how to decorate with blue and white

text by ALYSSA CLOUGH design & styling courtesy of REBECCA DE RAVENEL

Just by looking at Rebecca de Ravenel’s living room, you can tell she has a serious knack for mixing patterns—specifically in blue and white—which is one of many reasons we featured her beautiful Los Angeles home in our Spring Issue (a must-read if you’re interested in de Ravenel’s love affair with the color combination).

But back to

She says she relies mainly on instinct when it comes to mixing and matching prints in her home and admits that there is a lot of trial and error that goes into finding your ideal combinations. De Ravenel also reminded us that you don’t have to choose just one print, pillow, or throw and stick with it forever. She keeps extra prints and throws that she’s accumulated over the years in a spare cupboard, ready to swap whenever she feels her space could use a little change.

Decorating with blue and white, especially in lighter hues, isn’t always easy, though. Sometimes when mixed, whites and blues have a tendency to create more of a shabby chic or beachy look, but de Ravenel’s space is pure modern sophistication. She credits that to a flow, or a certain cohesiveness, that she was able to create through organization and planning. Making sure the pieces match, to a certain extent, but aren’t too matchy. She says, “I don’t buy at random and do not place at random because they are in the same family of hues.” In other words, you can’t just throw a bunch of white and blue stuff together and expect it to look good. You have to be intentional with your purchases and what you want your space to look AND feel like.

Read on for more advice from de Ravenel on how to work blue and white into your home.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE BLUE HUES?

I tend to like very pale blues and Delft blues. I prefer darker navies for men and city life, but to be honest, I will take it all. I have rarely seen a blue I did not like.

(See inside de Ravenel’s New York City apartment onVogue.com for more deep blue decor inspiration.)

WHAT IS ONE EASY WAY FOR SOMEONE TO BRING BLUE AND WHITE INTO THEIR HOME?

Using a blue and white Dhurrie (rug) is always a great way. Some old ones have hints of other colors so mixing in a pink or pale green can be an easy way to introduce a touch of another color.

DE RAVENEL’S TIPS FOR INCORPORATING BLUES INTO YOUR HOME:

• Don’t be afraid to paint a piece of furniture or recover a chair to jazz it up. (I have repainted half my furniture and recovered lots of things, you can always go back.)
• Use a print to make lampshades, it will add color instantly.
• Add a Grosgrain trim in the color you want to incorporate on your curtains or cushions.

De Ravenel’s final advice:Pick pieces you love and have fun with it!

And don’t forget to check out de Ravenel’s latest collection of earrings!