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Posted on: March 15, 2006

Create Your OWN Style with Monograms

Egotistical? Try trendy. What was once a sign of the ostentatious is now a chic fashion with a breezy, updated style that knows no bounds.

By Bev Bennett
CTW Features

Know yourself in the morning: monogrammed bedding has long been a staple, but a trend toward simpler styles mixed with modern furnishings is giving initials a more casual presentation. Image courtesy Pottery Barn

You may recall those itchy nametags on your shirt or your goods - from lunchbox to pencil sharpener - with your name or initials inscribed when you were a child.

"Where monograms started in my memory were the L.L. Bean backpacks from childhood. It's such a strong identity memory," says Cat Wei, a New York design maven.

But today's initial impact goes beyond children's possessions. Not since summer camp has it been so fashionable to sport one's initials.

You'll find monograms on tableware, soaps, candles, stationery, pillows and, of course, the perennial linen collections for newlyweds.

Monograms speak to a variety of needs.

The letters mark a return to a traditional style, according to Karen McAloon, from HGTV's Design Remix program.

"Everything [in home décor] was modern and impersonal," she says. "Monograms are more personal."

The personal stamp provides a way to personally connect, says Robyn Smalletz, president of Gloria Duchin, Inc., East Providence, R.I. And, monogrammed possessions say something about the owner.

It suggests an "attention to detail for which our customers are known," says Jo Marie Lilly, a vice president for Neiman Marcus.

Who knew a few letters could have so much meaning?

If you're ready to put your personal stamp on your possessions or gifts, here are some things to consider.

Monograms reflect your taste.

"We as Americans don't have family crests or historic names," McAloon says. "Monograms affirm who we are."

Do you shout or are you subtle? Are you regal and formal or irreverent and casual? Think about this when you plan your monograms.

For example, put a foot-long monogram on the entryway mirror. Depending on the font you choose, the look can be fun and playful or striking.

"It's not an ego thing but a personalized thing," McAloon says. "When you buy a mirror and put your own style on it, you're making it your own."

Funky fonts: experts see a move from elegant cursive scripts to larger block lettering that appeals to younger, trend-conscious consumers in search of no-frills personalization. Image courtesy West Elm

Monograms evolve as manufacturers emphasize different type fonts. When you're shopping, look at catalogs and in bed and bath stores to see what fonts are popular now.

"I see larger type and block letters, not as much beautiful script," Wei says. "Monograms are more noticeable."

Monograms can be conversation starters. Use initials where they'll be seen and enjoyed by guests.

"I see a lot of home owners [monogramming] for entertaining," Wei says. "You can have monogrammed napkins, soaps and candles to personalize your space."

Don't limit yourself to letters. Take a phrase that resonates and incorporate that into your home.

Wei points to a line of dinnerware that features Virginia Woolf quotations. She suggests you can make your own statement, as well. Set out a slate cheese board and add a favorite saying in chalk.

Monograms can be functional.

Put your children's initials on their sheets, toothbrush or towels and maybe they'll keep track of their belongings (Don't put names on children's clothing, however. This isn't cool. In addition, some safety experts caution against this to protect children from potential predators).

McAloon suggests using a monogrammed hook for each child's coat to encourage good habits.

"For a summer home, take plastic dishware and put a monogram on it," she says. "If you're a frequent visitor [to someone's country home] monogram your glass."

Monograms also can be an emotional link, Smalletz says. And since Sept. 11, people have been sentiment-driven.

"We're seeing it in a demand for inspirational designs, monograms and keepsakes," she says. "People want products that create a sense of connection."

Unfortunately, monograms also can be overdone. Just because you can add your presence to everything doesn't mean you should.

Use the monogram where it has the most impact.

"Understand the monogram's place within design. It has to stand alone to be seen," McAloon says.

Limit monograms to one category or element, such as tableware or pet names on Rover's belongings, says Wei.

And if you're not sure monograms fit your lifestyle, start with temporary versions.

"You may want to get a monogram you can remove, or put your monogram on something you want for life," McAloon says.

The Initial Gift

Although you're more likely to purchase than make monogrammed items, your letter fixation is a great creative outlet.

• You may have seen the little identity "bracelets" people put on wine glass stems so they can tell their glass apart during a party. You can do your own initial version. Decorate a pipe cleaner or wire with beads. Attach an initial.

• Buy a large letter that includes an attachment for a key chain. Glue on enough crystal beads to cover the letter.

• Take French ribbon, tie it around hand towels and add a letter. Give this as a hostess gift, says Robyn Smalletz.

• Paint an initial with your child's favorite colors and fix it to his bedroom door.

• Purchase an inexpensive set of coffee mugs. Paint the initial of each family member on a mug.

Buy Better Letters

• When shopping for children's towels, choose monograms that are sewn with dark thread since the typical white initials get dirty easily. Red letters on navy blue towels; navy on orange; blue on green are options.

• Select type fonts for monograms that complement the rest of the room. If your furnishings have spare, clean lines, opt for simple letters. Match country French décor with a feathery script.

• Keep all the fonts the same or complementary in one room. Different designs fight each other.

• Use monograms to trick the eye. For example, put the letter B on its side. Place a full row on the edge of a curtain for a scallop effect.

• Decorate belongings such as storage containers with peel-off letters. Shop for other temporary markers at craft stores.

Bev Bennett, a veteran food writer and editor, is the author of "Dinner for Two: A Cookbook for Couples" and "30-Minute Meals for Dummies"