vignetteBHG (thanks Kate!)

When I say the word vignette (vin-yet) I feel all fancy and French like.

When I try to make a vignette I feel all 12-years-old and dumb.

And that’s when I head to Pinterest.

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decorpad

Look at vignettes with a discerning eye (or two if you have them) here are my tips use the ones that speak to you, ignore the ones you think are dumb, and that one that sounds crazy? that’s the one you should probably focus on:

Notice the use of:

  • shape
  • color
  • texture
  • size
  • layering
  • balance and symmetry
  • juxtaposition
  • quirk & personality
  • sparkle (mirrors, metals)
  • matte objects
  • plants & natural items
  • scale
  • white space
  • mixing of styles and eras
  • how the wall art relates to the items on the surface–this is huge and often overlooked
  • is it full or simple?
  • does the architecture of the room contribute to the vignette?
  • look at each item individually, but also, as a whole grouping
  • ask yourself if one item was removed, would the vignette have the same impact?

Don’t forget to notice the difference between liking the way a photo looks, and wanting to have a certain look in your home.

tablescapes

I made a pinboard with over 130 vignettes and or tablescapes so you and I could get a feel for what we do and don’t like.

Once you get inspired, pick ONE place in your home to makeover a vignette. It could be an entry table, dresser, even a fireplace mantel. Give yourself just a few minutes (or more if you want) and remove the art from the wall, clear off the surface and start fresh.

decorate the top of a tableLindsey Bond

Pick a few inspiration vignettes and see if you can mimic a few of the ideas they used to get a look you like.

Shop the house and see what you can find to just try out in the space, you can always move it back. Pick a few things you might not usually try–a large-leaved tree branch, a pair of lamps, an oversized pot and just play around.  We are our own worst enemy when it comes to being creative. We assume we can’t use certain things because ‘that goes here not there’  We are afraid to change it up because it will be wrong. This is decorating, it’s fun. You are supposed to like it, your home can represent you.

You know how your friend is brave and decorates with abandon and you love her house? Pretend you are her and start with that ONE THING that you have packed away that you love, but scares you. That’s your starting point.