
We all know what a few colorful prints can bring to our wardrobes; they inject verve, flair and a sense of fun, but rarely offer the mileage of a little black sleeveless dress. However, when it comes to upholstery, wild multi-color prints can be surprisingly versatile.


A lush paisley such as "Riviere's Enchantee," used above by Todd Romano, is loaded with possibilities. (House & Garden sourced it as Brunschwig & Fils.)
When a print contains five or more hues, you can pull any one of them for wall color, side chairs, pillows and so forth. An added bonus: in my experience dense patterns beautifully camouflage smudges from tiny fingers.

The downside of prints? For one thing cost. It typically takes 26 yards of a large-scale print to upholster sofas similar to the ones shown here. Nice simple solid cottons and linens are also easier to find at budget friendly prices. (This is why I tend to choose prints for ottomans or benches and opt for solid sofas.)
But if you have a sharp sense of your own aesthetic, know you truly love a certain print -- it's not just a crush -- and can afford the fabric, lavish prints can be an investment that will endure.
Fun link for textile fans: the Leman Album.
Credits: Milly tote shown top available through Shopbop; Milly dress is from Neiman Marcus; 1960s "It Girl," Penelope Tree, photographed by David Bailey for Vogue, February 1969; Todd Romano photos by Michael Mundy for House & Garden, March 2004; Dunham photo by Miguel Flores-Vianna for domino, April 2008.
6 comments:
Have I missed the bench? I keep thinking we are going to get a viewing.
Yeah, I posted it while you were on vacation. I'll email you the link :)
In regards to prints, I have always love Etro for fashion, Hermes for silk scarves and one day will frame my collection or better yet, it would be very chic to have a couch slip-covered.
Court, your post for prints makes me print crazy!
Patricia the artist,
LOVE your examples and ideas! Totally agree.
Courtney this is a wonderful post! I"m loving your fabric lessons, very interesting!
Joni
Joni, just my little perspective. You certainly know your prints!!
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