'Under the Rug'

The end of New York’s fashion week signaled the last time I would look wistfully at bathing suits and espadrille sandals for another six months (well, not including Milan and London’s fashion weeks).

It was one last reminder to reorganize my closet and to put away all my summer clothes – a task which I managed to complete, but took me all last weekend to do.

And a task which made me draw the following conclusion: I am going to need some new floor rugs.

Sure, the woven white area rugs with hand-knotted fringe are cute. But the white rugs are more appropriate for warmer weather, as it provides minimal warmth and coverage.

For this coming season I am going to need something bigger, better, warmer and oh yes, fuzzier.

Recent arrivals at Décor Innovation include an appropriately named Safari Collection with grizzly and polar bear rugs and accent pillows.

The area rugs (each $84.99) are made of acrylic fibers with soft polyester backing for warmth and comfort. Measuring 55”x96”, the rugs provide ample ground coverage, protecting your hardwood floors underneath and absorbing noise.

To compliment the area rugs, the accent pillows for $29.99 come in a set of two – a perfect addition to that sofa, lounge chair, or bed. Easy to clean, the pillows can be washed in cold water and hung on a line to dry.

Personally, I like having a wild card when it comes to décor (the burst of color on a wall, the velvet couch, the lampshade made of antlers) and an ensemble (ie. the crocodile clutch, the brightly colored heel, the statement necklace).

Faux fur vests and stoles pack the kind of fur ball punch that few studded and glittering accessories have. Its 3-dimensional texture instantly amplifies a wardrobe. Yet, it maintains its versatility – faux fur could be translated into looks that are luxurious, hippie, sexy, country, or just savage.

The same rule applies to faux fur rugs, bedding, curtains and other accents. It doesn’t take much.

Plus, I get to spend all day cuddling with something fuzzy. I don’t even have to feed or walk it.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of decorinnovation.com