By Julie Gedeon
Spring has sprung with a myriad of new floral patterns to brighten up bedrooms over the warm months ahead. At David’s Fine Linens’ locations in North York’s Bayview Village Shopping Centre and the Toronto Design District—and its online shop—the choice of florals abounds. “Prints—especially florals in watercolour pastels—are huge,” says founder and owner David Saini. “We’re particularly seeing quite strong pastels in style for spring.”
Saini took the time to speak with Living Luxe before setting off for Europe again to discover all the latest trends. Even after more than 50 years of being in business, Saini still frequently attends trade shows in Europe and Asia to keep his finger on the pulse of what’s new and next. “I consider it an essential investment in my knowledge and experience,” he says. “I’m up to date with the latest and can share what I learn to serve our customers with global expertise.”
After years of gravitating toward sophisticated jacquard sheets in intense solid tones to complement the trending cooler grey walls, people are now seeking softer, warmer colours in more whimsical patterns. And unlike something more permanent, such as wallpaper or paint, bedding can easily be swapped out with shifting moods, seasons and trends. “A change to spring bedding is such a simple and quick way to freshen up a bedroom for homeowners or their guests,” Saini says. “We have nearly 100 different prints that people can select for this season.”
While patterns are bigger and bolder, the new bed sets refrain from becoming overly busy by having the sheets in a solid tone corresponding to a key colour in the floral duvet, coverlet or pillow shams. “A rich pastel blue or green is the most popular match right now,” Saini says.
For those also seeking a change in the feel of this spring’s sheets, percale is regaining popularity. “There’s a slight crispness to its weave that some people find breathes more during the warmer seasons than other fabrics,” he says.
Linen is also making a big comeback worldwide, but for those who dread the endless ironing that it may require, don’t panic. “As long as you buy stonewashed—and not just garment-washed—linen, it’s fine to put straight from the dryer back onto a bed for a relaxed look.” Presenting guests with fresh linens—real linens—is a nice touch, and many people opt for the natural fibre because it’s more breathable than cotton while still being soft, though sateen remains Saini’s personal favourite. “But all these fabrics are nice choices as long as you buy quality, which is why all of our sheets have at least an 80-by-80 yarn count,” he says.
Higher yarn counts provide much greater value in terms of a product’s longevity, and the bold patterns that are popular right now come out much sharper and more vibrant, even if the same printing process is used. Ultimately, Saini says, it’s up to the individual sleeper to decide what they prefer. “Fabric is such a personal choice.” Luckily, there’s no shortage of options at David’s Fine Linens for springtime and beyond.