This year, I visited the States to meet interior designers, brands, and our website’s readers, who number in the millions in America. The trip has revealed just how varied the American interior design scene is, and how much they've held on to endangered crafts. Sadly, some art forms that are a huge part of our heritage are under threat. One such craft is passementerie, which is French for trimming.
Trimmings are a noticeable design element that American brands absolutely triumph at. Happily, they are translatable no matter which side of the pond you are based on.
Why are trims back in style?
Since the pandemic, we've seen a resurgence in fun, fanciful design. Once popular in the 1970s, this 'dated' interior design trend is back at the forefront of our decorating agendas.
Trims, tassels, and fringing are a brilliant tool in a decorator’s arsenal as they can elevate a scheme beyond the ordinary. Just as jewelry can take a simple outfit to new heights, so too can a trim take a plain fabric or a simple headboard to another dimension.
But there is another reason why they're back. The personal, bespoke element is certainly a key factor in my decision to embrace the trim. You are essentially creating something totally unique to your home that no one else will have, and they are a rare detail that can transform a space beyond the everyday.
British Designer Imogen Heath shares this sentiment.
'Trims and borders are a wonderful way to elevate a scheme and truly make it look one-of-a-kind,' says Imogen. 'Window treatments and throw pillows can be transformed into heirloom pieces by adding trim, fringing, or ruffles to the edges. Coordinate with plain linens for simpler schemes, or complement patterned fabrics for more maximalist interiors.'
Nina Lichtenstein, Founder of Nina Lichtenstein Custom Home Design, also advocates for the return of this once-beloved upholstery trend.
'Fringe, trims, and ruffles are being reimagined in today's homes, adding a sense of movement, playful, and tactile appeal to spaces. The resurgence feels nostalgic at its core yet fresh and flamboyant, with designers leaning into its ability to bring both elegance and whimsy on the catwalk and into the home.'
Many designers and decorators are taking a chic shift from stark minimalism to something that feels more playful and experimental, giving trimming its window to re-enter the interior design scene, one tassel at a time.
Shop the look
These placemats offer a natural fiber touch, expertly crafted by artisan hands. Made in small-batches in Colombia with sustainable fique fibers, this set layers depth and texture into your tablescape with an intricate weave and thick, tactile fringe.
Sometimes it’s the littlest things that have the biggest impact, and this pistachio pillow cover is proof. Petite soft blue tassels on each corner are a nice counterpoint to the solid base. Textural linen brings beautiful texture and a relaxed sensibility.
Not quite a tassel or fringe, but ruffles are equally popular in the design world of late. The Amaroso bolster pillow features a subtle striped design with ruffled ends for fresh pattern and texture in your curation. The linen offers a cool, crisp touch, perfect for everyday spaces. It comes in five colorways, but this on-trend butter yellow is easily my favorite.
I love that a trim can be a great way for someone who is perhaps nervous about decorating with patterns and bold room color ideas to introduce it without it being too much of a commitment. So whether you're a maximalist decor enthusiast or have a penchant for minimalist decor, there's a trim out there for everyone.
