By Marica
Last week in Part One of our 2012 Trend Report we discussed our most-loved Colour Trends of the past year. Today, we continue our discussion with a look at our favourite pattern and imagery trends of 2012…
As so many of the pattern trends we spoke about in 2011 are still hot (especially those gorgeous geometrics) and to avoid repeating, we have selected these three trends as our favourite pattern and imagery trends of 2012…
As one article on Apartment Therapy stated: “subtle and sweet or bold and dramatic, the ombré trend has taken off in a big way.” You see this delightful trend everywhere, and we have already devoted a Décor Dictionary post to Ombre (see it here)! There is something altogether magical about this light to dark gradient colour trend. Whether it is “dip-dye” or “paint chip” ombre, we will see a lot more of this trend in the year to come…
Tribal patterns and ethnic designs are back! *hears a thousand South Africans tear their clothes in anguish*
Luckily, I’m not referring to tacky African masks, bowls and other general Greenmarket Square touristy junk or the drab dirt-coloured interiors of “Tribal” trends past. Nope, this trend is far more bohemian – exciting and colourful!
Most likely an extension of the ikat trend, we saw the introduction of other ethnic elements this past year. Beautiful Persian and Balkan kilims, Central Asian Suzanis, and gorgeous Aztec and Native American patterns – all in bright, non-traditional colourways. Imagine a beautiful geometric Navajo blanket or rug in shades of pink and lilac!
Quite interesting to note that these elements where often combined with unexpected room styles. For instance – a white Scandinavian bedroom with textured Aztec pillows; or a Mid-Century Modern Lounge with a bold kilim rug – a surprising fusion. Well, it has been said that Eclectic design is the interior style of the future…
In some way or form animal imagery is always (and probably will always be) trending. Think back over the past two or so years – birds – EVERYWHERE! Birds on fabric and wallpaper, décor and art, fashion and jewellery – sparrows, owls, hummingbirds, and whatever the Twitter bird is – you name it. Not that I’m complaining, ask Rose – I’m the first one to point out something with a bird on it… I love birdies.
And before bird trend there was the rabbit trend. Now? … foxes.
Often associated with folk tales, the sly fox is said to symbolize cunning and intelligence. However, I think they are just adorable and I adore the fox-inspired designs I’m seeing all around the web. I wonder if this trend is a delayed homage to the beautiful imagery seen in Fantastic Mr. Fox?
The Design Tabloid 
I’m sure this comes as no surprise to you, but I am loving these little foxes. They just work for me. I love the sharp little fox face, the exotic plume of a tail and of course their vibrant colour. I only own Kevin, my foxy door knocker for now. But I think I could ad a ring or a little print to the menagerie.
if I could press a ‘like’ button next to some of your paragraphs I would. I really enjoyed this article especially on fox designs and bohemian designs.. I like the white theme splashed with some ethnic design..
Seems everybody is digging the foxes! Awesome, it makes me want to start designing foxy scatter cushions!