When you think about French Country decor, what usually comes to mind is a view of the French countryside... rustic, elegant, vibrant, earthy and always charming!

French country furnishings of today may emulate an old French chateau, simple country cottage or somewhere in between.

You'll find a beautiful, rich color palette that includes lavender, gold, French blue, deep green, fiery red with accents of brown and black.

Textures and elements such as wood, stone, plaster, rusted iron, brick and rattan are always a part of the decor in a French Country home.

French country furniture may include a traditional Toile design for the fabric.

The pattern is a small scene (or scenes) depicting things like courting scenes or picnics, and are most often shown in blue, red or black against a cream background.

You might find this fabric on a side chair or sofa, or possibly window treatments, with the fabric a cotton or linen weave.

You'll also find simple plaids and checks on French country furnishings as well as rush seats on dining chairs.

Wood finishes can be very rustic, painted gray, white or subtle green, and the use of rusted metals is very common. Natural wood finishes are most often medium to light brown.

Subtle design patterns add interest to French country furniture. You'll often find wrought-iron door and drawer hardware, contoured chair backs and cabinet lines, and raised motifs, depicting grains such as wheat, or flowers and fruit.

French country decor is characterized by simple, graceful lines.

You'll find a large wood dining table as the centerpiece of many French Country homes, with seating for the entire family, up to twelve people. Ladder back chairs or wood benches provide the seating for guests. An iron chandelier will likely be providing the ambiance for the gathering.

An armoire will be present as well, whether in the dining area, bedroom or as added storage in the home. Simple, practical wood worktables are another piece common to French country decor.

So what is key to French Country furniture? Simple, rustic elegance, with natural elements and vibrant colors creating the charming atmosphere.

Your search for furniture and accessories could take you to the flea market, antique mall or a fine furniture store for higher end reproduction pieces.

If shopping online fits your lifestyle, here is a great option: