Focus On Pattern – Stripes

Stripes have been a staple in fashion and interior design for centuries. Synonymous with jugglers, clowns and jesters in the 1300s, to the uniform of criminals in the 1800s. It was thanks to Coco Chanel that stripes were adopted by the wealthy and became a popular fashion choice. Inspired by the striped woven tops given to the navy seamen at the time, Chanel created her nautical themed collection. As stripes began to rise in popularity, they are still seen in the fashion world today, they became a design staple in our homes. A timeless style, stripes can cheer up a room and as a versatile print, they can be used anywhere.

Up or Down

While stripe pattern fabrics are an easy style to incorporate into your home, but there are some tips to help you get the most from your stripes. Deciding between horizontal and vertical stripes should be your starting point. Decide whether you want to accentuate the height or width of your room, horizontal stripes can help to draw your eye further into a room so are great in hallways. Vertical stripes draw your eye to the ceiling so can make a room appear taller than it is. Along with this decision, you need to decide on the thickness of the stripe. Thin stripes are best suited to smaller rooms whereas thick stripes can stand-up to the awe of a larger room.

Bright and Bold

When you think of stripes you may think of black and white, and while black and white is classic, elegant and timeless but when you opt for bold, contrasting colours you can add some drama or you can be a little more playful with thin, multi-coloured stripes.

Curtains

Want to create the illusion of height but can’t paint or wallpaper? Curtains are a fantastic way to make your ceilings appear taller. Use colours that complement your colour scheme, this means that the effect will be subtle. Opt for floor-to-length curtains to emphasise the effect and keep the design elegant. If you find curtains to be overwhelming or you have irregularly shaped windows then consider hanging blinds with a horizontal stripe.

Furnishings

To modernise your home then a statement piece of upholstered furniture can really make an impact, try our blue/grey textured chenille. Alternatively, striped accessories can break up blocks of colour and adds a graphic element to your home. Stripes don’t always have to be straight either, zigzag patterns like our Marlow striped fabric or our Carnival multi-coloured wave cushions are a great way to introduce stripes in a playful way.

At Yorkshire Fabric Shop we work hard to source unique fabrics to suit your style. We stock thousands of fabrics that you can browse online or at our warehouse to find that perfect match. Don’t forget that we also sell handmade cushions and made-to-measure curtains so you can be confident that you can achieve the design you want. To speak to a member of our team, call us on 01924 728 753, use our online contact form or email hello@yorkshirefabricshop.com.