By: Amira Rezad

Thinking of giving your bedroom a classical, romantic look? The centerpiece has got to be a French bed! In case you’re wondering, a French bed usually takes the form of a wooden bed that has ornate and delicate carvings; some are also made of cast iron. Although French beds tend to imbue a soft, romantic feel, they are very often sturdy and heavy duty, and therefore make a fine investment.

The details
So what makes a French bed look so gorgeous? It may be hard to put one’s finger on it, but I daresay it’s all in the sensuous curves, hand-carved decorations and contrasting textures. When coupled with bed linen made of traditional fabrics like plaids, stripes or toile, the French bed becomes even more magnificent, capturing the essence of lavender fields and the bright sunshine of the French countryside. It’s certainly not hard to feel comfortable with this style. C’est bon!

The French country style
As beautiful as a French bed is, I think it would look completely out of place unless one’s entire bedroom invokes the French country style. I mean, if you’re going to go romantic, why not go all the way? The French Country style of decorating has a rustic, old-world feel to it, which will make your bedroom warm and inviting.

The best part is, French country isn’t stuffy, and is, in fact, quite casual, so it won’t just fit beautifully into your home, it’ll feel right as well. French country is definitely one of the most romantic looks around. Picture a beautiful antique bed with a handsome headboard, hand carved chairs, an armoire, rusted light fixtures and a stone fireplace, doesn’t that just instantly transport you to an elegant old chateaux?

The other French bed
If you happen to be travelling in Europe, and hear the term French bed being used, don’t immediately expect an antique-styled ornate bed, because sometimes, the term is used to refer to a bed/mattress with a width that falls between a twin and a double bed. Not quite as romantic!