Adding pops of black to your decor

Black is a color I never would have used in my decor several years ago.  Now I love it!  Black can be added to any color scheme.  It adds instant sophistication and edge to a room that otherwise may appear too girly or sweet.  It looks great with lots of white and a pop of bright color. 

Black looks great with large amounts of white and pops of yellow, as this fabulous room shows.

Black also looks great with pink, silver and gray.  This room might be too girly with the cameo pillowcases without being balanced by black and the silver lamps.  Black gives it the perfect amount of edge.  Above two images Bianca's Bright White Cottage via Apartment Therapy's Small Cool 2001.

 

The black lamp helps to ground this room so that it's not too witty, while the yellow shade adds just the right amount of pop.  I adore that silver chair!  Image via Elle Decor.

Black accessories add the perfect amount of punch to this gorgeous room.  Love the pink pillows trimmed with black ribbon, the Moroccan table and the large artwork over the sofa.  The room is feminine, but definitely edgy.  Image via Rue Magazine.

Speaking of edge, how fab are these black chairs?  They resemble tires and are the perfect foil to the white.  The round shape is repeated in the ottoman.  Notice the skillful use of art and pattern in this room.  The room is witty but still remains sophisticated because it is not overdone.  Darek Swalwell via Desire to Inspire.

This lovely room combines pops of turquoise, yellow and red.  It remains fresh looking because of the large amount of white.  A pop of silver is provided by the table.  Notice how skillfully the accessories are chosen.  Yellow pillows and gorgeous collection of glass.  The yellow, red and black colors of the glass collection tie the room together.  The whole thing is grounded by a black and white rug.  This is, indeed, a skillfully designed room.  Image via HGTV.

I need this colorful dresser.  Image via Design Boom.

Here's my favorite corner of my apartment.  I love to change it around.  I've added a black pillow.  If you'd like to add some pops of black to your place, it's as easy as adding a vase, a pillow or a piece of art.  (For more details see Peggy's Rules for Decorating.)  Afraid of black?  Try a little slate gray.

Here are some lovely pieces that can be added to your room if you'd like to add a pop of black.  Coil Side Table available at Urban Outfitters.  I love this piece, and it's reasonably priced.  Beautiful black vase by Kim Westad.  Cute metal flower wall hangings from My Olive Flower (only $10 for three!).  Beautiful pillow from Chic Decor Pillows.

Note:  If you buy something from Etsy as a result of seeing it on this blog, please let me know.  I'm trying to track Etsy sales.  Thanks so much!