Santa may be poolside in Cabo, sipping margs and makin’ a list, but Pinterest whispers: holiday decorating is around the corner. Today, it’s not just pretend Christmastime but UNFUSSY FRENCH Christmas Decor Time! Forgive, but pinners gotta pin, and they need their romantic trees and tastefully layered wreaths now. What do I know about Christmas in France? Not a ton. And not my fault!
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Handmade, Unfussy French Christmas Decor
Over the years, French followers reach out to enlighten me.
Someone from France: “mais non, ma cherie, we never decorate for Christmas in Paris!” Another French resident: “Michele! Check out photos of my lights, wreaths, and trees!”
Always a mixed message! French-flavored may be a more accurate description of the look. Or maybe even How an American with reverence for country French sensibilities interprets French Christmas decor in an American holiday home.
Whatever the case may be, let’s remember design is simply creative design, and we don’t need to grow divided or police it as we do with everything under the sun discussed on the internet. Be inspired by French country style. Goodness knows I appreciate the seemingly effortless charming touches that feel so imperfectly perfect.
Holiday Decorated French Farmhouse
Inspiring peeks at lovely little holiday home things are a joy to behold whether they are within the unforgettable kitchen at Mas des Poiriers (above) or elsewhere as simple, natural, ideas to get us dreaming and scheming.
Holiday season may be four months away, but if you’re into handmade crafts, are we maybe behind? 🙂
I am one of those more relaxed Christmas decorators who just can’t find two solid days in November or December to zhush tree branches. It’s not that I don’t appreciate the romance. It’s that I want that romance and cozy, sparkly, ambient lighting all year round…and mostly get it!
Not that there’s anything wrong with over the top seasonal decorating of 17 Christmas trees because you’re overflowing with cheer:
But my own sensibilities lean more toward a European country aesthetic.
Give me more subtle, natural, seemingly effortless, non-commercial moments of wonder without too much crimson, and I’m a happy camper.
I love the absence of bold colors, the whimsical wonder…
of using what exists in the backyard…
or made by your hands.
Going for a “delicious enough to eat” theme this year? See above.
French Country Holiday Home: Dreamy Inspiration
Do you like your Christmas decor scheme to feel opulent and abundant?
Or gently spare?
Thank goodness there isn’t just one way to get it right. Even reds are optional! Emma of LaRose Cottage inspires us to dream in pastels with her romantic holiday with liberal doses of white Christmas!
If blue is a favorite color or an accent in your home year-round, why not add it to your color story?
Isn’t the blue gingham ribbon darling?
If you love how the French tend to take an understated approach, why not forage in your own backyard and decorate with what you have on hand? Rustic can be so welcoming. But so can a more more elegant look.
Are fruit topiaries calling your name?
Finds for French Country Holidays
These paper mache bowls look amazing without anything in them, but oh the possibilities at holiday time!
How about French inspired Christmas tree ornaments?
A handmade rustic tray can easily transition from summer to fall to winter on a kitchen island or table:
As you plan and design rustic French country vignettes, elements like handmade clay beads can be incorporated:
Doesn’t this gilded bowl hold potential for your French-flavored holiday table?
Honeydew Sleep Deliciousness (a Luxe Gift for You or Them)
I cannot go too long without mentioning my reliance on Honeydew for the absolute best sheets and pillows on the planet.
Not only is the design genius for side sleepers (this is their travel size Scrumptious Pillow above and fresh out of the gorgeous packaging)…
the quality of the pillow’s construction materials inside and out is unbeatable.
Are you fussy about how much fill is inside your pillow? No worries. You simply remove a measure of the marshmallowy goodness til it feels perfect for your sweet lil’ noggin.
My pillows from Honeydew have yet to go flat, age, or change! Who can boast such a win after multiple moves and tests against other brands?
Sleep is critical medicine for my health woes these days, and the wise investments of a comfy mattress and top notch, USA-made pillows always pay off.
Holiday Kitchen Finds With French Country Charm
Sometimes it is the little things to make an otherwise common kitchen feel a little more European-inspired.
White marble always makes sense when you’re after a Modern French look:
The French are such divine models of avoiding embellishments that aren’t useful and purposeful. They are also taken with employing woven baskets. Here’s a find to bring both qualities together:
Here’s a darling basket to lend itself to any number of rooms beyond the kitchen:
Here’s a beautiful wreath for a door or wall that has a very French farmhouse, laid back yet elegant feel:
Charming Handmade Chimes
I’m thinking about adding a peg rail like this to our laundry or kitchen, and here’s a lovely handmade piece that would be darling especially around the holidays:
Home Decor With a French Inspired Feel
Handmade Finds for Home
High Quality Handcrafted & Useful
Holiday Charcuterie Board Possibilities
Handmade Lovely Finds
Are simple book page wreaths still my favorite Christmasy craft to make and display?
Oui oui!
Make Your Own Handmade Wreath!
If you are thinking SLOW DOWN KNOW, MISSY, AINT NOBODY’S GOT TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS WHEN THE TEMPERATURES HOVER AT 92, you may be more inclined to like THIS post with slow living ideas and reflections.
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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