(ARA) – Before long, flakes will be flying and Christmas carols will be playing on the radio. The holidays are just around the corner, making now the perfect time to spruce up your home for the season.

Not sure how to get started? Pick up a decorating magazine for inspiration, and you’ll notice that designers are focusing on furniture and accessories that can outlast the holidays and provide stylish décor throughout the year.

If you want to make a change, but have been putting off shopping because you want to avoid the holiday rush, you can browse the latest home design trends from the comfort of home. Just check out the offerings from three of the decorating industry’s most popular Web sites: Charles Keath Home (charleskeath.com), HomeVisions (www.homevisions.com) and Montgomery Ward (wards.com).

Because you and your guests will be spending a lot of time in the dining room, consider a new table and chairs from the Charles Keath Home catalog. The Essex cross-bar table with matching chairs is classic, stylish and affordable. Crafted of substantial select hardwoods with subtle distressing, the set is available in both black and white. The catalog also has a fashionable selection of table runners, chair cushions and place mats to soften your home’s look.

Want to make good on your pledge to be more festive, and go beyond simply hanging ornaments on the tree this year? Accessorize with accent rugs, pillows and wall art. You’ll find a festive selection of holiday-themed accessories on the HomeVisions Web site (www.homevisions.com). If you’re anticipating house guests, the site is also a good place to look for bedding, towels and linens.

Wondering where all the people coming to your home for the holidays are going to sleep? Now may be a good time to invest in a sofa or chair sleeper. Montgomery Ward (wards.com) offers a contemporary model available in four colors (buff, cocoa, seagrass and terra) to fit any room or decor.