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French Linens

Luxurious Indulgence for Your Home

By Lisa Marie Metzler

A bed is functional, but a bed dressed in layers of French linens adds elegance to function. When you introduce fine French linens into your home, a sense of luxury abounds. The bedroom becomes your private oasis of comfort and solace.

To incorporate French linens into your bedroom, dress your bed in a color that is soothing. Ask yourself which pattern or print would bring you tranquility at the end of a stressful day. Begin by choosing a duvet cover that appeals to your senses, then build upon that color scheme.

Layers are a must for a European sense of luxury. A coordinating pettiskirt draped from the bed creates dimension. The use of Proven栬-colored sheets, such as cornflower blue, terra-cotta red and saffron yellow, bring life to an otherwise simple style of all one color. Combine a solid-colored fitted sheet with a stunning print, pattern or toile flat sheet; mixing patterns and prints need not be a daunting dilemma. Simply remember to repeat a single dominant color throughout the linens.

Pillow shams that match the pattern or color of the duvet are subtle and soothing. Or, pillow shams can be used to introduce different shades by pulling color from an upholstered chair or wall covering. To be truly pampered, finish dressing your bed with a lush array of soft pillows in various sizes. European shams placed in the back, with the standard-sized shams and boudoir shams in front, create a cascade of sensuous comfort.

To set the stage, turn down the flat sheet and duvet to display the coordinating patterns and colors. Continue the color scheme on the tablecloths covering the bedside tables. Soften the tablecloths and add a romantic element with a Venetian lace doily. Arrange accessories, such as fresh tulips in a vase or antique picture frames, on the doily to complete the vignette.

Linens can transform a blas矫itchen into a cozy, warm and rustic French country kitchen in a variety of ways. Pantry linens, such as washcloths, towels and aprons, can match your dinnerware by picking up the dominant color in the place setting. The kitchen table then becomes the focal point, beckoning the diner to a leisurely meal.

Complement the country feel by placing towel linens in baskets to hold baguettes or dried, cut herbs tied with twine. Display your colorful towels and washcloths in worn wicker baskets or use them to line baskets that sit on shelves. Hang your aprons on wooden pegs to store attractively. French kitchen linens are practical and accessorize your kitchen with vibrant colors and patterns that are traditional and wonderfully charming.