How to Recognize Cottage Style

Cottage style is more about attitude than rigid rules. Here are some keys to this casual, eclectic look.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

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."
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.
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.
4. Evaluate the overall richness of the room. It should say taste-on-a-budget, not look-at-me antiques.
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).
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.
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.
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.