This Is How Decorating with Stripes Is Done Right

“Striped ribbons can be sewn onto the pillows to add a quiet and simple effect. These were done years ago by Carl Dellatore.” —Matthew Patrick Smyth, interior designer

“I love using stripes horizontally, especially with my wallcovering Homer from Holland & Sherry.” —Philip Gorrivan, interior designer

“I love to paint stripes horizontally and in differing thicknessness. I’ll paint zigzag stripes also on doors. It gives unexpected interest and excitement on plain walls and doors.”—Young Huh, interior designer

“We prefer using stripes in small doses—accent pillows, bedding and rugs are all great places to showcase this pattern tastefully. Just be sure to limit it to one of these in a room.” —Jennifer Jones, interior designer

“A tented room with striped fabric on the walls and ceilings is very sophisticated.”—Bunny Williams, interior designer

“Stripes can definitely come across as cute, but in the right application they can be very cool and tailored. We recently painted the walls of a Prewar Park Avenue apartment in horizontal silver and gold bands. The palette, together with the antique furniture and traditional vibe of the apartment, made the walls look sophisticated while the stripes added an element of fun and whimsy.” —Lee Cavanaugh, interior designer

“I love stripes and use them quite a bit in our interiors. Let’s just say a little goes along way. Stripes are activating, so consider the room and environment you are designing for. Here, we took an antique Guatemalan textile and used it tucked into a simple slipcovered sofa. The stripes bring a focal point to the room. The striped textile is casual yet elevates the sofa to something unexpected.”—Beth Martin, interior designer