Crowning Glory
Passementerie is sometimes described as the jewellery of an interior – that essential last detail that sets everything off. Looking at spring’s latest launches, however, it seems that trimmings are taking over as the star of the show, with glittering embellishment, bright colour and bold pattern. These incredibly detailed, statement-making products are better described as the crowning glory of a vibrant scheme, not merely a finishing touch.
This ‘Lili Dragon’ tape is typical of Schumacher’s exuberant approach to design, featuring stylised Chinese dragons on a high-sheen fabric. It’s part of a wider collection that’s full of these mythical beasts, called Fire Breather, available from Turnell & Gigon.
Some of the most detailed examples of hand-making in interiors can be found in passementerie. Samuel & Sons’ ‘Solstice’ border is hand-embroidered, its meandering metallic thread bringing an alluring gleam that contrasts with a matt linen background.
This ‘Zanzi’ tassel fringe was inspired by a rustic Mexican broom, which are traditionally made from straw or raffia and held together with tightly wound, colourful scraps of leftover textiles. It was created by top US interior designer Michelle Nussbaumer, known for her eclectic, maximalist style, infused with the colourful influences of global cultures. Her collection for Clarence House (available from Turnell & Gigon) includes textiles inspired by her family hacienda in Mexico.
Traditional passementerie continues to have a revival too, as a new generation of designers discover the decorative possibilities of bullion fringe. This ‘Antoinette’ example by Wendy Cushing Passementerie, from Jason D’Souza, features some very detailed workmanship: everything is hand-made, including the hanging silk-covered balls and flower-like loops (known as jasmins), which are stitched in to the woven fringe.
Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour remains in support of all its showrooms, despite their closure during this time. Until restrictions are lifted, please contact each showroom directly for more information, or ask for help from the Design Centre’s Personal Shopping or Designer Sourcing Service.
Jason D’Souza, First Floor, Centre Dome
Samuel & Sons, Third Floor, Centre Dome
Turnell & Gigon, Ground Floor, North Dome
