I am literally just back from the shows at Paris where both homewares and fashion led with a distinctive trend – that of the return of Monochrome. In the fashion collections of Lanvin, Moschino, Kate Spade or Kenzo we see a celebration large black and white stripes, checks, knits, prints, details and blocking. This gives a very modern eclectic silhouette and direction which easily translates into the palette of the modern home. Increasingly we see a fusion between the creative worlds of fashion and home, and at the very recent Maison et Objet, a wide variety of brands picked up on this direction and executed it beautifully.

Lladro Atelier launched a collection of whimsical porcelain pieces by Jamie Hayon with black and white stripe motifs mixed with classical shapes and forms.  Their whole stand was in fact homage to this trend picking up on the classic Art Deco feel of the black and white chevron stripe. Christian Lacroix ceramics introduced colour to a back drop of black and white geometric patterns, creating a fun and vibrant opportunity to dress your table. His timeless yet groundbreaking patterns translating well to his home offer.

In terms of furnishings, Dedar fabrics took it to the next level mixing monochrome fabrics with rich jewel like colours such as ruby, cerise and sapphire blue. Rouge Du Rhin who make wonderful soft furnishings also showed a strong use of the trend with an eclectic selection of pieces using black and white as a frame…

In relation to furniture the monochrome look also translated. Ligne Roset, took the traditional hounds tooth pattern and blew it up large scale, to give a very modern look to their classic Togo armchair creating a real wow factor within an interior. This look also flowed through to wall coverings with Porada using the sharp lines of black and white wallpaper to set of their soft organic walnuts and plush blue upholstery.

Sometimes the simplicity of black and white makes the most stunning statement of all!