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What the heck is a VIGNETTE?! And how to use one once you know!

What the heck is a VIGNETTE?! And how to use one once you know!

Do you ever walk into someone’s home and wonder why it looks so polished and pulled together? Well it is often because they know how to arrange their tchotchkes (small decorative objects) together to create a mood. According to HGTV, here are some tips on implementing vignettes in your home…along with some images I found on my favourite social media platform: Pinterest! 

One of the easiest ways to add designer-worthy style to your home is to arrange objects into vignettes, or groupings, atop tables and shelves. Think of it as creating a beautiful still life. You can make a vignette on top of any flat surface: a dresser, table, bookshelf, countertop or window ledge. You can use accessories like vases, mirrors, plants, greenery, photos or other personal belongings to create a mood, just like a movie set designer does for a film. A vignette makes a room look more polished and pulled together.

  1. Build your vignette around a light source.
    If your arrangement of objects is in a dark corner, it won't be seen and the effect will be lost. Try building your vignette around a lamp.

  2. Choose objects to support the style and theme of your room.
    If your room is formal, a symmetrical design works best. If the room is casual, asymmetrical groupings are better.

  3. Use color in your vignette to coordinate a room.
    Use items in shades that complement the dominant color in a room. Flowers, houseplants or books with colorful spines are good ways to introduce color into a grouping of items.

  4. Display objects in odd numbers.
    Place several objects of similar shape, size and color together in odd numbers for maximum impact. Groups of three or five work particularly well and are stronger visually than a group of two or four.

  5. Vary the height of the objects.
    Use small pedestals to elevate items. Try stacking books to create a platform for smaller objects.

  6. Stick to a theme.
    Group candles, for example, or family vacation photos. In the kitchen, display various kitchen items like salt and pepper shakers, tea cups and saucers together on a vintage pie tin.

  7. Create depth.
    Place objects from the back of the flat surface to the front instead of in a straight line the length of the surface. Placing objects atop a mirror, or leaning them against a mirror that's on the wall, is an easy way to create a sense of dimension.

  8. Vary the textures of objects.
    Mix hard and shiny accessories with rough and natural. Use weathered wood or iron architectural elements to introduce an unexpected texture.