Using Velvet in Decor - How, When and Where
One of the fabrics in fashion in decor at the moment is velvet. You may have seen it adorning wardrobes and home decor alike. In 2019 we’ve seen it rise further in popularity. Above all, you can find it in stylish decors, lending a modern, sophisticated flavor. Let’s decorate!
A little history
Velvet is a fabric that’s been associated with luxury and riches throughout its history.
This material may make you think of the European aristocracy and Marie Antoinette. However, it dates back to the 8th century and is originally from the Middle East. It didn’t arrive in the West until around the 14th century.
You might find it interesting to know that when we speak of velvet, we’re actually talking more of the way that it’s woven, and not so much the exact type of fabric that’s used.
The velvet finish is achieved by weaving two thicknesses of velvet at the same time, creating loops of thread between the two thicknesses. Once it’s completed, the two pieces are cut apart through the middle, leaving the cut ends showing on one side of the fabric. That’s how velvet gets that soft, furry finish.
How to use velvet in decor
If you’re wondering how to use velvet in decor, you’ll find that there are many ways to incorporate it. This season you can find it in colorful sofas, throw rugs and cushions.
One of the must-haves for 2019 is colorful sofas, that brighten the living room and become the center focus of your decor’s color palette. A sofa with a velvet finish will be the perfect touch to complete your living room.
We suggest you choose a sofa with fabric in blue-green, cerulean blue, or even rose pink, for the more romantic among us. Always use velvet in small touches. It’s not a material that should be overused since it can easily drown a room.
When to use velvet
Velvet isn’t just associated with classic, baroque or elaborate decor anymore. Its use has extended and it’s the perfect match to many trends and styles.
You could try it in decor with a Nordic theme, in Bohemian style decor, and even in a house with an industrial style. Its versatility has made it timeless and full of possibilities.
Where to use velvet in decor
As we mentioned above, sofas are some of the best pieces of furniture to feature this luxurious fabric but don’t just stick to that. Try covering the dining room chairs, or a pouf, and mix them with more modern decor items. The result will be a very eclectic, personalized decor.
The bed headboard is another of the places that you can adorn with velvet. You’ll feel like an aristocrat in your bedroom if you go for velvet quilt cover as the finishing touch. Choose a less vibrant color that will harmonize with the rest of the bedroom.
Keep in mind the fact that in the bedroom, you’re not looking for striking contrasts, but rather relaxation and harmony so you’ll have sweet dreams.
And what about curtains? Of course, it would be an excellent idea to have this thick fabric help you keep the light at bay. But don’t overdo it, it’s easy to overwhelm with large doses of velvet in strong colors.
Some velvet curtains in earthy colors would make any room elegant and chic. You decide which room to put them in.
Another of the classics that suit, and even demands velvet, is the chaise longue. Create a very cozy, feminine reading corner, surrounding the chaise longue with plants, and including some decor items in gilded finishes to complete the elegant look.
Velvet – our pick
If some of the above suggestions seem a little overboard to you, why not go for smaller complements such as cushions, or even a footstool covered in velvet? It will help to spice up your decor a little.
You now know how to make good use of a material that went from being a symbol of power and riches to being within the reach of mere mortals. Of course, it still adds that characteristic feel of luxury to any decor.