Unleashing the Power of Design
Kelly Wearstler’s Iconic Style and How to Recreate It in Your Home
In the world of interior design, few names resonate as powerfully as Kelly Wearstler. With her bold, eclectic, and luxurious style, Wearstler has transformed spaces across the globe, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. From her humble beginnings to her current status as a design icon, Wearstler’s journey is a testament to her unwavering passion and innate talent.
The Making of an Icon
Born in South Carolina, Kelly Wearstler’s creative journey began at a young age. Her mother, an antique dealer, exposed her to the world of design and fostered her appreciation for unique, vintage pieces. Wearstler went on to study architecture and interior design at the Massachusetts College of Art, laying the foundation for her future success.
Soon after graduating, Kelly moved to LA where she started to work for a prestigious interior design firm before eventually establishing her own design studio in 1995. Eventually, her big break came when she was commissioned to design the interiors of the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills. The project showcased her fearless approach to mixing patterns, textures, and eras, catapulting her to international acclaim.
The Kelly Wearstler Style
Wearstler’s design philosophy is rooted in the belief that every space should tell a story. Her signature style is characterized by a few key elements:
- Fearless Color: Wearstler is not afraid to make bold statements with color and often incorporates vibrant hues, such as jewel tones and metallics, to create dramatic and luxurious spaces.
- Eclectic Mix: Wearstler’s interiors are a curated collection of pieces from different eras and styles. She effortlessly combines vintage finds with contemporary designs, creating a unique and dynamic aesthetic.
- Textural Interplay: Texture plays a crucial role in Wearstler’s designs. She layers various materials, such as velvet, marble, and brass, to add depth and visual interest to her spaces.
- Sculptural Elements: Wearstler often incorporates sculptural pieces, such as statement lighting fixtures or oversized artwork, to create focal points and add a sense of drama to her interiors.
Bringing Wearstler’s Style into Your Home
While Wearstler’s designs may seem unattainable, there are several ways you can incorporate elements of her style into your own home:
- Start with a Neutral Base: Begin by establishing a neutral foundation with walls, flooring, and large furniture pieces. This will allow you to experiment with bolder accents without overwhelming the space.
- Introduce Bold Colors: Take a cue from Wearstler and incorporate pops of bold color through accessories, artwork, or statement furniture pieces. Consider jewel tones or metallics for a luxurious touch.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix pieces from different eras and styles. Combine a vintage armchair with a modern coffee table, or pair a sleek sofa with an antique rug. The key is to create a curated, eclectic look.
- Play with Texture: Layer various textures throughout your space to add depth and visual interest. Combine plush velvet cushions with a rough-hewn wooden side table, or juxtapose a smooth marble tabletop with a woven jute rug.
- Incorporate Sculptural Elements: Make a statement with oversized artwork, a striking lighting fixture, or an unusual decorative object. These sculptural elements will draw the eye and create a sense of drama in your space.
- Personalize with Vintage Finds: Scour antique shops, flea markets, and online marketplaces for unique vintage pieces that speak to you. Incorporating one-of-a-kind items will give your space a personal touch and add to the eclectic vibe.
- Embrace Imperfection: Wearstler’s interiors often celebrate the imperfect and the unconventional. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, embrace asymmetry, or showcase pieces with patina. These elements add character and soul to a space.
The Wearstler Influence
Kelly Wearstler’s impact on the design world extends far beyond her own projects. As a leading creator on Pinterest, she shares bite-sized interior design tips and inspirational mood boards, allowing her followers to explore and recreate her ideas. Through her MasterClass, Wearstler uncovers the secrets behind her iconic interiors, sharing expert tips on color, lighting, and making small spaces feel larger.
Wearstler’s influence also reaches into the realm of technology. As a forward-thinker, she engages with AI and explores its potential applications in the creative world of design. Her collaboration with acclaimed host Jay Shetty on his podcast “On Purpose with Jay Shetty” further showcases her multifaceted approach to design, wellness, and personal growth.
Her signature style, characterized by bold colors, eclectic mixing, textural interplay, and sculptural elements, has redefined the world of interior design. By incorporating elements of Wearstler’s philosophy into your own home, you can create a space that tells your unique story and reflects your personal style.
Remember, the key to embracing Wearstler’s approach is to be unafraid of taking risks, mixing the unexpected, and celebrating the imperfect. As you curate your own space, draw inspiration from Wearstler’s iconic designs, but always stay true to what resonates with you.