Saturated color palettes. Ornate furniture. Floral wallpaper. Crystal chandeliers. If the 2023 trends are any indication, traditional design — in all its cozy, decadent glory — is staging a triumphant comeback. And with it, we’re bidding a welcome adieu to cool, restrained minimalism, light oak everything, and wall-to-wall white paint.
Image credit: Interior Define
Image credit: Interior Define
Speaking of the latter, we find ourselves fixated on a new hue — one that’s every bit as rich, storied, and classic as traditional design itself. Meet French Blue: our official 2023 color of the year that’s continuing to trend hard into early fall and beyond.
Brimming with soft green undertones, this old-world hue is timeless and effortlessly chic (if we do say so ourselves). Unlike bold navy or cool teal, French blue feels saturated, cozy, and historical — a perfect match for traditional design elements.
Featuring The Inside Modern Platform Bed in Ocean Velvet
Featuring The Inside Classic Sofa in Mint Cherry Blossom
Opinions aside, our color of the year predictions are based on actual market research. Thanks to countless client projects and the innumerable hours spent sourcing furniture, decor, paint, and artwork, we’ve got a pulse on design trends, color and otherwise. French Blue marries the timeless with the trendy, and we think it’ll continue to reign supreme into 2024 and beyond.
So, we officially invite you to embrace French Blue in its many forms this year — from printed upholstery and whimsical wallpaper to throw pillows and paint (we love Benjamin Moore’s French Toile). Bring home that certain je ne sais quoi with a few designer favorites:
Shop Our French Blue Designer Edit:
We may be biased, but the Traditional Accent Chair from The Inside is classic, timeless perfection. Opt for the Cornflower Ticking Stripe fabric for a subtle hint of French Blue that complements any design style.
Throw blankets are an affordable, low-lift way to add a pop of color to your space with zero commitment. This twill and faux mohair beauty from Pottery Barn comes in the dreamiest Chambray colorway.
Go all out on the French Blue look with a beautiful velvet statement bed. The Modern Platform Bed from The Inside features a sleek, streamlined frame, while the Ocean Blue fabric leans charming and traditional.
Whether on a bed, sofa, or accent chair, we love these soft blue throw pillows from Anthropologie. Color aside, they’re made of a luxe blend of linen and viscose and boast a beautiful silky texture.
For an eclectic take on French Blue, we adore this sculptural ceramic table lamp from McGee & Co. Style it an entryway, guest bedroom, or living room for a pop of rich color.
Leave it to Parachute to design the perfect soft, dusty blue colorway. The brand’s linen duvet cover is a tried-and-true best-seller and the perfect way to add serene blue to any bedroom. Pair with clean neutrals, soft patterns, and a hint of brass for a cozy cottagecore aesthetic.
From the lumbar pillows to the chic bench cushion, this French blue sofa from Interior Define would look right at home in a Parisian pied-à-terre. Style it in a Reading Room, traditional sitting room, or main bedroom for a charming touch.
If you’re a minimalist at heart, opt for subtle French Blue accents instead of statement furniture. We love these chic wooden candle holders from Perigold — style them on a fireplace mantel or dining table.
What’s more soothing that a layered blue art print? Bring in a soft pop of color with this nature-inspired print from McGee & Co.
Just imagine this French Blue dresser in a spacious bedroom with picture moulding and sculptural lighting. It’s actually hand-wrapped in blue painted linen for a unique, subtle pop of texture.
Want expert advice on your actual home, straight from an interior designer? Start with our style quiz to work with a design pro one-on-one.