|   - use gourmet secrets
The French kitchen is the heart of the home. It must look beautiful and run well. To keep neces sities within easy reach, use serving platters to hold vegetables, teapots to hold utensils, and tiny terracotta pots to keep your fresh herbs at hand.
- serve with savoir faire
Heavy glazed ceramics in the colors of the French countryside are a beautiful and hardwork ing addition to the family table. Large serving pieces do double duty as flower or fruit-filled centerpieces between meals.
- mix and match
Because French country style is all about heir looms and collected treasures, it is never neces sary to have a full set of anything. Mix formal and casual when you entertain, starting with your dining chairs and finishing with your place settings. The mix of pattern and texture you'll achieve is signature French style.
- look for patterns
Paisley is often associated with French country style. Collect fabrics in bright sunflower yellow, terracotta, blue or scarlet red to use for napkins and tablecloths. Layer over a vintage linen table cloth for a truly authentic look.
- create a collage
Give your French style instant provenance by clustering a collection of old china on the wall. Find old plates and serving pieces in sweet florals, stick to a single color theme, and group them over a door, on either side of your favorite framed art, or in pretty arch over your bed.
- enjoy life
You’ll find true French spirit in uncomplicated food, full flavors, warm conversation and a generous attitude. Sit down tonight with your best friends and family, with a bit of warm bread, a dish of olive oil, and a glass of wine, and savor your own good fortune and happy surroundings.  - layer fabrics
Turn your bedroom into a boudoir with a French-inspired bed. Pile extra standard pillows and one delicate breakfast or decorative pillow, add a quilted bedspread or patterned throw, and voilà! The transformation is complete. - create a mood
Use rosemary and lavender, the signature fragrances of Provence, for instant atmosphere. Shop these scents in our Fragrance Vases, candles or soaps. - organize with flair
Scatter beloved, handcrafted objects around the house, like woven baskets – perfect for magazine storage or organizing bedside odds and ends. Fill a basket with brightly colored fruits and vegetables on a kitchen counter for practical charm. - bring the outdoors in
Do as the French do – invite nature into your home with garden statuary. Simple pieces with a moss-covered, time worn patina are très français, and are easily found at the local nursery. Carefully place them by the front door, in a corner of your bath, or even as a centerpiece. |
