Swide Magazine by Dolce&Gabbana

Pattern brings so much life to a room. As much as I am a lover of color, and agree that color can dramatically change a room, patterns have just as much power, if not more.

The lines found in patterns help to set the tone for a space; they can make a room seem calm and initiate a sense of peace and relaxation or they can stimulate your senses and make you feel energized, happy and productive. When choosing wallcoverings, rugs, pillows, or upholstery for your furniture, consider how the pattern you choose will affect your mood. Straight horizontal lines tend to be static and will calm your senses, especially when they are all one size and in a soft hue. A chevron pattern (see photo below) is much more dynamic and lively, instantly jump-starting your spirit. Being familiar with patterns will come in handy in more ways than you might realize.
Patterns are not only used on your sofa, but the same patterns are seen in flooring, tiles, fashion, art (especially graphic art) and everyday objects. There are many more great patterns out in the world but here are some common ones that you more than likely have seen before.

Left: Posh House Originals via Etsy 
Right: Ralph Lauren Home

Houndstooth
Often seen as part of your autumnal wardrobe or in a rustic cabin in the woods, houndstooth is a classic pattern that gets its name because of the “tooth” mark corners that make the pattern. Houndstooth is also commonly described as a broken check. Houndstooth has tendencies to make its way into the spring and summer months when paired with hot neon colors.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Herringbone
Herringbone is another classic fall print when saturated in muted earthy tones. The herringbone pattern consists of alternating diagonal lines that are contrasted by other alternating lines that repeat in the opposite direction. In addition to fashion and upholstery, the herringbone pattern is often used in laying bricks.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Stripes
Probably the most easily recognizable pattern is stripes. Stripes consist of a series of repeating lines that may be horizontal, vertical or diagonal. Stripes can be bold or subtle depending on the distance between the repeat as well as the thickness of each line. White, cream, and blue stripes tend to calm the senses and are most often used in seaside décor.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Paisley
Paisley patterns are often associated with a bit of sophistication and class, no matter if the pattern is in bright or soft colors. The swirly tear drop shape or paisley is ornate and detailed. Pashmina’s are often seen in a paisley print and makes for great upholstery in more formal rooms.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Gingham
Gingham is most often associated with Dorothy’s blue dress in Wizard of Oz or a summer picnic. Gingham consists of two colors that alternate in a checkered pattern. The two colors are seen in bold squares, while the other squares are more transparent, creating a pattern that is a bit more interesting than plain checkered squares.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Plaid
Often seen in winter and around Christmas, plaid is another timeless pattern that often conjures warm and cozy feelings. Plaid is created by layers of stripes that run horizontal and vertically across one another, creating a square in the middle. While plaid can be comprised of any color, it is most often seen in darker, warmer shades.

 Ralph Lauren Home

Animal Print
Animal prints are most commonly seen in leopard, zebra and cheetah. They are great for eclectic spaces and adding an unexpected quirky element to an otherwise traditional space.

 Missoni Chair on Style Frizz & Ralph Lauren Home

Chevron
Chevron is a very cheerful and dynamic print. The chevron pattern is a zigzagging line that repeats itself. Chevron is usually seen in an array of bright colors that channel the spirit of cultural traditions.

Being familiar with pattern names will not change your life but it will help you be able to describe what it is you like or do not like to a designer, stylist, sales person or friend. Knowing a few main pattern types will most likely help you become aware of all the beautiful patterns out there. The pattern world is expanding and by knowing a few of the basics, you will be able to understand how new patterns come about. Understanding patterns will also help you see how closely their relationship is with color and achieving color.  Patterns can be fun for those who have simple taste and for those with eccentric taste. Don’t hesitate to step out of the “solid” box and try something that perks up your day!

By Christa Rose Falk, www.loveinspirecreate.com. Follow Christa on Twitter: loveinspirecre8

Sources: Ralph Lauren Home, Etsy, Stylefrizz.

 

 

 

TAGS: CHrista Rose Falk pattern furniture pattern fabrics houndstooth herringbone stripes paisley gingham plaid animal print chevron ralph lauren home etsy.com style frizz stylefrizz.com