2018 Window Treatment Fabric Trend Report

When it comes to the world of home décor, fabric design might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s one traditional trade that has been steadily gaining wide appeal. In recent years, fabric manufacturers have inspired homeowners with a shift in trending furniture and window treatment ideas, incorporating performance textiles that are at once luxurious, durable and stylish. Meanwhile, novelty textiles have been making a splash, with the rise in small-batch, artisanal fabric makers. Similarly, indoor-outdoor fabrics have expanded to include more colorful and patterned options, partnering with a handful of A-list decorators to create distinctive designs.

In 2018, we’re excited to see all this innovation in textile design weave its way into homes in a big way, specifically through fabrics that marry craft and science, and that are as comfortable as they are strong.

Here, we take a closer look at the trends you can expect to see this year in fabrics that are made to last—in style and in strength.

Super Durable and Soft

A new generation of performance fabrics, which have been technologically enhanced to be stain-, mold- and mildew-resistant, has been redefining practical upholstery textiles. Designed with family living in mind, today’s performance fabrics are made to be extremely durable, yet ultrasoft to the touch.

If you’re considering new upholstery, like a sofa or ottoman, you’ll find options ranging from crisp white cotton to bold-blue velvet that are all made to withstand spills and wear but are luxuriously comfortable. Or if you’re looking for window treatment ideas, there are options like  Palm BeachPolysatinShutters  that are designed never to warp, crack, fade, chip, peel or discolor, even in extreme heat or humidity. You’ll discover there are tons of patterns and colors that rival traditional indoor textiles. Needless to say, we can only agree they are perfect for busy family homes.

Pretty Pastels and Botanicals

As performance fabrics are coming up in style, they’re also embracing a broader (and softer) color scheme. We’ll be seeing colors traditionally associated with practical upholstery, such as beige, taupe and brown, replaced with pretty pastels and soothing greens and blues.

You can also expect to see botanical motifs (that recall artisanal textiles) make their way into these durable fabric designs, which can be applied as  Roman shades , curtains, pillow covers, upholstery fabric and more. So, while you might choose a soft-hued fabric that seems delicate, it’s actually wonderfully durable and none too precious.

Distinctive Patterns and Designs

When it comes to durable fabrics, we can’t forget indoor-outdoor textiles. While we often see cabana stripes and geometrics in these weather-resistant fabrics, we’re excited to discover more unique patterns by designers who are teaming up with textile manufacturers. Whether it’s  solar screen shades , a Moroccan trellis or a colorful Indian medallion, we’re expecting more designers to translate their worldly inspirations to outdoor fabrics in a bold way.