Fashion Meets Home Design

Colors, lines, textures, accessories, fits, patterns — concepts in fashion can apply to curating your spaces, too. Valerie Joseph, host of the locally produced “Fashion Sense by Valerie” show on Spectrum OC16, parlays couture principles to her chic Honolulu residence. She shares her stylish home suggestions here.

How did you get interested in fashion and home design?

When I was in grade school, I enjoyed reading fashion magazines. I became fascinated with couture and high fashion and developed an appreciation for architectural details and décor aesthetics.

What are some key tips in fashion that also translate well to styling your home?

In Hawaii, our lifestyle often blends outdoor living with a relaxed atmosphere. Fashion and home styling share some common elements. Here are key tips that apply to both:

Embrace Light Fabrics and Colors

• In fashion: Opt for breathable fabrics and light, tropical colors to stay cool.
• In home styling: Choose light and airy fabrics for curtains and linens, and incorporate a color palette inspired by the natural surroundings, such as ocean blues and lush greens.

Nature-Inspired Patterns

• In fashion: Floral prints and nature-inspired patterns will always be a signature style in Hawaii.
• In home styling: Integrate these patterns to bring the outside into your home through throw pillows, rugs or wall art.

Versatility

• In fashion: Choose versatile pieces that can transition from day to night.
• In home styling: Opt for multifunctional furniture and décor items that can adapt to different uses and occasions, [such as] ottomans that can serve as a coffee table and additional seating.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

• In fashion: Accessories like hats, sunglasses and lightweight scarves are not only stylish but also practical.
• In home styling: Thoughtfully chosen accessories, such as woven baskets, tropical plants and local artwork, can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home.

Open Spaces and Natural Light

• In fashion: Choose clothing styles that allow for comfort and movement. If you’re not comfortable in your own skin, don’t do it!
• In home styling: Maximize natural light and create open spaces to capture the essence of indoor-outdoor living.

Which fashion designers and home designers are you most inspired by?

Oscar de la Renta: I adore his posh evening wear, wearable couture suiting for women. My senior prom dress was an Oscar de la Renta design.

Vera Wang: I admire her approach to design. It’s sophisticated and luxurious with signature layering, intricate draping and exquisite attention to detail.

Coco Chanel: She influenced fashion forever by mixing womens- and menswear.

Jonathan Adler: He’s known for using bold colors and patterns and quirky home décor items. This inspires me to remain vivid and wild in my design style.

Martyn Lawrence Bullard: I admire his approach to mixing luxury and flair in a space that maintains comfort.

What home trends are you loving for 2024?

For a timeless interior, neutrals are a strong choice. Beiges, grays and whites will help to create an open, airy space. It also allows to easily transition in and out of trends, which I especially love doing with fun accent pillows, comfy throws, unique décor items and fresh flowers. Currently I’m loving statement furniture pieces, unique sculptures, mirrors with mixed materials and textures that double as art.

Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.