DEAR GAIL: I’d like to use some pink in my bedroom but don’t want it to come off too girly. What would be the best way to do that? Anna R.
DEAR ANNA: Pink has made a big comeback this season, especially in home fashion. A great way to introduce pink into your bedroom would be to do it gradually with your accessories. Watch the tone and intensity of the pink you select to get the feel that you want. If the pink is too bright, it may give a cheap feel to your room and if it is very soft and baby pink, it will come off too sweet and juvenile. An easier pink that you might want to look at is a soft dusty rose, a nice combination of pink and peach that you probably won’t tire of.
Along with the pink, you might consider giving the look a completely update and feel by adding brown and shades of tan into your room. Brown and pink it a great new look and one that you will see out this season. You may also want to bring in some glamour with a few mirrored pieces. Glamour will also be very hot this season so you’ll start seeing these pieces in all the stores. You’ll be able to get great candlesticks, lamps and one of my favorites, Venetian glass mirrors. Also, look for small chests and trunks that you can incorporate into your room. As I’m writing this, I’m actually in England and I’m drooling over all of the mirrored pieces in their antiques stores. It is funny because the British pound is only worth about fifty-seven cents to a dollar, so everything is about double the price it would be at home, except for the antiques. If I had more time I’d be coming back with a container full of things, but I’m tempted to come back just for them.
O.K., back to adding pink into your bedroom. After you’ve lived with your pink accessories for a bit, consider adding a bit ore. Since paint is a great way to change a room quickly and inexpensively, paint your headboard wall the dusty rose. Next, look at your bedding and window coverings to add some color and print. Instead of buying all new pink bedding, I would purchase a wonderful neutral duvet cover and then add pink print accent pillows and throws. If you want to splurge a little and give your bedroom a luxurious feel, treat yourself to a new set of pink sheets, very romantic.
For your windows, purchase fabric by the yard and make simple valances or drapery panels. At this time I wouldn’t invest in anything custom made until you are completely comfortable with your bedroom transformation. Straight sew the hems and just use drapery ring clips and drape from a decorative rod.
A couple other touches you can add along the way are an area rug at the end of the bed, picture frames or a new floral arrangement for your dresser. If you have a chair in the bedroom, either add some wonderful floral pillows or have a slipcover made to completely transform it. If you don’t already have a chair, consider purchasing an inexpensive small arm chair and just recover the seat. A half of yard of fabric and a staple gun can completely change the look of a chair.
Don’t be afraid to decorate with pink, just take your time in making your color selection so that you get the right shade of pink for you.