Style Guide

French Blue Is a Designer Favorite for 2023 — Here’s How to Use This Historic Hue

Kelsey Clark ·
Serene blue-gray living room with cream sectional, black round table, and calming coastal aesthetic

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.

Bright farmhouse living room with blue sofa, exposed beams, and warm earthy neutral tones

Image credit: Interior Define


Shop Our French Blue Designer Edit:

Culinary flatlay with olive oil, patterned linen, and botanical sketches in warm Mediterranean style

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.

Sleek polished steel coffee service set with modern minimalist metallic finish

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.

Luxe tortoiseshell serving tray with cream spreaders in sophisticated art deco style

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.

Contemporary bedroom with emerald green upholstered bed and fresh botanical-inspired design

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.

Olive-toned upholstered platform bed with modern minimalist silhouette and clean lines

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.

Refined blue-gray sofa with sloped arms and warm wood feet in classic transitional style

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.

Neutral woven throw blanket with fringe in warm earth tones and natural fiber texture

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.

Minimalist birch wood sculptural stool alongside "Live Beautiful" print in Scandinavian design

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.

Minimalist cork pedestal bowl with warm neutral tones and organic sculptural form

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 withour style quizto work with a design pro one-on-one.