Mixing Fabrics & Patterns: The Do’s & Don’ts

Whether it’s getting ready for the office or a fabulous Sunday brunch, dressing to impress is part of our lifestyle.

Lucky for us, fashion and interior design trends go hand in hand. And although rules are made to be broken, mixing colors, patterns and textures in your home does take a bit of trial and error.

Let’s take a minute to walk through the do’s & don’ts!

Mixing Colors

DO: If you’re new at this, DO try choosing a limited palette. Black and white is a great place to start because they’re both neutral colors that can easily be mixed with patterns and any accent color. Black and white plus one accent color is still a very hot look for 2014. Aim for a palette of 3 colors if you’re unsure, and expand up to 4-5 if you have experience.

Photo by Karyn Millet, House Beautiful.
Photo by Karyn Millet, House Beautiful.

DON’T: Don’t go color-crazy and overwhelm yourself with a large-scale palette, especially if you’re new at the décor game. No room should ever look like your 5 year-olds’s pack of Crayola’s exploded. Sometimes, less is more. 

Mixing Patterns

DO: DO use large scale patterns for dramatic effect on large areas like windows, walls, carpet or bedding. This is great advice if you really want to make a statement in your space. Detailed patterns bring interest to upholstery and smaller-scale items.

403-795BK_1
Angus II Accent Chair

Remember to use a variety of scales when mixing and matching patterns. Balance is key. Always balance out your patterns with a solid or neutral color as your base.

DON’T: DON’T use more than one large floral pattern in the same room.

Mixing patterns has a lot to do with your own taste and eye, but when it comes to floral, it’s best to let it speak for itself.

Mixing Textures 

DO: Texture adds dimension to a room, which makes the room interesting. DO let opposite attract and save texture for rugs, pillows, throws, baskets and room accessories. A flirty ruffled pillow against an elegant streamlined sofa? Perfection.

DON’T: Don’t disrupt the flow of your space with various textures just for the sake of it.

Every room needs a focal point, and going texture-crazy will confuse the eye and make your space look messy. Try choosing 3 staple textures. In this room, the shag carpet is the main focal point, while the wicker and wood textures are simple compliments.

Small touches and staple accent pieces make all the difference in your space. Are you looking to find new pieces to spruce up your home this season? We have a catalogue full of modern and affordable items just waiting to move in. Head this way to start browsing! http://inspireathome.com

Featured: Angus Accent Chair