How To Use Trims In Interiors

We love using decorative trims such a braids, fringes and tassels to bring a bespoke touch to home decorating. Whether you’re updating cushions, curtains or upholstery, Chrissie shares expert tips on how trims can add detail and style to your interior.

 

Q. How, When and Where To Use Trims In Interiors?

Chrissie: I’m very fond of trims and often use them in interior schemes to add detail and interest. Trims such as braids, fringes and tassels are a timeless way to elevate soft furnishings and add a designer finish to a room. Here I’ll explain how, when and where to make the most of trims in your interiors.

Using Trims on Curtains

Curtain trims are one of the most effective ways to add detail to window treatments. They are traditionally placed down the leading edge of curtains and often along the base or hem to create a finished, tailored look.

While trims are often associated with classic or traditional interiors, they also work beautifully in modern homes. For a contemporary curtain trim look, opt for neutral styles such as No Chintz’s Pretty Braid or Hamptons Braid paired with natural linen fabric. This subtle detail brings texture and interest without overwhelming the space.

No Chintz "Ribbed Braid Trim in Pink" down the leading edge of the curtain.



No Chintz "Pretty Braid" down the leading edge and base of the curtain.

 

This curtain uses a clever combination of Ric Rac, zig zag stitching and frayed edges.

 

For those who love a more traditional interior look, adding a fringe or fan edge trim to curtains creates instant sophistication. These decorative trims highlight the curtain edges and bring a sense of craftsmanship and luxury to your window treatments.
 

Curtains made using 'China Tea Blockprint' fabric with "Small Ruche Fringe Trim" and "Single Fan Edge Braid Trim in Navy".

Trims on Pelmets

Pelmets provide another perfect opportunity to incorporate decorative trims and elevate your window treatments. For a tailored and structured look, try using a wide braid such as our Railway Braid. This creates a clean, defined edge that frames the curtains beautifully.

If you prefer a more luxurious and dramatic style, consider attaching a heavy bullion fringe that falls just below the base of the pelmet. The long, textured fringe adds movement, richness, and a touch of opulence. transforming the pelmet into a true feature piece within your interior scheme.
 

No Chintz "Single Fan Edge Trim in in Rust Red" used along the base of a pelmet.

 

 

 

Trims on Blinds

Adding trims to blinds is a simple yet effective way to give them a designer edge. Whether you’re working with Roman blinds or roller blinds, trims can add detail, texture and personality.

 

Roman blinds with striped ribbon trim.

 

Roman Blind Trims

Roman blinds can achieve instant “wow” factor with just a row or two of trim. Flat braids work beautifully when placed down the sides of the blind, set a few centimetres from the edge to create definition.

For a more deluxe finish, try our No Chintz Box Fringe, a 13.5cm deep decorative fringe that looks stunning along the base of a Roman blind. Allowing the fringe to hang just below the blind creates movement and a sense of luxury.
 

No Chintz "Cashew Nut Love Ikat Fabric col. Ink/Taupe" with "Linen Box Fringe" and "Pretty Braid col. Navy"

 

No Chintz "Tassel Fringe Trim" in Natural and Bone used along the base of Roman Blinds.

 

No Chintz "Picot Braid Trim" in three colours used along the leading edge of Curtains and Roman Blinds.

 

Roller Blind Trims

Trims also work well along the base of roller blinds. For a playful touch, especially in children’s bedrooms, add a pom pom fringe. This small detail brings charm and fun while personalising the space.
 

Swag Roman blind with bullion fringe on the base.

 

Trims On Cushions

When it comes to cushion trims, you’re only limited by your imagination. Adding braids, fringes or pom poms to cushions is one of the easiest ways to bring colour, texture and personality into a room.
 

There’s many ways to trim a cushion.
 

 

Pom Pom Cushions

From a single pom pom at each corner to multiple rows of pom poms sewn into all four edges, trims can instantly transform plain cushions into playful, eye-catching pieces. Pom pom fringes are especially popular in children’s rooms or relaxed living spaces.

Braids, Ribbons & Panels

Wider ribbons or braids can be stitched into the walls of a cushion, while rectangular cushions look chic when trimmed on the narrow ends only. For a bolder statement, add trims to the face of a cushion to create contrasting panels.

Layered Cushion Trims

For a more decorative, bespoke look, experiment with layering trims. At No Chintz, we often use two or three layers of our Fancy Block Fringe in different colours. This technique creates a luxurious, custom cushion that feels completely unique.
 

Mix piped, non-piped and trimmed cushions for a more eclectic look.

 

Trims on Upholstery

Adding trims to upholstered furniture is one of the simplest ways to achieve a custom, designer look. From sofas to armchairs, ottomans and dining chairs, upholstery trims can highlight shape, add contrast and bring character to a piece.

Braid Trims for Sofas and Chairs

Applying a decorative braid along the base of a sofa or the edges of a chair gives the furniture a neat, tailored finish. Contrasting braids are particularly effective on neutral fabrics, drawing attention to the silhouette of the piece.

Fringe and Tassel Upholstery Trims

For a more traditional or dramatic look, consider adding fringe trims or tassels. These are especially striking on armchairs and occasional chairs, creating a sense of luxury and old-world charm. A bullion fringe can add movement and texture while instantly elevating the overall design.

Upholstered Ottomans and Benches

Ottomans and benches provide another opportunity to use trims creatively. A row of braid trim around the base adds polish, while a layered fringe can make the piece feel bold and statement-worthy.
 

No Chintz "Small Ruche Fringe Trim in Pink" used along the edge of the window seat.
 

Trims on Lampshades

Lampshade trims are a simple yet impactful way to turn plain lighting into a decorative statement. By adding braids, ribbons or fringe around the shade, you can create anything from a subtle modern detail to a bold vintage-inspired look.

Braided Lampshade Trims

A braid trim stitched around the top and bottom rims of a lampshade adds structure and polish. Narrow braids work beautifully for minimalist interiors, while wider decorative braids can bring colour and pattern into a neutral space.

Fringe Lampshades

For a more nostalgic or glamorous touch, add a fringe trim to your lampshade. This style is perfect for vintage-inspired interiors or art-deco schemes. A long, flowing fringe can add softness and movement, while shorter fringes create a playful, retro vibe.

Ribbon & Decorative Edging

If you prefer a more subtle finish, a simple ribbon or flat braid can highlight the shape of the shade without overpowering it. This approach works well with patterned lampshade fabrics or in spaces where you want the trim to complement rather than dominate.

 

Ready to transform your home with trims? Explore the full range of decorative braids, fringes, tassels and trims at No Chintz. Available by the metre in-store and online, our trims are perfect for cushions, curtains, blinds, upholstery and more. Visit us in Mosman, Willoughby or Woollahra or shop online to bring a bespoke designer touch to your interiors.