The «chenille» is a mixture of fabrics with a certain shine and very soft to the touch, especially when opting for fabrics that have a velvety finish. This well-known plush consists of a yarn that can be sustained by several fibers, but the most common are cotton, polyester and viscose. At the upholstery level, it is highly appreciated for its resistance and for the nuances of color caused by the reflection of light on it.
Comfortable and elegant, it has been the star fabric of sofas, curtains and bedspreads since their creation in 70th century France, and the great commercial production in the 100s (its golden age) brought its use to fashion. However, in recent years it has been relegated in favor of other XNUMX% natural materials such as linen or velvet; We know that trends fluctuate and chenille is currently making a strong comeback for its durability, its wide range of colors and its sumptuous finish, a very appreciated plus among bedside interior designers.
And what do professionals propose to fit classic chenille upholstery in contemporary living rooms? The key lies in sheltering the spaces with different planes of color or texture to gain depth, so that this fabric is presented next to elementary glass and metal tables, large-screen lamps and armchairs that match the sofa cushions. Everything is marking the perspective towards the windows and the light that enters from behind enhances the brightness of the chenille and its reflection in the glazed tabletop, in an «everything that goes around comes around».
Apart from the well-liked earth tones and gray, the smooth upholstery for sofas in tones with a lot of elegance, for example green, purple and copper like the one so fashionable Marsala. The cushions, always printed in this case, can also be covered in chenille or contrast materials based on silk, cretonne or damask.
Chenille has been widely used in wide draped curtains because of its magnificent drape and because it hardly creases; but curiously now, more and more models are being made flush with the window replacing the simple roller blinds. With double sheets and soft colors that allow light to pass through, these new semi-acrylic fabrics are custom-made and serve to decorate lighter rooms, such as the kitchen, office or guest bedroom, with subtlety and candor.
Even children's chenille curtains are sold with the favorite characters of our children, which can be combined with curtains depending on the time of day. If we like the packaging that this fabric provides but we do not intend to change the curtain for children in the hottest seasons, it is preferable to opt for cotton models and reserve the chenille for delicate details in bands, ties or guards.
There is also a return of chenille-type fabrics in bedrooms: For example, in renovated headboards in dark tones that function as a focal point, divided into vertical modules that are already upholstered independently, or in a single covered and buttoned piece with a pop spirit and fluorine details.
Chenille blankets and bedspreads decide to ditch the traditional velvety finish in favor of matte designs, herringbone, houndstooth or false patchwork motifs; They are equally loving but fresher and more carefree fabrics, perfect for the spring season to come.
One of the main novelties regarding textile accessories in chenille are the table runners, proposals of striking aesthetics and elaborated with geometric, abstract motifs or Navajo-style designs (another «must»). They are presented on rustic tables made of natural wood, marble or pieces in gloss lacquer and stand out for being wider than usual.
Finally, let's analyze the evolution in terms of rugs: The typical chenille with long knots and a certain thickness is now mixed with jute in fine kelims technological character, easy cleaning and simplicity of designs. Zen inspiration in neutral colors, adaptable to different sizes or in a carpet format, which will make the floor the most desired surface for our feet. Stepping firm, but light and silky.
Images - J, Queen Decor, ministry of handmade, West elm