My Weakness For Chinoiserie

Chinoiserie is a favorite pattern of mine. This beautiful, classic pattern can be found in elegant wallpapers, fabrics, ceramics, furniture and folding screens.

Chinoiserie is a French term that refers to European artistic styles with Chinese artistic influences. It is characterized by fanciful imagery of Chinese motifs. Chinoiserie entered the European market in the mid to late 17th century and its popularity peaked in the 18th century. Its use was mainly in the decorative arts. These days Chinoiserie is used in the most elegant of interior spaces, even in clothing as can be seen in this beautiful hand painted silk dress worn by The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Click here to view

I especially love the use of hand painted silk Chinoiserie wallpapers in formal dining rooms and elegant powder rooms. Companies like de Gournay and Gracie have a vast selection that is highly customizable to suit any color scheme. While it may not be the least expensive wall treatment you can find, it definitely has a timeless appeal that will hold its value and beauty for a very long time.

Here are some very inspiring photos of Chinoiserie influenced rooms and furniture. These photos are from various sources

If you want to try the look without the commitment of wallpapering a whole room, try adding an accent piece like Chinoiserie chest or a room divider. Add it in accessories like ceramic vases or pillows with a Chinoiserie pattern. Another way to use this beautiful motif is by purchasing wallpaper remnants from your local wallpaper store or online and wallpaper the inside back of a built in bookcase, or decoupaging an inexpensive garage sale chest or dresser. Click here for how-to video.

Is Chinoiserie right for you? Where would you use it?