French Curtains and Decor

If you’re looking for a way to make your home feel cozy and inviting, but sophisticated and elegant at the same time, French curtains and decor might be what you are looking for. At once relaxed and effortless, French styles also have a graceful, luxurious feel.

French Curtain Styles

There are a variety of curtains and window treatments that can give your home a French feel. Beautiful silk curtains are often found in traditional French decor, and they add an instant air of sophistication. Try a rich hue such as Waterford Gold Stripe, or something more muted like Borache Silver Moon or Cambridge Aqua Stripe.

French Linen Curtains

Light, airy, and fresh, French linen curtains offer the perfect combination of effortless elegance for a French look. Try them in Crisp White, Ancient Ivory, or a soft neutral like Flax Beige.

French-Pleated Curtains

Another option is to choose French-pleated curtains. These have a lovely structured look and come in a wide range of colors and styles. Although white and soft color palettes are often prominently featured in French decorating, incorporating a bright or deep color can help create a combination of modern and French styles.

Patterned Curtains

Toile is a small floral pattern that is often found in contemporary French decor, but any pattern that features florals, botanical patterns or colors, or has flowing lines or flourishes will work. Try window treatments in patterns like Edina Green, Duchess Blue, or Botanic Grey to add a French touch.

Traditional French Decorating

Traditional French decorating styles are very luxurious, with items such as well-made classic furniture, lavish silk curtains, and impressive crystal chandeliers. You can create a traditional look by incorporating crystal elements, antique furniture, and modern silk curtains into your look. Another popular decorating trend that many are embracing is French Provincial or French Country decor. This style is a bit more relaxed and has a broad appeal.

Tips for French Country Decorating

Use these tips to help you create a gorgeous, one-of-a-kind French decor style in your home.

Use a White or Light Color Palette

Use slipcovers for things like upholstered furniture and dining room chairs to create a white, off-white, light-neutral, or pale color palette. Add rugs and other accents in the same shade. Ideas for colors including light blue, pale sage, lavender, as well as neutrals like beige, tan, and gray.

Add Upholstered Pieces and Cushions

French decor is known for upholstered pieces, so add them in where appropriate. Buy or make a quilted headboard for the bed, add a daybed to a seating area, and incorporate lots of cushions into your living spaces. White rugs or runners also help create the soft feel of this design style. Any decor with flowing lines and curved finishes is also helpful.

Use Gold and Bronze Accents

The addition of gold and bronze accents throughout the home will also help create a French feel. Look for aged items that have a nice patina. Items like mirrors, candlesticks, bookends, vases, and more can add a special touch.

Place Artwork Throughout the Home

Another feature of this interior design look is art. Incorporate it throughout the home — this can be classic pieces or simple ones. Consider sketches, black-and-white art, playful pieces, and anything with a botanical theme.

Incorporate Antique French Furniture or Accents

If you have the budget, incorporating antique furniture, such as classic Chippendale Chairs, can help you achieve a French look. Otherwise, incorporate a few smaller antique accents to get the feel.

Opt for Rustic Lighting

Rustic lighting is another way to bring in the French style. Try a rustic chandelier or a country-chic hanging light fixture. Consider bronze or wood versions.

Mix Textures

To keep the space feeling warm, use a variety of textures in your decor items. Use mirrors, crystal pieces, whitewashed or weathered woods, and brick against a mainly monochromatic background. Distressed finished and salvaged items only add to the appeal.

Add Special Touches

Add your unique style stamp by adding special touches. You can decorate with classic small sculptures alongside relaxed fresh flower bouquets or natural greenery.