What do Your (Wall) Stripes Say About You?

Could there be a more classic – and, right now, trendy – pattern than stripes? They’re everywhere, and for good reason. Somehow they manage to work just as well in adding structure and prep to a space as they do in being bold and, dare I say, rebellious. On a large scale such as walls, whether they be horizontal or vertical or diagonal or any other way, stripes undoubtedly make a statement. But what, exactly, are they saying?

Gray white stiped

Vertical, equal stripes in different tones of the same color add visual interest but are happy to take the background to other bolder items in this space. The floor-to-ceiling stripes draw the eye up, giving import to the top half of the room, which helps to balance the busier lower half. In a child’s room, these stripes illustrate structure amid the chaos.

Gray white stiped

Although a chunky stripe is, in and of itself, a bold statement, the overall effect can be toned down with proper color choice. Take this bathroom wall, for example. The cool colors coordinate with the rest of the space and add a splash of sophistication and a focal point without being overbearing. (The thicker the stripe, the less “busy” the effect.) In a bathroom, these stripes illustrate classiness even in privacy.

Gray white stiped

These thick charcoal-and-white horizontal stripes add a classic and preppy vibe to a living room. Accented with aqua and coral in furniture and art enliven and refresh the space. The addition of curves (e.g., vanity, phone, garden stool) and varied print sizes (e.g., bench pad, lamp) work to pleasantly tone down the bold stripes as well. These stripes definitely say, “I’m bold and I’m beautiful!”

Gray white stiped
Gray white stiped

A horizontal ombre-rainbow effect is sure to draw attention, and this setting does just that. Playful and inviting, these stripes make a fairly small space seem larger than life. They are grounded by nature of each stripe’s equal width, but overall this striped look is definitely fun-loving and a bit carefree.

Gray white stiped

Narrow vertical stripes in opposing light-and-dark (in this case, white and charcoal) are all these walls need to stand out. Paired with simple solid furnishings and wood tones, the stripes become the central artwork in the room. In a classic color scheme, these stripes are simple and chic.

Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.