Cool-Weather Classic: Velvet Decor

Dropping temperatures outdoors mean it's even more important to create a warm, welcoming space inside--when you live in New England, it's where most of your time will be spent for the next six months. One of our favorite ways to instantly create a plush, cozy space is by layering rich, heavy textures into an existing design. For a plush, luxurious look, velvet decor can't be beat.

Here, a few of our favorite ways to incorporate velvet decor into a home.

1. Curtains. Velvet drapery is perfect for adding an element of formality and subtle seasonality to your home during the busy months of holiday entertaining. Because velvet drapes are heavy, they also offer an added benefit: they can help block out chilly air from drafty windows. We love this regal navy blue pair from West Elm.

And how gorgeous are these green velvet curtains draping a doorway?

2. Throw pillows. If you're looking for an easily, low-cost way to incorporate velvet, try throw pillows. Purchase a few in similar shades to the ones you already own, so you can simply mix them in with existing decor.

These olive green throw pillows add a cozy quality to this bedroom, and you can easily imagine swapping them out with a light-colored linen in the summer to completely change the feel of the space.

The same goes for this light and airy space -- textured throw blankets and a pair of velvet pillows take it from summer breeze to winter warmth.

3. Upholstery. If you're committed to the look year round, velvet makes a beautiful, surprisingly durable upholstery option. The sheen of the fabric is especially stunning when paired with rich jewel tone colors like ruby red, emerald green, or sapphire blue.

How gorgeous is the green shade of this sofa?

Blogger Rachel Parcell of Pink Peonies chose a deep blue velvet upholstery for her chesterfield sofa.

What do you think of velvet decor? What's your favorite way to incorporate it?