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.....

5 uses for trays and why we love them!

Trays are nothing new.  They aren't trending and they aren't usually on any one's 'must-get' list.  But we love trays.  There is something so simple and tidy about them and they can be used in so many rooms.

Trays come in different sizes, colours and materials and we love them all!  They keep items in an organized yet stylish arrangement plus when it comes to cleaning - just move the tray out of the way and clean !

When using a tray as a part of your room's decor be sure to add some decorative elements like a vase of flowers, candles something so that it just doesn't look completely functional.

1 - The living room: we love having a tray on an ottoman or even the chaise of a sectional.  they provide a flat surface for serving up snacks and drinks but they also provide a neat and tidy space for TV remotes and coasters.  But you can also use them as a display area for decor on a coffee table.



2 - The Kitchen:  not the usual spot for a tray but again they keep the items you need easy access to at arm's length but without the clutter.  I have one in my kitchen to hold my knife block, salt and pepper, olive oil, a tea towel and other small essentials.



3 - The Bathroom : a smaller tray would be needed but it saves the same purpose keeping your counter top clean and clutter free.  Depending on the look of your bathroom, you could opt for a mirrored option to add some sparkle and shine!



4 - The dresser: A tray is a great spot to group items you use everyday together.  So think lotions and potions, jewellery and scarves, make up etc...You could likely opt for a larger tray for on top of the dresser (if you have the surface space).  We also love small dishes (think tea saucers) for small jewellery items.



5 - The Bed: Breakfast in bed!  Serving space for coffee, fruit, croissant and more...such a wonderful way to wake up someone special!  Do we need to say anything more?