If you’re looking for a no-fail pattern to use in your home, that pattern is stripes. Simply put, stripes bring visual order to a room. It doesn’t matter if you use them in a traditional manner, or an unconventional one, stripes just won’t let you down.

Stripes naturally direct the eye and can reshape a space. Additionally, they’re the most neutral pattern there is, which means they mix beautifully with solids, as well as other patterns, making them the perfect pattern to incorporate into any decorating style and any space.

Stripes come two ways: vertical and horizontal. Vertical stripes have been the most common and the most used over the years, but horizontal ones are steadily increasing in popularity. Vertical stripes create an illusion of height, which is perfect if your home has low ceilings. Horizontal stripes are a bit edgier and modern and can make a room feel longer and cozier.

The look you want generally depends on the color of the stripes. Muted, tone-on-tone colors will give you a classic look, while contrasting colors give the space a bold and powerful look. The width of the stripes will also define the space differently, but the color is what you should look at first.

Where to Use Stripes

The versatility of stripes allows them to be used just about anywhere. Some suggestions include but are not limited to:

Bedding
Upholstery
Window treatments
Table linens
Bath linens
Dishes
Photo frames and artwork
Accessories such as vases, lampshades, rugs, and pillows

Tips for Decorating with Striped Patterns

Stripes are a classic pattern that can be used virtually anywhere. With that said, there are some decorating tips that should be considered when incorporating striped patterns into your home.

Colors that complement, rather than clash have a harmonious look. This means you can even mix your stripes with other patterns as long as they have similar colors. When you stick to a strict color palette, the mixing of patterns comes across as intentional, which is what you want. A good way to do this is to start with a main color and a neutral, and then layer in 1 to 2 accent colors with textiles.

If you prefer a bit of contrast, use the same striped pattern but find it in a different color. To make this happen, it’s best to buy fabric directly from a fabric retailer (like us) who usually carries the same pattern in a variety of different colors.

When mixing stripes, remember that less is more. Neutral stripes are the simplest way to go, but if you want to branch out, coordinate your stripes with the room’s overall color palette.

If you find a striped pattern you love, commit to it. Repeating the same pattern throughout your space on multiple pieces not only provides much-needed continuity and flow, it also adds a major wow factor.

Powder rooms and closets are great places to have fun with strong, contrasting stripes. What better place to be daring than in really unexpected places?

Thinner stripes look better in smaller rooms while wider stripes look best in larger rooms. Large stripes can make a really big impact and using them in small spaces can be extremely overwhelming.
In a stripe, the color blue is often looked upon as a neutral. Kind of like blue jeans–they go with everything.

Solid and florals (or paisley) are excellent complementary patterns for stripes. Again, it helps that there is a similar color running through each pattern to make it look intentional and cohesive.

When in doubt, stick with a classic version. There are lots of brights and multicolored stripes out there, but you can never go wrong with a crisp, classic stripe.

What to Avoid When Using Stripes

Some stripe no-nos to keep in mind while you decorate include:

Avoid using more than 3 complimentary colors. Doing so will make a cohesive look turn into a chaotic one.
Avoid striped flooring and consider a rug instead. Striped floors may be unique, but they can be hard to get right. A beautiful striped rug is the best way to go.
Avoid painting stripes on things like the front door or shutters. Stripes on doors and shutters can make the front of the home look too busy.
Avoid using neon stripes on furniture upholstery. Save those bold, fun colors for accessories like pillows, which can easily be swapped out as needed.
Avoid overusing stripes on your bed. The goal is to keep it calm and classy.

Until you’re ready to go all in with stripes, start out small. When you’re more comfortable, you can commit to something bigger. Ready to start adding stripes into your life? Stop by our showroom or browse our gorgeous striped fabrics and rugs online.