A Full Guide to This Decor Style

In a world of minimalist lines and color stories confined to tones of beige or gray, French country decor is a welcome cozy and captivating departure. It’s no wonder the timeless aesthetic—which indeed is inspired by France’s pastoral charm—is enjoying a resurgence right now.

“It’s all about the universal desire for comfort and a touch of romance in our homes,” explains Heather Goerzen, design editor for Havenly. “In a fast-paced world, particularly post-pandemic, people are drawn to styles that evoke a sense of tranquility and nostalgia.”

French Country Decor offers precisely that. With expert insights, we’re diving into the defining traits of this elegant but happily-lived-in design approach and sharing some tips for how to bring a bit of that idyllic French countryside into your own home.

What is French Country Decor?

French Country decor is a soft and effortless fusion of rustic elegance and provincial warmth that’s inspired by the rural landscapes of France, notes interior designer Amy Switzer. She says, “It captures the essence of French countryside living, evoking a sense of tranquility, simplicity, and timeless beauty.”

At its core, the French Country aesthetic hearkens to earthy and natural elements, soft color palettes that are soothing to the eyes, and is ripe with vintage charm. On that note, interior designer Debbie Mathews says that in her mind, French Country decor puts a strong emphasis on French antiques—particularly those in the Louis XV style.

“It encompasses a relaxed but elevated vibe that is commonly seen in the French countryside, where people embrace well-worn and crusty painted finishes, and earthy elements mixed with decorative sconces, and perhaps even a crystal chandelier mixed in,” Matthews says.

Key Traits of French Country Decor

• Soft Textiles: Toile, gingham, floral, and striped cotton or linen fabrics in varying shades of yellow, blue, green, and cream. 
• Ornate Wood Pieces: Carved cherry, oak, or walnut furniture with decorative accents and cabriole or curved legs. 
• Sturdy Iron: Iron table bases, light fixtures, or accent pieces. 
• Painted Furnishings: Painted furniture finishes in a variety of colors, but often blue, whitewashed, or distressed rough hewn wood beams.

Why French Country Decor Is Having a Moment

It all sounds lovely, right? It’s no wonder that the French country aesthetic is enjoying a nice surge in popularity right now. It’s hard not to feel drawn into the effortless romance, pastoral charm, and earthy allure.

“Picture the allure of a Nancy Meyers film, the ease of a linen pantsuit, and the bliss of sun setting over a lavender field—that’s French country style,” Goerzen says. “This style celebrates the beauty in imperfection and finds elegance in simplicity, perfect for those who appreciate refined yet unpretentious charm.”

Matthews adds that it’s very forgiving in that it’s not intended to be perfect, and that “blemishes”—like chipped paint and fabric wrinkles—lend to its appeal. In a nutshell? French country decor infuses a sense of a storied past into your space, creating an enticing and character-filled retreat that’s your very own.

How To Decorate in French Country Style

Inspired by French Country style? Here are a few key ways you can incorporate the aesthetic into your home.

Bring On the Antiques

If you haven’t already, get yourself over to an antique market or thrift shop to find some genuine treasures.

“I think you must incorporate an antique in the French country style,” Matthews says. “This can be an armoire, a set of chairs, a dining table, or a significant piece that sets the tone for the entire room.”

Switzer adds that you’re specifically looking for pieces with classic French country elements, such as cabriole legs, curved lines, and ornate detailing.

Incorporate Nature-Inspired Fabrics

Along with vintage pieces, Switzer says to look for fabrics (and even decorative objects) with motifs that nod to nature, such as lavender fields, sunflowers, or roosters.

“Incorporate these prints into your decor through throw pillows, curtains, tablecloths, or upholstery,” she says. “Also, consider adding natural textures such as linen or cotton for curtains, bedding, and table linens to enhance the cozy and inviting atmosphere.”

Weave in Organic Materials

Incorporate natural materials such as wood and stone to add warmth and texture to the space.

“You can play up wood tones in both your accent furniture and architectural features, including wall or ceiling paneling, exposed beams, or wood trim,” Goerzen says. “And if you’re lucky enough to have raw stone in your home, let it shine in all its rustic, country glory.”

She says that other organic materials that work beautifully in French Country homes include artisan pottery and ceramics, fresh flowers and herbs (especially lavender), linen, and jute.

Grab Some Paint and Brushes 

You can easily transform your space with a soft and soothing color palette inspired by the French countryside. “Paint walls in muted hues like creamy whites, soft pastels, or gentle earth tones to create a serene backdrop,” Switzer says. “Consider adding pops of color through accessories or accent furniture pieces.”

Hang a Chandelier

If you’ve always dreamt of living in a space with a beautiful chandelier, French country style is definitely for you. “Incorporate a delicate crystal and iron chandelier to add a bit of je ne sais quoi to your space,” Matthews says. “A little bit of sparkle might be just what your room needs to make a lasting impression.”

If a chandelier isn’t in the budget, you can incorporate romantic mood lighting in other ways, with pendant lights, sconces, lamps, and, of course, candlelight.