- Many formal interiors have carved mirrors hanging in matched pairs. They help to define a space and enlarge the visual feeling of the space. Instead of gold-leafing, highlight details with shiny gold paint.
- Furniture and accessories should look as though they're adorned with hand-carved accents and gold- or silver-leafing.
- Soft goods such as upholstery, pillows, and window treatments made of sensible fabrics can be adorned with trims. Tassels accent pillow corners and drapery swags, fringe is often used on the bottoms of upholstered pieces, and many patterned fabrics of different textures and weaves are used together. By simply adding a row of 6" fringe to the bottom of a plain colored sofa, you'll have a more formal look.
- In place of silk, velvet, or satin, choose synthetic, washable fabrics for window treatments. Formally dressed windows usually have draperies to the floor with contrasting trim topped by a valance or cornice box of perfect proportions.
- Lighting fixtures of crystal or brass with delicate silk shades create a formal look. An inexpensive chandelier can be spray-painted to get the metallic look that's desired. Chandeliers look elegant and formal in a large living room, formal dining room, bedroom, or small powder room.
- Decorative accessories are used to add a formal look to a room. Choose shiny metals, plates and vases of china or porcelain, or leather-bound books. Pairs of accessories carry through the symmetry of the decor.
- Real or artificial plants and flowers, placed in interesting and elegant containers, add texture and color to a formal interior.
- A dining room is the perfect place to introduce a formal look. Choose from a wide range of elegant and beautiful china, crystal, and silver. A simple gold-banded dinner plate set atop elegant linens with sparkling silver flatware and beautiful cut crystal stemware creates a perfect formal setting for dining.
If you like the precise, ordered formal style, find ways to incorporate some of it into your home. However, if you're less fond of the formal look, you may prefer a casual style.
Read our Directory of All Style Guides and decide which one best matches your personality, home, and lifestyle.
Shabby Chic | Paris Apartment Style | Tuscan Style | Traditional Style | Tropical Chic Style | French Country Style