Patterns/How to
Quatrefoil Characteristics: Tailored, formal, elegant, French. Where to use it: Upholstery on large pieces, like sofas and chairs; stencil patterns; etched glass; iron gates. Pairs well with: Solids, stripes and chevrons, but not herringbone, Tucker says. Pulling it off: For a look that's less formal, more eclectic and edgier, look for quatrefoil prints that incorporate at least three colors, Fenimore says.
Plaid Characteristics: Buttoned-up conservative and classic; French, English and Scottish feel. Where to use it: Upholstery pieces and headboards with straight lines; silk curtains when paired with vibrant colors. Pairs well with: Similarly colored florals and solid colors. Pulling it off: "Pay attention to matching the pattern exactly — nothing looks worse than a badly sewn or mismatched plaid," Tucker says.
Polka Dot Characteristics: Fun, happy, outgoing and playful. Where to use it: Rugs, pillows and accent pieces — on a small or large scale. Pairs well with: Similarly colored stripes and plain colors, as long as they don't compete. Pulling it off: "Steer clear of giant polka dots, or you'll look like a game of Twister," Tucker says.
Animal Characteristics: Eclectic, sassy, fearless, vibrant, glamorous. Where to use it: Rugs, pillows, bedding, wallpaper, drawer liners and artwork. Pairs well with: Shimmery velvets and nubby linens, Fenimore says. Pulling it off: "There is a very fine line between chic and sleazy, so buy the best — it needs to be top quality," Tucker says.
Paisley Characteristics: A true chameleon. Energetic, retro, daring, bohemian, but also warm and cozy. Where to use it: Curtains, curtain linings, walls and upholstery Pairs well with: Herringbone. Pulling it off: "Use large scale for a bold and playful look," Tucker says. "Keep your paisleys tonal for a more transitional look."
Ikat Characteristics: Global, eclectic, exotic, earthy, adventurous, handmade looking. Where to use it: Pillows, dining chair cushions, curtains. Pairs well with: Stripes, tone-on-tone graphics and solid silks, Fenimore says. Pulling it off: "Ikats make for a great surprise lining on a more traditional drapery treatment, or as one side of portieres as you pass through," Tucker says.
Floral Characteristics: Romantic, timeless, light and airy. Where to use it: Everywhere! Wallpaper, draperies, bedding, pillows and upholstery. Pairs well with: A stripe that pulls out a less-obvious color in the floral pattern — that way the room will look less "decorated." Pulling it off: "Center a large-scale floral pattern on smaller pieces for a wonderful effect," Tucker says.
Chevron Characteristics: Versatile, on trend, bold yet relaxing. Where to use it: In small doses, such as on vases, curtains or pillows. Try a tile or painted accent wall to make a statement. Pairs well with: Almost any other print, Tucker says. The trick: Keep the color palette consistent and balance the scale — one large and bold pattern, another small and subtle. Pulling it off: To avoid a DIY look, mix it with luxurious velvets, Fenimore suggests. It also pairs well with metallics and jewel tones, especially when used as artwork.
Damask Characteristics: Demure, subdued, versatile, traditional. Where to use it: Metallic wallpaper and on flooring and draperies. Pairs well with: Florals, stripes, solids and plaids — everything except another damask or pattern with the same scale. Pulling it off: "A true woven damask can be used on the reverse as well, with subtle differences in coloration," Tucker says.
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