Home Decor Ideas: How to Decorate with Velvet

So if you pay close attention to fashion you have probably noticed the influence of the 90's (chokers, brown lipstick and baby doll dresses just to name a few of the styles that have bounced back into trend). 

Well like fashion from the runways we definitely see the influence of women's fashion translate into our homes.  One of the trends you will be seeing this coming year (but we are already seeing it in some stores) is VELVET! Yes, that's right Velvet.  The luxurious fabric that you just have to touch when you see it.  In the 90's we saw a lot of velvet jackets, skirts, tops and dresses and this year we will see it in home fashion.

If you are a follower of fashion and you love to be on trend - this is definitely for you!  Here are some ways to bring velvet into your home decor.

1.  Throw Pillows - this is an easy way to bring this trend into your space without spending a fortune.  The touchable fabric adds a bit of luxury to a space but also visual interest.  We always suggest mixing textures to give your space a sophisticated and designer look.  The great news is when it comes to velvet, the colour choices are truly endless.  Find a pillow or two in velvet in a colour that coordinates with your existing scheme.  We love to see oversized pillows (think 20x20) in velvet for the living room or bedroom. A solid colour velvet pillow can really add to a space. 



2. Throw blanket - again another easy nod to the trend that won't cost you a ton.  Like the throw pillow, choose a colour that will work with your current room palette.  The texture of this throw will really add a new level of sophistication to the space.




 3. Ottoman or Pouf  - We have seen a ton of velvet ottomans in stores lately.  We have also seen a lot of ottoman styles in velvet - tufted, round, bench with legs etc...Like the pillows and the throw this adds that sophisticated element to a room, this is a bit more expensive so be sure to like the idea of velvet before really committing.  We love to see a velvet ottoman in a rich jewel tone - it's a bit glamour but still timeless. Think living room, bedroom, glamorous office space or front entry - make a statement!




 4. Dining chairs or armchair - this starts to get a bit pricier but if you want to make a statement in your space this would be one!  If you love to make a splash and want to be remembered for your decor choices - velvet chairs are one way to go.  We do love an accent chair and velvet is a way to make a bold pop in a space.  Think of a great accent chair in a living room or chairs in a dining space.  We love the softness and luxury that velvet brings but pair it with some modern elements like a glass table and a touch of gold - so chic!



5. Headboard - love the idea of velvet but not for your main living space? It makes a sophisticated splash in a bedroom.  We love a nail head headboard but in velvet, wow - that's stunning!  We prefer sticking with a timeless hue as it is easy to work with as you change your bed linens but it will also always be in style.  It looks great paired with metallic lamps and oversized end tables.



6. Sofa - If you LOVE velvet, a sofa in velvet might be for you.  It is a classic fabric so it won't go out of style.  You can be as classic as you like in terms of style of sofa and colour or you can be as bold and bright as you like.  It is a commitment so be sure to follow you heart.  We love the look of a charcoal or navy velvet sofa with clean lines and minimal pillows - it has a clean, sexy and chic look.  We have also see some fun vintage sofas in bright and fun colours - it's entirely up to you!



Remember velvet isn't exactly family friendly, so be sure to pick velvet accessories or furniture pieces with that in mind - it's easier to dry clean a pillow or throw than it is a sofa, for instance.....

We Answer Wednesday - How to Style a Bedroom

"How do I make my basic bedroom look more expensive?"

 The bedroom is the perfect spot to kick back and relax.  We aim to create a beautiful bed when we stage homes, it really makes the whole room feel calm but luxurious at the same time.

We have a few recommendations to create the ultimate bedroom retreat.

1- Clean and simple bedding.  We highly recommend plain white bedding.  It is simple but timeless.  it looks so fresh, bright and clean like a chic hotel room but you can also style it how ever you like.  For personal use, it is worth investing in high quality but for home staging it isn't. Add colour and pattern with bed accessories like blankets and pillows.

 

2 - Layering.  We often only sleep on one pillow but when it comes to styling a bed you definitely want more pillows - it looks luxurious but it also looks like a comfortable spot to lay your head.  there are a few ways to layer your pillows. See the diagram below for some options.  There is no wrong answer, it is a matter of preference.  For a king size bed, you can use the same options but add a third Euro (large square pillow) and use king size pillows.



3. Texture.  We talk about texture a lot.  But texture is a great way to add some softness and a touch of glamour.  People love touchable fabrics and where better than a bedroom.  You want to create a room that you want to snuggle up in (whether for yourself or for a potential buyer).  Think pillows and throw blankets in fur (faux) and knits.



4. Lighting.  Just like your pillows and bedding you want to layer your lighting.  Think over head - a beautiful fixture really brings a bedroom to life and can be a great piece to set your decor tone.  But don't forget about bedside lighting - end tables with table lamps seems obvious but it works and when it comes to table lamps there are many fabulous choices.  Don't have room for end tables? Try some sconces - double swing arm sconces are perfect for those who love to read at night.



5. Walls and Windows.  Some art and drapery can really complete the look of a bedroom.  We love a bedroom with some art - it really is like jewelry for an outfit.  It pulls it all together.  Depending on the room arrangement and furniture styles, art above the end tables is a timeless and chic look but we also love an oversized piece above a headboard.  for the window this function and fashion, some soft drapery panels frame a window beautifully but you may want to add some blinds, shutters or shades to give the room more privacy.



6. Seating and storage.  You may be able to add both depending on the size of the room.  It is always a nice addition to have a small seating corner in a bedroom but not all bedrooms can fit a chair - if you have room for a bench or a storage bench that can look very chic at the end of a bed.  Another great look and a practical use of furniture too is over sized end tables. when you are staging your home - you don't want the room to look over stuffed with furniture to pick and choose pieces carefully, maybe a small chair in the corner and standard size beside tables is likely best.



What you will notice in these images is a consistent thread of layers on the bed, a soft colour palette, a mix of textures, subtle patterns (if any) and upholstered headboards.  We love a timeless and chic bedroom but since the space is yours make it truly yours and surround yourself with what you love and what you want to see in your most personal space.