Purple is back this fall with a zeal like never before. For centuries it was the color of the aristocracy, of magic, of lust and confusion. However, the design world is intelligently rebranding this color as quite masculine and confident, or feminine and delicate. Darker hues in a library or study will add an air of intelligence and sophistication, while light lavender can leave a soft and soothing feel to your favorite room.

Duralee is exploding with purple! Eileen Kathryn Boyd is among the most esteemed Duralee designers, and her recent "Amethyst – Lavender" book is just in time for the season. She uses rich and lavish tones like lilac and wisteria to create cheerful designs including her textured "Maestro – Hyacinth" and the wild "Tempest – Amethyst."

Thomas Paul is a contemporary artist whose "Print 2" collection is home to some excellent large-print purple fabrics. "20965 – 45 Lilac" is a favorite at the DecoratorsBest office. Birds and butterflies, painted in deep lavender, are accentuated by their cotton background. They are balanced by the neutral floral and bird nest prints. For inspiration, see the "20962 – 43 Lavender" and his peacock design "20960 – 95 Plum."

Highland Court's "Greenwich II – Plum/Wine" is for the more traditional decorator. This book features their very elaborate hand-woven floral, "Talia – Wine" as well as the luxurious "Hayley – Plum/Red" stripe. Check out the wide variety of traditional paisleys, ikats, wovens and embroideries showcased in this refined collection.

Your purple project isn't finished until you have the right wallcovering and trim! Phillip Jeffries' "Extra Fine Arrowroot – Hyacinth" and "Juicy Jute – Purple Passion" are stunning natural wallcoverings that can transform any room in your home into a peaceful or glamorous abode. For passementerie we recommend using Suburban Home Trimmings, a Duralee collection of beads, tapes, cords, shells and fringes to add that perfect final touch.

Sneak Peak: Robert Allen's brand new book "Williamsburg Classics" is the first installment of their Classics Collection and we have coordinated some of their fabrics for you – don't miss it!