Post by Erin Sears.
Well, it’s finally here- Election Day. Regardless of whom you voted for, I think that there’s one thing that we can all agree on- we’ll be glad when the election is over. Until then, this special day has me feeling patriotic and what could be more patriotic than red, white and blue, stars and stripes, and the American flag!
Maybe it’s my Midwestern roots, but I’d don’t mind a little Americana in the home. It just needs to be very well curated and have visual interest. Stars and stripes, whether on a flag or not, have strong graphic appeal and that’s why they show up so often in home décor and fashion. Here are some great examples of star spangled decorating:
Source: desiretoinspire.net
There’s nothing understated about the bold use of this oversized flag. What draws me to this room is that it is done so well. The flag is framed in white and provides the color theme for the rest of the space. It’s happy and exciting, which is just what a child’s room should be.
Source: http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/188799409348166836_sSJNf3dH.jpg
The literal use of the flag at the top of the bed aside, I’m really drawn to this bedding. It’s a reversal of the stars and stripes theme. The quilt is a sophisticated use of red and white and it looks great with the striped pillow. It’s just enough of a nod to the flag without being overpowering.
Source: http://www.shelterpop.com/2010/06/30/bright-idea-decorating-with-flags/
This simple room feels clean and classic. From the presumably vintage quilt on the bed to the light blue striped throw pillow to the boat painting, the room represents understated Americana at its best. The flag-as-curtain ties the whole room together. It should be noted that there are official rules for using the flag indoors and technically, this room is breaking those rules. I would assert that decorating is all about breaking rules and that America was founded with independent sensibilities in mind. If using the flag in this manner isn’t for you, you have the freedom to go a different direction.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/17/garden/how-to-tell-if-youre-living-an-over-propped-life.html?_r=1&
Books! The New York Times wrote that doing this type of home styling might be over the top. However, I think that if you’ve got the downtime and creative drive to turn your books into a showpiece, go for it!
I hope that you’ve been inspired by Old Glory this week and I hope that you vote today. Regarding Hurricane Sandy, please know that all of us on the West Coast are thinking of all of you on the East Coast. Take care.
