interior design

Print + Pattern :: 5 Ways To Style Banana Leaf Prints

Remember last year when everywhere you looked you saw banana leaf prints? Everything from bikinis to espadrilles to iphone cases were covered with the iconic style. While the trend has died down a bit (and I do mean a bit) I for one will never tire of this tropical style in the home.

And, just in case your on the same wavelength, we're kicking off a new series around here that's all about prints, patterns, and how to combine them! Starting with this fresh combo...

dining room banana leaf with stripes and wovens // coco+kelley

Now, just for a little education on the subject, there are actually two iconic patterns that have inspired all the rest of the banana leaf lovers over the years.  Martinique and Brazilliance have competed for favorite status over the years, and it's merely a matter of preference.

How you use the pattern is up to you. I love the way it looks here with the addition of stripes and the a woven texture. Plenty of white lends to the tropical vibe, as does a darker wood table.

banana leaf print with dots and block print // bedroom styling via coco+kelley

This is how I've styled the fabric in my own home (yes, that's my bed!). I made the small addition of a single pillow to add punch to my other patterns - a small organic dot and a black and white block print duvet. The fabric on that pillow, by the way, is a really great affordable option if you're looking to order - it's a Tommy Bahama indoor/outdoor fabric called Swaying Palms.

Now, if you're more of a glamour girl (or guy), you'll want to take the Hollywood Regency approach to this print...

banana leaf print wallpaper + pink dining room chairs + black lacquered bamboo

Remember this dining room? Yes, it belongs to Nicky Hilton, but let's focus on the real important piece here - the use of the black piping on those divine pink chair cushions.

Ok, so technically this is cheating because there's no other print in the room, but it's such a good example of how to use that all-over print, I couldn't resist! Combining the banana leaf with bamboo is a no-brainer. Black or white preferred. And yes, this room is a complete nod to the Beverly Hills Hotel where the wallpaper has been a staple for decades.

banana leaf wallpaper with brass and malachite // powder room via coco+kelley

Now if you really wanna go big... first may I suggest starting small? I mean that as in the size of the room.  If you're afraid of mega print like this, try it in a space that you don't spend a lot of time in - like a powder room. Then go a little crazy with it. Here, combining it with brass elements and malachite isn't too overwhelming because it's tone-on-tone.  The elements all sort of blend together, even though they're all very strong (and glam!).

banana leaf watercolor art + greek key + moroccan blanket // bedroom styling via coco+kelley

Last but not least - combining banana leaf with a bit of greek key (or any form of black trim really) lends itself to a regency vibe, while the Moroccan wedding blanket brings in a bit of boho. Keeping the rest of the room basic black and white makes it all fresh. And in case you're wondering where to get those framed prints? They're right here.

Which way would you style your banana leaf?

images :: zeke ruelas // belathee // instyle // marjorie skouras // mint love social club