A VELVET TOUCH

Luxurious fabric a favorite in interior design world

Velvet. Be still my heart. This deliciously luxurious fabric has romanced me for decades. Today, velvet love is spreading like wildfire in the world of interior design. Big-name designers are putting this fabric of emperors into everyday designs, with brilliant results.

First, let’s get a bit technical. What is velvet, away? It can be made from several different kinds of fibers, the most costly of which is silk. Everyday velvets are more likely made from cotton, linen, mohair, wool, polyester, nylon, viscose and acetate.

Historians say the art of velvet weaving began in the Far East. Merchants introduced it in Venice, and soon people all over Europe were clamoring for this splendidly soft cloth that made a heck of a royal robe or wall hanging. There are so many reasons to introduce a bit of velvet into your decor. Velvet makes colors richer. Saturated colors are huge right now, with hues ranging from daring emerald green, sapphire blue and magenta to subtle gray, navy and brown. Velvet is a sensational way to bring a color story to life because it gives every tone a depth and richness second to none. Just a little touch adds luxury.

MARY CAROL GARRITY PHOTOS Velvet is one of those rare gems: a luxury fabric that is also durable. The art of velvet weaving began in the Far East, according to historians.

After merchants introduced velvet in Venice, its popularity quickly exploded in Europe, with people all over soon clamoring for the soft cloth.