If you were to ask someone under the age of 40 to define a valance, you’d likely receive a puzzled expression in response. However, this may soon change as traditional decor elements like the valance, also known as the bed skirt, are making a comeback in bedrooms. John Lewis’s recently released Shop Live Look report highlights a growing interest in 80s-style bedroom decor that was once thought to be a thing of the past.
The report identifies a trend called “vintage maximalism,” described by head home buyer Camilla Rowe as a look that has been gaining popularity in interior design, particularly with the revival of Jilly Cooper’s Rivals on Disney+. This maximalist aesthetic features ruches, pelmets, tasseled cushions, valanced beds, upholstered ottomans stacked with magazines, and floor-to-ceiling pleated curtains.
Sales of silk bedding have surged by a third, indicating a shift away from the dominance of Scandi minimalism towards a more vibrant and expressive style. Maximalism is seen as a return to comfort and nostalgia, explaining its increasing appeal. Emma Burns, joint MD of Sibyl Colefax and John Fowler, emphasizes that this trend is not fleeting, as elegance and relevance never go out of fashion.
For those looking to recreate this look in their own homes, consider incorporating these timeless yet trendy elements back into the bedroom:
Bed Valances: Explore Alice Palmer’s collection of ready-made valances, available in a variety of colors and patterns, to add a touch of personality to your bed.
Four-Poster and Canopy Beds: Interior design studio Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler often incorporates four-poster beds in its projects, enhancing rooms with a sense of grandeur and whimsy. Taller four-poster beds make a bold statement and offer opportunities for layering patterns and textures.
Whether adorned with a plethora of chintz or dressed in unlined linen, being enveloped in a beautifully appointed four-poster bed offers a retreat from the outside world. Octavia Dickinson concurs, noting that people seek to infuse playfulness and uniqueness into their rooms, especially during the winter months. She emphasizes the importance of bed testers and four posters in creating a sense of warmth and security. Alice Palmer introduces instant bed canopies designed for children’s rooms, complete with pelmet, canopy, and brackets for easy installation.
In the realm of window treatments, vintage curtains with tiebacks and ruched blinds are experiencing a resurgence. Camilla Rowe of John Lewis mentions a surprising comeback of curtain tiebacks, while Emma Burns emphasizes the aesthetic and energy-saving benefits of heavy curtains with tiebacks. The revival of the ruched blind offers a modern twist to traditional window dressings, with Octavia Dickinson recommending a balance of modern and classic elements.
Silk bedding, once considered outdated, has undergone a modern transformation, particularly silk pillowcases which are praised for their skin and hair benefits. Deborah Fiddy of Gingerlily highlights the breathable and hypoallergenic qualities of silk bedding, emphasizing its comfort and luxurious appeal.
Beyond the bed and windows, bedroom upholstery plays a crucial role in creating a comfortable and cozy ambiance. Tiffany Duggan suggests incorporating an upholstered ottoman for added warmth and functionality, while an upholstered armchair can provide a touch of elegance and practicality to the room.
Incorporating furniture with matching fabrics not only enhances comfort and coziness but also adds a touch of traditional elegance to your living space. Consider coordinating the material on your chair or ottoman with the bedding and drapes in your room for a harmonious aesthetic.
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