From ruffled sofas to floral beds, there is no doubt that skirted furniture has an old-timey charm. Some may love it; others may think it feels a little too much like grandma’s house. In recent days, however, many of those non-believers have been swayed, as the style continues to show its true versatility. The ruffly arrangements have popped up in the projects of some of AD’s favorite names. Designers Beata Heuman, Mark D. Sikes, and Frances Merrill have successfully highlighted the unassumingly chic potential of vanity skirts.
“We are always looking for a spot to add another interesting textile or unexpected color,” Merrill says on why she’s a fan of the skirted moment. The good news? You don’t need a top-tier designer to get the look. Not only is it super transformative, but it’s also an easy and non-daunting DIY project that doesn’t break the bank. Particularly when it comes to bathroom vanities, because who wouldn’t want to hide their unsightly storage (or even just exposed plumbing pipes) under a pretty fabric? If you’re contemplating the look, here are a few things to consider beforehand.
Selecting the right fabric
Although it’s important to choose a fabric you love, it’s just as crucial to select one that will hold up in the long run. This means considering something that’s easy to clean and can handle a bit of water, Merrill advises. One designer even suggests opting for a shower curtain (check out Clever’s latest shower curtain roundup for something out-of-the-box). Needless to say, this is definitely not for everyone. Luckily there are plenty of other solutions, including oil cloths, waxed cottons, or just a water-resistant fabric.
When it comes to the actual design of the fabric, a skirt is the perfect opportunity to introduce some bold color or patterns to your space. The good news is, if you get bored of it, it’s a quick fix to switch out.
Choosing a style
“A skirted vanity is the perfect way to add a softness and pattern to an area that is usually made up of hard materials,” Merrill says. You can choose one of the many fun details to play up the textural aspect and give your vanity an edge. This could mean a gathered look, which requires getting fabric that’s double the length of the vanity to create a bunched effect. Pleating is another option for a more tailored feel. And if a flat fit is more your style, add some texture with a trim around the edges for an easy, eye-popping detail.
Putting it all together
If your vanity already has legs, the easiest way to add a skirt is with an adjustable curtain rod. This way, all you have to do is fold your fabric in half, add a seam, and slide it through the rod. Dividing the cloth into two pieces creates easy-to-part drapery. Alternatively, hooks or velcro work as well, and are perhaps even more budget-friendly.
This was originally published on Architectural Digest US.