Photographed by Stephen Mark Sullivan

When you’re looking for that something extra to bring a frame from uniform to unique, a pattern or texture may be the ticket. Subtle marbling adds just the right amount of shimmer and color, while materials like wood and horn (or their faux copycats) have striations and color variations that bring interest without being overpowering. Thin stripes or geometric patterns aren’t noticeable from a distance but reveal their intricacy when close up, so take a moment to appreciate the fine print.

–Iris Johnson