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Step 1
Think of cottage style this way: You've just inherited a small vacation house and have a limited budget for decorating it. Remember that it's a light, airy look that says, "Relax and put your feet up."
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Step 2
Realize that cottage style may overlap with country, garden and lodge looks - wicker and Adirondack pieces will fit in nicely. Look to tag sales and flea markets, the attics of friends and relatives, and thrift shops for sources of furniture.
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Step 3
Check out the furniture, which should be a mix of styles and ages. Notice that wooden pieces may be painted white (or pastel) and possibly embellished with curlicues, flowers or stenciled designs; upholstered pieces may have slipcovers and toss pillows.
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Step 4
Evaluate the overall richness of the room. It should say taste-on-a-budget, not look-at-me antiques.
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Step 5
Study the textiles, which may be vintage pieces or knockoffs from the '30s, '40s or '50s - they may include quilts and homey Battenburg or hand-crocheted lacework (think doilies).
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Step 6
Scrutinize the window treatments, which will let in light. Forget tassels and swags - cottage style is about wide wood blinds, shirred valances, Priscillas and tab-tops on simple curtain rods.
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Step 7
Notice that the floor carries out the homespun feel with area rugs that are hooked or made of sisal/coir, chenille, dhurrie or woven rags. Wood floors can be painted, stained or distressed.
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Step 8
Look at the walls, which may be a simple, patterned paper (perhaps a small floral) or whitewashed (even over rough boards or panels). Of course, a simple pastel paint works on drywall or plaster; stencils are fine but should be simple.
