How To Mix and Match Fabrics

This living room's design began with a graphic bird print on the curtains.  Follow Phoebe's four-step approach to mix and match your fabrics and get your ideal look.

1. Large-scale pattern: Shangri-La/Linen in Coral by Elizabeth Hamilton (elizabethhamiltoncollection.com)
2. Solids: (left) #1804 Timon in Spice by Pindler & Pindler, Inc. (pindler.com) and (right) Tupelo in Cinnabar/Hemp, also by Elizabeth Hamilton
3. Stripe: Wallis Ticking in Terra Cotta (P108-15) by Carleton V (carletonvltd.com).
4. Small-scale pattern: Andaluz in Paprika by Carolina Irving Textiles (carolinairvingtextiles.com)

Note: All fabrics are available through the Designer Referral Program at DDB, 212/759-5408, or DCOTA, 954/921-7575.

1. Large-scale pattern: Seya in Blue Sky by China Seas through Quadrille (quadrillefabrics.com)
2. Solids: (left) Bamboo Pistachio by Malabar (malabar.co.uk) and (center) Dune Topaz (7490/80) by Romo (romo.com) and (right) Citrus Turquoise 17 (F2655017) by Pierre Frey (pierrefrey.com)
3. Small-scale pattern: Pasha Delft (818B39) by Raoul Textiles (raoultextiles.com)

Note: All fabrics are available through the Designer Referral Program at DDB, 212/759-5408, or DCOTA, 954/921-7575.

1. Large-scale pattern:  Bargello in Bay/Cream by Peter Fasano (peterfasano.com)
2. Solids:  (left) #2499 Hudson in Seaglass, also by Pindler & Pindler, Inc., and (right) Chester Olive by Jane Churchill through Cowtan & Tout (cowtan.com)
3. Stripe: Stripe in Vert by Hable Construction (hableconstruction.com).
4. Small-scale pattern: Ovals in Sky/Celadon by Galbraith & Paul (galbraithandpaul.com)

Note: All fabrics are available through the Designer Referral Program at DDB, 212/759-5408, or DCOTA, 954/921-7575.

1. Start with a large-scale pattern
Choose a fabric in colors you love to establish the room's palette. For big impact, use the pattern in abundance, such as on curtains as shown here. Or add small punches with pillows or an accent chair.

2. Pick coordinating solids
These work well for big upholstered pieces, such as sofas. Use varying textures, from slubby linens to quilted cottons, to add interest to the room. Always remember to choose fabrics that are appropriate for their applications. Heavier, upholstery-grade fabrics work best for seating.

3. Mix in a stripe and a small-scale pattern 
"I like to call these the 'go withs,' " says Phoebe. The stripe you choose can range from a wide cabana stripe to a subtle strié. For your small-scale pattern, consider a floral, paisley, or geometric. Stay within the color palette you've already established for consistency.

4. Trust your instincts 
Not everything has to match perfectly, but the fabrics should create a look that is pleasing to the eye. Lay your final choices on a table and think about them for a few days. If you still love them, you have a good mix!