Timeless Black and White Rooms Inspired by Fashion

When I visited New York Fashion Show not so long ago, I was in awe with the exploration of black and white on the runway. As it’s always true, this color combination is more versatile than any other. The same is true when it comes to black and white rooms. They can be contemporary or traditional, minimal or over-the-top, sleek or rough, moody or refined, orderly and liberating, witty or stark and sterile.

In other words, black and white rooms are more timeless than trendy.

In all fairness, interior design always follows fashion. It is common that major design trends are inspired by the fearless energy of the runways.  

Here I’m drawing a  parallel line between fashion and design together with my tips on how to better use it for black and white rooms with an oomph.

Go for bright accent pillows in black and white rooms

Ultimately, bright accents will emphasize the high energy of the room. Stick to one bright color, such as yellow if you still want to get a clean and uncluttered look. Use only a few objects that are related in proportion to each other. For example, use a larger throw, smaller pillow and very small, delicate flowers in a vase. This will give your room both, clarity and warmth.

Play with different patterns

For a determined fashionista, don’t be afraid to play with patterns when you decorate black and white rooms.  For example, patterns like polka dots, stripes, and florals will look adorable in a room of a young girl. Infuse bright colors, but just remember to keep elements in proportion and/ or relationships. Her friends will be super jealous, of course!

Use a bright backdrop for black and white rooms

In case you feel confident painting an accent wall, use bright paint colors, such as red, yellow or blue. If these colors are not appealing to you, use hot pink, cobalt blue or aquamarine.

Make a statement with black and white bedding

Don’t be limited by just stripes and geometric shapes in bedding. Show your sense of humor and personality. Passionate about your four-legged friends? Express yourself!

Use wall decals, such as little dots to transform a plain wall

They are fun, but if you get tired of them, they can be so easily removed!

Use texture and hardware to highlight

If bright yellow accessories are not your jam, use hardware, such as nailheads. For instance, a black door can look stunning if you apply head nails as an accent.

Use “less is more” cliche to your advantage

Obviously, you heard it many times that less is more. Even though I am not a big fan of this cliché, when you decorate with black and white, it may be relevant. A clever application of a single bright-colored detail within the context of a black and white object will entirely transform it. The smaller the detail, the more interesting it will look.

Graphic Wallpaper in Black and White

Certainly, a visual surprise is always refreshing! So, use wallpaper with a familiar pattern that is stripped to the bones of the graphic detail. Pair the wallpaper with black and white furnishings to accentuate your design.

Accessorize and accentuate with black and white stripes

With easy paint application, you can transform a plain white vase into a conversation piece that will a smile on your guests’ faces.

Tip:

If you decide to use black and white stripes on the draperies, remember that thin stripes tend to be subtle and timeless, while wider stripes contribute to a bolder look.

Bottom Line

I would like to encourage you to use black and white, either as accents for your home or major design elements for a timeless look.

If you decide on black and white rooms, remember that it requires an uncluttered approach with minimum accessories. So, if you want to play it safe remove all the extra objects and keep the room simple. You may also want to check my previous post on white rooms ideas here.

Please post your questions here below. I’ll be happy to help you!