When a person starts thinking about antiques, they may very well consider French antiques first and foremost. There's a lot of French antiques that have been cared for very well, and their style is something a large number of people really enjoy. Fortunately, since there are many different French periods and different sorts of pieces available, these antiques will also go with quite a variety of different decorating styles.

One of the most obvious styles that French pieces will fit into is a style called country French. For someone who collects antiques, this really should not be surprising. This style generally combines a continental elegance with homespun fabric and an informal feeling. The style is frequently of beautiful, floral-printed materials and soft ruffles. When mixed with antiques, it can help soften the antiques themselves, while making for a nice balance of both luxury and a relaxed, comfortable look.

So many people are now combining French antiques with a more modern decorating in a skillful and very effective way that doesn't clash. This can be achieved by using a similar color palate with the walls and the antiques, using pieces that have clean lines instead of frilly little skirts or curlicues on the handles and on the backs of chairs. Another suggestion is having the prints on the fabrics of antiques be solid patterns or even a very small print, rather than huge floral prints that would definitely not blend with a modern home.

American country is a theme that lends itself wonderfully to blending with antiques. American country is frequently comprised of soft, textures and designs that mix seamlessly with the textures, colors and curves of French antiques. The trick would be picking pieces like trunks and tables that have a distressed countrified look with wide wooden planks and legs with the soft curve that is quite popular in the American country style.

Classic furnishings are known for blending with French antiques due to the curves and patterns that very often make up classic furnishings. This style of furniture is frequently finished with elegant, intricate finishes in silver or gold, and it can be used with accessories or even walls. Floral patterns on the furniture, fabrics or even on the walls will fit the two of these styles, as long as care is taken to ensure that they mesh well.

Regardless of what style you want to decorate your home in, you can most likely find some sort of French antique to complement it. The key is going to be looking for a French antique to suit your budget. In general, you will be much better off investing in just a small authentic antique or two rather than trying to get a bunch all at once or getting fake ones just to round out your decorating plans. Authentic antiques feature a luster and beauty that cannot be duplicated. You shouldn't have to try to buy everything at once, as many beautiful homes come together slowly because many homeowners wait and look for the ideal pieces to add slowly over time. Above all, you should always ensure that the antique seller you purchase from is reliable and trustworthy so that you know that you're receiving the true value from what you're purchasing from them, rather than fakes.