Fall decor takes Highland fling
Where fashion goes, decor follows. And this fall, the fashionistas are inspired by Scotland.
Plaid capes, kilts and coats hit the fall 2014 catwalk for Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney. Marchesa showed tartan-printed lace, argyle and fur, and deconstructed kilt patterns into a dress collection. Brazilian label Animale used Celtic and druid patterns, and shot their ad campaign against a rocky, Braveheart-esque background.
If you’re ready to add a little Highland fling to your living space, there are lots of options.
Rich woods, squooshy sofas, rubbed bronze and landscape prints evoke the Caledonian country manor. The look, traditional and tasteful, can be dressed up or down.
Modern interpretations also abound, with oversized or edited classic patterns, layering of aged items with new, and playful versions of iconic Scottish elements.
Scottish style is rich with clan tartans and evocative motifs drawn from a long and tempestuous history. The colour palette’s equally rich: deep lichen greens, rainy greys, cranberry, moat blue, malt and butterscotch. In paints, check out Devine Color’s Oat, Thunder and Juniper; Sherwin Williams’ Loch Blue and Salute; Farrow & Ball’s Pigeon.
Look for archetypal patterns like herringbone, plaid, tweed, lace and argyle. Pottery Barn’s Alana lace printed bedding; Target’s Threshold Paisley print lampshade; Missoni’s tweed pouf; and Graham & Brown’s argyle wallpapers are at All Modern.
Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s elegant rose and Arts and Crafts motifs are interpreted in pretty lighting and window and wall stencils at JustMackintosh.com.
Look for items with key, thistle, antler, knot and shield motifs.
Materials associated with Scottish style have patina and a sense of age about them. Think “heritage woods” — mahogany, chestnut and oak. Warm bronze and pewter. Candlesticks and vases with Celtic designs.
Leather and faux leather accessories are a good way to introduce a bit of the Scottish manor look without investing in a large piece of furniture.