Choose Stripes for Enduring,

Timeless Appeal 

Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV, explores why stripes are making a strong comeback in today’s interiors. From classic elegance to playful modernity, she shares her expert tips on how to confidently incorporate this versatile pattern into your own home

"Stripes are quickly becoming the new neutral and it’s easy to see why," says Debbie. "I find stripes incredibly versatile; they offer structure and interest and unlike bold prints or trendy motifs, stripes have a timeless quality that transcends styles, from classic coastal to modern minimalism."

"Stripes have an enduring appeal due to their simplicity and adaptability. Whether pin-thin or wide and bold, they can act as a subtle backdrop or a statement feature depending on colour and scale. Stripes also work beautifully across different materials and textures, making them ideal for everything from upholstery to curtains and cushions," Debbie explains.

Debbie continues, "One of the great advantages of stripes is how they can influence the perception of space. Vertical stripes can create the illusion of height, making them a smart choice for curtains in rooms with lower ceilings. On the other hand, horizontal stripes can visually widen a space, which makes them particularly effective on items like the headboard in a bedroom."

"My top styling tips for using stripes at home would be to start with a soft, neutral stripe on larger items like curtains or sofas which will give you a calm, cohesive base. Then, layer in bolder or contrasting stripes through accessories like cushions or throws. Don’t be afraid to mix stripe widths or direction, for example, horizontal and vertical stripes together can add energy and a designer edge to a space, especially when kept within a complementary colour palette," concludes Debbie.