George Clooney's '80s Bedroom is a Testament to the Anti-Trend Elegance of Striped Bedding – It's Retro yet Timeless
Blue and white stripes stand the test of time in nostalgic photos of the actor's pre-fame apartment – designers explain why they always work
As trends change and times evolve, one pattern will never go out of style: stripes. From striped bedding to striped wallpaper to striped accent chairs, the print is especially effective, where it adds personality but not busyness.
Archival photos of George Clooney's bedroom in 1989 prove just how effective stripes can be. The bed in his Los Angeles apartment is made up with thinly striped gray and white sheets topped by a blue and white striped duvet (similar to the Blake White and Ocean Bedding at Fig Linens and Home). His mix of complementary colors and the combination of horizontal and vertical stripes feels elevated, even in his sparsely furnished pre-fame home.
It's evidence that no matter your budget or bedroom style, striped bedding will make it look more elegant.
George Clooney in his Los Angeles apartment, 1989
'Stripes are the ultimate anti-trend pattern,' explains Carlin Van Noppen, interior designer and founder of Fig Linens and Home. 'No matter the year, clients are extremely interested in bringing this pattern into their bedroom because it is subtle but adds a touch of character. Blue and white stripes, as seen in this bedroom, are especially effective because of their airy coastal feel. They are utterly timeless.'
Shop The Striped Bedding Edit
Striped bedding is endlessly versatile. These are our favorite pieces for an ultra-soft touch and a stylish look.
This is the foundation of the whole operation, so make it count. Even if you don’t grab the full set, a fitted sheet with the faintest whisper of stripe can elevate your bed more than you’d think.
A long, thin lumbar pillow is the perfect finishing touch for a chic modern bed, and this turmeric-colored one is divine. It would be especially beautiful against blue bedding for a striking contrast.
If you love the feel of cotton against your skin, these crisp sheets are the perfect hotel-level pick for elevating your bedroom. Plus, they come in a set making it a budget friendly alternative.
I have been sleeping on Cozy Earth's bamboo sheets for a little over two years after testing out Kris Jenner's bedtime routine, and I swear they get softer with every wash. In addition to feeling like sleeping on a cloud, the color of these striped ones is so unique and stylish.
There’s something so elegant about a wide stripe – it deserves a little stage time. Let it shine up top in a sham. This one feels nautical in the best way, especially when styled with navies or smaller-scale patterns for contrast.
Softer than your favorite t-shirt, this bedding set is just as cool and comforting. Made with organic cotton, and designed with a strong stripe, it is the perfect foundation for a dorm room bed. Mix and match with the Comfy Tee jersey bedding in striped and solid green and layer with pillows in a similar color.
So, how do you style stripes to make them look like George Clooney's bed idea? Carlin advises: 'My favorite stripe trick is to combine a thicker pattern with a thinner one. I also like the look of a horizontal stripe with a vertical stripe. It's all about contrast that helps bring this pattern to life.'
As Carlin's ideas indicate, decorating with stripes works best in a layered bedroom. Now is the best time to tap into this rich cocooning feel. You can go subtle like George Clooney, or opt for a more richly textured striped bedroom.
Helen Ashmore, Senior Design Director at Laura Ashley advises: 'Winter is the perfect time to make the bedroom feel like a true sanctuary, and it doesn’t have to mean completely rethinking the space. Often, the smaller changes have the greatest impact - refreshing the bedding, introducing a favorite throw or adding a few cushions can instantly change the mood of a room. I love the idea of making the bedroom feel a little more considered for the colder months, creating somewhere that feels warm, comfy and welcoming at the end of the day.'
'It’s also a chance to embrace the slower pace of the season and make the most of those simple pleasures, whether that’s getting into a beautifully made bed, curling up with a book or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home,' she continues. 'Ultimately, it’s about creating a space that encourages you to slow down, switch off and really enjoy that wonderful feeling of hunkering down for winter.'
Stripes are a timeless addition to any bedroom, that look fabulous no matter the year. Whatever your taste, they are worth considering.
Love celebrity news and interior design inspiration? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.
