by Lauren Spinelli
Whether you own a large chateau in the rolling hills of Burgundy or a modest farmhouse amidst the hills of West Virginia, it’s easy to incorporate un peu de Français country into your living space. To achieve this look, one must embrace a balance of gentle hues, ornate elements, textures, and Parisian-country flair. Enjoy my antique picks a la French country style.
Antique Silver Plate Coffee Pot
This is a glorious example of coffee pot perfection. The patina, off-kilter lid and ornate design are just lovely. Mix old and new by adding a hearty bunch of fresh pink peonies inside…très magnifique!
Available at Etsy, Seller: OnlyTreasure; Price: $58.00
Antique Dress and Shoe Form Bundle
I have a healthy obsession with antique dress and shoe forms. Beautiful alone or in a grouping, forms are unique in their shapes, sizes, and materials. These beauties would add major character to a deep windowsill or that nook in your sewing room.
Dress form available at Etsy, Seller: LaSartoria; Price: $355.00
Shoe form available at Etsy, Seller: MonsieurLouis; Price: $102.98
18 C. Louis XVI Painted Commode (c: 1770) (M-A-J-O-R Splurge!)
Is your heart racing from pure, mellow yellow joy? Mine too! Just inhale and exhale…we’ll get through this excitement together.
I normally restrain myself from breaking the bank, but this is on SALE and I couldn’t control myself. Between the pop of subdued yellow, hand painted toile design and clean construction, this piece packs a strong punch of French country style! Just say oui!
Available at Country French Interiors, Seller: Country French Interiors; Price: $3,900.00
Antique French Dictionary Page
Give your kitchen a small (and cheap!) dose of style by framing French prints of country flora and fauna—many from antique cookbooks and dictionaries! Finish the look with a rustic frame (think reclaimed barn wood) or one made of tarnished silver plate. Keep it simple and let the print do the talking…or clucking in this case!
Available at Etsy, Seller: alacarteatelier; Price: $15.00
French Burlap Vintage Grain Sack
There are tons of excellent grain sacks available for purchase online, but this is a favorite of mine. If neutrals aren’t your thing, there are grain sacks that incorporate touches of color via a ticking stripe or monogram. Get creative and make grain sack pillows or a table runner. They’re so versatile and complement any room nicely!
Available at Etsy, Seller: SecondShoutOut; Price: $98.00
Copper Fish Poacher
Everyone already knows I’m a sucker for antique-copper-anything, but this fish poacher caught me hook, line and sinker! With its nice elongated construction and blacksmith-made handle, this would make an amazing centerpiece on any table. Fill with natural elements or seasonal décor to add a personal touch.
Available at Etsy, Seller: LaBoutiqueTusson; Price: $214.22
AUTHOR LAUREN SPINELLI
Lauren was introduced to the world of flea markets and antiquing at a very young age, courtesy of her grandmother, Marguerite — an original “picker,” long before television popularized the term. Since then, antiques and vintage loot have fascinated Lauren. After years of climbing the proverbial corporate ladder in Boston, she needed a change and followed her heart back to her Mid-Atlantic roots. After a little soul-searching, she landed a marketing job at a fabulous antique shop in historic Chadds Ford, PA. Was it a leap of faith? Yes! A major transition? Absolutely! Any regrets? Nope! She loves working amongst architectural salvage and gadgets of yesteryear. Her dream house would have secret passageways, stained-glass windows, and fireplaces galore. She resides in West Chester, PA with her husband, Joe.
