Layering - it's good

Want to give your home a welcoming, lived-in vibe that feels both fresh and full of character? Mixing vintage and new upholstery fabrics is the way to go! It’s all about layering different patterns, colors, and textures to make your soft furnishings stand out and feel totally unique.

Different colours, patterns and texture add warmth and make any room feel bigger

Let’s start with vintage chintz—those pretty, floral fabrics that look like they belong in your grandma’s sunroom (in the best way). Chintz brings a soft, nostalgic touch to any space. But here’s where it gets fun: throw in some modern geometrics. Think bold shapes, crisp lines, and playful patterns. When you put a chintz pillow next to a geometric one, you get this awesome mix of old-school charm and modern edge. Just try to pick out a color or two that ties them together, so your look feels intentional, not random.

Beautiful sitting room incorporating florals, geometrics, Ikats and plain fabrics

Now, vintage wide stripes are another secret weapon. These stripes can totally transform a piece of furniture. Picture a bench or armchair covered in wide stripes, then pile on some cushions in both vintage and new fabrics. It’s a super easy way to make your space feel curated, but not stuffy.

And if you’re feeling brave, go for stripes on stripes! Seriously, it works. Layer a wide-striped sofa with skinny-striped pillows, or mix striped curtains with a striped rug. The trick is to play with different sizes and directions—like horizontal stripes on the couch and vertical ones on the cushions. This keeps things interesting and adds a cozy, layered feel to the room.

We are yet to meet a stripe we don't like

If you’re ready to try this at home, our Paddington store has you covered. We stock a gorgeous range of vintage and new fabrics, all sold by the half metre—so you can grab just what you need for your next project. Your home will thank you with layers of comfort, warmth, and personality!