FRINGE FEST
How to stay the right side of kitsch with fringes and tassels
TIRED of the minimalist look? Well, it’s time to take heart. One of the season’s big trends is the bohemian vibe, looking something like the love child of Miss Haversham and Oklahoma. All the tassels and fringes add movement and texture to the home and play homage to warmer climates — perfect as we head into our Irish spring/summer. But if you’re a Scandi fan trying to edge closer to the Wild West, at first look, it can be a daunting leap.
With any trend, incorporating a look that might be on the other side of your style spectrum successfully depends on balance, says stylist and interiors writer Louise Dockery: “Like any texture, it’s so important to balance out fringing and tassels with cleaner, contemporary surfaces. This will prevent it from looking too themed or twee,” she says.
“Add a Moroccan tasselled throw to a modern sofa, or hang a fringed wall hanging above a white desk from Ikea. Contrast is what makes a space interesting.”
If you’re cringing at the thought of it, you can introduce it mildly, at first. Dip your toe in before going full boho or donning your Stetson. Getting it right is all down to the designs and sizes you choose.
“Pattern and scale are really important considerations to have when decorating with fringe,” says Louise. “Because it’s so high-impact; it’s probably best to keep it on smaller pieces of furniture that don’t have any heavy patterns. A pouffe or occasional chair is ideal.”
While it’s a great way to add texture and interest to smaller pieces, brush fringe, with its Victorian-era connotations, can seem off-putting. But this isn’t the only style that’s out there.
Much has changed, and stores like West Elm, Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie should be your go-tos for an updated bohemian look, says Louise: “Look to these stores for vintage-style fringing done in a cool, modern way. Fringing and tassels can add a dreamy, boho look to your bedding.”
Wall-hangings are certainly rising in popularity, with intricate, colourful designs adding texture and fun to any space. Look to Etsy for gorgeous one-off designs that are easy on the eye.
It’s important to remember that bringing the theme to every room isn’t essential — there’s such a thing as overkill, particularly with fringe. Remember that too much will make your space kitsch – unless, of course, that’s the look you’re going for.