The 9 Trendiest Ways To Incorporate Scallop Designs Into Your Home

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Over the past couple of years, playful scallop designs have made their way to the forefront of trending interior decor. But the truth is that there has been a centuries-long fascination with the symmetrical shape of scallop shells in textiles and furniture design around the globe. Whether it's in larger furniture pieces like headboards, or smaller decor like throw pillows and candle holders, there are endless ways to incorporate scallop designs in your home.

While the wavy edge of mollusk shells have inspired design for ages, the popularity of scalloping does ebb and flow over the years. That may have you wondering if scallop trims are dating your home. In some applications, this may be the case — an overuse of scalloping in one area of the home, scalloped trim on wood furniture, or bright colored scalloped details may come off as juvenile. But with that said, the natural origin of scalloped designs and their continued re-emergence over the years give this trend staying power. So we've put together a list of the top nine ways to incorporate the scallop look in your home that will embrace the trend, while also remaining timeless.

Define your space with a scalloped rug

A rug with a scalloped edge can add some interest to your interiors by deviating from the typical straight edges you might expect. Opt for a scalloped rug with a muted or more neutral color palette to keep the look chic and sophisticated. If you're not ready to commit to a large area rug with scalloping in a space like the living room, try out a smaller format in the bedroom, bathroom, or even in the hallway with a runner.

Sleep beneath a scalloped headboard

Bring scalloping to the bedroom with a statement headboard. The shape of the Noah Squiggle Upholstered Headboard from
Urban Outfitters feels timeless because it has a few large curves as opposed to a bunch of small ones. This more subtle, zoomed-in approach to the scallop trend is a great way to bring soft lines and a sense of coziness to a bedroom. And the neutral-toned pin stripe adds a structured contrast to the wavy edge.

Light up your space with a scalloped taper candle holders

Try out a dainty scalloped detail on your dining table with a taper candle holder. The continuous scallop on the Iron Ruffle Taper Holder from Terrain creates an elegant, fluted look that closely resembles scalloping's namesake shell texture. And the mottled iron finish gives an even more organic texture to these pieces, which would contrast nicely with modern interiors, or complement other styles from traditional to coastal.

Cozy up to a scallop-edged throw pillow

Another low commitment way to test out the scalloped trend is to add a throw pillow to your couch or bed. If you choose something with a contrasting edge, it can definitely add some extra flair to the design. However, for a more uniform and simple look, opt for an edge that matches the color of the pillow.

Surround yourself with scallop wallpaper designs

If you want to fully envelop yourself in the trend, give scalloped wallpaper a try. There are options that create scallop shell shapes in an unexpected mosaic pattern. It may be wise to choose something with neutral colors to keep it in the realm of calming wallpapers to consider if you find bright patterns overwhelming. If you're not ready to cover an entire room in unpasted wallpaper, start by covering just one wall. Or you can try the style on with a peel-and-stick wallpaper instead.

Reflect with a classic scalloped mirror

If you are looking to both incorporate scalloping and install a mirror in your home, try something like this House of Hampton Hendrixson Mirror from Wayfair. Wide, shallow scallop waves in combination with the gold finish and oval shape make this mirror feel classic and reminiscent of some Victorian cameo frames. This is a great piece to add to your decor that approaches the scalloping trend with versatility.

Get organized with a scalloped basket

Another easy way to try out scalloping is with a practical, multi-purpose accent like a basket. There are so many ways to use baskets in your home for stylish storage, and they come in so many different sizes. A small basket with a scalloped edge can be used to organize hair tools on a bathroom shelf. A large basket can store throw blankets or even act as a laundry hamper in a bedroom. Look for scalloped baskets woven from natural fibers in neutral colors to keep the wavy design feeling mature and sophisticated.

Illuminate your space with a scalloped light

Make a bright impact on your space by adding scalloped details in the form of a light source. If you already have the base of a lamp that you like, you can just switch out the shade for a super cost-effective way to give scalloping a go. If you're up for the task of switching out your hardwired lighting, you can also find beautiful scalloped flush mount and pendant fixtures.

Provide some shade with a scalloped curtain

To add a decorative touch to your window, try adding a scalloped window treatment. Scalloped edges have made their way to full length drapes like the Rhode Batik Curtains from West Elm, but have long been a popular detail as curtain valances. So, if you already have window hangings that you love, and you are looking to successfully layer your curtains on a budget, consider adding a scalloped valance. These short window textiles are an affordable way to test the trend while softening and framing your windows.

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