Arlee driving dec pillows with solid color, restrained trims

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 2/14/2007 1:13:00 PM

At the New York Market – Arlee Home Fashions has fine-tuned its core decorative pillow line – and rippled that effect to its throw, soft window, and table linen divisions – to “what we do best and what we’re known for,” said Robert Panko, vp, product development. That being solid-colored programs, enriched by textured and tonal looks.

“We’re driven by solid colors, but we’re trying to also offer some fashion alternatives within that realm,” he explained. “We’re not focusing on cutting edge looks, because that is not what drives the decorative pillow business. We’re developing more solid colored looks and layering them with textures.” Add to that some beading and trims, in limited amounts, “nothing over the top or rococo,” he said.

Some examples of such new programs include: faux silk solids; damasks with slubs; the new Hollywood glam collection that takes a faux raw silk solid and couples it with a tonal satin sewn-on sash for a sexy style; new tweed looks in geometric, chevron, derby and fringed styles; faux leather and faux suede groups; waffle weaves; micro-fiber plush; and corduroy fabrications, to name just a few.

Most of these looks, headlined by the Hollywood collection, coordinate with soft window treatments, and others with placemats and throws.

Arlee is also bringing back the Hug Sack this market. Packaged in a clear plastic zipper bag, these blankets are outfitted with a long zipper and snap buttons to transform into roomy robes. They come in a $19.99 fleece and a $14.99 micro-fiber plush. There are eight solid and plaid styles available.