Elegant, luxurious, ornate – though French design has evolved through the years, it seems to have maintained the same elements that make it such a popular decorating style. Whether you’re drawing inspiration from shabby chic French country or super chic Parisian style, French design adds an air of timelessness to a space. Here are 10 easy ways to introduce a classic French look to your home.


Photography by Donna Griffith

1 Chandelier
There’s nothing more quintessentially French than a crystal chandelier. Adding a touch of sparkle and glamour, a stunning chandelier can work in any space from a walk-in closet to a dining room.


Photography by Stacey Van Berkel-Haines

2 Louis Ghost chair
Seen around dining tables and in boudoirs from North America to Europe, the Philippe Starck ghost chair is the best example of a modern take on classic French design. This reinvention of the Louis XV armchair is constructed from single-mold polycarbonate, marrying postmodern technology with historical style.
3 Three-tiered platter
The French know how to throw a party and their spectacular table dressings are proof of that. Three-tiered serving trays are a French entertaining classic, perfect for holding macarons, éclairs and other delightful desserts. Three-tiered platter available at Crate and Barrel.
Photography by Virginia Macdonald

4 Café cane chair
Just seeing caned bistro chairs evokes memories of the café-lined streets of Paris. Introduce a few around your dining table or one as a padded occasional chair in the living room for a touch of Parisian flair.
Photography by Michel Dube

5 Bergère chair
Perhaps one of the most recognizable pieces of French design, the Bergère chair has stood the test of time and can be seen in the pages of decorating magazines around the world. The size and form of the chair has evolved over time, but the classic shape with its full seat has remained a staple of classic French design.
Photography by Stacey Van Berkel

6 French country
Though luxury is the essence of Parisian design, there’s also the world of antiqued country that exemplifies French decor. From weathered white accessories and furniture  to ornate mirrors (like in the photo above), the French country look can be mixed with modern elements to create a unique space in your home.

7 Fleur de lis
Once a symbol of the French monarchy, the fleur de lis has always held importance in French culture and design. Find it stamped on pretty pillows, paperweights and kitchen linens, or get a rustic look in your foyer with a wall hook like this one. Fleur de lis wall hook available at Esty.

8 Bistro table
Like the café chairs that line the streets of Paris, the bistro table is a standard element of French design around the world. Perfect for condos and outdoor entertaining, a bistro table is a simple and stylish seating solution for small spaces. Bistro table available at Restoration Hardware.
9 Grain sack fabric
A staple of French country design, the antique grain sack can be used for everything from table runners to throw pillows. Check out Etsy or antique markets for authentic patterned fabrics, or DIY your own by stenciling the signature red stripes.

10 Armed settee
Ideal for an entryway or at the foot of a bed, an armed settee adds a delicate touch that evokes the elegance of Versailles. Look for a padded seat for a more formal area and a bare one with distressed paint for foyers or outdoor use. Armed settee available at Pottery Barn.