There is no denying the fact that upholstery is one of the most important aspects when it comes to home interiors.   It plays a key role in making or breaking the visual interest of a space apart from adding texture, colour, pattern and print to the interiors.

From florals in vibrant hues to clean geometrical prints, easy-to-pair checks, stripes or versatile solids coupled with myriad fabrics to choose from, the world of upholstery can be quite eclectic.  But it is key to remember to focus on the comfort factor along with the aesthetics.  The material of the fabric and the support system (including the frame, cushions etc) should be ergonomic enough to offer a feeling of calm, warmth and relaxation.

Drama with geometric patterns, verdant visuals and biophilic designs are some of the hot trends this season with regard to upholstery. While linens and sustainable fabric are in for upholstery, go in for silk drapes in neutral tones for the drapery or curtains.  Pair them with simple light sheers with a touch of gold or embroidery for the festive look. Textured fabrics and tones like warm brown, greys, milk chocolate or paper bag browns are considered chic today. Perceived as feminine, romantic and millennial, the colour pink in muted and elegant tones is also making a comeback. 

An ethnic range with natural fibres can elevate the aesthetics and ring in the festive celebrations.  Handwoven and hand embroidered cushions in hues of indigo, rust, mustard and ivory are perfect to infuse those festive vibes.  If you are a fan of pattern and prints, go in for printed floral upholstery for a single piece like a wingback chair or a single seater placed in a corner.  Cross stitched fabrics and twill also work well for statement pieces. 

Before choosing the fabric, always bear in mind the utility of the space.  Choose sturdy fabrics with high durability which are easy to clean and maintain for a space where there is a lot of movement like the foyer or if you have pets at home.  Cotton fabrics with a higher thread count are an ideal choice.  Ensure that your wall paint is of a muted or neutral hue so that it pairs well with all the upholstery. 

Some of the best places to buy decor this festive season:

MnR Décor: if you are someone who loves hand block prints, unique designs and ingenious colour schemes, check out the gorgeous pure cotton drapes from MnR decor. Their USP is not only their innovative prints and designs but the fact that they customize colour combinations and prints apart from size.
Lemondecor: a one of its kind store, Lemondecor houses scores of products which are integrated with their proprietary colour/picture search technology so that customers can quickly find what they need. The fabrics available include cotton, polyester, PVC, silk and a host of blended fabric. You can filter products based on end use, fabric, colour, design and even pattern.
D’décor: a highly popular brand, this one offers a wide range of prints, patterns and textures which includes florals, geometric and modern digital prints. Their upholstery is available in materials like velvet, leather, suede as well as textured and woven jacquards and is categorized into specific design collections. They have a whole range of ready-made curtains too.
iTokri: If you are a fan of handlooms and native craft, the curtains from iTokri are for you. From Chanderi silks, Kutch block prints to Pochampally ikkat, they have a wide range of indigenous designs. They believe in empowering local communities, support rural artisans and have exclusive designs like applique cutwork from Barmer, Rajasthan among others.
Wooden Street: a perfect combination of style and aesthetics, they offer fabric for a variety of furniture pieces in fabrics like cotton and velvet. Trendy designs, high quality and affordable rates is their USP.

An elaborate version of this article was originallly published in ZeeZest.