Casual, warm and welcoming, French-Country style remains a decorating
favorite. Though rustic at heart with distressed wooden furniture,
brick walls and iron accessories, details like fresh flowers, vintage
lace and colorful pottery soften the look-evoking all the charm and
romance of Provence. And since a slightly worn, mix-and-match mentality
is key, achieving this much-loved style couldn't be easier. Try these
simple tips to bring French-Country flair to your home:
-Friendly fabrics:
Cotton checks, stripes, toile, and country motifs such as roosters,
sunflowers, and vegetables are traditional French Country. Keep these
themes in mind when purchasing linens, curtains, rugs, and accent
pillows. Got a more modern sofa or chair? Simply cover it with a denim
or twill slipcover or tapestry in one of the above-named designs.
-Mix it up: No
match? No problem! From gingham broadcloth place settings to floral
plisse curtains to a braided chenille rug, combine a variety of colors,
patterns, sizes, and textures to create a whimsical, flea-market feel.
-Stylish storage:
Both fashionable and functional, wire and woven baskets are classic
French Country accessories. Use them in the bathroom to hold terry
guest towels, in the kitchen for placemats and napkins, and in the
living room or bedroom to store magazines.
- Signature scent:
Nothing says French Country like the presence of lavender. Arrange a
fresh bunch in a ceramic pitcher, hang it dried over a doorway, or make
scented sachets to add the aroma to your home by filling small fabric
bags with lavende
