Trend alert: Patterns

With the economy still high on the agenda, we inevitably seek security, comfort in the familiar. Bright colors suddenly seem too shouty and brash, while rigid geometrics come across as cold and unforgiving. We're subconsciously seeking the design equivalent of a warm hug, a role that nature with its curves, flowers and foliage fulfils beautifully. Here are some of the ones we feel fit the bill, in the colors that best suit the mood for spring 2011: blues, greens and greys.

Blues

Blues are associated with optimism, a sentiment in demand in hard economic times.

Breathtaking Chinoiserie handpainted wallpaper from De Gournay and Vivienne Westwoods Squiggle wallpaper are very different yet both tick the box for this season.

Subtle balinese inspired fabrics or more vibrant florals like this one, Willow's Garden hit the right note.

At Bemz, you have the pick of the bunch with Marimekko's instantly recognizable Unikko flower in blue, or the more subtle yet modern pixilated flowers of True Rose.

The organic shapes Bantie uses in Salamander and Korall provide geometry without the hard edges keeping the look interesting yet soft.

Classic Herbarium by Stig Lindberg is timeless, beautiful and inherently Scandi-chic.

Greens

From green veg to green tea, green has always been associated with longevity.

This stunning wallpaper by Miriam Ocariz (below left) embodies the look for spring with its florals, soft edges and various hues of green. If you're after something a little more vibrant then we love this gorgeous Richmond Park paper (right).

Animals also work: as in Lady of the Manor and Owls of the British Isles.

This velvet looks like a water color but if you need something more controlled Ace and Groovy may do the trick.

Cover your Ikea furniture in beautiful designer fabrics like Designers Guild and Marimekko or a more classic Urban Tapestry (below).

Greys

As sobering as grey may be it needn't be boring. Instead of flat color blocking have a look at theses textured shades which suggest a looser, more artistic feel.

Go romantic with this Mirage wallpaper - I even love the name - or equally charming Hampstead.

Or from Bemz, Designer Göta Trägårdh's Josephine in Graphite Grey has the perfect organically soft shapes most sought after this spring. Also try, Fandango, Praliini and Pirput Parput from the Marimekko collection or Frescati Plaid.

Credit: Elle Decoration, April 2011

 

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With the economy still high on the agenda, we inevitably seek security, comfort in the familiar. Bright colors suddenly seem too shouty and brash, while rigid geometrics come across as cold and unforgiving. We're subconsciously seeking the design equivalent of a warm hug, a role that nature with its curves, flowers and foliage fulfils beautifully. Here are some of the ones we feel fit the bill, in the colors that best suit the mood for spring 2011: blues, greens and greys.

[True Religion Jeans]

Bright colors suddenly seem too shouty and brash, while rigid geometrics come across as cold and unforgiving. We're subconsciously seeking the design equivalent of a warm hug, a role that nature with its curves, flowers and foliage fulfils beautifully. Here are some of the ones we feel fit the bill, in the colors that best suit the mood for spring 2011: blues, greens and greys.