One of the hottest trends this year is pretty decor – and it’s about time! While contemporary styling is chic, a nod to femininity adds comfort, sensuality and warmth. It’s beautiful, often glamorous and a touch romantic. Unlike the ruffled looks of years past, pretty now is subtle and even sleek. It’s the perfect way to beat the winter blahs and give spring a head start. So let’s begin!

Tip #1: Go Easy. Moderation is the key. Keep the space grounded with neutral walls and floors. Perhaps limit yourself to a few accent furnishings or accessories in the pretty theme.

Tip #2: Think Pink. Today’s pink isn’t candy sweet, it’s blush-toned or beige-infused or fuchsia-bright. Upholstery, draperies, linens, and even leathers, are all showing up in gorgeous shades of pink.

Tip #3: Tufting Trend. Tufting is ultra popular in chairs, sofas, benches, ottomans and pillows. And while it certainly adds a dash of pretty, it’s also a timelessly masculine accent, often used in leather study chairs. Add a tufted piece in any fabric or style – it’s wonderful classic.

Tip #4: Pillow Talk. An abundance of throw cushions adds prettiness and coziness. It’s perhaps the quickest and most affordable way to bring a feminine sensibility to a room. The variety of cushions available is huge – mix it up! Nature-inspired, fur-covered, velvet, geometrics, florals, and even needlepoint.

Tip #5: Fun with Florals. Quintessentially feminine, florals today are dramatic, bold and fun and often against dark backgrounds. Mix and match patterns for extra impact.

Tip #6: Mirror, Mirror. Every shape and size of mirror is popular now – and they all add an element of pretty! Consider a gold gilded, nickel trimmed or white framed mirror in a round, rectangular or starburst shape. Create a grouping of smaller mirrors for instant elegance.

Tip #7: Pretty Pastels. Inspired by Pantone’s colour combo of the year, Rose Quartz & Serenity, all shades of pastels are trendy this season. Try pale blue, lilac, soft green, palest yellow – think outside the box and consider furnishings or rugs in pastels.

Tip #8: White is Right. White aesthetically blends with pretty décor. Infuse your space with lots of soft whites, greys and beiges; they work wonderfully with pastels. Consider an all-white kitchen with wood floors – pretty yet still polished.

Tip #9: Wonderful Wallpaper. Bold florals are definitely in as are metallics and geometrics. A wallpapered powder room or a foyer can be spectacularly pretty – or an accent wall in any area. Be sure to anchor it with clean-lined furnishings and neutral classics.

Tip #10: Add Whimsy. There’s plenty of room for fun in pretty décor. Look for items that reflect your personality, display a collection or hang whimsical art. Create a space that’s uniquely yours.

Tags: decor, design tips, trends