Dare to be different. Imagine a sink-into-it sofa covered in a mixture of plush, floral tapestry and chenille then trimmed with long eyelash fringe; or a period-style accent chair covered in a bold, playful Buffalo plaid.
This season designers are gravitating toward wonderful and unexpected mixtures of classic furniture styles dressed up to have fun.
"Look for a retailer that offers plenty of design options and encourages creativity with fabric combinations, textures and trims," said T.J. Schmitz, an upholstery designer for Arhaus Furniture, a store that has locations in several states.
A custom-looking sofa or chair that expresses your individuality can be created easily by working with coordinating fabrics and interesting trims. A good furniture retailer will offer advice on how to coordinate multiple fabrics and textures on a piece of furniture.
"Go for that signature piece in your home: A great-looking sofa or chair and ottoman. But make sure it fits into your home décor and withstands everyday use," Schmitz said. "Look for great-looking upholstered pieces that are a bit out-of-the-ordinary in their shape, scale or fabric. These core pieces can help build or rebuild the décor in your room."
This season, exciting new mixtures of fabrics, colors and shapes should give furniture shoppers some creative inspiration.
"Keep in mind that seeking out unique pieces of furniture for your home doesn't label your décor 'trendy' -- it simply makes your home more personal, comfortable and fun," Schmitz said.
Fabric Finds This Season
Smooth twills are making some exciting statements in bold colors such as red, gold, copper, raisin and rich shades of brown. Black and khaki are popular classics that are being revisited in fabric combinations such as toiles, florals, bold stripes and checks. In upholstery, shades of green are still strong staple colors to pull a room together.
Embroidered chenilles and tapestries also are finding their places in home fashion this season. Ethnic inspired sofas, chairs, and even classically-styled ottomans covered in kilim rugs have an appealing worldly influence and work beautifully in an eclectic room setting.
According to Schmitz, furniture designers are thinking more about the versatility of a sofa or chair by using companion leathers and fabrics on opposite sides of cushions and pillows. This built-in versatility allows a consumer to change the look of a room instantly with a quick flip of a cushion.
Details, Details
This season, sofas are ready to take center stage with glamorous, vintage-inspired silhouettes that are updated and fresh for today's home décor. The classic look of beautifully tailored, fitted backs and sculptural arms are emphasized by decorative trims and interesting kick-pleats. Interesting cording, twisted brocade and long, loopy eyelash fringe are all the rage for dressing up a sofa, chair or ottoman. And don't forget about nail heads. Oversized or miniature, these are a handsome detail.
"Think of trim as that special, personal accessory," Schmitz said. "Just like your wardrobe, the unexpected details are the ones that give your furniture a touch of personality and can pull a look together."
Courtesy of ARA Content 
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