Nothing says "traditional" like the dense patterns of toile. Named after a fabric produced in France in the early 19th century, toile (pronounced TWALL) features complex drawings on a simple background.

Because it often resembles pen and ink renderings of country scenes, toile has a reputation as a pattern that tells a story. Although such images are still common, toile also encompasses intricate patterns based on flowers, vines, and other natural objects.

In addition to appearing on fabric, toile patterns are commonly used on wall coverings like the one shown here. Traditionalists will insist that toile patterns be rendered in a single color, but you'll also find beautiful examples where the drawings are in two or more colors.

Toile can be used in contemporary settings but is ideally suited to formal traditional decorating schemes. Its busy patterns work best in large expanses, which allow the patterns to fade into the background a bit. In small spaces, a large toile pattern can be overwhelming.

One effective use is to combine toile with very simple patterns or solid colors. Here, a toile wall covering serves as a foil to the striped love seat and the paneled wainscot.

Toile Inspirations Slide Show