From the catwalks to the living room

But it's not just the fashion houses who get excited about the new seasons. Big furniture brands exhibit their new collections through carefully thought-out brochures and special previews.

Shows and catwalks are replaced by glossy brochures and instead of Vivienne Westwood, Chanel, Dior and Gucci it is furniture giants such as Duresta, Hulsta, Barker and Stonehouse and Natuzzi leading the way.

There are other similarities between fashion and furniture, too. Many of the catwalk trends pass over from one to the other. So when a style becomes big on the catwalk you can bet your bottom dollar that it will soon be a hit with the furniture makers, too. We've seen this recently with embellishment, tribal style and bright clashing colours, all of which made the transition from fashion trend to furniture trend. As with fashion designers, you can go to different furniture brands for different things. For example, if you want something quirky you would probably choose someone like Vivienne Westwood. The same rules apply when you're looking for furniture.

For quirky, statement sofas, Duresta are without doubt the best or for a contemporary style you are best looking at De Sede. Both are renowned for quality and are massive style influencers. For ultra-modern bedrooms it has to be one of the Italian companies such as Hulsta or Presotto and for general forward-thinking design you can't beat Ligne Roset or Porada.

Of course, all the best outfits comprise only a few statement designer pieces teamed with a few long-lasting basics and a touch of personality and this is also the golden rule for interior design.

Luckily, Barker and Stonehouse stock lots of great brands plus all the items you could ever need to make your house one cool style statement.

Simply visit www.barkerand stonehouse.co.uk to find out which brands suit you.

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