I’ve been spending a lot of time with my mum here in the UK. That means I have been going shopping.  A lot.  And after visiting every single shop within a 100-mile radius from her home in Chepstow, I am starting to get a feel for the current shopping trends.  One thing I’ve noticed is that black and white seems to be “in”. The ol’ monochrome is cool. Wicked. Sweet.  Bangin’.  Slammin’. Totally dizzy makin’.

A quick googley of black and white decor brought up many inspiration photos, like this one courtesy of Laura Ashley:

The great thing about black and white decor is that it is an easy way to make your home look sophisticated, elegant and let’s not forget dramatic. It is versatile and can be the backdrop to a variety of styles and accent colors. The stark contrast and sleek lines make the room seem more orderly and clean, not to mention giving it an modern edge.

If you’re concerned about making too bold a statement with solely black and white decor, try incorporating an accent color: a photo on the wall, a pillow case or a few small accessories.  Another design tip to bear in mind when using a monochrome scheme – only use one or two items that are both black AND white. Have some pieces be only one color to avoid making the room look too busy.

Check out some of these fab black and white finds:

1. Graham & Brown Deauville Linen Canvas Art ($119), 2. Salton table lamp ($159.99)  3. Normann Swing vases (from £15), 4. Sophia wallpaper in Charcoal ($74.99), 5. Asterisk clock by George Nelson ($300), 6. Alberto Mantilla salt & pepper shakers ($30), 7. Coach House leisure chair (£366), 8. Modern Dose flower mirror ($615).

Do you have a favorite? Personally, I love that floral mirror and the chair/footstool, but they are way beyond my budget.  What is it they say? Champagne taste on a beer budget. Yep, that’s me.

Tags: accessories, black & white, decor, trendwatch