HotmailDream on! Snuggle up in luxurious bedding
Style editor Judy Gordon highlights the best throws, sheets and duvets — just in time for those department store white sales!
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They say Katharine Hepburn slept 14 hours a night. Of course, she burned like a klieg light when she was awake! Must have been some bed ... and some set of sheets. Our continuing “New Year, New You” series includes “New Home” too. This week, the accent is on accessories for the bedroom and bath. With the January white sales in full swing, it's time for you to get going on the Internet or into the stores. The latest looks — casual, classic, trendy and luxe — are all right here in this week's edition of the Trend Report!
Throw it
Forget extreme makeovers — how about extreme elegance? A throw (placed ever-so-carefully at the end of the bed) is a must-have on practically every decorator's list. Not only does it add a finishing touch ... it's downright comforting (curl up in one while reading or relaxing and see!). Throws are available in all kinds of fibers, blends and colors. If you can, splurge on cashmere — it will last for decades. Or look for throws in mohair, faux fur or soft microfibers. While you're at it, why not sprinkle on some color? What's trendy right now are all shades of greens and blues, from pale to bright.
Trend tip: For a bit of “to the manor born” style, spend a few extra dollars and have your throw monogrammed — and opt for fringes as well.
The luxe life
Dream on! There is nothing more luxurious than sinking into the finest sheets in the world. Look no further than those by Matouk or Porthault. Made from Egyptian cotton (a fabric that is smooth and silky to the touch) with a finishing that makes for a beautiful feel, this creme de la creme of bedding not only “makes” the room — you may never want to leave home again! Go for a complete set — sheets, a dust ruffle, a duvet, pillow cases and shams — and choose from all sorts of patterns, colors and prints, ranging from classic to feminine to modern.
Trend tip: In the U.S., thread count has become the standard in determining the quality of sheeting (the higher the number, the better the quality is the theory). But there are many ways to count threads, some of which give a higher number but not necessarily a better quality. Don't judge a sheet by its cover — judge it by touch.
Comfy cozy
On those extra-cold winter nights, save on heating bills by snuggling up ... in ultrasoft flannel sheets. Besides being warm and cozy, they'll make you feel like a kid again! Choose flannels in solids (in any color), checks or plaids, and don't be afraid to mix a pattern with a solid to add a touch of grown-up flair to your boudoir. Nowadays, you can even find flannel bedding in exotic batik designs — very cool.
Trend tip: For basics, Garnet Hill or L.L. Bean are your best bets. Choose fleece or goose-down blankets for extra warmth — currently on sale, of course!
Bathing beauties
Sophisticated New Yorkers “in the know” know where to go for their home accessories ... it's a fabulous store called Gracious Home, and their goodies are online now, too! From towels with feminine scalloped edges or a mix of white plus brights (we love sunshine yellow) to decorative waffle design shower curtains, it's easy to make over your bathroom without spending a bundle. Don't forget the other bathroom accents as well — wicker hampers, chrome bath shelves and wooden toilet seats are all easy-to-add yet stylish options.
Trend tip: The addition of a few, small decorative items can really make a BIG difference. For example, an inexpensive way to dress up a shower curtain is with a set of chic bamboo hooks by Liz Victory.
Home trendy home
If you're the type who changes your home accessories as often as your fashion accessories, you'll want to go for the exotic Moroccan look right now. It's red hot, from the bedroom to the patio. One of the best sources is ABC Carpet and Home. Their other trendy options include an eclectic mix of your favorite patterns, such as retro prints, vintage florals, authentic paisleys, Chinese florals and anything Indian-inspired or embroidered. Important colors are shades of pink, chocolate brown, moss or jade green, aquamarine and silvery grey, plus bits of metallic shine.
Trend tip: DesignPublic.com makes bedding that appeals to both sexes in great colors like grass green, tan and chocolate brown. Their products are designed to encourage relaxation in modern or traditional environments. Check it out!
Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more about Gordon, you can visit her Web site, TheTrendReport.com, which highlights style trends in America and across the world.
firstVIEW is the primary supplier of photos to Fashion Friday. Go to www.firstVIEW.com for the latest pictures from top fashion shows around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Brazil, New Zealand, South Korea and more.
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