Inspiration from Paris. Decorating with stripes
I recently got back from a trip to France where I was constantly reminded that in the land of classics, the stripe is everywhere.
The wide cabana stripe on the awnings and windows gives impact and draws your eye to the storefront.
The striped awnings are everywhere in Paris, this was at the flea market.
I love the red and white striped parasols!
A classic cafe with stripes on awnings, parasols and also those classic chairs
I am a believer in stripes in decorating as they truly add an energy and zest to a room. They act as a guiding principal giving juxtaposition to other patterns while still playing nicely and setting the tone. They are great partners against other motifs such as florals or toiles, to keep the space from being too twee, or overly femenine, with a slight edge against the more floaty or botanical. For those pattern averse in their style, stripes on their own in an otherwise patternless space add a sense of minimalist chic where without them the room was missing the final edge. I think it’s safe to say that if in doubt, add a stripe and you won’t regret it.
A ticking stripe upholstered headboard plays well with other patterned fabric in the room and acts as a classic neutral.
A striped ruffled edge pillow will instantly add playfulness without being too twee and fit into many schemes.
As seen in Paris, stripes are seen all over as you walk past cafes and Napoleon style apartments. As classic as the Breton top in fashion, the stripe differentiates itself as a timeless classic not to be overlooked.
Interestingly, these outdoor striped shades were all over the city! I love a wide stripe and as seen here it works so well against the classic forms of Napoleonic architecture.
I took this picture at Liberty of London a few years ago, the wide cabana stripe plays really well against the various patterns it sits next to. It’s so bold and stylish yet relaxes into the space, just giving it some bravery and anchoring.
One way to incorporate stripes into your own decoration scheme is by going with striped curtains. I personally love this look because just like in fashion a stripe adds instant style without taking over. Having custom curtains made are a long term investment in your home, so opting for stripes is a timeless yet always stylish choice. Ticking stripe is so classic, like the always chic French mattress, the scale will not overwhelm but always add some energy and interest. Of course the vertical stripe also give visual height to the room and will frame a view beautifully.
Take some inspiration from Parisian cafés and grand apartments and include a stripe in your next design scheme! You won’t regret it.