Denim blues
There is nothing like denim to make a casual statement. Over the decades, denim goes in and out of fashion, but is never out of style. It is back in vogue today showing off racks of dresses, shirts and, of course, skinny jeans. Embraced by all ages and stages, it’s always about the comfy feeling it connotes. We connect to jeans and the weekend wardrobe; denim jackets and country walks; BBQs at the beach, football games, traveling anywhere … more jeans. The words “denim” and “jeans” have become interchangeable, which leads to a broad spectrum of blues that fit the bill. Denims range from dark navy and indigo to bleached-out blues. No matter what style you are after, there’s a denim blue that will make it strong and endearing.
In the decorating world, this fabric is a natural for casual seating. Slipcovers provide a loose, almost slouchy character to anything from beanbag chairs to sofas and ottomans. And just like that favorite pair of jeans, you can dress the room up or down with the appropriate accessories. Ginghams, plaids and cozy wools are perennial mates in country shades of rustic red, sunny yellow and green. Or change up the color contrast with today’s bold shades of vivid pistachio and pink that pops. If you are inclined toward a prim and pretty scenario, bring on the whites in crisp cottons and lace to trim pillows and throws.
There are many options for decorating the walls. You may already have paneling, which builds instant character. Or simple panels are easy to reproduce with paint, by taping off rectangular shapes and borders. One wall can be painted in a saturated tone of denim blue, almost navy, for a dramatic mood. And stripes in multiple shades of blue – thick or thin – are youthful and fun.
I’ve worked with denim themes for years – it is such a versatile style. If you would like to add your own painterly touch to a child’s bedroom or family room, why not add a dado that mimics the look of denim? Use a rough wallpaper brush or a dragging tool to achieve the effect of the fabric weave. Apply a light-blue base coat. Let dry. Mix a colored glaze: equal parts denim blue paint and water-based glazing liquid. Tape off panels or patches. Apply the glaze to alternate panels, drag the denim tool through the glaze vertically and then horizontally. Let dry and then re-tape to finish the wall. For an authentic look, add stitch lines at the “seams” with a small artist’s brush and terra cotta-colored paint.
Area rugs instantly heighten the style of a space. They soften hardwood floors, introducing a layer of texture that feels as good as it looks. Rugs demarcate a sitting area, inviting you into a framework for conversation and relaxation. I am always on the look-out for a new pattern or color mix to transform and energize one of my rooms. Manufacturers update their offerings, promoting designs that coincide with the seasons and your chosen style. Check your home and carpet stores to get inspired.
Whichever denim accents you choose, the result will be lasting and loveable … just like that favorite jean jacket. It is conducive to making enduring memories and never goes out of style.
Email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com.