I find a good analogy for me to draw is to liken a well-designed kitchen to a well-designed outfit (this counts for men too!). Once you have the basics, clean floors and walls, light fixtures, tables and countertops, you are ready to add the flair. In a kitchen, this is the appliances.

Your primary kitchen appliance is the stove. The stove is the heart of the kitchen, just like the kitchen is the heart of the home. The electric stove is the most popular type these days because it provides an even, steady temperature that can be adjusted with the twist of a knob. Gas stoves are good too, although a bit less reliable when it comes to temperature. It should be taken into account too that gas stoves can be somewhat dangerous, and if you choose to buy one, always be sure to turn them off before you leave home. This advice is also true of electric stoves.

The stove is the function of the kitchen, allowing baking and cooking. It is like your undershirt, not very flashy, but providing a much needed service. Dishwashers and refrigerators fit into this category too. Make sure you have them, practically placed, with the dishwasher near the sink and the refrigerator near your food preparation space. Choose them in colors that match your color scheme and fit what you want. But remember that their true purpose is function, and leave the fun stuff to the smaller appliances.

Microwaves are a necessary staple in any kitchen, something like the socks in an outfit. Necessary, but preferably hidden. Some opt for microwave ovens which serve almost the same purpose but provide a different look for your kitchen. If you want the look that follows the current trend, it is good to find a way to hide your microwave. There are specially made cupboard doors that can blend it in with the rest of your cupboards. But in all honesty this isn't necessary. You can still have a high class kitchen with a visible microwave. Just be sure that it matches your other large appliances.

The really fun part about buying new appliances are the little things. Toasters and blenders and juicers, like belts and jewelry and ties. It's the little things that really set off a kitchen! It's trendy right now to buy them in bright colors, oranges and greens. If you're not feeling quite so bold, you can achieve the same effect with light blues or corals. Classic white also makes a statement, and shiny silver creates a very modern look. Try to buy these smaller items in matching colors, and set them at even spaces on your counter. Keep the visible appliances to a minimum, to avoid a cluttered look. You might want to play with color. Say your kitchen is painted light blue; creamy orange appliances are the perfect complement.

Remember, however, that practicality should come first. Make sure the appliances will serve their purpose. If your pristine, white Cuisinart can't make a smoothie, you should look elsewhere. Another concern is cost. A very stylish and cost effective way to buy appliances is to get them used. Sometimes a battered toaster from the `80's can make more of a statement than a plain black 2005 model.

Of course, the most important thing is to get what you want. It's your kitchen, and it's up to you to personalize it! Find out what kind of look you want to make your coffee to every morning, and stick with that. Have fun and don't be afraid to go with what you want.