Fashionable Interiors
Pictured: Shayla Copas of Shayla Copas Interiors, Photographer: Howie Photography
Currently in the process of designing our own space, I have been slowly cultivating what I believe is my interior design style. I like to decorate with blacks, whites, silvers and golds, and tend to have a modern approach to my design. I am learning through the help from older friends of mine who have similar taste, and through the inspiration from interior designers’ Instagram platforms. More recently, I have been intrigued with how to add color to a room and also how to set and decorate a table for dinner parties and holidays. While it might be difficult to host right now due to the current world events, I am learning and preparing for when the time will arrive. Through these processes, I have been wondering about how interior design is related to fashion and psychology, so I sought some wisdom from a glamorous, southern, interior designer who I very much admire.
A few years ago, I met the lovely, stylish, and fashionable Shayla Copas. When I worked at Saks Fifth Avenue, Shayla shopped with me one day, and I found her and her successful interior design career and company very fascinating, so I have kept up with following Shayla over the last few years. Founder and owner of Shayla Copas Interiors and national award winner, Shayla is also the author of her book, Four Seasons of Entertaining, that shows a beautiful reference to decorating throughout the year, something I am determined to learn how to do. She is also known as a color guru, and can incorporate textures and colors into any room or setting. In addition to being the successful woman that she is, Shayla is a philanthropist. She has given back in immense ways, and as a young woman finding my own career path, it inspires me to do the same.
Pictured: Shayla Copas of Shayla Copas Interiors, Photographer: Rett Peek
I asked Shayla if she would share some of her design knowledge with me so that I can better understand the fashion and psychology perspective from a successful interior designer and show to all of you, who like me, are possibly new to learning your own styles. So how is fashion, psychology, and interior design connected? I had a conversation with Shayla and would like to reveal what she said:
How would you describe the relationship between fashion and interior design?
“Fashion and interiors are very closely connected, and they tend to follow one another. Fashion is usually leading the trends with home following, but I’ve seen it the other way too. When looking to forecast new trends in interior design, watch for the color palettes and metal accents that emerge on the runways. A few seasons ago, fashion started incorporating gunmetal and we immediately saw that trend transition to interior design.”
Do interior design details affect moods?
“Yes, absolutely. Color is the most dominant example. It has been proven that certain colors can affect your physical health which impacts your mood. Blue and greens are more soothing colors and can lower your blood pressure while red tones create a lot of energy and can raise your blood pressure.”
What have you learned about people in general from designing personal spaces and homes?
“I have learned people need/want/deserve to keep control of the design decisions in their home. If a client says they want a room with a purple color palette; but I decide as a professional that grey is the better option, then I’ll present both color stories to them. This gives them control of the project and doesn’t discredit their opinions or suggestions. You don’t want clients to feel like they are ever being pushed. Letting the client stay in control leads to a stronger and more trusting relationship.”
I was looking at your blog and quotes on your website, and I wanted to ask, is there anything else that you would like to share that you think would be interesting for people to know about interior design and the fashion of psychology behind it?
“My philosophy with design and fashion is: “You can’t have too many stars on the stage.” I believe you should focus on that one key piece and let the other elements be a complement. Your eye needs to rest - you don’t want everything in a room, or with your outfit, to compete. I apply this philosophy to my business and in my closet!”
Pictured: Shayla Copas of Shayla Copas Interiors, Photographer: Janet Warlick
I am greatly thankful for Shayla’s insight and am looking forward to implementing her tips and knowledge into my own designs, while keeping an eye on the runway for interior inspiration. I believe that the creative aspect of fashion and interior design allow for individuality and uniqueness. In addition to referencing her Instagram platform, I have utilized Four Seasons of Entertaining, and it has helped me to learn how to apply my style in the most beautiful of ways. I have to say that it also makes for a fabulous coffee table book.