Window Treatment Fabric and Material Trend Report — 2019

The fabric and material trends for 2019 are following a common theme: a shift toward embracing natural materials and their unique imperfections. This desire to celebrate authenticity and redefine our concept of beauty is taking these trends to a whole new level of design.

Naturally Inspired Fabrics

In 2019, imperfect is the new perfect. Consumers are turning to materials found in nature, both for their eco-friendly benefits as well as their unique textures and raw beauty. Think vegetal yarns, undyed cotton, wool, marble, jacquard weaves, slub yarns and bamboo. One of the world’s most renewable resources, bamboo is also one of the most durable. Provenance^® Woven Wood Shades feature Hunter Douglas fabrics made from natural woods, bamboo, grasses and reeds, so they’re designed to minimize stretching, bowing, breaking and fading over time. Rugs and other decorative items made of natural jute are also gaining popularity because they have so many unique looks.

Textures and Curves

The nature theme extends to undulating fabrics reminiscent of soft waves or ripples on a lake. Crinkled, puckered and crepe textures are popular, as are iridescent fabrics that resemble glistening water. We’re also seeing curvy, 1970s-inspired furniture and window treatments like Roman shades that feature soft, billowy folds. Vignette^® Modern Roman Shades are a great alternative to traditional Roman shades because they have no exposed rear cords for a clean appearance. It’s a safer option as well, if you have children or pets. And, you can buy fabric by the yard, so it’s easy to coordinate your pillows, bedspreads and other accessories.

High-Performance Materials

While natural fibers are trending in a big way, consumers are also wanting high-performance materials. Hybrid materials offer the best of both worlds — appealing textures and designs along with synthetic man-made fibers that offer superior durability. Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Shutters have the look of a finely painted shutter but are made with a UV-resistant Polysatin compound that guarantees they’ll never warp, crack, fade, chip, peel or discolor, even in extreme heat and humidity. They come in three louver sizes (2 ½", 3 ½" and 4 ½") and can fit a wide range of specialty shapes. Plus, they’re easy to clean with a hand-held vacuum or damp cloth.

The Playfulness of Maximalism

The idea that “more is more” lets consumers tap into their creativity. Try combining unexpected patterns, colors and textures to create something a little eccentric. Or, you could start with a chinoiserie-inspired floral fabric and build around that. Experiment with bold colors. Accessorize with dyed fabrics in marbling hues. Hunter Douglas has a collection of more than 2,400 fabrics, so you have countless ways to express your very own unique look. There are no rules!

In 2019, we’re redefining our standards of beauty and trending toward the distinct imperfections of natural materials. From textured woven woods and hardwoods to a wide range of luxurious materials and proprietary designs, Hunter Douglas has a style to fit your taste.