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In the lexicon of Proust and Monet, ombre means "shaded." In the decorative arts vocabulary, it fittingly refers to a historic method of dyeing fabric that renders subtle gradations of color from light to dark. An offshoot of a European weaving process, ombre has adorned pre-Civil War quilts and furniture textiles, Victorian-era ribbons and trims, and even -- in a wilder moment -- 1970s disco wear. In recent years, the technique has taken a sophisticated turn, appearing in all manner of fashion.

Ombre's true versatility and beauty -- then and now -- lie not just in its application but also in its inexact outcome. The resulting depth of tones ensures that each project takes on an impressive, shadowy life of its own. This is perhaps best revealed in these serene, sleek designs, suitable for any contemporary domestic space.

The gentle progression of color in ombre suggests the transition from wakefulness to slumber, especially in soothing shades of blue. The headboard slipcover and the matching pillowcases are shrouded in sky-blue linen that's dyed a deeper, sea-inspired tone, embodying the spare beauty of a monochromatic palette.

Not just for fabric, ombre can also be achieved by misting multiple coats of a watercolor solution onto paper items, such as a hanging lantern and rice-paper hurricane covers. Soft reddish-orange tones bring the luminous glow of daybreak to any room, at any hour. The rose-tinted paper takes on an even richer, more nuanced cast when illuminated from within.

A quartet of dyed linen panels creates a captivating minimalist display. All four works of art share a pale-blue base, yet each stands boldly independent given its overlay of color. The resulting variations attest to ombre's imprecise, delicate nature. On the bench, a canvas tote becomes a vibrant accessory.

Dyeing basic linens, whether new or those already in your collection, is a fresh, inspired tactic for renewing the dining table with festive or seasonal colors. Shades of coral embellish a napkin and a coordinating rice-paper place card, echoing the nearby anemone blossoms.

Bolsters and square pillows dyed to be a complex range of earth tones, including sage, chartreuse, and olive brown, brighten a neutral room, creating a lush palette that matches the painting. Two base fabrics in muted teal and robin's-egg blue broaden the array of colors.

First Published: May 2008