As it is Monday most of you are probably looking to read about a wonderful interior space, designer or stylist whose work or images will inspire us for the wonderful week ahead...but today I thought I would veer a bit off course. Still holding true to showcasing inspired work I thought we could talk about how to find interior inspiration in unexpected places.Over the weekend I was flipping through the August issue of Instyle and found a great article entitled "10 New Style Statements". The spread talks about how to use traditional apparel pieces and patterns but tweak them in ways to make your look totally modern. This is the exact idea many of us use in designing interiors to achieve spaces with that great dynamic of timelessness and relevance. I used the image above to highlight how a great mismatch of prints and pattern can create a look that is uniquely personal and fresh. Why the outfit works is key in translating this idea into an interior space: 1. Pair prints that won't compete with each other. In this case one print is a bold, ornate pattern (the floral) and the second is a smaller, more graphic print (the polka dots) which will read as a neutral. 2. Use complementary colors that fall in the same color family (deep jewel tones are used above). 3. Give the look weight or a grounded affect by using a neutral (the leather belt) in a natural fiber. 4. Add a few statement accessories to make everything sparkle (the rings).
If this idea of getting inspiration from an outfit is still a stretch for you, think of it this way: A tufted, burgundy sofa with a beautiful gold and blue pattern weaving through it, partnered with a pair of chairs in midnight blue with soft cream dots, a leather ottoman in deep espresso, a tonal, gold rug and fabulous metallic lamps. And that is how the outfit above becomes a fresh look for your home. Inspiration is everywhere... have a great week!
*photography by Ilan Rubin via Instyle Magazine
