So you've decided to take the plunge and give your home a French-style makeover? Good for you!
French decor will always feel comfortable, luxurious and yet beautifully understated, making it a timeless décor choice.
But true 'French style' isn't always what people think it is, which can make it feel intimidating when it comes to knowing where to start.
To help you along your continental style journey, we've compiled our top five French décor myths to help you separate fact from fiction and explore what it means to decorate your space in authentic French fashion.
MYTH 1: LUXURIOUS EXCESS
If the idea of 'French style' conjures up visions of sumptuous tapestries, gilded furniture and ornamental excess, you're in for a shock!
Things have moved on since the days of Louis XIV's court!
In many ways, the modern French style is the antithesis of that historic assault on the senses and is positively subdued by comparison. Excess is superseded by understated sophistication, airy interiors, rustic charm and minimalist chic.
MYTH 2: IT COSTS AN ARM AND A LEG!
It needn't cost a fortune to give your home a distinctly French vibe. There's no need for a whole new furniture suite or matchy-matchy décor- some of the best pieces can be found tucked away in second-hand stores. You can spend on a few key items and lovingly throw together the rest; somehow, it just works. Chips or scratches on your statement pieces? All the better!
MYTH 3: PAINT IT WHITE
While it's true that modern French décor tends to favour neutral walls, the idea of the all-white aesthetic has to be one of the biggest myths out there! The French aren't afraid of splashes of colour, and nor should you be. The key is to keep it subtle and subdued (think warm pastels!) to let your statement pieces really sing.
MYTH 4:: SHABBY CHIC
Shabby chic style has its place in French décor, but it is so much more than that! It's a harmonious blend of vintage and modern; you might find a lovingly distressed coffee table set upon a sleek modern floor. The overarching goal is a sense of pared-down neutrality and country warmth with modern touches here and there. So there's no need to go overkill with the shabby chic vibe!
MYTH 5: IT'S ALL ABOUT ORDER
The beauty of the aesthetic is in its imperfection; everything has its place and yet is ever so slightly undone. It's all about a fusion between simplistic country style and eclectic quirks; the point is to be natural and somewhat undone, so don't be afraid to mix and match colours and pieces that you usually wouldn't pair together. The main thing to remember is not to try too hard! French décor is all about a casual, lived-in feel and any 'rules' are fluid.
Shop our range of beautiful and natural French-inspired products here.
