Ever wonder how fabulous rooms full of layered pattern and textiles come together to look, well, fabulous? I am forever bedazzled by the cohesiveness of seemingly unmatched patterns…and there you have it. Unmatched. So how do you create the mix that works together?
I think it’s one part useful guidelines such as these:
Start with an anchor color, then 2-3 more colors and vary the shades of these colors within the patterns you choose. Or if you have a favorite color you can create a harmonious look with various patterns such as geometric, African, abstract, and stripes.
Choose one shade of color and 3-4 patterns in that shade to create a cohesive look.
You can use complementary colors (opposite colors on the color wheel) like green/purple jewel colors or coral/orange to create unity between florals, stripes and geometrics.
When it comes to pattern, you can use one specific style of pattern (such as Turkish kilim) to create harmony.
Vary the style and scale of the patterns you are combining.
And then I think it’s two parts YOU!
“Pattern is really personal, because it tells your story.” Rebecca Atwood
I couldn’t agree more! I truly believe surrounding ourselves with color and pattern we love creates joy in our home! And honestly, while there are many guidelines about the best ways to mix pattern, at the end of the day it’s about what YOU love.
images: La Boheme, Penny Morrison, The Jungalow, Umberto Pasti