There are so many interpretations of farmhouse style that I can hardly choose one. Modern, which is more spare; country farmhouse, which is most traditional; and a romantic style which carries a more idealized tone, like the antique ruffled baby dress above.
My idea of romantic farmhouse decorating has more floral patterns and curves, and of course lots of airy white.
An old painted wooden door can be dressed up or down. Left plain, or used to showcase your leanings one way or another. An old chippy frame with sheet music is about as fussy as I want to go for now.
My latest inspirations are a couple of recent design books. The one above by Tricia Foley is about as pared down as it is possible to get. She uses tons of white with a simple, serene environment. I have spent time in rooms like this, and far from being boring, they offer a freedom for engagement with people, or for creative energy.
When you have a more open area, there is space available for change and variety in a room if you want it. I pulled a few things together in this corner for the light, for instance.
And I like the softness that just a bit of lace can give an otherwise plain room. A sheer curtain also softens the light if you need it.
City Farmhouse Style by Kim Leggett keeps things lighter and more open than a heavier traditional farmhouse style. The mode seems to really highlight collections in an appealing understated way yet still has lots of character and warmth.
But I am certainly no purist and can wander all over the place decoratively speaking!
I can't seem to stay away from beautiful vintage clothes!
Probably close to a hundred years old, you can see a patch in this baby dress that was sewn in the skirt at the lower left.
Speaks volumes, and full of nostalgia.
This dainty style is always waiting in the wings for me when I want it, like this set of ironstone transferware pitchers. The pitchers have a dressier mood than my plain white ironstone.
Here's a last look at this frilly dress showing the detail on the back side. There is only a single mother-of-pearl button left holding it together.
I had the impulse to make a repair to that little tear, but it seems right to leave it to it's vintage honesty. Clean, unpressed, and carrying all the weight of history within its airy folds.
Hope you're having fun no matter what your style!
So nice that you stopped by!
Jacqueline
