Guest Picks: French-Inspired Pieces for an 'Oh La La' Home
Bring French flair to every room in the house with furniture, lighting and accessories from affordable to investment worthy
I came home from a recent trip to France feeling inspired by so many details I saw in the countryside and in Paris. Here are a few favorites that will add an authentic French flair to your own space. Some are affordable and some are investment pieces, but all will spark an "oh la la." — Stephanie from Stephmodo
Jielde Signal Zig-Zag Floor Lamp
This is the classic French industrial lamp. It is both gorgeous and highly practical. The design allows you to vary the height whilst hiding all the wiring in its flexible joints. It also comes in 19 colors for your decorating pleasure. It's truly a piece to pass down through the generations.
Opinel Table Knife
These traditional French paring knives will never go out of style in your kitchen. Added bonus: They add vital color to your otherwise-silver silverware drawer.
Rectangular Black Walnut Cutting Board
A French kitchen isn't complete without a wooden cutting board, which can also moonlight as a cheese board. If you've ever caught sight of the cheese aisle at a French grocery store, you know what I mean.
Cormatin Stove
This is perhaps the most beautiful stove you'll ever see, and it comes in the absolute coolest colors you'll ever see. It's definitely for someone who adores cooking and is looking for an investment piece.
Vintage Cerulean Side Chair
This midcentury chair comes in the classic French blue you see on shutters and doors across the country. They would be fun around a shabby chic white table or outside on the patio.
Fleur De Lys Dinner Plate
Subtle ruffled edges and the classic French fleur-de-lis come together in this simple dish. It would be perfect laid atop a French farmhouse table.
A vintage trunk from the 1920s will act as both storage and a coffee table. It would look perfectly chic with white sofas and some industrial lighting. Be sure to ditch the tchotchkes for a more authentic French minimalist look.
Tolix Kids Rhino Desk
You cannot forget the children's spaces when designing your French-inspired home. Tolix pieces are fabulous for kids because they are super durable and easy to clean. They are stylish but not precious, and I've had amazing luck with my Tolix pieces (I have four kids).
Fermob Luxembourg Side Table Bar Cart
Fermob, purveyor of the most high-quality, colorful, classic bistro furniture in France, now supplies to the US. No trans-Atlantic flight needed. This bistro cart is the perfect accompaniment to your Fermob bistro set — just make sure you opt for an accent color.
Jielde Pendant, Red
A large graphic poster, a wooden farmhouse table and metal Tolix chairs are all you need to accompany these French industrial pendants made by the iconic label Jielde.
Farmhouse Dining Table
Remember those fantastic red pendants I mentioned would be perfect with a farmhouse table? Well, here it is. Pendants, you've met your match!
Pillowcase, White/Black
They say a stylish French woman wears black and white together beautifully. Perhaps that same mantra transfers over into bedding choices?
Berthillon French Kitchen Island
Modeled after vintage French iceboxes, this substantial piece is made to last — and act as a statement piece. I have a soft spot in my heart for this for a few reasons: I used to work for Williams-Sonoma Home; I love Berthillon ice cream in Paris; and I used to have a vintage icebox in my son's room when he was little. Iceboxes really do have a lasting look.
Jacquard Weave Tea Towel
This French-inspired jacquard tea towel is reminiscent of vintage grain sacks. I love the color and the stripe. It looks similar to linens I've seen at flea markets in France.
Fleurs Des Champs French Linens
My favorite source for French country linens is Souleiado. I was first introduced to it by my mother-in-law, and it has now become a stop in Paris' St. Germain neighborhood, which just happens to be across the street from one of my favorite patisseries.
Duralex Picardie Tumblers
Manufactured in the heart of France and known for their durability, these Duralex Picardie tumblers will look right at home atop your farmhouse table.
Navy Riviera Armchair
Dreaming of dining in an outdoor Parisian café but can't make it over there any time soon? Console yourself with a beautiful café chair modeled in the 1920s style. You'll feel ready to kick back and practice your French — a little Edith Piaf on Pandora wouldn't hurt either.
Laguiole 24-Piece Flatware Set, Stainless Steel
Made by a French company with 19th century roots, this quality flatware is made to last a lifetime. The stainless steel set will add a touch of modern to an otherwise-traditional look.
Artecnica Grand Trianon
Inspired by lighting at Versailles, this modern take will add the perfect element to your space. Be sure to add metal Tolix chairs (or stools), warm woods and white walls.
Bistro Area Rug
Reminiscent of the prolific chalkboard menus across France, this Bistro rug will make you feel like you're managing a restaurant abroad. "Oh la la," you say? Added bonus: Liora Manne is a favorite designer known for her unique designs and the durability of her rugs.
Next: 8 French Farmhouse Dining Rooms Worth Lingering In
Next: 8 French Farmhouse Dining Rooms Worth Lingering In