Travel back in time and fall in love with the elegant opulence of the Victorian era. Ankita Mamgain shares some ideas of how to add a dash of vintage to your interiors.
The runways around the fashion capitals (and our own editor) have spoken: this autumn/ winter, the style circuit is not just going retro; it’s taking a complete trip back into history and reviving the luxurious elegance of the Victorian era. Think intricate lace work, opulent fabrics, deep hues and classic silhouettes, which can not just adorn your body but also its abode. How about taking this style beyond the wardrobe and splashing it around your home too.
A space adorned with vintage objects exudes a sense of comfort and charm. Even if the general theme of your home is contemporary and vintage is something you’ve refrained from till now, remember sometimes old translates into timeless. And who says you can’t mix and match?
So dust out flea-market finds or hand-me-downs from friends and family before you head out to the marketplace to buy something new. Here are a few ideas that may turn your worn-out items into stylish treasures.
Vintage Explorer
This trend is really big this season – heavily inspired by the great explorers and naturalists of the past. Be on the look out for old, haggard looking globes, maps and suitcases. These articles are more versatile than you think and can be incorporated into any space. They immediately add character to any room, be it study, living room or lounge. Complement them with hints of botany and entomology, in the form of plant drawings and butterfly or dragonfly motifs.
If there is a latent prehistoric scientist lying somewhere deep inside you, this is a good time to bring it out. Present your “specimens” under a bell jar or you can also frame some nature-walk finds, or natural souvenirs from your last holiday. What better way to show your devotion to your travelling spirit?
Smaller objects such as old watches, compasses and binoculars can be displayed on corner tables or hung on the wall. If you’re feeling really adventurous, try out a vintage map print on a chest of drawers or even an illustrated wallpaper. The muted tones keep this look adaptable to any design scheme – from casual country to super-contemporary – letting secondary colours play the hero.
Opulent Details
The season warrants sumptuous satins, smooth textiles and crystal chandeliers sparkling in your home. Add classic luxe details to your living space with the finest of materials, fabrics, furniture and artifacts. Whether you are looking to bring in just one statement piece or want to go all out, the marketplace is flooded with choices which will awaken your home.
From antique furniture to mirrors, artworks and one-of-a-kind sculptures, nothing says luxe better than gorgeous imported pieces. So pay attention when shopping abroad. Don’t be shy and revel in the gold and other metallic finishes that attract attention. From picture frames to bath accessories, candelabras, vases and tableware, large chunky pieces with Victorian details are the way to go.
Another means of increasing the luxury quotient is with fabrics. Incorporate lush velvets, exotic silks and smooth satins in the décor. And if the gold, silks and velvets don’t cut it for you, add a glitzy crystal chandelier as the ultimate showstopper.
Lace it up
For true lovers of all things vintage, lace is one material that is particularly hard to resist. With so many wonderful patterns out there, made from a variety of materials, the delicate weave provides endless possibilities. The material can add charm to furniture, accessories, lighting fixtures, floor and walls. The patterns are pleasant and romantic, offering wonderful, soft and tender room decorating ideas for any age, gender or interior style. The markets offer a number of products inspired by elegant lace patterns and clever paint effects, so decorating the home with lace doesn’t have to be restricted to curtains and doilies.
Combined with a charming paint colour or contrasting home fabrics, lace patterns create amazing centrepieces that bring originality and romantic accents into a room. Lace pillows and crochet throws are pretty and very decorative, adding elegance and warmth to a space. Knitted, crochet or fake lace patterns look great on any furniture, including vases or lampshades.
