Slip Into Something More Cozy

Slipcovers are an affordable way to create a new look

By Gail McCauley

Change your slipcovers, transform your room. That's nearly all it takes to create a cozy look that reflects the season's trends of bold colors and interesting textures.

Slipcovers offer a simple yet affordable way to alter the look of any room. With most sofa slipcovers retailing for less than $200, it's not out of reach to give your furniture a facelift in the crisp, natural colors of the season, including rich, warm hues, contemporary neutrals and updated earth tones.

Reds, in warm tones such as spice, cranberry, wine and burgundy, can be used to give a visual lift to your seating, including not only sofas, loveseats and dining chairs but recliners, wing chairs and ottomans.

The New Neutrals

Contemporary neutrals include khaki, linen, taupe, stone, sand and wheat. These versatile hues offer practical slipcover color selections which blend with almost any style of décor and can be used all year.

Updated earth tones consist of several variations of green (sage, olive and moss) as well as eggplant, antique gold, mushroom, caramel and cinnamon. This revamped palette coordinates with anything from country to contemporary, shabby chic to southwest and traditional to Tuscany.

Cotton has traditionally been a preferred slipcover fabric, but this season has seen a surge in the popularity for comfortable yet more luxurious slipcover fabrics. Faux leather slipcovers offer superior durability and easy care spot cleaning.

Textured Fabric Is In

Warm, comfortable chenilles bring a silky luster and casually mottled hues, yet provide a sturdy and practical choice of fiber for any style furnishing. Velvet slipcovers are striking choices to take center stage right up through spring.

Consider coordinating any stripe with solids that echo the deeper tones. Traditional florals come in many styles of muted, multi-colored, tea-stained and scrolled-leaf slipcover patterns that highlight "bringing the outdoors inside" theme.

A newcomer to the slipcover scene, herringbone designs mimic classic menswear furnishings and add stylish texture suited to a family room, study, home office or den.

For a unique slipcover look, consider adding novelty trims and accessories to your slipcovers. Sew or glue on rope, fringe or cording to an ordinary throw pillow or gathered slipcover skirt. Or, add buttons around the slipcover skirt for a punch of texture.

By seasonlly changing your slipcovers, you can add a touch of warmth to your favorite furniture.

Gail McCauley is a home furnishings writer whose clients include home and garden Web sites and publications. She is a media member of the International Interior Design Association and the International Association of Lighting Designers.

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