If French girls didn’t invent effortless chic, they certainly perfected it. And though Emily of Emily in Paris is an American expat, she certainly brings her own bold sense of style to the French capital.
So, in honor of the forthcoming season 3 premiere, we’re breaking down one of our all-time favorite design styles: Parisian modern. From the vintage accents to the sculptural lighting and channel-tufted furniture, this design style is arguably the textbook definition of chic.
Ahead, see how to channel Parisian modern design in your space, whether you live within sight of the Eiffel Tower, the Alamo or the St. Louis Arch.
The Formal Sitting Room
The key to a polished Parisian look? Mixing vintage charm with avant-garde modernism. Vintage objects with a little patina add a sense of history, while sculptural lighting and abstract artwork add a punch of modernity. Imagine: a King Louis XV chair under a piece of Cubist art, or an antique sideboard next to a mid-century accent chair. This artful mix of furniture and decor styles is what makes a space feel interesting, unique, and chic.
Hint: You can find antiques and statement pieces at online retailers like Chairish or 1st Dibs but beautiful curation comes at a higher cost. If you’re up for spending a little more time digging and revisiting, try Etsy or Ebay. And of course, flea markets are a Parisian-style lovers best friend.
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The Laid-Back Lounge
On the topic of mixing styles, the Parisian modern look is replete with relaxed textures set against touches of sparkle, like casual linen upholstery and drapes with an ornate fireplace and vintage brass accents. This high and low combination is quintessentially French.
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Folsom Coffee Table // Mantis Swivel Wall Sconce // Stature Chair
The Bedroom
Of course, Parisian style is all about romance and elegance. Think: vases filled with fresh flowers (keep it simple with a single variety versus an elaborate arrangement), a vintage crystal chandelier, or a single, small piece of artwork styled off-center. Embrace the natural over the staged and over-styled. Just like that perfectly imperfect messy bun they’ve mastered, it’s okay for spaces to feel a little undone.
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Slipcovered Bed Talc Linen // Viola Chandelier // Ida Dresser
The Dining Room
While overall, the classic Parisian style embraces more subdued hues rather than bright tones, we’d argue that the Emily in Paris edition can’t help but add a pop of animal print, bright pink, or cobalt blue. It’s about creating a personalized, lived-in look, rather than sticking to a prescribed aesthetic or jumping on every design trend. Take the time to collect pieces and furniture that mean something to you. Wait to discover that settee with statement charm, or bring home that chipped plate from the flea market that makes you smile.
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Olivia Pendant Light // Barrel Back Dining Chair // Brass Mirror
The Office
Ultimately, the Parisian mentality means living well in your home, arranging things for utility and purpose, rather than curating a museum display. So light those tapered candles and let the wax drip. Embrace the wrinkles in your linen bedspread. Stack artwork casually on the floor and make peace with the scratches in your furniture. A few chips in your armoire just means it’s been well-loved, cherie.
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