver-plated picture frame. Skip the ornate details for this style; sometimes plain is all you need. A classic silver frame elevates any photograph to art, you will never grow tired of it, and it will never go out of style. Of course sterling is our very favorite, but honestly, you can find great silver plate frames at TJ Maxx and Marshalls.

4x6 Silver Plated Frame, Barneys, $115

Formal Affair Double Frame, Ralph Lauren, $89

Serenity Frame in 5x7, Reed & Barton, $145

Elsa Peretti 5x7 Sterling Frame, Tiffany, $695

Modern Silver Plated Frame, Pottery Barn, $34 for 8x10

Natural History

If you've got the perfect tabletop or shelf that is just aching for a little more pizazz than silver will provide, then we love these natural history-inspired options. They can also add warmth to sleek/minimalist space.

Agate Frame by Rab Labs, Vivre, $45

Thin Box Frame, West Elm, $12.99-$29.99

Bamboo Picture Frame, Gucci, price upon request (probably not a good sign!)

Veneer Profile Frame, Pottery Barn, $14-54

Animal Instincts

Take a walk on the wild side with crocodile, horn, and leather frames. They're all about subtle, exotic luxury. And much like silver frames, they are perennially stylish.

Crocodile Leather Frame, Barneys, $40

Porcelain Croc Frame, Jonathan Adler, $78

R & Y Augousti Sunburst Horn Frame, Barneys, $125

Alligator Horsebit Frame, Ralph Lauren, $495

Trevor Buffalo Horn Frame, Ralph Lauren, $395

Oh baby!

We love sleek, classic frames, but we're not total killjoys here! When it comes to children's rooms, you can definitely have a little fun. We think that any mom-to-be would appreciate one of these frames.

5x7 Rectangular Frame, Tiffany, $495

Gold Bamboo Frame, Lilly Pulitzer, $69

Tulips Frame, Well Appointed House, $52

Perry Street Round Enamel Frame, Kate Spade

Cowboy Frame, Well Appointed House, $52