The Interior Design Pattern That Makes A Statement And Remains Timeless

Pattern trends tend to rise and fall over time, whether they are bold floral prints, chevrons, or a preponderance of polka dots. One pattern however, reigns as a tried-and-true classic. Today, stripes have made a major comeback, adorning everything from curtains and upholstery to stylish rugs and accent walls. The adaptability and classic look makes them agreeable with any number of design styles. Whether you prefer traditional, cottage-like, or minimalist interior design, stripes are a great way to make your décor look well-blended, layered, and sophisticated.

If you're skeptical about the bold print, you might wonder, are stripes really a good idea to add to your home? The good news is they're adaptable. They can be bold or subtle. White brightly hued beach stripes can be great for emblazoning a wall or piece of upholstered furniture. A pattern of slender pinstripes can make a great accent even for a neutral room or minimalist space where the stripes will provide more texture and dimension. In more floral or feminine spaces, a striped pattern can balance the room with a more masculine touch. There are also very practical benefits to using stripes, especially in small spaces. Vertical stripes up a wall can make the ceilings feel higher, while horizontal stripes can widen a room.

There are many classy ways to decorate your home with stripes, but not all stripe patterns are the same. The best design for your space will vary depending on the aesthetic you are going for. For a neutral room, consider adding a subtle pinstripe in shades of rich beige, gray, or brown. For a contemporary interior design, opt for statement pieces in bolder and wider stripes with eye-catching colors. Rustic spaces will benefit most from delicate striped patterns like vintage cotton ticking or classic French-Breton-style stripes. Coastal décor is especially suitable for stripes in navy or aqua. Even fans of more organic interiors can revel in naturally occurring stripe patterns, be they harvested from stone strata, wood grain, or banded animals like bees and zebras. 

Once you've settled on a style, you can bring in stripes in large pieces, like upholstery or wallpaper, or experiment in small doses with an ottoman or a throw pillow. Rugs can be a particularly great place to take advantage of the visual manipulation of stripes. The right rug make a small space appear larger by laying the stripes in a way that widens or lengthens the room. For maximalist interiors, mix florals with stripes and other prints on pillows, rugs, and curtains. Other more subtle spots for this pattern include wall art, lampshades, or as a patterned backing in a bookshelf or open cupboard.