The Victorian decorating style is a traditional look that is
the effect of a combination of influences, including
classical, Oriental, Gothic and Italian. An important
element in Victorian decor is what wall color and art is
used. Since the wall color is an essential component, using
colors, such as deep reds, Persian blue, rich greens, dark
plum and wine, terra cotta, along with items having vintage
appeal will give the space a dramatic effect. If decorating
a bedroom, consider a lighter color spectrum consisting of
soft blues, soothing greens, pinks, and grays.

You may also use antique style wallpaper with floral prints
and fruit designs and border sets on the walls or
stenciling. Its not necessary to get overly fancy or
invest a lot of money. If you are somewhat frightened by
color, just paint the walls a neutral color and rely on the
accessories to do the decorating.

The furniture you decide on should be Victorian in style,
but dont feel compelled to run out and buy genuine
antiques. Instead, consider reproductions because it is a
more affordable way to furnish the space and actually looks
quite exquisite. For example, for the sofa, consider a
reproduction because vintage Victorian sofas are very
uncomfortable, and as I previously stated, the difference in
price is like night and day. However, wooden pieces like
side tables and curio cabinets look amazing if you can buy
real antiques because of the rich patina finish.

Furthermore, Victorian furniture is intended to be the focal
point in a room because of the large proportions,
sturdiness, darkly stained and radiant woods. Since
Victorian furniture is influenced by Rococo and Gothic
styles, the look can be more eclectic than traditional
styles. Yet, some common approaches do occur, such as the
cabriole leg, fluted leg, intrinsically elaborate carved
floral ornamentation, and heavily upholstery furniture. You
can achieve this upholstered effect by designing a lovely
slip cover for your sofa. The beauty about doing this is
that you can change the slip cover as desired.

The Victorian bedroom is furnished with beds that are ornate
and made of wood or cast iron with bolsters. The bedding
consists of a long pillow, two pillows, sheets and blankets
covered by an eiderdown quilt for extra warmth. For chairs,
most have upright backs, with ornately carved legs. Another
favorite in this style of decorating is the grandfather
clock. This antique clock has a striking air of
sophistication and is an heirloom piece that can be passed
down from generation to generation. Its gentle tick tock is
comforting and adds grace and elegance to a room.

For the windows, consider heavy drapes because it is
reminiscent of this era. You can work with layered drapery,
velvet curtains, or heavy draped curtains that come in a
variation of fabrics. To fully dress your windows, use at
least three distinct, flowing layers of curtains and shades.
The optimal color choice is white fabric because the white
layers will enable the sunshine to filter through even with
completely covered windows.

Also, shades that were dark and rich were the most popular
color designs in the Victorian period. Generally, the most
important rooms displayed the richest colors and these
colors were usually applied to two walls at most. On the
other hand, stained glass windows were also a popular feature
in the Victorian period. However, in this day, it is very
expensive to have a stained glass window custom made.

For floor coverings, you may use area rugs such as oriental
rugs, genuine antique rugs, or reproductions to add warmth
to the room.

Adding accessories helps tie your Victorian decor together.
Incorporate old photos, artwork, mantle clocks, vases filled
with flowers, and vintage fabrics to bring out the charm of
your Victorian interior, while giving it an interesting
appeal. It is common to display lots of books and
ornaments, with a side table that is completely covered in
framed photographs.

To brighten traditionally dark Victorian rooms, choose table
and floor lamps with metal bases that are finished in iron,
brass, copper, or silver. You may use silk lamp shades as
well linen and parchment as alternatives. Also, crystal
accented chandeliers add a sense of lavishness to your
dining room.

If your room has a fireplace, decorate the corners of it
with brackets that are curved in some sort of shape and have
motifs. A white marble mantel would be ideal, but
expensive.

Bringing together the perfect Victorian look in your home
requires time and much effort because of the great attention
to detail involved in coordinating your furniture and
choosing the right decorative accessories to help you
achieve this fabulous new look. However, when you are
finished, it is gratifying to know that you created
something that is truly sensational.

Giorgina Devereaux is the creator of AskGiorgina.com, which features questions, answers, and ideas on home decor and furniture. For more information, please visit http://www.AskGiorgina.com