A love affair
Our romance with French-inspired design has been going on for as long as we can remember, so discover how to create some amour allure in your boudoir.
Everyone knows that France is the country of amour, fine wine and impeccable taste, be it in dining or interior designing. For years, our neighbour's boudoirs have charmed the world, thanks to their beguiling glamour, rich histories and exceptional sense of savoir-faire.
Sue Roberts, Home Design Manager at House of Fraser, agrees, "The French generally shun minimalism for a more romantic ethos, which is in keeping with their relaxed approach to life - something we could certainly import over here."
Variety is the spice of life
The distinct stages in French history have given us numerous looks, from the gold carvings of the rococo era to today's simple lines. Whether you prefer the pureness of wrought iron, the allure of gilt or the natural feel of rattan, there's a bed for each of us. Plus, the ways to dress it are endless; with florals, stripes, neutral linens or toile de jouy. Colours too are varied: muted tones, pastels, rich reds or fresh blues. Which just goes to show that French design is pretty and totally versatile.
Pick 'n' mix
The great beauty of this aesthetic is the ability to mix and match antiques with modern pieces. Says Georgia Metcalfe, owner of The French Bedroom Company, "The Louis look is amongst the easiest to assimilate - curvy repro chairs and classic mirrors can sit comfortably next to glossy, current versions or even Art Deco Venetian mirrored furniture styles."
Today, authentic antiques and reproduction buys can successfully complement cutting-edge offerings from contemporary French furniture companies, such as Ligne Roset, for example.
Lucy Benham, Assistant Buyer of beds and bedroom furniture at John Lewis, adds, "With a classic décor, little tweaks here and there can work to produce a modern appearance without a complete overhaul in your room's design. The use of natural, subtle tones enhance the vintage feel, while up-to-the-minute adornments will boost the scheme for a room that isn't too old-fashioned."
Dress to impress
It's not only furniture that will transport you across the Channel; accessories, such as plump, extra-wide bolsters and deluxe bed throws, are a real must-have and will transform your abode. To complete a seductive, luxurious scheme, pile up an array of cushions on a double bed. A tailored Parisian mode can be achieved with some same-size pillows in a monochrome colourway placed in neat pairs or in a uniform display for that desirable five-star hotel-like look that showcases co-ordination at its very best.
Top tips for making the perfect French bed:
- Think symmetry for the bedroom. You can't go far wrong if you match both the flat sheet and duvet cover to the standard pillowcases.
- The fitted sheet need not be in the same colour as the flat one; use it to pick up a wall tone or inject a new or complementary pattern or hue.
- The flat sheet is an important element in the overall presentation. By folding it down over the duvet (and not tucking it in), you can keep the cover looking pristine and crisp for longer.
- Square and boudoir pillowcases are ideal for experimenting with - you can introduce motifs, textures and shades to update as required.
- For a subtle effect, the duvet can be turned down symmetrically or diagonally to reveal any pattern, colour or texture on the reverse.
- Why not try draping a cover at the foot of the bed or roll and secure it with a silk cord and tassel for decorative and practical appeal?
A quick guide to the eras:
Renaissance (1300-1500)Functional oak furniture with arabesque carvings and scrolls - a reaction against Gothic.
Louis XIII (1589-1643)
Ornate baroque style featuring cartouche, cherubs and spirals as well as gilding.
Louis XIV (1643-1715)
Opulent and grandiose designs with intricate inlaid furniture or marquetry. Think Versailles.
Louis XV (1710-1774)
Exuberant rococo curves with elegant scroll feet. Gilding, shells and bold floral motifs.
Neo Classic (Mid 1700's)
Inspired by Greek and Roman design, with straight lines, pillars and some use of marble.
Empire (1804-1814)
Austere, dark mahogany woods marked by Napoleonic symbols like the eagle and the bee, as well as bronze or marble.
Art Deco (early 1900-1940)
Clean lines, geometric forms, chrome and bronze, mother-of-pearl, ivory, wrought iron touches, lacquers and even plastics.
Regional tastes
In addition to the more mainstream fashions of yesteryear, there's also a wealth of localised trends to choose from. For example, Provençal looks, hailing from the south of the country, are enduringly popular. Watch out for touches of floral print and floaty muslin drapes, which define the style. A must top layer is a padded boutis cover for rustic chic.
Finishing touches
To complete the makeover, opt for ultra-glamorous lighting in the form of chandeliers, framed mirrors, a large rug and monogrammed linens in neutral tones. Upholstered headboards are a further essential, as are Louis XIV-inspired side tables with their elegantly carved legs. For a less overt effect, acquire some light painted furniture with a lovingly 'passed-down' patina - shabby but refined. Says Kate Hardcastle, Marketing Director at Halo, "We love white wooden frames with a distressed finish." So, in conclusion, French flair c'est magnifique!
