10 Velvet Trends

With its combination of softness and depth, velvet has the ability to make pattern and colour sing like no other material. It’s these unique qualities that luxurious velvet fabric delivers that has interior designers wholeheartedly embracing the latest velvet interior design trends. So, whether you want to use a modernist colour pop, a graphic design from our Omega Prints II range or a sensual vintage style, our unparalleled range of velvets is the ideal place to start.

Big is beautiful
Linwood’s new velvet collections include bold and unexpected prints that bring an added style dimension to classic velvet fabric. A smaller room can benefit hugely from a statement curtain or blind. If you want to try using several bold prints, velvet accessories such as velvet cushions, or curtain tiebacks are an easy add. Used sparingly the tactile impact of velvet can be magnified as a highlight detail especially when used against earthy materials such as wood or terracotta. Or conversely a glossy surface such as a 60s moulded plastic chair.

Pretty in pink
Although a dense material velvet can add an intense pastel freshness in the right shade and fabric, making it perfect for the coveted baby pink hues that are everywhere in 2020. This blush Cosmos Velvet in an antique finish provides an interesting colour hit, while the variation in texture keeps the scheme feeling light. Mix it with voiles in the same tone to create a graceful scheme that also feels sumptuous.

Decadent maximalism
More, more and then add a little more; the effect of adding pattern on pattern is strangely restful. A great way to add some audacious pattern is with slightly indulgent pieces of furniture such as ottomans and footstools. A patterned stain resistant velvet makes this a durable and forgiving way to add interest. For extra impact, try a small repeat printed velvet upholstery fabric on a low vintage nursing chair or even a lampshade. Not for the design faint hearted, but a huge design win for the brave.

Colour pop
It’s all about being bold with colour this year, as our Design Colours for 2020 illustrates. For plain velvets, classic blue, mandarin, cassis, bright yellows and golds are the go to hues this season. For patterned velvet ikat, large graphic repeats, and contrasting tones with acid details on blousy botanicals are all the rage. Take that velvet chesterfield sofa to the next level with quirky, daring new look.

Sitting pretty
A classic choice, a velvet sofa makes the ideal focus for a sitting room, whether you prefer plain or patterned velvet. But the modern way to use it, is with a twist. Even in the most minimal scheme, a plain crushed velvet corner sofa can draw everyone in with a focus on comfort. This on trend Mismi Ranch design gives cause for a pleasing double take. It looks very graphic from a distance and close up is soft and lush to the touch, creating a wonderful, surprising sensuality. The unexpected benefit of velvet sofas is the hardiness; velvet fabrics with a high rub count are easy to clean. And even if fabrics do show a little wear and tear, a faded velvet couch adds a louche design swagger in its own right.

New bedroom tricks
Breathing new life to a classic is an ideal way to hit two trends at once; sustainable and sensuality. A buttoned velvet headboard or antique bedhead in a fresh new colour or pattern can add a low-key luxurious dimension. A velvet headboard adds an especially cocooning feel to a scheme as it’s likely to come in contact with the skin and add to the overall sense of indulgence. For the ultimate boudoir consider a valance piped with velvet, a velvet quilt or even, if you love a little drama, velvet bed curtains. Just keep the look modern with an arresting shade, like this bed from Sofas and Stuff upholstered in Brass from Omega velvet.

Floral flare
Traditional florals have come out of cold, given an update by appearing on soft velvets. Classic prints can now be combined with the benefits of modern materials, making them ideal for velvet curtains or blinds. By combing velvet with a shocking pink lining or a sharp yellow linen trim, when pulled back or seen from outside, they can add a contemporary verve. Use them with strong paint colours such as this teal blue to bring out the best in both.

Dining in style
Once unthinkable, the chicest dining chairs are now wearing velvet. But now hardwearing blends mean velvet it useable in every scenario. This design from our Cosmos collection looks even more sumptuous with flickering candlelight especially in this elegant scheme. For a kitchen banquette, which goes from day to night, use plain velvet in a rich jewel tone with a scattering of mismatched cushions. Comfort, fun and practicality combined.

Off the wall
Velvet interiors lend themselves to the unexpected. Give a plain dressing screen a tactile twist or for the truly bold, a full velvet wall. Try using velvet fabrics stretched over wooden frames to create panels. These will allow an alternation of plain and pattern in the same design family and are easier to implement than putting directly onto the wall. Not only does this add visual warmth, it can help reduce noise and adding a comforting hush.

Low key luxe
The special qualities of velvet allow it to be used sparingly and still delight, which is perfect for adding some of the everyday luxury trend. Using velvet trim as piping gives just a little kiss of contrast to a textured linen, or when used as a contrasting shade on a velvet cushion, it lends some 1930s glamour. Velvet isn’t shy, so it’s a great chance to play with new looks and go bold. Velvet tassels are not just for red velvet curtains, and they’re back in a big way. Consider bringing them into even into the quietest scheme, in the same tone to deliver add a little shimmer and shine. A little bit of velvet luxury every home can enjoy.