Flower power
Get ready to welcome back the trend for all things floral.They’re in fashion again – especially in today’s boudoirs.
Once upon a time, pretty floral prints were reserved for Grandma's house, complete with a chintz china tea-set that she saved for Sunday best. Well, the good news this season is they haven't just been given a jolly good shake up, they've been completely transformed for the 21st century. Whether you fancy the rustic appeal of a country cottage or want to make a brave new statement in a contemporary interior, there's a great range of styles to suit every taste and décor.
A fresh approach
The bedroom, being a place of harmony and relaxation for us, is the ideal space to invite nature into your home, so revive your boudoir for the new year ahead and welcome in some darling buds. Perhaps you're ready to adopt some contrasting patterns, with blooms thrown into the mix for a striking, eclectic look, or maybe you're seeking an unashamedly romantic feel with posies of roses and other beautiful blossoms taking centre stage in a pastoral scheme fit for a fairytale princess?
There are endless options for incorporating such designs into your room. Why not choose furniture such as bedsteads and neat bedside cabinets which feature flowers and foliage to bring the outdoors inside? Delicate carving on a headboard or bone inlay pieces are both different ways of doing this and add subtle interest rather than overpowering your personal space with busy patterns. Using natural materials will also keep the feel of your boudoir warm and soothing.
Pastel perfection
If you're a romantic at heart, then a scheme of rustic florals could be the perfect look for you. Forever in vogue, these quintessentially English prints
will evoke comfort and calm as you unwind after a hectic day, so you'll soon feel as if life really is a bed of roses. A pale palette, delicate flowers and fine detailing create a traditional and cosy approach so you can come home to the country even if you live in the thick of the urban jungle. Powder-blue, antique-gold, rosebud-pink and sunshine-yellow will achieve a soft, charming style to fall in love with.
Natural attraction
If you're keen to discover a more contemporary take on florals, then you're in for a treat as our hottest designers have reworked 70's prints and taken inspiration from foliage and deep opulent autumnal tones. Soft neutrals and strong graphics work in harmony to make new bedspreads a great focal point in your room. Subtle leaf motifs and fern prints will provide a modern alternative to blooms and can be teamed with a simple white or dark wood bedframe for a fresh and crisp look. However, if it's a more masculine feel you're striving for, then consider a fusion of moss-greens and bark-browns to sit alongside more pretty patterns as an accent.
Colour vs. monochrome
A key look for 2009 is the emergence of lively prints. They're set to make a statement for next season, which is perfect for an energising scheme. Try adding some exciting elements to your bedroom via a dramatic feature wall or work the floral theme in subtly in the form of a cushion, soft rug or throw.
Retro prints bring a great sense of fun to an interior and, when teamed with clashing colours, can achieve a personalised statement look. If you fancy a bright and jazzy theme in your bedroom then pink and red with zesty orange are instant ways to inject colour and build a vibrant feel to uplift your spirits. Browns and copper tones also work well for more abstract prints, forming a cosy, nurturing haven to escape the rat race and relax in.
For a timeless approach to florals why not consider the allure of monochrome linens or a bold-is-best dramatic wallcovering? Try adding another pattern, like a classic stripe, or create contrast with a striking accent colour that will inject extra drama. The key to this look is simple styling and beautiful accessories which ooze quality and blend seamlessly into your scheme. Whatever your taste, the wide range of gorgeous pieces available will ensure your room will soon bloom.
