How to Decorate Your Bedroom like a French Girl
This post shows you the best guide on how to decorate your apartment like a French.
Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!
Let’s be honest: we’re all a little obsessed with the French.
Their effortless style, their je ne sais quoi, their ability to devour a croissant without a single crumb on their perfectly white linen shirt (okay, maybe that last one is a stereotype, but you get the idea).
And who wouldn’t want to bring a touch of that Parisian je ne sais quoi into their own home?
Here’s how to turn your humble abode into a little slice of Parisian bliss:
1. Invest in Quality Bedding
No Parisian retreat is complete without indulging in luxurious linens. Imagine crisp white sheets, like sunlight captured in fabric, or perhaps a calming light grey for a touch of Parisian sophistication.
For a winter wonderland feel, flannel sheets in a soft greige or camel can add a touch of cozy warmth.
Think crisp white linens (think linen duvet cover!), a plush throw blanket for those mornings with coffee in bed, and maybe even a tufted headboard for a touch of vintage glam.
LUXURY SHEETS
FRENCH LINEN – GREY
FRENCH LINEN – NATURAL
FRENCH LINEN – NATURAL
Embrace natural textures – linen is a quintessential Parisian choice, perfect for its breathability and coolness in the summer months. And for the ultimate in indulgence, Egyptian cotton sheets offer unparalleled softness and comfort.
2. The Parisian Approach to Your Perfect Bed Frame
The bed is the heart of your bedroom, and in a Parisian retreat, it should reflect the city’s signature style: simple elegance.
Embrace Minimalism: Parisians are masters of maximizing small spaces. So ditch the bulky four-poster or ornately upholstered bed. Instead, opt for a minimalist, modern mid-century frame.
Think clean lines, sleek wood or metal finishes, and a low profile. This creates a sense of airiness and keeps the focus on the overall tranquility of the space.
Size Matters (and Keep it Manageable): Parsian apartments are known for their charm, but not always for their expansive square footage. Consider a bed size that fits comfortably within your room. A queen-size might be the most you can manage, and a twin or full could be perfect for a truly cozy nook.
3. Unleash the Parisian Light
Ah, Parisian light! It dances through the windows, illuminating cozy cafes and filling apartments with a warm glow.
To capture this essence in your bedroom, we need to maximize natural light and create a feeling of airiness. Here’s how:
Embrace Light Walls: White is a classic choice, instantly brightening your space and mimicking the effect of large Parisian windows. But don’t feel limited! Explore pale shades of grey, lavender, or muted sage green. These colors add a touch of personality while still reflecting light and creating a sense of spaciousness.
Think Beyond Paint: Don’t forget the power of sheer curtains or blinds. They allow natural light to flow freely while still offering privacy. Opt for light, neutral tones that complement your wall color.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of Vintage Finds
French girls are all about mixing the old with the new. Hit up your local flea markets or thrift stores for a unique vintage rug, a ornate mirror, or even a mismatched nightstand. These pieces add a touch of personality and history to your space.
5. The Parisian Secret Weapon: The Gilded Mirror
Beyond white walls, Parisians have another clever trick up their sleeve to maximize brightness: large-scale mirrors. These reflective surfaces act like magic, bouncing light around the room and creating an illusion of spaciousness.
Here’s where a touch of Parisian opulence comes in. A true Parisian bedroom staple is a grand mirror with a gilded gold finish. The warm glow of the gold beautifully complements the light-filled space, adding a touch of timeless elegance.
But where to place this treasure? Forget fireplaces, which are uncommon in Parisian apartments. Instead, consider these prime locations:
Above your dresser: This creates a focal point and adds a touch of grandeur to your vanity area.
Opposite a window: This doubles the natural light streaming in, instantly brightening the room.
An empty wall: A strategically placed mirror can visually expand a smaller wall, making the room feel more spacious.
6. Keep it Clean and Uncluttered
Minimize clutter on window sills and around the room. This allows light to flow freely and prevents a cramped feeling. Embrace the minimalist Parisian aesthetic and let the natural light be the star of the show.
7. Choosing the Perfect Nightstand
Your nightstands should be like charming companions in your Parisian retreat – functional and stylish in equal measure. Here’s how to find the perfect fit:
Your nightstands should be like charming companions in your Parisian retreat – functional and stylish in equal measure. Here’s how to find the perfect fit:
Mid-Century Modern Marvels: Embrace the era with a mid-century modern nightstand. Clean lines, tapered legs, and a sleek wood or metal finish are quintessential Parisian. This style won’t overwhelm your space and complements the overall minimalist aesthetic.
GET THE LOOK
FRENCH NIGHTSTAND CLOCK
JEWERLY TRAY
WALL HOOKS
Size Matters: Remember, Parisian apartments often have limited square footage. Choose a nightstand that’s proportionate to your bed size. A small, sleek table next to a queen-size bed creates a balanced look.
8. The Alluring Accent Chair
Imagine curling up with a book, bathed in the warm glow of a Parisian afternoon. A well-placed accent chair can transform your bedroom into a haven for relaxation and reflection.
The Parisian Picks: Parisians favor chairs that are both stylish and functional. Consider a classic slipper chair with its low profile and inviting curves. Alternatively, a vintage dining chair with a reupholstered seat adds a touch of history and elegance.
9. A Canvas for Your Story
Bare white walls are a blank canvas in a Parisian bedroom, just waiting to be filled with your unique personality. Here’s where you can truly unleash your inner art aficionado:
Embrace the Unexpected: Forget boring landscapes! Parisians love to mix and match. Explore flea markets for one-of-a-kind pieces – a vintage botanical print, a quirky abstract painting, or perhaps a charming black and white photograph.
BEDROOM PRINTS
CLASSICAL PAINTING
LANDSCAPE WALL ART
FRENCH WALL ART
Mix and Match Parisian Style: The key to Parisian décor is a harmonious blend of styles. Pair your artwork with modern furniture, vintage bedside lamps, or even a touch of ornate molding (if your apartment has it) for a truly Parisian vibe.
10. To Rug or Not to Rug
The Parisian approach to bedroom rugs is all about creating a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Here’s how they navigate this decision:
Barefoot Bliss or Cozy Comfort? Parisians adore their beautiful hardwood floors, often opting to showcase them for a light and airy feel. This allows the natural warmth of the wood to shine through and complements the minimalist aesthetic.
Vintage Vibes: Keep your eye out for unique vintage rugs at flea markets. A small Moroccan kilim rug or a Turkish Oushak rug can add a touch of history and global flair to your Parisian retreat.
FRENCH STYLE RUGS
TRADITIONAL RUG
IVORY RUG
MODERN RUG
Remember, darlings, the key to French-girl style is to keep it effortless. Don’t overcrowd your space. Let each piece tell a story and reflect your own unique personality. With a little creativity, you can transform your bedroom into a Parisian haven, perfect for unwinding after a long day and dreaming of strolls down cobblestone streets.
Bisous and happy decorating!
MORE INSPIRATION
POSTS YOU WILL ALSO LOVE
