Above is a spread of Louis Vuittons Autumn/ Winter collection that grace the pages of fashion magazines such as "Vogue" and "Love". As can be seen this is a collection heavily influenced by the Downton and also the Gatsby craze sweeping through the world of fashion. It seems at a glance, quintessentially Edwardian - polished, elegant and chic. With closer examination however, we begin to notice fashion pieces more common in the 60's and 70's - retro styles re-interpreted for the catwalk. In the following, we will translate this idea into an interior design scheme, illustrating how an Edwardian look can be achieved through the use of both traditional and modern furniture.
A View of the Edwardian parlour. Noticed the way controlled clutter is used to fill the space without looking untidy. Quiet wall coverings and good light allow for more furniture, paintings and general chintz. A feast for the eye!
This very retro sofa, suggest the style of Queen Anne (that was popular during the 1900's) without being a literal reproduction. Cool, classy and chic!
Those of you out there who enjoy musicals will remember the dress worn to the races by Audrey Hepburn in the Edwardian based musical "My Fair Lady". Here black and white stripe play a more contemporary part on this otherwise traditional piece.
Classical furniture played a key role in the design of the Edwardian parlour. Slightly more detailed then our other furniture, this piece would act as a focal point in any room.
The cabinet. A giant box where the family junk can be tucked away out of site. A piece of furniture as essential today as it was a hundred years ago. This piece is very 60's, though the high polished finish is a match to that found in the great drawing rooms of the early 20th century. An understated touch of elegance.
Ideal for coats and cases, this piece would look fabulous in any entrance hall. Reminiscent of another age of travel yet finished in a modern nickel coat.
Again, another classic, functional and beautiful item. Originally chests were used for transporting luggage, but today they can be found in finest interiors. This beautiful wood will also match our cabinet and carry the colour through.
Traditional style with a touch of steam punk. Illuminate dark corners with this quirky wall light - an echo of the gas lamp that featured in most home at the dawn of the Edwardian era.
A traditional concept in a modern form. This cut glass chandelier is sure to enhance our timeless scheme.
This cute side table again suggests a more glamorous age of travel. Old idea, modern concept.
Dress your furniture with a mix of old and new items, like this Grecian candlestick holder.
Once again old meets new. The form of this item is similar to decorative oriental urns that flooded the British market in the 1900's, yet the minimalist metallic finish gives it a contemporary edge.
This piece, personally, reminded me of a set of hardwood, Edwardian side-tables that once sat in my grand-parents snug. Like the urn pictured above, the form of this piece is traditional while the finish is modern.
Wax flowers will equally as beautiful on this stand as an iced cake! Use your imagination, don't be afraid of experimenting - a very Edwardian idea
Dress your walls! This is essential in creating this look. Light and quiet landscapes like this one are ideal, just make sure they tie in with your scheme in terms of them and colour. No need to match frames but be sure not to pic ones that will clash.