How To Make Stripes Work In Your Home

Tap Into An Enduring Trend

"Stripes have really stood the test of time,” explain Ceraudo co-founders Victoria and Emily Ceraudo. “They’ll forever be a trend in fashion, interiors and art, and we’ve been really inspired by the use of stripes in the interiors of the 1980s – think lots of drapery, bed canopies and wall coverings.”

Harness Their Versatility

Trendsetting interior brand Buchanan Studio launched its first armchair with a bold stripe fabric in three colourways. Founders Angus and Charlotte Buchanan explain why this was their first choice: “Stripes are often nostalgic but they can also feel very modern – it’s why they’re so timeless. The beauty is there are no rules; they go with everything and will fit with any kind of interior setting depending on your taste. Right now, a wide stripe feels freshest.”

Go Statement Or Simple

Victoria and Emily add: “Stripes work really well on upholstery, cushions or curtains. Either keep it simple with no trims or details, or add a fun skirt, fringe or more detailed piping – stripes can work for all eventualities.” If you’re confused on how to introduce stripes into your space, think about window treatments first. “Stripe curtains can be a great middle ground if you're not so keen on a busy print.”

Remember Proportion & Balance

Bold stripes might be on trend, but it’s worth taking your time getting comfortable with it. Table linens are a good introduction, suggests Summerill & Bishop CEO and creative director Seb Bishop. “Stripes add vivacity, energy and structure to any room that they inhabit, but they have to be done right,” he explains. “Such a striking pattern commands attention, so it’s important to create balance, perhaps by using plenty of white elsewhere on the table.”

Start Small

Simple though they may be, it is possible to go wrong with stripes, warn the Ceraudo founders. “Try to use a stripe sparingly or use a variety of different scales – the same scale throughout can be quite overbearing if it’s on lots of different pieces, but if there's a gentle mix of very thin stripes and larger widths, it can create a lovely combination of prints that don't look so uniform. In general, a wider stripe suits more contemporary pieces and a thin stripe is more traditional, but have a play with sample swatches and see what works best.”