If you love a cottage style or shabby chic look, country Victorian decorating will be right up your alley.  A popular design trend, country Victorian places the emphasis on comfort and originality rather than high style.  In this sort of decorating, you won’t need to worry about every piece in the room matching; as long as the pieces you choose are distressed or worn, the look will be comfortable and appealing.

Pale colors set the mood

Unlike traditional Victorian decorating that often incorporates deep, rich colors, the country Victorian style leans toward pale, soft hues such as cornflower blue, soft yellow, light pistachio and delicate pink.  You will also want to use finishes that are matte and distressed, rather than glossy or sleek surfaces.

Furnishings are funky and unique

This look is totally relaxed, incorporating those things you may find in an attic or at flea markets and estate sales.  Rusted metal pieces, accent tables with round tops and sculpted legs, old wrought iron bed frames and loose slip covers allow you to create a look that is timeless and old-fashioned.

Armchairs that are covered in pale floral fabrics with small patterns are perfect in country Victorian decor.  A sofa wrapped in a loose slip cover looks romantic; floral, striped or paisley patterns on throw pillows add texture and interest.  Consider using old, worn buffets, armoires and corner shelves to display smaller accents and mementos.

Accent tables should also have a worn, distressed look.  If your current furniture looks too modern, consider white washing it or sanding the edges to give it a distressed look; you may also want to switch out the hardware, using drawer pulls and knobs with a vintage look or enamel with printed designs.

Fabrics and texture

In country Victorian decorating, it is essential that you use materials that are light and airy, such as chintz and cotton.  To highlight the windows, consider gauzy, lacy fabrics that allow plenty of natural light to spill into the room.  Rugs and throws will lend to the relaxed, cozy feel of the room.  Embroidery is also right at home in this style of decorating.  Make use of tassels and ribbons in throws, blankets and even window treatments.

Accessories complete the look

In any style of decorating, you want to avoid an over-abundance of accents in order to keep the room from looking messy or cluttered.  With the country Victorian theme, think of accents inspired by nature, such as pebbles, seashells and dried flower arrangements.  Old porcelain tea pots, a china collection, brass or pewter vases or anything with an antique flair works well in bringing the room together.

The secret to creating spaces you love is using those items that are your personal favorites; this way, your home is a reflection of your personal taste, and one you will be comfortable in.  Country Victorian decor allows you to create spaces that are not only beautiful and inviting, but completely relaxing as well.

Victorian style furnishings and décor are a touch on the feminine side, and oh-so romantic.  Are you ready to trade your modern bedroom, or perhaps one that just needs a little something to make it come alive, for one that offers a romantic, antique look?  You can easily make the changes yourself, and transform your bedroom into one that is relaxing, beautiful and perfect for those nights when you just want to cuddle up with that special someone.

The Perfect Bed

In Victorian style décor, you want a bed that is constructed of wood but one that includes intricate details.  Wrought iron or brass also work well and add a romantic ambiance.  Instead of blending into the background, a Victorian bed should be a bit on the showy side.  Period type quilts that look as though they were crafted in the 1800′s are a perfect topping, but you can use any materials that are frilly or flouncy.  Canopies, drapes and fluffy pillows outlined in ribbon and flourishes finish off the look.

Include the Perfect Furnishings

Tables are a must in the Victorian style of decorating, but not just any old table.  Nightstands are often square and to put it bluntly, lacking in style.  In this type of décor, you want round nightstands topped with marble or made of wicker or bamboo.  A delicate skirting that flows to the floor adds further to the feminine appeal.  You can often find tables like these in a local junk store or at flea markets.

Dressers and chests of drawers are typically made from dark woods such as mahogany, and are adorned with intricate carvings.  Embellishments may include fancy brass drawer pulls or intricately carved wooden pulls.  If you can find an antique looking dresser topped with a round tilting mirror, all the better!

Accessories Make the Room

Some decorating styles require a minimum of accessories; with Victorian décor, the beautiful accessories that you add complete the room and add dimension.  Consider including period style art for the walls.  Baroque and brushed brass frames are perfect, and add to the elegant appeal.  Place old-style vases around the room and fill them with fresh flowers.  Old or antique figurines, china and other Victorian style collectibles fill the room with character.

For the floors, oriental rugs and wicker mats are perfect.  Place a large oval rug at the foot of the bed, or two smaller rugs, one at each side.  Wood floors work well with Victorian decorating, but if you have carpeting the accent rugs will pull the look together.  Window treatments should be elaborate as well; velvet or brocade can be used to dress the windows, while a lace sheer can line the underside.  Delicate florals, braids, and lace all work to make the windows an intricate part of the room.

You can definitely see that the Victorian style of decorating is not for those who prefer simple, basic lines!  If you love rooms that offer the atmosphere of years gone by, touched with a little romance, Victorian décor will make the bedroom your favorite room in the house.