Feminine, floral, cozy, pastel, and distressed. Are these the terms that describe the look you'd like for your home?

What defines cottage style?

Colour - Pastels are the order of the day for cottage style rooms. For the walls, pale pink, lavender, blue, green, or yellow in a flat or eggshell finish creates a perfect background. See our Gingham Walls project.

From crisp bright white to creamy ivory - you'll want to use it for trim, furniture, and accessories. More on white with Shabby Chic.

Garden themes - Bring in fresh flower bouquets, botanical prints, and garden furniture to reinforce the look of the outdoors.

Fabrics - Floral fabrics, white linens, and pastel accents can be successfully combined in a cottage room. Using fabric for slipcovers is a wonderful way to get the cottage look on nearly any piece of upholstered furniture. Tea-stained and vintage fabrics are also prized.

Distressed finishes - Shopping at flea markets and junk stores is definitely encouraged. Look for aged paint finishes, areas that are chipped and worn - all offering the look of a lovingly well-used home.

Collections - Whether you collect pitchers, teacups, or books, a cottage room may be the perfect place to display these treasures.

Windows - Keep window treatments light and airy. Muslin, linen, or cotton panels should be chosen with simple details like tab-top or rod-pocket styles.

Beaded board and lattice - Use these charming products to cover cabinet doors, ceilings, walls, wainscots, or even the backs of shelves. Painted white, beaded board and lattice add the feel of pure cottage style.

Wood - Though painted wood finishes are prized, natural woods may also be used in cottage rooms. Hardwood floors, panelled walls, pine bookcases, and old mahogany tables add more warmth from wood.

Lighting - Think candles and chandeliers! Charming crystal fixtures, sconces, and glass lamp bases are more possibilities for romantic lighting.

Wicker - From baskets and trays to wicker tables and rocking chairs, wicker evokes instant charm and cottage style.

Charm - Room details like lace window panels, ruffled pillow trims, and eyelet curtains are small touches with big impact.
Consider bringing in a touch of sparkle with crystal, silver, or ceramic accessories.

Romance - Look for details with a hint of romance. Architectural details, vintage mirrors, tole trays, floral china, and pretty pillows are all candidates for charm in a cottage style space.