Americana Style: Tips and Tricks for Your Home

Today, we’re diving into the heart of Americana decorating style. If you’re craving that cozy, nostalgic vibe that screams “home sweet home,” you’re in the right place.

What’s an Americana Decorating Style, you might wonder? You can pretty much sum it up with two words: Ralph Lauren. His interior designs are the epitome of this decorating style. They are full of color and layered with a mix of textures and patterns. And there is lots of interesting, old-world decor.

I LOVE this decorating style. I am slowly trying to evolve our home into a mix of Americana, Cottage, and Coastal styles (Nancy Meyers-ish!).

Here are five easy ways to get the look.

1. Use Rich, Deep Blues

First, let’s talk color. Deep blues are your best friend when it comes to Americana style. Think rich navy hues reminiscent of the night sky or vibrant cobalt shades that evoke the endless expanse of the ocean. Here are my all-time favorite deep blue and dusty blue paint colors.

But you don’t have to paint your walls a moody color to embrace the Americana decor style. You can bring in these rich blue hues through textiles, decor (like ginger jars), and artwork (those beautiful nautical art prints!)

However, like all styles, it’s about balance. Not everything needs to be dripping in blue. You should also incorporate warm colors to balance all that blue—such as browns, creams, and light yellows. After all, blue complements orange on the color wheel, and it’s such a lovely combination.

This color combo can be interpreted as dark blues and light dusty blues against caramels, browns, and warm yellows. And this is where our next point comes in.

2. Embrace Warm Wood Tones & Aged Leather

Let’s bring in those complementary colors with warm wood tones and rustic caramel leather. Incorporating warm wood elements, from reclaimed wood to polished oak finishes, is key to achieving that cozy Americana feel.

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Look for furniture pieces like farmhouse-style dining tables or weathered wood shelves to bring a touch of rustic charm to your space. Aged leather furniture has the same appeal, as it’s that lived in look we are going for.

Finally, don’t overlook those beautiful textured jute and natural fiber rugs. They fit in perfectly and can help balance all those blues.

3. Decorate with Vintage Accents & Books

Now, let’s turn our attention to vintage accents. Hit up your local flea market or thrift store to score one-of-a-kind finds that add character and nostalgia to your home. Ideas for vintage accents include silver trophies, wood boxes, old dough bowls, aged brass frames, vintage quilts, and horse statues.

Another element common to this decorating style is books—loads and loads of books. Fill an old vintage bookcase with your favorite books, stack a few on your coffee and entry tables, and proudly display that collection of cookbooks in your kitchen.

But let’s not forget about those worldly and interesting pieces of furniture. Old pine dressers, hutches, and benches add a vintage touch and can really make a statement.

4. add a Splash of Patriotic Decor

No Americana-inspired space would be complete without a nod to Old Glory. Patriotic decor is a must-have for achieving that classic Americana look. Hang a vintage American flag as a statement piece or sprinkle smaller patriotic accents throughout your home, like flag-inspired artwork.

Maritime and Nautical art prints add a touch of Americana to your walls. But use restraint here! It can become too kitschy when it’s overloaded with patriotic stuff.

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5. Incorporate Plaid, Stripes & Gingham Patterns

Plaid, stripes, and gingham are quintessential Americana patterns that add a touch of country charm to any space. Incorporate these classic patterns into your decor with cozy throw pillows, rugs, checkered curtains, and table linens. Even a patterned chair or ottoman can add so much style to a room.

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