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Translating Trends: Brass is Back

Kelly Werstler | SImplifyingfabulous.com Kelly Wearstler brass objet for Bergdorf Goodman | via kellywearstler.com

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Everything old is new again! Just like shag carpet and wallpaper, brass has gone in-and-out of style for decades. The retro metal has been making resurgence as of late thanks to celebrity designers such as Kelly Wearstler, who has been incorporating it heavily into her room and product designs.

For those who were caused trauma by the design trends of the 1970s (brass attack, flower power prints, the color burnt orange!) this may be a hard design element to swallow. To you, I say, give this a chance and you won’t look back! Not convinced yet? If you're hesitant to jump on the brass bandwagon, here are a few examples of how to successfully incorporate this look into your own home: Finish Strong You’ve heard the tale of the wolf in sheep’s clothing, right? Lesson: Things aren’t always as they seem! There isn’t just one “brass look.” It comes in a wide array of finishes from brushed to satin. A brushed or distressed finish will add a touch of country to your interiors; polished or satin would infuse sleekness. Being open to experimentation will help add a new feel to a room.
pottery barn | www.simplifyingfabulous.com Brushed brass lamp | via Potterybarn.com
Mixing Materials If you fear a brass overload, tone it down by pairing it with other materials. Try mixing it with contemporary lines, soften it up with fabrics and add dimension with other finishes, such as silver, pewter or gold. A set of glass and antique brass Zinnia knobs from Anthropologie would give a bland dresser instant charm and personality.
anthropologie | www.simplifyingfabulous.com via anthropologie.com
Shaping Up A single accessory in an unexpected shape can add the slightest touch of vintage flare to a coffee table or mantle. Choose something whimsical that will make you smile when you see it. Designer Jamie Meares sells adorable accessories in her store, Furbish Studios, located in Raleigh, N.C., including this brass sea urchin, which she refers to as her “little urchin friend.” Kelly Wearstler's brass objets and statues, like this pyramid and cube, are simple yet ultra-glam statement pieces.
Kelly Wearstler | www.simplifyingfabulous.com Kelly Wearstler for Bergdorf Goodman | via kellywearstler.com
Light the Night The recent “hot” status of brass has it popping up in design catalogues everywhere, most notably as lighting with an antique brass finish. Try the Barclay Arc Table Lamp from Pottery Barn which adds a simple, rustic appeal. A pair of industrial accordion sconce from West Elm would be perfect flanking the bed of voracious book worms.
West Elm Sconce | www.simplifyingfabulous.com via westelm.com
Lastly, hang onto your new finds! Brass is back…and by the looks of it, it’s here to stay!

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