Let’s Talk Velvet
Velvet Interiors: A Trend With Staying Power
When it comes to design trends, oftentimes we see styles that rise in popularity but quickly fade and all but disappear shortly after. Whether that is due to these fad like movements being unsustainable or impractical, it does happen. A design trend that has seen a steady incline over the years, one of our personal favorites, is velvet. It is no secret that there is a preconceived notion of velvet. It is not just for the Palace of Versailles or a stuffy marble laden fancy pants home fit for royalty. (But seriously how much would we love to live in the Downton Abbey castle?) Velvet is actually very warm and comfortable, it is everyday accessible, and we are going to show you how!
Originally made with silk, velvet was a fabric only afforded with luxury. Gradually cotton was introduced in manufacturing, and it is now even more affordable than ever thanks to synthetic options/versions. You may have seen this sumptuous fabric used in many ways and places without even realizing it. Most frequently seen used with decor and furniture in hotels, theaters and restaurants, velvet is becoming something of a stronghold in the design world, finding its way into our bedrooms, dining rooms, offices and more. And trust us when we say, it is here to stay.
Velvet has maintained its popularity, not only because of the opulence and richness that it offers, but also because of the abundance of choice in regards to finishes. From crushed and matte velvet all the way through to deep pile and interwoven patterns, this versatile fabric can be both lavish and livable. Velvet works well with all color palettes like pastels, jewel tones or rich deep hues that you can just melt into. While this fabric is commonly associated with over the top interiors, velvet has truly made a name for itself in modern times by melding so well with design aesthetics like art deco, mid-century modern, industrial and even rustic or farmhouse.
One of the many things we love about velvet is the ability to use fabric as a decoration. And no, we don’t mean just display a ream of it like your go-to fabric store. If your room’s aesthetic is joining the ranks of minimalist or Scandanvian, your approach to decor is going to be much more pared down. In turn, this clears the way for velvet to be the star of the show. You can create a showcase look by using velvet for statement seating, adding sophisticated drama to your sleek and elevated approach.
For a more relaxed design you can balance out the glam side of velvet by pairing it with natural items and materials like wood, jute and rattan and fabrics like wool and linen. These bold contrast pairings work beautifully together and will add texture that can be both seen and felt, appealing to all senses. If going full bohemian isn’t your dream, you can also ground your velvet in more subtle ways with macrame plant hangers and woven baskets.
A most unexpected way to introduce this trend into your home is by using it for your dining chairs. Now before you start rolling your eyes and imagining the dread of trying to wipe sticky fingers and spilled marinara off your beautiful chairs, this fabric does not require plastic coverings to keep it clean. Along with the updates to manufacturing that have made it more affordable, velvet can now be life-proofed like any other fabric to deter stains and spills!
No matter what your overall design theme, you cannot go wrong with small but impactful velvet pieces. Imagine adding a velvet draped stool, bench or ottoman that will be a visual home-run without being the main focus of the room.
You can also use velvet in a variety of ways like an upholstered velvet bed frame for your formerly drab sleeping quarters, throw pillows, accent blankets, lamp shades and even velvet curtains.
Here are just a few more of our favorite velvet pieces!
