Marbleized + Ink Manipulation

Photo Credit: Calico Wallpaper

Over the last two years we have seen various patterns pop up in fashion and home décor that are reminiscent of marble and watercolor paintings. Trend watchers have forecast numerous times that it will be the biggest trend of the year, and yet it never seems to make a huge splash. Cool patterns pop-up and then it’s gone. But this year seems to be different. Hand-marbling and various manipulated ink patterns are popping up in more luxurious designs – a sign that they are here to stay. At the 2015 New York Design Week last month, marbleized and hand-dyed patterns were found in furnishings, décor, fabric and artwork. During the 2014 & 2015 fashion weeks in Paris, London and New York, various designers used fabrics covered in brushstrokes, ink-blots and watercolors. And in the makers & artisan scene, marbleizing or hand-marbling has become the latest experimental craze.

One of the reasons the marble pattern hasn’t exploded in years past is the patterns were too literal. The faux marble look has been done, and each time it has looked cheap and awkward. And for the watercolor effect, the colors and style have been a bit immature. The key is to either keep it simple and use the real material/or style, or reinvent the pattern into something completely new. This year I am finally seeing a new creation – lyrical, abstract patterns with natural movement made from a mixture of marble patterns, ink manipulation, and hand-dying. And of course, the real deal is being used in furnishings and home decor as well. Beautiful white Carrera Italian Marble in tables, shelves, dressers and home accessories. Many of them paired with brass hardware and it is absolutely stunning.

What about the geometric patterns and cut-outs we saw trending earlier this year? This is where it gets exciting. The biggest trend of all is the juxtaposition of hard-line geometric patterns paired with blurred organic movement. So be on the lookout! The marbleizing and painterly watercolor trend is already trickling in. And come fall, we are going to see a whirlwind of pattern play.

CERAMIC DINNERWARE & DECOR: Tortoise Marbled Dinnerware by Tao Oudomvilay, The Gradient Vase by Leif, Modern Black and White Teapot & Cups by RK Ceramics, Rose and Gold Swirl Plates by Suite One Studio, Belay Dinnerware by CB2, Blue Ebru Marble Ceramics by Simple Life Instanbul, Botticino Marble Coasters by Anthropologie

FURNISHINGS: Surf Coffee Table by Worlds Away, Anne Marble Dresser by Steven Shell, Marble & Brass Wall-Mounted Shelf by CB2, Elke Side Table by Crate & Barrel

AREA RUGS & WALL FINISHES: Night Slate by Calico Wallpaper, Marble Wall by Kelly Wearstler, Marble Rock Zebra Rug by Lulu & Georgia, Droplet Rug by Michelle Weinberg, Banshee Rug by Surya

PILLOWS & LAMPS: Marble Cushions by Ferm Living, Marble Cascade Pillow by CB2, Carrera Italian Marble Holiday Rose Pillow by Society6, Casa Bonita Indigo Pillow by Scout & Catalogue, Flynn Lamp by Arteriors, Swirl Orange Table Lamp by Safavieh

DIY: Marbleized Ribbon by Oh Happy Day and Marbleized Paper by A Beautiful Mess

Aubrey Hyde – Fashion meets Home Decor

If you have ever stepped into the darling 12South boutique Cadeau, you understand that a surprise is always awaiting you on the other side of their entry door. Cadeau, meaning gift in French, is a refreshingly chic gift shop full of local and name brand décor and home furnishings. Whenever I visit, I am delighted by all the handpicked treasures – well curated, a bit cheeky and packed with inspiration.

Recently, I stopped into Cadeau and found myself immediately drawn to the hand-dyed pillows designed by Aubrey Hyde. Gorgeous patterns, in exquisite colors and each uniquely their own. I was completely smitten by the textile designs, which varied from ink-blot, drip, cosmos and blasted colors on linen/cotton. The pillows are surprisingly different, and yet, they have a wonderful classic appeal. Best of all, they are handmade in Nashville. No silk screens or digital printers, but hand-dyed and sewn one pillow at a time.

“Always a creative child, Aubrey began her creative career at Otis College of Art & Design, in her hometown of Los Angeles. Majoring in fashion design, she followed her passion for custom couture clothing and went to work at a fast-paced Hollywood costume shop after graduation. It was here that her passion for hand work, designer details and fine craftsmanship flourished.

After a move to Nashville in 2001, Aubrey soon ran the Nashville Ballet’s costume shop and became their resident designer. It was here that she grew her love for hand dyeing. She also opened up an online shop where she sold hand dyed accessories and fulfilled wholesale orders from retailers such as Free People.”

I find that those that can design for both fashion and home, have a rare aesthetic. Their designs stand in a unique realm of luxury and style. Designing in-between two worlds, allows one to be free in their technique and a bit of a rule breaker. Which makes for a very refreshing concept.

If you are interested in Aubrey Hyde’s pillows, you can purchase them at Cadeau, online at the Aubrey Hyde store or place a custom order here. And for all you fashion lovers, go to Ola Mai and see the stunning Dipped Liberty Top that Hyde and Nashville designer Leslie Stephens created.

Photos courtesy of Aubrey Hyde, Picture Happiness and Flock South