Trend watching is something of an occupational hazard in the design industry – it’s a behavior we can’t shake. And who wants to? It’s so gratifying to see themes emerge that, however bold and daring, still find acceptance in the mainstream market.

In the next series of blogs, we’re going to explore a few of these newer fabric and texture trends – beginning with velvet.

Velvet has been making a comeback for some time now, and absolutely dominated the shows this season. What’s especially worth noting is that it’s not the quiet, subtle fabrics that have found favor, but the shiny velvets that dominate the scene.

The bolder the better. Embossed designs, cut outs, shimmering metallics – these are the darlings of super-stylish designers, and we’re seeing them everywhere in bright, contemporary colors.

Floral patterns are popular, but here again, they are oversized and stylized. Some patterns seem almost sketched – as if pulled from a modern mural created on a theme that doesn’t quite copy Mother Nature. And we’re starting to see Greek key and lattice patterns everywhere, and expect we’ll see even more.

Likewise, geometric designs – basic circles and squares – have come into their own in the world of velvet. Clark & Clark offer some fun fabrics – such as the Astoria Velvet collection. The Campo pattern, with its cheerful ¾-inch squares, is offered in six color combinations – including Citrus, Peacock and Olive – and there’s not a sleeper among them.

For exciting draperies, a dramatically upholstered divan, or just a whimsical throw pillow, it’s officially okay to think velvet. Our favorite fuzzy fabric has waltzed out of the manor house and is shaking it up in an exclusive club uptown.

We hope this trend lasts.

Serving design professionals,

KMD Showroom