Runway trends influence all aspects of life – from the clothes we wear and the accessories we choose, to how we design our homes and outfit our workspaces. Carpet style is no exception. At Bentley, we’ve long subscribed to the mantra that carpet is fashion for the floor. It’s no longer solely utilitarian. Sure, it needs to perform. But it also needs to inspire. Take a peek at a few trends that are defining the world of fashion – and guiding some of the latest designs in contract carpet.
Color – Soft, comforting tones pair with brighter, vivid hues that offer relief from the daily grind and our always-on, always-connected way of life. Neutrals in shades of whites, nudes and grays are as agile as they are playful while splashes of jewel tones offer brilliant bursts of energy and creativity. As Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute puts it: “Colors this season transcend cultural and gender norms. Vivid brights give way to excitement and optimism, though quiet stability prevails.”
Texture – Handmade craft is a fashion tendency that never dies; it only elevates. Runway-inspired trends are shifting from the cozy, chunky knits of fall and winter to the more elegant (look and) feel of embroidered lace and smooth, supple satins of spring and summer. Layers are still in – ruffles and fringe are perfectly imperfect. Dare to superimpose different textures of the same color for dynamic, tone-on-tone style.
Pattern – The spring 2016 runways ran wild with a profusion of the romantic, the eye-catching and the ornate. Stripes emerge as the catwalk favorite – horizontal or vertical, thick or thin, many-hued or monochromatic. They’re having a moment on contract floors, too (take a look at our Anthem). Tie-dyed and ombré highlights are also hot, while florals and lace lighten the mood with a relaxed twist on Victorian-era styles.
Airy and versatile. Relaxed yet lively. Luxurious though comfortable. These words capture the mood of today’s latest fashion and design trends. Whether it’s celebrity red carpet or the actual carpet under our feet, you’re bound to see some of these influences in the months ahead.