Mix your patterns with vintage fabric and floral prints
When you think of vintage style, picture pretty lace, floral prints and subtle tones. To choose the right vintage fabric for your scheme, look for faded pastels and mix up large and small floral prints. Stripes can also be used for curtains, blinds or cushions, as a contrast to the floral fabric. And for a retro look in your kitchen, try practical PVC tablecloths in vintage prints.
Use floral fabric for a romantic bedroom scheme
It's easy to turn your bedroom into a romantic retreat with vintage fabric bedding and antique accessories. With soft floral fabric for your curtains and crisp white bedlinen, you'll create a relaxing scheme that would suit any home. For an authentic feel, try a patchwork quilt on an antique or distressed bedframe. You could hunt down an original, find a modern reproduction or have a go at making one yourself and create a new family heirloom.
Shop around for furniture with character
The key thing to remember when putting together a vintage scheme is to try and make it look as though it has evolved naturally. Take your time and pick up pieces of furniture as you go. French pieces are ideal for creating that feminine feel, or try painting an old chest or dresser and distressing it yourself. By lining cupboards and drawers with vintage style prints and adding some pretty drawer knobs, you'll create a piece you won't find anywhere else.
Accessorise with flea-market finds
To accessorise a vintage-style room, look for natural materials. Wicker baskets are perfect for storage in the bedroom, kitchen or bathroom, and distressed wood or tarnished metals will add texture to your scheme.
Trawl antique fairs, car boot sales and charity shops for unique pieces of china and glassware that'll add character to your home. But don't worry if the pieces you find don't match or even come from the same era - in fact, the more mismatched they are, the better!
Create a girl's bedroom look that'll last
A vintage boho style can be really pretty for a girl's bedroom. Stick to a faded floral fabric in pastel tones or try mixing vintage fabric in ditsy prints and stripes for a fun look she'll love. With a lick of white paint on the floorboards, some pretty bunting and retro accessories, you'll creat a look that'll last right into their teens.
