‘Birkin for the home’? How the humble blanket became a statement homeware piece – like the Kardashians’ and Meghan Markle’s Hermès Avalon throws
The ‘Birkin for the home’ has become standard issue among A-listers, and now everyone from Loewe and Louis Vuitton, to Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli are adding styles
It’s not often that a blanket reaches cult status – unless it’s Hermès’ iconic Avalon throw. The design, which debuted in 1988 and is emblazoned with the brand’s “H” logo, is ubiquitous in the homes of the rich and famous, including those of the Duchess of Sussex (it made a cameo in her now infamous Netflix documentary) and the Kardashians (every family member displays multiples in their respective homes). It’s become the ultimate wedding or baby gift, and has appeared on more pages of Architectural Digest than one can count. Elle Decor even called it the Birkin for the home.
While not everyone can own an Hermès blanket, it has inspired a new, covetable category in the world of home interiors: the designer blanket/throw.
“We are seeing new levels of attention to detail and curation when it comes to choosing the small, soft furnishings for the home as people look to express their personality in every corner,” says Bryony Sheridan, buying director at Abask, an online shopping destination for home interiors and collectible design.
“Blankets and throws are arguably one of the most instantly impactful ways to do this as they arrive in myriad colours, patterns and materials, are easily moved around a space, and are functional as well as decorative,” she adds.
Blankets are traditionally functional, especially during the colder months, so tend to be made from heavier materials such as wool and cashmere. Throws on the other hand are more versatile and are often considered a decorative item for the home.
These days, however, lines have blurred as both items have moved beyond the confines of the bedroom. Now, a stylish blanket can be found draped across the arms of a sofa, folded on the back of an office chair, or even hung on the wall as a tapestry.
“We’ve seen them used to create an intimate mood for garden parties in the summer, or folded over the backs of chairs on winter terraces,” says Sheridan.
“In a more abstract sense, they are increasingly being celebrated as design objects in their own right, and so we see them nonchalantly draped over a bench or chair in a rather sculptural salon-style way, which is rather fabulous,” she adds.
