One sure-fire way to NOT be a "thrifty decor chick" is to shop with your friends. What is it? The peer pressure, of "Ohhhh, just BUY it!" I think so. And we all do it. Then you compare totals while walking out of the store -- and when you spent less than your buddy you whisper "YESSSS" to yourself. :) (You know you do.)
All I know is I spend half as much on a shopping trip by myself than I do when I am with friends. And even less when it's just me and my little man. Nothing is better for the bank account than shopping with a toddler.
I will post more tomorrow -- the computer was on the fritz today.