Pale color palettes for this design include combinations of gray, mint, cream, or robin's eye blue, all with touches of shimmering gilt, gold or silver. Whether it's the ornate, decorative designs of the Baroque and Rococo periods, or something more streamlined such as the Neo Classical style, there is a luxury to French interior decorating unmatched by any other design. The French love glamour, so the first place to start this style is with some really glamorous walls.

The French have a reputation as the purveyors of style and sophistication. Swirling patterns on wallpaper in the chosen color palette makes a beautiful accent wall.

Those whose idea of this style has been limited to rustic French Country may be surprised to learn how raddie a French interior can look. Similar patterns could be reflected in floral area rugs or in coverings that reflect the color scheme, such as vivid peacock blue rugs. Either pale or dark palettes should be accented with white, black and gold. For a more dramatic palette, choose rich jewel tones of emerald green, peacock blue, teal and red. Ornate pattern is a must for an authentic French design.

Even in these days when casual living reigns supreme, French interior designs impart elegance and class to a home environment.