Rachel Alcorn is swooning over sunbaked cinnamon fabrics, pale pink trims and classic key motifs

Peggy and David Matthews, celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary, undertook a significant interior design renovation of their Southside Place home, which they built 20 years ago. The initial design of the house catered to their young children, but with their five children now ranging from 16 to 28, and several back home due to the coronavirus pandemic, the family's needs and lifestyle have evolved. Peggy Matthews, who owns Rapid Record Retrieval, a legal support company, expressed a desire to upgrade, redo, and refresh their living space, driven by her love for change. The redesign project was spearheaded by Marie Flanigan Interiors, with Marie Flanigan and design director Melanie Hamel leading the effort. A key aspect of the renovation involved transforming a multi-purpose front room, which had served as a playroom and teenage hangout, into Peggy's personal retreat. This room now features deep blue lacquered walls and built-in bookshelves, a sofa reupholstered in white fabric, a bold geometric rug with chartreuse accents, and a dark blue tufted ottoman. This space allows Peggy to relax privately, though it remains appealing to other family members as well. Peggy's passion for fashion significantly influenced the design choices, prompting the designers to incorporate sophisticated yet functional fabrics inspired by runway trends, including Hermes and Jean Paul Gaultier fabrics. The home's existing art collection, notably Andy Warhol's "Cowboys and Indians" lithographs, served as a primary source of color inspiration. The rich ochers and cobalts present in Warhol's pieces, such as "Mother and Child" in the front room, "Geronimo" in the family room, and "Kachina Dolls" in the hallway, guided the selection of the home's new color palette. Flanigan and Hamel aimed to create a vibrant interior that matched Peggy's dynamic lifestyle, moving away from an all-white aesthetic. The dining room, frequently used for family gatherings, was reimagined with customized de Gournay "Willow" wallpaper featuring delicate branches and a Lindsey Adelman "Branching Bubble" chandelier. Vintage side chairs, discovered on firstdibs.com with garish green frames and old upholstery, were meticulously restored with a gold-bronze finish and reupholstered to complement the wallpaper. The family room was designed with two distinct seating areas to accommodate both large group television watching and intimate conversations, and even includes a designated "dance floor" for entertaining. Minor updates were also made to the kitchen, including replacing traditional island legs with edgier stainless steel ones to match the existing stainless steel counters and range hood. New barstools, combining wood frames with varied fabric on the backs and seats, added warmth. A geometric patterned backsplash was installed after a range replacement, contributing to the updated decor. The breakfast area received new furniture, including a round table that can expand to an oval for larger gatherings. Furthermore, part of the backyard patio was enclosed with large glass panels to create an indoor-outdoor sunroom, offering a climate-controlled space that can be fully opened to the outdoors. This sunroom is furnished with a mix of blue and white patterns in performance fabrics, including a bold Martyn Lawrence Bullard Perennials print on a large ottoman, a striped chair, a solid sofa, and a chevron rug, ensuring durability and a cohesive aesthetic that extends the home's style into the outdoor living area. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #FashionInspiredDecor #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection #CustomWallpaper #ModernTraditional #IndoorOutdoorLiving #FamilyHome

The master bathroom serves as a space where designers leverage color and finishes to cultivate a specific mood, tone, style, and personality. While white and gray palettes continue to be prominent, designers are increasingly incorporating color to create unique and personalized spaces. Roshele Allison, CMKBD, CLIPP, NW Home Designers, notes the continued popularity of white and gray, viewing them as the 'new neutral' that offers a spa-like and tranquil ambiance. Karen King, architectural designer at Transitions Kitchen & Bath, echoes this sentiment, observing that these shades remain a benchmark for timeless and classic aesthetics, particularly in painted cabinetry. Richard Ryder, designer/builder at Clearcut Construction, often bases his projects on warm whites, allowing for strategic 'pops' of color to add interest. His clients frequently present inspiration images featuring warm white walls and low contrast between trim and walls. Chelsea Newton, of Chelsea Lauren Interiors, notes that her Southern California clients often prefer neutral colors inspired by nature, emphasizing natural materials like wood and stone. Michelle Fee, a designer at Change Your Bathroom, also finds her clients drawing inspiration from nature, moving away from purely monochromatic white and gray towards warmer tones and earth-friendly colors. Fee observes a growing interest in wood, particularly walnut and teak for furniture and cabinetry, as well as incorporating greenery, either through actual plants or nature-inspired accents like blues and greens, to evoke a restorative and calm feeling. When clients do opt for color beyond white or gray, blues and greens are frequently chosen. These hues are often introduced as easily changeable accessories, but also as more permanent features in cabinetry, tile, or semi-permanent paint applications. Allison highlights the tranquil quality of softer blues and greens, citing an example of a master bathroom with bamboo cabinetry, a green glass countertop resembling water, and green subway tile. Another project incorporated various shades of blue through a custom mosaic on vanity walls and accent walls, illuminated by LED-backlit niches, allowing the client to display international artifacts. Allison encourages clients to infuse personal elements into their designs, even with specific color preferences, ensuring the chosen hues harmonize with the space without being overwhelming. Newton's projects also feature green and blue, utilizing glossy handmade tiles with crackled detailing in master and children's bathrooms. She emphasizes that color and finishes can act as focal points, elevating a room's aesthetic. King notes that clients willing to be bolder are selecting deeper blues and greens, such as the dark navy cabinetry paired with warm gold hardware in a recent bathroom, providing a strong contrast to softer neutrals. She suggests that bathrooms, being more private and enclosed, allow for more daring color choices compared to open-concept kitchens. Ryder's clients also gravitate towards darker shades like dark blue, green, and black for pops of color, often maintaining a 75/25 neutral base-to-color ratio for balance, as demonstrated by a tall black cabinet against a white backdrop in a recent bathroom design. Beyond color, finish selections significantly influence a space, particularly in monochromatic schemes. Allison used large-format dimensional porcelain tile in a white and gray palette to create a focal wall in a 'bathing room' and a unique plumbing fixture to add interest. The increasing availability of tiles with varied finishes, textures, and dimensionality allows designers to personalize spaces. King points out the evolution of subway tile beyond traditional sizes, with options like 4"x12" or 5"x22" and creative finishes such as crackled or inverted bevels. Glossy finishes remain popular for their light-reflecting qualities. Grout color variations can also alter the look, from subtle gray for a refined trim to dark gray for a rustic farmhouse aesthetic. Contemporary designs often feature large-format tiles like 12"x24" or even 13"x40", laid horizontally and stacked with minimal joints to create a simplified, textural, and often multi-dimensional appearance. Allison and Fee's clients appreciate large-format tiles, especially those mimicking natural stone like travertine or marble, offering durability and easier maintenance while making rooms feel more expansive. Fee frequently combines natural and faux materials, such as marble shower floors with porcelain tile walls and floors, to achieve a nature-inspired theme. Matte finish plumbing fixtures, including matte black, brushed nickel, and brushed gold, are also popular for their aesthetic appeal and ease of cleaning, with Newton's clients favoring matte black and patinaed brass, and Ryder often incorporating mixed metals for a sophisticated, complementary look. #BathroomDesign #InteriorColorTrends #HomeFinishes #TileDesign #ColorPalette #NatureInspiredDesign #ModernBathrooms #LuxuryBathrooms

Artist Liz Collins, known for her textile-focused visual expressions, has unveiled her latest project, "Dynamic Expansion," at the Ligne Roset flagship in Manhattan's Flatiron District. This installation is a collaboration that merges art, craft, and design, showcasing Collins's new spring 2021 capsule fabric collection developed in partnership with Pollack and Sunbrella Contract. Collins, a former fashion designer and professor at the Rhode Island School of Design, has a history of exploring textiles through performance and installation, notably with her "Knitting Nation" series. Her connection to the design world solidified in 2013 when Pollack first invited her to contribute to their Makers Collection. Subsequently, Sunbrella commissioned a large-scale drapery project for its headquarters, designed by Tsao & McKown. Last year, Collins created an installation for Rosanna Orlandi’s design showroom in Milan to feature Sunbrella’s high-performance fabrics, where she incorporated Ligne Roset furniture, including Christian Werner’s Prado sofa. When Ligne Roset extended an invitation to collaborate again in New York, Collins enthusiastically accepted, aiming to design a complete fabric collection. She engaged Pollack and Sunbrella Contract for this endeavor. The project, initially scheduled for New York Design Week in May, experienced delays due to the pandemic but ultimately opened at the Ligne Roset New York flagship in November. The exhibition, "Dynamic Expansion," runs through the end of November. The installation features new artworks alongside designs that highlight her fabric collection. Graphic patterns from her textiles extend from the walls onto the showroom floor, where they are used to upholster five Ligne Roset sofas. A central component of the installation comprises seven 3D works, dubbed _Shape Shifters_, crafted from Collins's fabrics. These pieces are stretched on canvas, adorned with "showers of yarn," and suspended above a display of Prado sofas, cushions, and ottomans. Collins intended for the kinetic space to evoke a sense of wonder and visual stimulation, likening the experience to being in a cave, a galaxy, underwater, and on the ground simultaneously. The new fabric collection includes three graphic patterns: Drawers, a small-scale grid inspired by an Ettore Sottsass cabinet and available in four colorways; Gingham Maze; and an oversized stripe titled Dynamic Expansion. All the art pieces and upholstered furniture displayed in the exhibition are available for purchase. The exhibition, "Dynamic Expansion," is located at the Ligne Roset showroom, 250 Park Ave. South, New York. #LizCollins #FabricCollection #LigneRoset #ArtInstallation #TextileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PollackFabrics #SunbrellaContract

Meredith Heron, a Toronto-based maximalist designer, consistently integrates a diverse range of patterns and color combinations into her projects. Her design philosophy revolves around the idea that "more is more," prompting her to incorporate multiple fabrics within a single room while consciously avoiding a "matchy-matchy" aesthetic. Heron also embraces challenging color palettes, often selecting hues that initially intimidate her, such as contrasting reds and greens, to push her creative boundaries. To harmonize these bold elements, Heron strategically employs a nuanced spectrum of gradient blues. This approach prevents her vibrant selections from clashing, instead creating a cohesive visual experience. A key technique she utilizes involves incorporating the same pattern in various colorways throughout a space. Additionally, she often chooses paint colors that are slightly off from fabric shades to achieve a more lived-in and organic feel, viewing this deliberate mismatch as an enjoyable design puzzle. Heron's mood board, which serves as a visual representation of her current inspirations, exemplifies her eclectic style. It features a blend of striking motifs, including multitonal stripes, flame-stitched chevrons, and animal prints. Each element is carefully chosen to contribute to her signature maximalist aesthetic, without overwhelming the space. She thoughtfully curates each component, demonstrating how disparate patterns and colors can coexist in a harmonious and sophisticated manner. Among the specific items highlighted in her mood board are the Handsart Key Rug in Merlot, which she appreciates for its meandering design that helps open up a space. The Camber Stripe Fabric in Green and Blue by Jane Churchill is noted for its mint hues, allowing her to integrate other mutable greens into her palette. The Inferno Fabric in Sapphire by S. Harris, a flame stitch, is a favored choice for sofas due to its distinctive texture and pattern. She also features the Regal Fancy Fabric in Verdant by S. Harris, an Art Deco-inspired green with a shimmering sheen, and the Midori Fabric in Verdure by Clarence House, which she describes as textural and luxurious, particularly when paired with leather. Heron also incorporates unique accent pieces, such as an antique cloisonné vase, which she sources from auctions to add a sense of history and a richer narrative to her designs. The Fissure Rug in Azure, from her own Meredith Heron Collection, showcases her passion for ombres, a design element she frequently includes in her rugs and fabrics. For hardware, she selects the Pyra Mitered Handle in Bright by Shayne Fox Hardware, appreciating the craftsmanship of a fellow Toronto designer. An animal print is almost always a staple in her projects, represented here by the Darwin Fabric in Blue by Jane Churchill, which, despite being a dotted pattern, evokes the texture of a stingray or shagreen. Wallpapers also play a significant role in her designs, with the Marble Tile 1 Wallpaper in Pebble by The Vale London being a choice for creating a faux marble effect on ceilings or within decorative molding. Another selection from The Vale London is the Bagan Wallpaper in Deep Sea, a pearlescent paper that caught her attention for its unique finish. For anchoring her color schemes, she uses the Giles Embroidery Fabric in Red/Blue by Lee Jofa, which incorporates the majority of colors present in a room. Finally, the Cleo Fabric in Copper and Red by Jane Churchill is chosen for its feathery, animal print-like qualities, contributing to the "well-traveled" ambiance she aims to achieve in her interiors. #MeredithHeron #MaximalistDesign #InteriorDesign #FabricPatterns #ColorPalettes #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #LuxuryInteriors #TextileDesign

Chartreuse, encompassing varying shades of pale neon green and lime, emerged as a prominent color trend during Afterpay Australian Fashion Week. This vibrant hue was observed across both runway presentations and street style, injecting a bold splash of color into the predominantly rainy weather of the event. The article highlights that while no color is likely to fully replace black as a fashion staple, chartreuse has become a strong contender for a close second, signaling its significant presence in current fashion narratives. Designers integrated chartreuse into their collections in diverse ways. Dyspnea and Sass & Bide, for example, showcased neon-hued chartreuse alongside deep browns and blues, often incorporated into psychedelic patterns, creating visually striking and dynamic ensembles. In contrast, brands like Bondi Born and Alex Higgins opted for a more subdued approach, presenting tonal outfits that allowed the chartreuse color to speak for itself through its subtle variations and inherent brightness. This demonstrates the versatility of the color, capable of being both a bold statement and a refined choice depending on its application. The trend extended beyond the runways into the street style scene of Sydney’s Carriageworks, where fashion enthusiasts embraced chartreuse with equal enthusiasm. Attendees were seen sporting the eye-catching color in various forms, including snake-skin prints and luxurious leather pieces. Many also paired chartreuse with other equally bright hues, further amplifying its impact and showcasing adventurous color-blocking and mixing. This widespread adoption in street style confirms the color's appeal and wearability outside of formal runway contexts, indicating its strong influence on everyday fashion choices. The article further notes that the popularity of chartreuse suggests a broader shift towards bolder, more expressive color palettes in contemporary fashion. This movement is a departure from more traditional or muted color schemes, embracing luminosity and intensity. The prevalence of chartreuse during a major fashion event like Afterpay Australian Fashion Week underscores its status as a key trend that designers and consumers alike are embracing for its ability to add a fresh and energetic dimension to wardrobes. To help readers incorporate this trend into their own style, the article compiles a selection of chartreuse-themed fashion items available for purchase. These include a Becca Mini Dress with Long Sleeves in Navy/Lime Green from Gary Bigeni, Runway Valentine Sunglasses from Sunglass Hut, a McIntyre Taylor Sweater from THE ICONIC, a Serpentine Corset Mini Dress from Aje, Rhys Coloured Sole Chelsea Boot in Lime from Charles & Keith, a Venus Corset in Lime Python from Miaou, a Jacquemus Tuba Cropped Gingham Jersey Turtleneck Top from Net-A-Porter, a Billie Bucket Bag from Poppy Lissiman, Emma Mulholland On Holiday Kokomo Pants from THE ICONIC, and a Linen Oversized Blazer and Fixed Waist Linen Trouser from VENROY. This curated list provides practical options for readers to engage with the chartreuse trend across different categories, from apparel to accessories, enabling them to integrate the color into their personal fashion statements. #FashionWeek #Chartreuse #LimeGreen #FashionTrends #StreetStyle #AustralianFashion #RunwayFashion #ColorTrend #OnlineShopping

The article discusses the new Bedford Park collection from Morris & Co., a textile brand named after the influential British textile artist William Morris. The collection, spearheaded by lead designer Jessica Clayworth, aims to honor Morris's iconic Arts & Crafts designs while introducing a modern and unexpected twist through bold and supercharged color palettes. Clayworth's vision was to disrupt the market by reimagining classic patterns with punchy hues and dramatic color combinations, drawing inspiration from the psychedelic tones of the 1960s and '70s. The development process involved delving into the company's archives to select both well-known Morris bestsellers and lesser-known works by other significant Arts & Crafts designers. The goal was to bring attention to designs that had previously received less recognition and to highlight the contributions of artists like C.F.A. Voysey, Allan Francis Vigers, and J. H. Dearle, who were also impactful during the Arts & Crafts period. The Bedford Park collection features 15 wallpaper designs and 14 fabrics. Clayworth provides insights into several key patterns within the collection. For instance, the popular 'Pimpernel' pattern, originally characterized by soft, muted colors, has been reinterpreted with brighter, stronger colors such as Shamrock and Watermelon. This reinterpretation caters to customers seeking a more vibrant and audacious aesthetic. Another pattern, 'Spring Thicket,' which was Morris's last wallpaper design, has been updated from its original subtle peachy ground to striking bright blues, incorporating a lilac punch to modernize the colorway and enhance the floral and leaf motifs. The collection also introduces designs by C.F.A. Voysey, including 'The Savaric,' which features his signature bird motif. While Morris's designs are often described as structural, Voysey's style is noted for its naivete. The updated 'Savaric' maintains a gentle color palette, such as Garden Green, to align with Voysey's original vision while introducing his work to a broader audience. Voysey's 'Glade' and 'Laceflower' patterns are also part of the collection. 'Glade' stands out with its structural, stylized botanical design and Art Nouveau influence, offering a departure from some of the more elaborate patterns. 'Laceflower' reintroduces Voysey's characteristic birds, integrated within floral stems for a more dimensional effect compared to 'The Savaric.' Allan Francis Vigers' 'Campanula' design, with its dense field of vibrant flowers, is presented in a Sunburst colorway that closely honors the creator's initial vision, with colors slightly enhanced for impact. The wallpaper print for 'Campanula' also pays homage to the wooden printing blocks used during the Arts & Crafts era, reinforcing the collection's authentic origins. Many patterns in the Bedford Park collection are available in both fabric and wallpaper, allowing for maximalist decorating schemes. The collection is designed to evoke a sense of rebellion and statement-making, aiming to impress and inspire awe in observers. #MorrisAndCo #TextileDesign #ArtsAndCrafts #InteriorDesign #Wallpaper #Fabric #WilliamMorris #BedfordParkCollection #ColorCombinations

The article explores the growing trend of rich and saturated colors in interior design, marking a significant departure from the minimalist and monochromatic palettes that have dominated since the early 2000s. This shift is characterized by a desire for depth, warmth, and character in living spaces, moving away from neutral grey gradients towards bold colors such as jewel tones, deep greens, blues, reds, and citrus hues. Sophie Alberry-King, an interior designer at City & Country, highlights that this trend allows for greater self-expression and personality in home design. She notes that experimenting with diverse shades and contrasts can enhance the living experience, both mentally and physically, through the psychological impact of vibrant colors. The resurgence in popularity of feature walls and sophisticated, bright accents is presented as a forward-thinking approach to design, diverging from any perception of these bold elements as aggressive or brash. The article emphasizes that the interior design world has observed a definite shift, with highly pigmented, eye-catching shades, ranging from bright to more muted yet rich tones like deeper wine, olive, and mustard variations, becoming increasingly prevalent. The rise of "bold chic" interiors on platforms like TikTok is cited as evidence of this trend, encouraging designers and homeowners to experiment with design conventions. Alberry-King points out the psychological benefits of vibrant colors, suggesting that people are turning to more saturated tones as a form of visual therapy within their homes. For those new to incorporating bold colors, a gradual approach is recommended, starting with smaller applications such as colorful tiles or brightly painted cabinets in bathrooms or entryways, or even introducing colorful dishes and utensils to build up a palette without overwhelming the entire home. To prevent over-stimulation while using vibrant colors, the article advises strategic application and the maintenance of balance. This involves pairing bold hues with contrasting neutral tones such as wood, creamy whites, and complementary shades on accent walls or trimmings. Statement furniture and curated décor pieces are suggested as effective ways to introduce color incrementally, preventing a room from becoming overpowering. Examples provided include using deep green vases, wine-red hardback books, and royal blue cushions or curtains as accent pieces. City & Country’s in-house design team, for instance, incorporates rich shades through plush armchairs and decorative cushions in show homes, aiming for a timeless aesthetic with pops of color. The trend also advocates for layering various textures and patterns alongside bolder colors to add depth and interest. Combining materials like wood, metal, and textured wallpaper can create a visually dynamic yet cohesive space. The article stresses the importance of maintaining a consistent style and theme throughout the home, blending vibrant features with neutral elements to achieve a surprisingly calming balance. Darker shades like rich browns, earthy moss greens, and deep burgundies are noted to complement natural materials such as wood, linen, and boucle, fostering a cozy atmosphere against a neutral backdrop. Color psychology, a long-standing element in interior design, is undergoing a reinvention with the bold and bright colors of 2025. This creates vibrant yet harmonious settings, promoting a new sense of serenity and self-expression through an optimal ratio of color and neutrals. The saturated colors trend is not just a passing fad but a reflection of a societal desire for personalized sanctuaries and vibrant self-expression, pointing towards a future where living spaces are more dynamically and richly colored. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #SaturatedColors #JewelTones #BoldInteriors #DesignPsychology #AccentPieces #TextureLayering

In this installment of 'What I Love,' San Francisco-based textile designer and editor of The Textile Eye, Saana Baker, presents a mood board showcasing her current inspirations in fabrics and wallcoverings. Baker, renowned for her ability to identify exceptional prints and patterns, has curated a selection that emphasizes bold hues and tactile textures, driven by a commitment to diversity in design and a response to contemporary global shifts. Baker’s mood board is a vibrant and eclectic collection featuring samples and swatches from international makers, reflecting a broader discussion within the design industry about ethical sourcing and cultural mindfulness. She explains that the theme is deeply rooted in significant global changes, including the social justice movement and its subsequent influence on design aesthetics. The result is a maximalist-friendly compilation characterized by plush materials, striking graphic motifs, and deeply saturated colors. The chosen palette is described as rich and unusual, utilizing innovative color combinations to convey an optimistic outlook for the future. Baker provides a detailed breakdown of 25 items on her mood board. She begins with the Linyati Fabric in Waterfall by Jiun Ho Textile, a linen velvet praised for its elegant luster and livability, making it an ideal complement for complex patterns. Next is the Hingtham Wallcovering in Clay by Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris, a printed grass cloth inspired by Bhutanese ikat, which achieves visual depth through fine detail and polychromatic layering. The Tiger Nest Fabric in Lake, also from Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris, is a fine embroidery mimicking ikat with feathered edges, noted for its evocative name and fresh palette of chartreuse, cobalt, and pale yellow. Jiun Ho Textile's Seronera Fabric in Thorn was inspired by Jiun Ho's extensive travels in the Serengeti, aiming to evoke a mood rather than literal motifs. The Machakos Fabric in Earth and Sky by Nzuri Textiles is a hand-painted Belgian linen design by Eno Jonah, drawing inspiration from African mask details. Shinto Fabric in Cinnabar by Jiun Ho Textile is a rustic boucle with a wool-blend warp yarn that allows for subtle colorations, supporting diverse palettes. The Anna May Wong Fabric in Midnight/Teal by Makrosha, designed by Esha Ahmed, is a finely woven jacquard inspired by the glamour of the art deco period. Makrosha’s Marci Mohair in Sumac is a classic plush mohair available in a wide range of rich colors, known for its enduring quality and ability to develop character with wear. Anamar’s Lamu Meshi Fabric in Lapis Bluff is a hand-woven, ribbed plain-weave silk fabric created in the Philippines using warp screen-printing. The Lightray Wallcovering in Patina is a collaboration between visual artist Lisa Hunt and Lori Weitzner, showcasing geometric yet subtle designs translated from fine art. The Banda Indigo Flatweave Rug by Eskayel is part of a unique collaboration where designer Shanan Campanaro worked with master ikat artisans in Sumba, Indonesia, to reinterpret her watercolor designs into rugs, wallpapers, and textiles. Malene Barnett’s Heritage Wallpaper for Lulu and Georgia, created by the Black Artists + Designers Guild founder, is inspired by her hand-built ceramics, featuring a raised surface-print technique for tactile dimensionality. Karen J. Revis for A-Street Prints designed the Waves Blue Wall Mural, a flowing watercolor design intended as a wall-sized mural. The Maji Fabric in Peacock by Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris is a jacquard velvet with bright blue and striking gold yarns, creating a complex pattern. Anamar’s Beijing Kikko Fabric in Lazurite Peak features a hand-screen-printed globe pattern on the warp, with each color applied separately before hand-weaving. The Hamaka Textile in Humacao by Breuwen, designed by Grey Lux, is a digital linen print inspired by the weaving legacy of his Taino ancestors. Malene Barnett’s Alaari Wallpaper for Lulu and Georgia offers a sophisticated update to millennial pinks with its tonal spice combination. The Akimbo 5 Indigo Flatweave Rug by Eskayel is another example of collaboration with ikat weavers, noted for its inky depth. Nzuri Textiles' Yankari Fabric in Turkana showcases subtle color gradations and hand-drawn details, preserving the hand-touched imperfection of Eno Jonah’s original artwork. Makrosha’s Marci Mohair in Teal is a second colorway of their luxurious mohair velvet, known for its stunning depth of color. Anamar’s Andorra Meshi Fabric in Milori Crown, an archival pattern depicting dragon scales, is a heavy, hand-woven silk with a hand-screened warp and alternating teal colors in the ribs. The Majani Trim in Brass by Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris features gold-toned beads juxtaposed with stiff raffia, creating compelling material contrast. The Bhavana Desert Fabric by Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris is a decorative panel stripe combining print and embroidery with an antiqued white ink and crewel-like embroidery. The Amboseli Pillow in Maasai Blue by Nzuri Textiles is a special hand-woven textile from West Africa, produced on a strip loom by weavers who commit complex traditional patterns to memory. Finally, the Patu Trim in Bark by Black Artists + Designers Guild for S. Harris is a chic trim reminiscent of Maori incised decorations, embellished with beads and tonal embroidery. #TextileDesign #InteriorDesign #MoodBoard #SaanaBaker #Fabric #Wallcovering #JacquardVelvet #EmbroideredTrims #GlobalInspiration #DiversityInDesign

The growing popularity of bouclé fabric in home decor reflects a broader trend towards comfort and tactile experiences in interior design, possibly as a response to global uncertainties. Bouclé, characterized by its textured surface formed from loops and curls of thick and thin yarns, offers both visual appeal and a comforting feel. While traditionally made from wool, bouclé can also be crafted from other fibers such as linen, silk, and cotton, providing versatility in its application. This material is particularly well-suited for furniture and decor items featuring soft curves and rounded edges, which aligns with current design aesthetics favoring organic shapes and inviting silhouettes. Its adaptability and durability make it suitable for various uses, from high-traffic areas to cozy, everyday items like pillows. The article suggests that incorporating bouclé into the home can create a sense of softness and comfort, offering a retreat from external chaos. Various designers are embracing bouclé, evidenced by its appearance in a range of home furnishings. The texture adds depth and warmth to a space, making it an appealing choice for those seeking to enhance the comfort and aesthetic of their living environments. The material’s robust nature ensures longevity, making it a practical as well as stylish option for upholstery and decorative accents. The current design landscape sees bouclé as a key element in creating spaces that feel both luxurious and approachable. Inspiration for using bouclé fabric can be drawn from numerous sources, including design platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, where examples of bouclé-covered items like sofas, chairs, and pillows are frequently showcased. These platforms highlight the fabric's ability to complement various interior styles, from minimalist to more opulent settings, due to its inherent texture and neutral color palette options. For those looking to integrate bouclé into their homes, a wide array of products is available for purchase. Examples include benches, pillows, swivel chairs, armchairs, divans, ottomans, and even upholstery fabric by the yard. These items demonstrate the versatility of bouclé, allowing individuals to incorporate this comforting textile in small accents or larger furniture pieces, thereby transforming their living spaces into more inviting and comfortable havens. #BoucleFabric #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ComfortTrends #TexturedFabrics #FurnitureDesign #SoftFurnishings #TactileExperience #DesignInspiration

The article highlights Alexa Chung's recent fashion choices, specifically her adoption of the oversized khaki bomber jacket as a versatile outerwear option for early spring. It addresses the common challenge of finding suitable transseasonal outerwear that can adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day, from warm commutes to chilly evenings. The author, Natalie Munro, recounts discovering Chung's styling of the bomber jacket on Instagram, noting that Chung wore the same jacket twice within 48 hours, demonstrating its utility and fashion appeal. Chung's approach to styling the bomber jacket showcases its adaptability. In one instance, she layered a polished pinstriped blazer underneath the bomber, allowing its lapels to peek out. This technique not only added extra insulation for cooler weather but also created a sophisticated contrast with the bomber's casual nature. She completed this look with penny loafers, grounding the outfit with a smart detail. In another outfit, Chung opted for a simpler style, pairing the oversized bomber with a warm black knit, suggesting a casual yet chic ensemble, likely with jeans. The article emphasizes the bomber jacket's versatility beyond just denim pairings. It suggests that the aviation-inspired jacket can effortlessly add a cool and casual element to various outfits. Examples provided include pairing it with light cotton dresses for late spring, styling it with leather skirts or trousers for a more elevated look, and combining it with classic leggings and trainers for a comfortable, everyday ensemble. The author positions the bomber jacket as a "springtime saviour" due to its ability to integrate seamlessly into multiple wardrobes and occasions. Following the discussion of Chung's styling and the bomber jacket's versatility, the article transitions into a shopping guide. It presents a curated selection of khaki bomber jackets from various brands, including Mango, & Other Stories, Wardrobe.NYC, Helmut Lang, Victoria Beckham, H&M, Reformation, and Studio Nicholson. Each featured jacket is accompanied by its price and a brief description, often highlighting specific styling tips or design features, such as relaxed fits, quilted textures, or inspiration from classic aviation styles. The inclusion of these shopping recommendations provides readers with practical options to emulate Alexa Chung's style and embrace the bomber jacket trend for spring. The article concludes by reinforcing the bomber jacket's status as a fashionable and practical item for the transitional spring season. It draws inspiration from a prominent style icon, Alexa Chung, to validate its claims about the jacket's trendiness and versatility. The overall message is that the khaki bomber jacket is a must-have item for those navigating the unpredictable weather of early spring while aiming to remain stylish and comfortable. #AlexaChung #BomberJackets #SpringFashion #OuterwearTrends #CelebrityStyle #FashionStyling #KhakiJacket #TransseasonalFashion #ShoppingGuide

Serena and Lily is a brand recognized for its coastal chic aesthetic, featuring elements like baby blues, crisp linens, seashell prints, and rattan. This style combines Southern charm with Hamptons elegance, but often comes with a luxury price point, such as a $500 table lamp. For consumers who appreciate this aesthetic but prefer a more budget-friendly approach, the market offers numerous alternatives that capture a similar vibe. Many home decor brands have embraced the elevated-beach-house trend, producing items that either closely mimic Serena and Lily's designs or evoke a similar "coastal granddaughter" energy. This article curates a selection of 16 such products, ranging from furniture to decorative accents, that allow individuals to achieve the desired look for less. These dupes span various categories, providing options for different areas of the home. Among the recommendations are practical and stylish items such as a set of modern farmhouse lamps available on Amazon. These lamps offer functionality with LED bulbs, dimmable touch control, and USB charging ports, while providing an aesthetic appeal. Another notable mention is a crosshatched console table from Joss & Main, which incorporates a rattan pattern to deliver a coastal feel. For dining and kitchen areas, washable quilted placemats with scalloped edges from Amazon are suggested, offering both charm and ease of maintenance. Seating options include a vibey patio bar stool from Birch Lane, featuring woven backs and stained wood, and a solid wood bar stool, also from Birch Lane, which provides additional cushioning and a contemporary cane design. For lighting, a ceramic and jute bedside table lamp with a scalloped lampshade is presented as an affordable alternative to Serena and Lily's Rainier Table Lamp. Small decorative details, such as a rattan tissue box cover, are also highlighted for their ability to elevate a room's overall aesthetic by concealing less attractive everyday items. The article also features larger decor pieces like scalloped curtains that can transform a room into a coastal haven, and a tasseled patio umbrella that closely resembles a much pricier Serena and Lily counterpart. An elevated bar cart from Perigold with a blue and white rattan design is suggested for those looking to stylishly display beverages and glassware. Other lighting solutions include a rope nightstand lamp that adds texture and emits a warm glow. For storage, a modern accent cabinet from SICOTAS provides a deep blue credenza with solid wood doors and soft-close hinges. Bedding is addressed with a reversible blue floral quilt from Flysheep, offering a chic and versatile option for layering. Dining and patio spaces can benefit from a set of outdoor woven dining chairs from T.J. Maxx, which are both functional and stylish. Finally, two different scalloped rugs are presented: an ivory Anna scalloped jute area rug from Rugs USA, made from pet- and eco-friendly materials, and a Greta scalloped raffia floor lamp from Crate and Barrel, which combines a brushed brass base with a raffia shade for a balanced aesthetic. These diverse options collectively enable consumers to infuse their homes with the coastal granddaughter aesthetic without exceeding their budget. #HomeDecor #CoastalGranddaughterAesthetic #SerenaAndLilyDupes #BudgetFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #AffordableHome #RattanFurniture #ScallopedDetails #HomeStyling

Amy Kalikow, a New York designer, creates sophisticated and livable interiors by expertly blending a palette of icy whites, warm ivories, and nuanced greiges, often incorporating touches of stormy travertine, taupe faux leather, and pearlescent glass. Her designs are characterized by meticulous attention to detail, evident in elements like fluted bathroom tiles, quilted and topstitched wall panels, and alpaca velvet that mimics the feel of fur. Kalikow’s approach for her springtime mood board emphasizes soft, calming colors, building upon a foundation of white oak flooring and cushioning it with Moroccan wool and Indian dhurrie rugs. The introduction of Calacatta Viola marble, with its golden and aubergine veining, serves as a subtle yet colorful accent, complemented by hints of pink found in painterly grasscloth wallpaper. She highlights that the textures and tones chosen evoke a sense of warmth and relaxation, akin to dreaming of sunny days. Beyond the soothing neutrals, Kalikow integrates artistic elements to add intrigue to her spaces. Examples include a glazed stoneware piece by a local ceramicist that features organic forms, and sculptural lighting from a former fashion accessory designer, which uniquely combines biomorphic and brutalist aesthetics. These artistic touches contribute to an overall elegant and lighthearted result, aligning with her stated theme of “happiness” inspired by the signs of spring. The article provides a detailed breakdown of 20 specific design elements that contribute to Kalikow's aesthetic. These include the Saba fabric in Chalk by Mokum, a linen designed to mimic embroidery with subtle texture and geometric patterns, ideal for throw pillows. Olivia Cognet's ceramic chandeliers introduce organic and unique lighting, while Pollack's Gemini fabric in Cloud Nine offers a three-dimensional texture and a playful half-moon pattern. Bas Stone’s Stormy Grey Travertine and Lewis Miller Design for Weitzner’s Downpour fabric in Urban provide natural elements and a painterly wash of muted color, respectively. Local artist Joan Walton’s ceramic pieces are championed for supporting local talent. Further textural and material choices include Tile Bar’s Stonework Peak Marble Tile in Alaska White, favored for its fluted stone application in bathroom accent walls, and Sota Floors’ Luxe Collection Hardwood Flooring in Stratus, a soothing and sturdy white oak. Luxe Light & Home’s Lucia Branch Chandelier Lightbulb is noted for its customizable application in entryways. Wallcoverings such as Quadrata in Oxide by Black Edition add a touch of luxury. Misia’s Dolce fabric in Greige provides an ultra-soft alpaca wool velvet, and Stone Source’s Napoli Etna Chiara Tile in Grigio offers a neutral porcelain tile with a subtle terrazzo nod. Rugs like Beauvais’s Negev Dhurrie Rug and Bokara Rug Company’s Moroccan Rug in Ivory/Grey introduce rich textures suitable for any room, with the latter being family-friendly. Larsen’s Nao fabric in Saffron provides a small-scale geometric pattern that adds a pop of color, while Barry Dixon for Vervain’s Gawain Sheer fabric in Natural, a Belgian linen, adds depth to drapery. Performance materials are also featured, such as Designers Guild’s Matara Tessere Vegan Leather in Taupe, an embossed leather chosen for its durability and style, suitable for upholstery. Custom-finished glass tabletops from Glassworks offer unique textures for kitchen tables. Finally, Bas Stone’s Calacatta Viola Extra Marble is described as a timeless material that imparts beauty and sophistication, and Massimo Brancati for Studioart’s Bon Ton Wall Panels in City Greige are praised for their customizable leather design, featuring tonal stitching and alternating flat and padded surfaces for a special touch. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AmyKalikow #MoodBoard #LuxuryInteriors #DesignTrends #MaterialSelection #TexturalDesign #ColorPalette

The article highlights the rising popularity of vintage-inspired lace curtains, particularly among stylish individuals, and draws attention to a specific product available in Kelly Clarkson's Wayfair collection. These sheer, white lace curtain panels offer a Victorian aesthetic at an affordable price point of $10.99. The author expresses a personal preference for hunting vintage pieces but acknowledges the convenience of finding ready-made, vintage-look items. The Kelly Clarkson Home Christy Floral Lace Rod Pocket Curtain Panel is presented as a solution for those seeking a storied look without the extensive search. Its crisp white color and floral lace design are noted for evoking country landscapes and traditional decor styles. The article emphasizes that decorating with vintage and antique pieces is a significant interior design trend for 2025, especially for living and dining rooms. Sam Deeble, a Home Interiors Expert at Woods Furniture, is quoted explaining that adding textures is crucial for creating warm and inviting dining spaces. He suggests incorporating distressed wood, lace tablecloths, velvet cushions, woven placemats, and textured wallpaper to enhance a timeless, vintage feel. Deeble also advocates for a mix-and-match approach to vintage decorating, which helps personalize a space and makes it more visually engaging by giving the impression of collected items over time. Beyond curtains, the article suggests using lace as an accent on tables. It also includes a curated selection of other vintage-inspired items from Wayfair under Kelly Clarkson's home collection. These additional items include a Hessie Ornate Antique Gold Metal Wall Mirror, a Noelle Upholstered Ottoman, and a Maren Oriental Rug. Each item is briefly described for its design contribution and price point, reinforcing the theme of achieving a sophisticated, vintage aesthetic affordably. The mirror is noted for its ability to enlarge a space while adding a metallic touch; the ottoman is praised for its neutral hue, soft finish, and button tufting, offering both beauty and comfort; and the rug is highlighted for its traditional, antique-style print and stain-resistant material, presenting it as a valuable investment. Overall, the article promotes accessible ways to integrate vintage design elements into modern homes, particularly focusing on textiles and accent pieces that contribute to a cozy and personalized atmosphere. #KellyClarkson #Wayfair #LaceCurtains #VintageDecor #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #AffordableDecor #CelebrityHomeStyle #TextileDecor

This article posits that taupe, a neutral color, is poised to become a dominant fashion and beauty trend, drawing evidence primarily from its prevalent appearance on the Met Gala red carpet. The Met Gala, an annual fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute, featured a "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" theme with a "Garden of Time" dress code. Despite expectations of floral and green attire, numerous celebrities opted for neutral-colored outfits, with a strong presence of taupe. Several prominent figures are highlighted as examples of this trend. Mindy Kaling was seen in a Gaurav Gupta design, Sarah Jessica Parker in Richard Quinn, and Tyla in Balmain, all showcasing variations of taupe. Other celebrities noted for wearing taupe included Zoë Saldana in Chloé, Emma Mackey also in Chloé, Donald Glover in Saint Laurent, and Pamela Anderson in Oscar de la Renta. The consistent appearance of this specific neutral hue across such a diverse group of high-profile individuals suggests a significant emerging trend. The article further reinforces this prediction by referencing industry expert opinions. Tom Smith, a hair stylist and trend forecaster, is cited from an interview with *Glamour* magazine, where he predicted "taupe brunette" would be the biggest hair color trend of 2024. Smith drew parallels between the projected popularity of brown and brunette shades in 2024 and the prevalence of copper tones in 2023. He also linked this hair trend to broader fashion movements, noting the current popularity of monochrome dressing and tonal browns, reminiscent of early 2000s fashion. Beyond celebrity fashion and hair trends, the article indicates that fashion bloggers are also observing and reporting on the rising popularity of taupe. This broader recognition across various fashion commentary platforms suggests a widespread acceptance and adoption of the color. To encourage readers to embrace the trend, the article provides practical examples of how to incorporate taupe into their wardrobe, specifically mentioning the Petal & Pup Liza Pleated Maxi Dress ($89) and the Birdy Grey Kensie Dress ($99). These examples are presented as suitable options for bridesmaids and wedding guests, highlighting the versatility and potential formal application of the color. Overall, the article predicts a comprehensive trend for taupe across multiple facets of fashion and beauty, from high-profile red carpet events to everyday wear and hair color. The observation of this color at the Met Gala, coupled with expert forecasts and practical shopping suggestions, forms the basis for the prediction that taupe will be a significant shade of the season. #MetGalaFashion #TaupeTrend #CelebrityStyle #FashionForecasting #NeutralColors #RedCarpetLooks #MindyKaling #SarahJessicaParker

Bouclé, a textured fabric characterized by looped or curled fibers, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity across various design sectors. The material's origins trace back to the late 1940s when Eero Saarinen designed the Womb Chair, upholstered in Knoll's Classic Bouclé, at the request of Florence Knoll. Historically, bouclé referred to either the yarn, crafted from a series of looped fibers, or the resulting fabric. While wool is the most common fiber used in this technique, cotton, linen, and silk also lend themselves to creating bouclé’s distinctive textured feel. Following its mid-century debut, bouclé gained traction in fashion couture, with Chanel notably incorporating it, and became a staple in furniture design. The appeal of bouclé lies in its versatile properties. It is substantial enough to provide acoustic absorption, making it suitable for applications like window treatments, yet sufficiently soft for use in pillows. Designer Tina Ramchandani attributes the material's current popularity to a broader societal need for comfort and security. In an era marked by environmental concerns and political turbulence, individuals seek to create safe and cozy home environments that promote well-being. This sentiment aligns with bouclé’s inherent comfort and inviting texture. Bouclé particularly complements curvilinear furniture forms, as evidenced by its application in iconic midcentury designs by Saarinen and Vladimir Kagan, and more contemporary pieces such as Pierre Yovanovitch’s Papa and Baby Bear Armchairs. At Salone del Mobile, Sé showcased an arced Ini Archibong-designed Oshun sofa upholstered in an eggshell-hued bouclé from Perennials, further illustrating this synergy. As consumer demand increasingly favors fabrics that offer both rich texture and breathability, textile manufacturers are expanding their bouclé collections. Several textile houses are responding to this trend by introducing new bouclé offerings. De Le Cuona's Flint bouclé collection, for instance, features a blend of wool and linen, suitable for both drapery and upholstery, and is available in six colorways. Sella Concepts launched the Ladies Pond collection, its first commercially available furniture, featuring hand-turned tulipwood pieces finished with stone composite and coordinating bouclé upholstered cushions. Frank Ponterio’s inaugural collection for Clarence House includes bouclé fabrics in four distinct colorways, blending linen, cotton, and alpaca. Perennials x Sé Collections highlight performance bouclé on modern organic sofa forms, as seen at Milan’s Rosana Orlandi. Stella TriBeCa offers bouclé throws woven from Stansborough wool and New Zealand mohair, providing warmth and softness. Lastly, Christophe Delcourt’s EKO Meridienne chair, upholstered in bouclé, draws inspiration from Le Corbusier’s Ronchamp chapel, incorporating sweeping planes and geometric forms. These diverse offerings demonstrate the material's adaptability and its continued relevance in contemporary design. #BoucleFabric #TextileTrends #InteriorDesign #FurnitureUpholstery #MidcenturyDesign #HomeComfort #FabricInnovation #ModernInteriors

Mimi Meacham, founder of Houston-based Marian Louise Design, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful accents in interior design, such as bee-shaped hardware or block-printed floral fabrics, to make a significant impact. Her current inspiration is drawn from the refreshing colors associated with summer drinks like Topo Chico or homemade lemonade, leading to a mood board that combines blues and yellows to evoke an upbeat and fresh atmosphere. This design approach integrates dainty patterns and pastel tones with natural materials to create a grounded yet lively scheme, reflecting the newness of spring and the ease of summer. Meacham's selection includes a variety of textiles, finishes, and trinkets. Among these is the Camona Wallpaper in Camona Green by Anna Spiro Textiles, praised for its ability to instantly elevate a space with its fresh blue-green print. Fabrics like V Dot in Ocean and Flower Burst in Teal by Teil are highlighted for their playful prints and geometric-artistic styling, respectively. A unique Bee Door Knocker by Akuababes from Etsy adds a chic and playful touch to a front door, while Silestone slabs in Cala Blue and Posidonia Green by Cosentino offer durable and stylish countertop options in soothing hues. Her material palette extends to furniture finishes, featuring a Conrad Nightstand sample with Pristine Faux Raffia finish by Made Goods, chosen for its ideal cream color and easily wipeable surface. The Zinnia Arc Fabric in Emerald by Teil is noted for its vibrant colors and unique patterns, consistent with Teil's reputation for fun textiles. Schumacher’s Hydrangea Drape Wallpaper in Delft is celebrated for its classic blue and white design, seamlessly blending stripe and floral elements for a fresh traditional aesthetic, inspired by Meacham's favorite flower. Locust Lane’s Jute & Wool Combo Rug in Cotton White, Sea Blue, and Daffodil Yellow provides a quality foundation with a broad range of color options. The mood board also incorporates decorative items such as a Coral Sculpture by The House of Kariel, offering a spiky contrast in warm white. Additional fabrics include Marigold in Multi Navy/Light Blue by Anna Spiro Textiles, a beautiful block print; Missoni Vasto Rug in Teal by Stark Carpet, recognized for its iconic design; and Flower Fly in Dusty Blue by Teil, a floral print well-suited for pattern-rich spaces. Schumacher’s Aurelia Embroidery Fabric in Sky is admired for its luxurious embroidery and festive combination of soft blue, poppy yellow, and fresh ivory. For surfaces, Artigiano Wall Tile in Italian Alps by Daltile offers a perfect neutral with a hand-painted appearance. A Vanity Countertop Sample with Dark Gloss Maple Burl finish by Made Goods contributes a smooth, rich, and moody element suitable for a bathroom. Rebecca Atwood’s Dashes Fabric in Moss Green, a refined Belgian linen with a teal print, is suggested for pillows. A Whitewashed Cotton White Finish Rope Bench by Villa & House is included for its coastal charm. Paint selections feature Sherwin-Williams’s Yellow Bird, a soothing yellow, and Icy Lemonade, a cool lemon color that provides a pop without being overwhelming. Finally, the Fairfax Rug in Coastal Blue by Serena & Lily, a wool-and-cotton blend, rounds out the selections with its steel blue hue. #InteriorDesign #MimiMeacham #MarianLouiseDesign #SummerDesign #FloralPrints #Textiles #HomeDecor #MoodBoard #DesignInspiration

Kelly’s Designer Drapes, owned by Kelly and Lee Nanney, specializes in creating custom-designed draperies and other window coverings to complement individual home aesthetics. The business focuses on providing high-quality, timeless curtains, shades, and valances. Kelly and Lee emphasize meticulous attention to detail and uphold high standards for the final product in every project. Their services include comprehensive fabric selections, in-home consultations to understand client needs and home styles, precise measuring, and professional installation. This end-to-end service aims to simplify the process for homeowners looking to enhance their interior spaces. Window treatments are presented not merely as functional necessities but as artistic elements that integrate with and elevate a home's existing furnishings. Kelly’s Designer Drapes also addresses the critical importance of substantial drapery hardware and proper installation for durability and aesthetic appeal. They offer a diverse range of hardware options, ensuring that clients have access to suitable choices for their specific design preferences and functional requirements. Professional installation is a core component of their service, guaranteeing that drapes are securely and beautifully mounted, contributing to the overall longevity and appearance of the window treatments. Beyond drapes and shades, the company extends its custom design capabilities to other home textile needs. This includes custom upholstery services, allowing clients to refresh or personalize furniture pieces with tailored fabrics and designs. Additionally, Kelly’s Designer Drapes provides custom bedding and pillows, enabling a cohesive design theme throughout a room. These offerings collectively empower homeowners to create a harmonized and personalized living environment, where every textile element contributes to the desired aesthetic and comfort. The business operates from an address at 2564 Hacks Cross Rd., Germantown, TN 38138, with operational hours listed as 24/7. Their social media presence, including Facebook and Instagram, allows them to connect with customers and showcase their work. The Nanneys' approach underscores a commitment to customer satisfaction through personalized service and expert craftsmanship, transforming functional home elements into decorative highlights that reflect individual style. #CustomDrapery #WindowTreatments #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CustomUpholstery #GermantownTN #HomeTextiles

Justina Blakeney, an acclaimed interior designer, artist, and author known for her maximalist bohemian style, advocates for bolder color choices in home decor. Following a challenging year that included the LA wildfires, Blakeney has found herself drawn to a new color palette, specifically a moody shade of purple-plum she calls 'eggplant' or 'mauve'. She believes this color is universally flattering and ideal for 'color drenching,' a technique where an entire space is painted in one shade to create an enveloping and cozy atmosphere. This shift represents a move towards more sophisticated and grounding hues compared to the brighter shades she typically uses. Blakeney’s influence on interior design trends is significant, having pioneered popular movements such as bohemian living rooms, indoor plants, and rug layering over the past 15 years. Her recent adoption of eggplant suggests it will likely become a major color trend for 2026. She notes that the color brings richness and depth, adding character to a space without making it feel cluttered. The versatility of eggplant makes it suitable for various rooms, from intimate spaces like bathrooms and powder rooms, where its flattering quality is beneficial, to larger rooms, where it can evoke a sense of warmth and embrace. For those considering incorporating this shade, several paint brands offer suitable options. Farrow & Ball's Brinjal, Little Greene's Adventurer (Color of the Year 2026), and Benjamin Moore's Chambourd are highlighted as perfect eggplant paints, each offering slightly different tones of deep red and purple. Beyond paint, Blakeney's Ruggable collection already subtly features deep purple accents, as seen in the Hilma Sunset Rug design, indicating the color's integration into her product lines. Individuals hesitant to commit to painting entire walls in eggplant can introduce the color through decor elements. Suggestions include dark eggplant throw pillows layered with ochre yellows for a trendy fall combination, eggplant-patterned sheets paired with neutrals for a softer look, or other decorative items like lamps and throw blankets. This approach allows for a subtle introduction of the color, enabling individuals to observe its effect and how it interacts with existing decor before making a larger commitment. The article provides specific product recommendations for bedding, lamps, throw pillows, wallpaper, candles, and rugs in eggplant shades, catering to various budgets and preferences for integrating the color. The article emphasizes Blakeney's trendsetting capabilities, suggesting that her embrace of eggplant now predicts its widespread popularity in the coming year. Her personal experience of redecorating after a significant life event has led to this evolution in her color preferences, highlighting how personal circumstances can influence design choices. The shift towards moodier, more sophisticated colors like eggplant reflects a desire for comfort, confidence, and coziness in living spaces. #InteriorDesign #JustinaBlakeney #ColorTrends #EggplantColor #HomeDecor #PaintColors #ColorDrenching #BohemianStyle

Iris Apfel, who passed away on March 1 at the age of 102, was not only a centenarian style icon but also a significant trendsetter in the realm of decor long before her global celebrity status. Her decorating career began in the 1940s, and she quickly became a sought-after designer for prominent clients such as Greta Garbo, Estée Lauder, Faye Dunaway, and Joan Rivers. Apfel, alongside her late husband Carl, established Old World Weavers, a luxury fabric company. This company was instrumental in providing textiles to the White House for nine presidential administrations, from Harry Truman to Bill Clinton, showcasing the couple's profound impact on American interior design. Apfel held the belief that "Fashion and interior design are one and the same," a philosophy that underpinned her distinctive approach to both. Born in Queens in 1921, she developed an early passion for antiques and decorating, starting her extensive jewelry collection as a child by exploring antique shops in Greenwich Village. A pivotal moment in her early life was meeting the legendary decorator Elsie de Wolfe, an encounter that left a lasting impression on the young Apfel. After marrying Carl in 1948, the couple frequently traveled overseas to acquire unique furniture and fabrics for her design projects, initially sourcing rare antique fabrics from European flea markets. Recognizing a market for reproductions of historical designs, the Apfels founded Old World Weavers in 1950. In an era when modern aesthetics dominated New York's design scene, they carved a unique niche by offering richly traditional, "old-world" textiles. Their collection featured opulent silk brocades, lampas, geometric motifs, suzani and ikat patterns, and Japanesque styles, setting them apart from contemporary trends. Industry experts like Ann Pyne, president of McMillen Inc., noted that Old World Weavers possessed luxurious fabrics unmatched by competitors, especially their distinctive Gilded Age designs. A significant achievement for Old World Weavers was the immense popularity of their "Tiger" silk velvet in the 1960s—a bold, black-and-gold, 54-inch-wide pattern handwoven in Venice. Iris Apfel later repurposed this iconic fabric into a coat for the Peabody Essex Museum, which now houses a permanent collection of over 1,000 pieces of clothing and accessories belonging to her and her husband. Other textiles from Old World Weavers, including a gold silk damask, were used to drape the windows in the White House's East Room, underscoring their national significance. Old World Weavers was acquired by Stark in 1992 and now operates under the Scalamandré textile group. Ashley Stark, current creative director at Stark, interned with the Apfels, learning invaluable lessons about fearlessness and self-trust in design. Lorraine Lang, executive vice president of design for Scalamandré and Old World Weavers, recounted Apfel’s famous mantra: "more is more and less is a bore." This philosophy guided Apfel’s preference for unusual, bold, and smile-inducing patterns, shunning anything she considered boring. Iris Apfel's global fame escalated in 2005 when she became the subject of the "Rara Avis: Selections from the Iris Apfel Collection" exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. This exhibition showcased her eclectic wardrobe, a high-low blend of designer pieces and plastic bangles. Already in her 80s, Apfel embraced her new role as an "accidental icon," starring in a 2014 documentary, acquiring a significant social media following, and even having a Barbie doll created in her likeness. Despite her newfound celebrity in fashion, her dedication to decor remained steadfast. She maintained homes in New York City and Palm Beach and launched various collections, including rugs for Ruggable and a "Maximal Couture" fabric line for Fabricut. Her homes were renowned for their maximalist aesthetic, characterized by "pattern on pattern on pattern," especially during Christmas, when every inch was adorned with ornaments and figurines. In 2017, at 96, Apfel introduced her first furniture line for HSN with Cloth & Company, a circus-themed collection featuring bold stripes and floral patterns with elephants and circus tents. She articulated her belief that "Decorating your home is a way to express your personal style." Despite her surprise at the extent of her later-life fame, she lived consistently by her unique vision, remaining a free spirit who profoundly influenced both fashion and interior design. #IrisApfel #InteriorDesign #FashionIcon #OldWorldWeavers #TextileDesign #DecorTrendsetter #MaximalistStyle #DesignPhilosophy #HomeDecor

New York designer Sarah Lederman presents her latest mood board, a collection inspired by the rejuvenating spirit of Riverside Park on a warm spring day. Her selections emphasize a blend of luxe materials, subtle graphic patterns, and rich earth tones, all converging to create sophisticated yet inviting spaces. The dominant theme is green, chosen for its symbolic representation of health, renewal, and growth, which Lederman personally finds cheerful and mood-elevating. The final aesthetic combines tactile textures and earthy hues, punctuated by organic motifs and deep brown wood elements. Lederman's mood board exemplifies a layered and textural look, achieved by mixing natural materials such as jute, wool, and oak with various green and neutral tones. Each component is chosen with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting her philosophy that small touches make a significant impact. The first item highlighted is the Caitlin Single Tassel Tieback in Celery by Samuel & Sons, used previously in the Holiday House NYC designer showhouse to add a perfect finishing touch to raw silk curtains. This detail-oriented approach is further evident in her choice of the Petite Cross + Dot fabric in Grove by Erika M. Powell Textiles, which offers a modern take on a floral motif, demonstrating a preference for juxtaposing traditional prints with contemporary iterations. The designer's own company stationery, a custom Sarah Lederman Interiors envelope, seamlessly integrates into the green color scheme, underscoring brand consistency. A key element is the Hunter Green Tile by Fireclay Tile, a chic matte subway tile Lederman is eager to incorporate into an ideal client's project. For neutral patterns, she selects the Haven fabric in Wheat by Thibaut, a painterly design that facilitates easy layering within her schemes. Fermoie’s Rabanna fabric in L-267, an ivory and green print, is another frequent choice for client presentations due to its small-scale patterns and extensive color range. To infuse unique, handcrafted organic touches, Lederman collaborated with JJ Snyder Studio for a custom decorative paint finish on a client’s coffee table. The Budding Stripe fabric in Grass by Rebecca Atwood combines various shades of green with embroidered flower buds, creating a vibrant, natural feel. Farrow & Ball's Lichen paint is noted for its ability to impart an inviting British ambiance, as seen in a recently painted kitchen. For furniture, the Audubon Pedestal Dining Table in Natural Oak by Doorman Designs, particularly its reeded oak sample, is destined for a custom dining table project in upstate New York. Wall coverings include Barkskin Wallcovering in Ivory by CABA Company, chosen for its subtle texture and customizable tones and sheet sizes. The Painterly Windowpane fabric in Brown by Miles Redd for Schumacher is selected for its balanced graphic yet hand-drawn pattern, suitable for diverse design schemes. For flooring, the Patchwork Oregano Rug by Temple Studio, a wool and jute blend, provides a cheerful and spring-like foundation. A touch of old-world charm is introduced with the Butterfly fabric in Vert by Pierre Frey, which subtly incorporates illustrated animals. Custom fabrics play a significant role, such as a nubby hand-woven linen/wool textile from Soraya Shah for Temple Studio, produced locally in New York. The Mazan fabric in ZFMZ-O5 by Zak+Fox is favored for upholstery due to its distinctive baseball stitch detail, which can be applied creatively for varied looks. Finally, the Mohair in Fig by Otis Textiles is chosen for its durability and plush texture, providing a verdant accent to sofas while ensuring longevity and comfort. #InteriorDesign #MoodBoard #SpringInspired #GreenPalette #MaterialSelection #TextileDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerSpotlight