Eclectic is a word we are seeing bandied about on the décor front a lot nowadays. Eclectic romantic, vintage-eclectic, ethno-eclectic and boho-eclectic, the list goes on… but what precisely does the word eclectic, in décor terms, mean?

Well, in music terms it means having broad taste. So if you are the kind of person who likes Eric Clapton, Katy Perry and Slip Knot, your music taste is pretty eclectic! In clothing terms it means you are pretty diverse in your fashion tastes too! So instead of being a fad fundi or a fashion victim, you pick and chose the bits you like in fashion, from this year, last year, and ten years ago, and wear it proudly all together.

In décor terms it means putting together different items from various styles, genres tastes etc to create a cohesive yet quirky type of décor. Now I mention the word COHESIVE because, as with play lists and outfits, just because you slapped it together and said so, doesn’t make it work! Yes it’s mix and match, yes, it’s supposed to be random and quirky, but it still has to be comfortable and visually pleasing!

The other main thing to know about eclectic décor is that it is NEVER minimalist. Eclectic is just another word for ordered, collective and lovable clutter. An eclectic room will always have LOTS to look at!

Here then, are some examples of different types of eclectic décor, that actually work!

This image gives you an idea of a typically ethno-eclectic room. Moroccan themed, as seen below, is the most popular choice for ethno-eclectic décor. As you can see, this decorator has gone all out with Persians, kelims, camel blankets, pottery and fabrics that are all Seudo Arabic, North African or African in general. The deep purples and reds are also very “Moroccan” colours.

Here we have a great example of Boho-eclectic. Now boho, as many know, is short for bohemian, which is just another word for wierd arty person. So, boho-eclectic is a fabulous collection of hippy-esque, arty, colours, patterns, images and designs. You are most welcome to decide on the level of hippy-esque you wish to portray in your boho-eclectic home. This decorator has practiced marvelous restraint and managed the perfect balance of style and quirk!

Vintage-eclectic is when everything looks, well, vintage. Old school light fitting, distressed paint work, little ornate side tables, wing back chairs, add a little art neauveau, wicker and porcelain and voila…. Vintage-eclectic.

And finally we come to romantic-eclectic. Romantic eclectic takes a little vintage, a little cozy cottage, a little stylish contemporary and rolls it all up into one look. Think Chandeliers, patchwork quilts or multiple textures throws and scatter cushions, warm accent colours, vintage furniture repainted in funky colours, and lots of picture frames!