Home decorating cannot be overestimated. Everyone wants to have a home that is pleasant, inviting and a place they are proud to call home. The old cliché that "if everyone all had the same type of taste, the world would be a boring place," never rings more true than when it comes to home decorating.

Here are five popular home décor styles that have stood the test of time:

Crisp linens and tiny floral fabrics in the style of "Laura Ashley" make English Country such a timeless and classic choice in decorating. English Country style has changed subtly throughout the years, but usually consists of a lot of chintz and floral fabrics. Flowers are incorporated into the décor and sofas and chairs have skirts that are usually ruffled. Use floral area rugs to soften a harsh floor.

English Country is a distinctly feminine décor. Think white iron beds and tiny printed patterns.

Traditional décor is very simple and underrated with beige, ivory and cream dominating the color schemes. Oak, cherry and maple are popular woods in traditional décor and the furniture lines are clean and straight. Sofas are large and comfortable and windows are typically dressed in fabric and not blinds.

Because of the classic nature of traditional décor, most people find it easy to start out with traditional décor and gradually blend in to another style.

If you decide on one particular style but you face opposition from none other than your spouse, remember this is the only other person whose opinion really matters and it is best to compromise. You could perhaps compromise on a few pieces of furniture and some other odds and ends and work your décor around them. A mixture of styles is called "eclectic."

Whichever type of décor you choose to use, remember it looks best when it flows uninterrupted from one room to the next.

The slight difference between modern and contemporary is that contemporary employs more color and more fabric whereas modern décor veers towards blacks, whites and grays and a whole lot of metal. Modern décor incorporates blinds and shades instead of curtains and minimizes the use of fabric. Ultra modern décor extends to light fixtures, furniture and window treatments. And for a quick update a contemporary area rug will instantly transform your room. 

Modern or contemporary décor tends to change with the times. This is the look of choice for most single men as there is not a flower to be had in the entire scheme.

Unlike English Country, French Country consists of large, bold patterns and primary colors.  Red and blue are often used together in this décor style. French Country décor embraces nature and is a warm and friendly décor that is very inviting. 

Open any Interior Decorating magazine and you are sure to be bombarded with several different interior decorating styles, each one of them better than the other. Is it affordable, is it not? What exactly is the difference between one style and the other? How do you choose one from among so many?

The key to choosing the perfect home décor is to listen to your heart and your eyes; the décor you choose should feel right and also look right to you. It should be a reflection of your personality and not just a reflection of the fad of the times.