Decorating Ideas - Floral Décor - Decorating with Florals, Flower Patterns

Floral prints can at first be intimidating when you set out to decorate with them, but if you know a few guidelines they don’t have to be hard to work with.  Like real flowers, floral fabrics all have different patterns and personalities largely determined by the style, size, and colors in them.  Here are a few pointers to consider when planning your floral décor… 

This affects mood.  For example, a pillow with a large print will look more modern than a pillow with that same pattern in a smaller scale which would have more of a sweet, vintage feel depending on the actual print. 

Okay, to avoid that feeling of a granny sofa, stay away from skirted bottom on any upholstered piece of furniture.  Offsetting the floral print with a rug that has a graphic border, you’ll have more of an eclectic feel than an “old” feel. 

Even if you have a large oriental area rug, you can put floral pillows on your sofa or chairs; make it work with a common palette.  Just make sure you select at least two colors from your rug and make sure the pillow has a lot of visible background with an open print. 

Pairing different prints works when you make sure to match the background colors of each piece.  For a cohesive effect, select one large pattern paired with two small patterns that all share the same background color, like white or off-white. 

Sure!  There are plenty of florals available that are non-girlie.  First off, stay away from small prints in pastel hues which are definitely very feminine.  Steer more towards bright primary colors and bold florals in large patterns which have more of a modern vibe and are more male-friendly. 

If you love feminine, muted tones and delicate blooms that have a vintage feel, go for a classic pattern like an elaborate rose pattern with repeats.  Put it on the walls in wallpaper for a more dramatic appearance, or as a simple statement on a bedside lamp shade or a lovely quilt.  Old-fashioned types of patterns can look more current when they are in bold, more saturated colors rather than soft and subtle. 

• Tapestry pillows with thick, textured embroidery on a velvet sofa or chair.
• A nice linen throw with a delicate embroidered floral touch and silk trim can add a nice touch to a chair or sofa.

Modern florals are bold, oversized, and full of energy.  Modern florals have a very graphic feeling and also feel fresh.  Repeating a well-loved pattern is okay, but know that it won’t be subtle; it’ll dominate the room – in a good way.  If you like clean lines and neutral furnishings, modern florals are a great match for you if you want to infuse florals into your décor.  Modern florals are crisp, yet fun and give your space warmth and cheer at the same time.

Modern floral touches:

• A pillow with one large graphic floral set on an all-white bed creates a sophisticated minimalist vibe.
• A simple lamp shade with a large, bold floral on a solid lamp base is always a nice touch.

Whatever way you end up decorating your home, what matters the most is that it is pleasing to you and those who live with you.  If it feels right to you but breaks a rule or two - go for it!  That's why the term "eclectic" exists!