Lifestyle Inspiration Board Of The Week: Neutrals

Neutral Territory

After white, neutrals are probably one of the most relaxing colors on the color wheel. They ran the gamut from taupe to sand to tan. The decorator Kelly Hoppen who has made taupe her signature look describes it as “the most perfect neutral color—it is neither too warm nor too cool; it doesn’t shriek for attention or feel cloying; it is harmonious, peaceful and Zen. It instills quietness into a room.” She wrote this in her book entitled Kelly Hoppen Style: The Golden Rules of Design.

How does one decorate with neutrals? Go back to the basics of design: play with contrasts, textures and proportions. Mix different shades going from light to dark and add an accent color like green or red or dot it with chrome highlights for a thoroughly modern feel.

In fashion, neutrals are always in style. For fall 2011, Hermes showed a lot of neutral ensembles from capes to coats to dresses. And because there are no more rules to dressing up in this day and age, neutrals have become season-less.

In the photo above: Fabric swatches from Westbury Textiles; Williams Sonoma; Jim Thompson and Baker. Letter B is from Lina Meier Studio

Margo faille minaudiere from Kotur

Tod's Icon wallet

Product sources: Kotur and Tod’s