The Red Vanity Stool

What is it about the color red that is so compelling?

Red evokes so many emotions. The color of blood and fire, it can mean danger, anger and power. It is also the color of passion, romance and love. Many women have adopted it as their own power color. Red was my mom’s favorite color. I often say she loved red like I love blue. So I have a soft spot for this glorious hue. 

How fortunate was I that my first commissioned piece of furniture was for a vanity stool. My only instructions were red and girly! 

Oh what fun I had designing this stool. It was truly like designing a ball gown. Well truth be told, I never designed a ball gown, but this is my version of one. 

The elegant damask fabric used for the top was the first decision. It is positively radiant.

All other fabrics needed to play well with this vivid embossed velvet. I found a two silky fabrics, one a ruched diamond pattern perfect for the band, the other an embroidered matelasse for the pleated skirt. All three fabrics exude luminance and sophistication. 

The inside of the pleat needed some contrast. A gold silk with a velvet magenta stripe turned out to be just the right choice. 

Let’s not forget the jewelry, in this case several trims. A silky red bullion fringe danced circles around the stool while a gold crystal trim added a sparkling touch of glam. The gold accents enhance the vibrant red used on this stool, don’t you think? 

Possibly the only thing that could add any more luxury to this picture would be a pair of Louboutin’s, casually kicked off next to this stool. Red soles exposed, of course! 

Need your own glam vanity bench? Let me design one just for you! Check out my Etsy shop for details!