Cushions - Selecting Colors and Patterns

Indoors or outside, a dilemma often arises when it comes to selecting cushion colors and patterns for wicker furniture. Combining personal tastes with surrounding decor, along with colors to complement wicker finishes, creates an indecision trifecta that can make any home decorator hesitate over making a selection. With a few simple tips in color balance and pairings, the entire buying process becomes just a little easier.

Three Layers of Color in Room Decor

Take a look around any room. The focal color, in whatever shade, is easy to spot because it will be the most prominent. Walls grab attention, but drapes and rugs might also be considered focal points if they contain larger areas of a single color. The next most-used hue will be the secondary color while accent colors follow in the form of throw pillows, area rugs and display pieces.

Following the rules of a color wheel, a room's setting might be monochromatic, it may be a complement of blends in light or bold shades or even contrasting hues. From these basics, it becomes easy to select solids or patterns for the cushions included with wicker furniture. Stripes and florals should contain one or more focal, secondary or accent colors. These two popular patterns can also complement each other. For instance, if draperies are floral patterned, subtly striped cushions in a similar color scheme will create an interesting pairing.

Solid color fabrics often make it difficult to create an exact match with existing decor. This should not be an issue as long as the two matched colors are spaced far enough apart. Sometimes, the easiest way to dress up a dull space is with the addition of bold, solid cushions.

Tying Wicker Furniture Cushions in with Outdoor Spaces

The great outdoors is open to a different interpretation when it comes to choosing wicker furniture cushions. One thing to consider in selection is if there is a clear view from indoors to outside. In this case, it might be wise to consider pattern and color coordination that maintains an even flow.

For a refreshing and relaxed look, stick with cooler colors such as greens and blues. For warmer high-energy tones, reds, yellows and oranges will enliven the landscape. While lemon yellow, deep red and summery green might disturb a serene setting, they will work well for urban spaces that have less competition from plants or other colors.

Matching Fabric Patterns to Style

In the floral category, patterns might be reminiscent of traditional paisley or tapestry forms, but they may also make a fine fit for contemporary preferences. Stripes are also versatile, ranging from bold tropicals to more subdued shades. Both pattern types are easy to decorate with as they include a range of colors that make it easy to complement surrounding spaces.

For more formal spaces, muted colors and smaller patterns may work best. Cottage themes are often lighter with neutral and pastel fabrics. Beach decor is also cheerful in light hues interspersed with blasts of bright colors. In country spaces, old-fashioned florals and plaids will complete the picture.

Wicker furniture styles may also dictate colors and fabrics. For lodge settings, deeper, darker patterns or solid colors create a warm, homey effect. Flowers, leaves and vines always complement Victorian-inspired wicker. Fronds and other exotic leaf patterns are a great match for rattan frames in natural finishes.

As in art, the bottom line in choosing cushions for indoor furniture or outdoor furniture is making a selection that reflects personal tastes and the joys of creating an inviting living space.