Modern Rococo Style: How to Nail This Romantic Aesthetic
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If you want to romanticize your home along with your life, you’ll love the rococo style!
This glamorous and playful style from 18th-century France is all about ornate details, soft pastels, and an irresistible touch of romantic whimsy.
Yup, rococo is officially back, and it’s stealing the show in the world of interior design! Ready to bring a little Rococo magic into your home? Let’s dive in!
What is Rococo Style?
Think intricate carvings, curved furniture, and luxurious textures. Rococo design celebrates beauty with ornate details and a sense of lighthearted elegance.
The pictures throughout this post will all give you a really good idea of what it actually looks like, but here’s what makes this style stand out:
- Color Palette: If you are a fellow pastel lover, it’s your time to shine! The hues are so pretty and feature soft pastels like blush pink, powder blue, and creamy ivory.
- Decorative Details: Curves, swirls, and asymmetry (say goodbye to straight lines!).
- Textures: Rococo is allll about luxe, baby! Think velvet, silk, and damask fabrics for that extra touch of fancy.
- Gilded Finishes: Gold accents on mirrors, frames, and furniture are heavily featured here.
In short, it’s like stepping into a dreamy French chateau!
Years ago, my husband and I were fortunate enough to travel to Versailles, which was a literal dream come true! The rooms were so over the top in the best way, but none can compare to the famous Hall of Mirrors.
And yes, it’s really as stunning as it looks in photos!
While the Hall of Mirrors is technically baroque, not rococo, it does show off so many of those yummy rococo elements, such as intricate gilding, curved details, and opulent finishes.
While I can’t exactly emulate the Hall of Mirrors in my own home, I certainly want to recreate parts of it!
How to Nail the Modern Rococo Look
Rococo may have historical roots, but it can absolutely fit beautifully into modern homes. And no, you don’t have to have a palace for it to work!
Like most things in life, modern rococo is allll about balance. Here, you’ll pair those opulent vibes with sleek, minimal elements to create a modernized look.
For example:
- A gilded gold mirror above a modern console table.
- Pastel velvet throw pillows on neutral bedding.
- A crystal chandelier and a painting with an ornate frame in an otherwise simple dining room.
- A pair of velvet-covered armchairs in a pretty pastel fabric flanking your fireplace.
See what I mean? This mix of old and new keeps the look fresh and fun, not frumpy.
Key Elements to Achieve the Rococo Look
Want to nail this style? Focus on these:
Furniture
- Curved and ornate pieces, like a tufted chaise lounge or a baroque-style headboard.
- Painted finishes with a distressed look for vintage charm.
- Textured velvet pillows and throws.
Shop Rococo Furniture Pieces
Lighting
- A crystal chandelier is a must-have for Rococo drama!
- Pair it with gilded sconces for a layered lighting effect.
- Candles are another must have—stick with the classic shape or try these fluted taper candles for a modern twist.
Shop Rococo Lighting
Art and Decor
- Ornate gold-framed mirrors are everywhere these days and fit very well with the rococo aesthetic.
- Hang artwork featuring floral or nature themes or classic portraits with a twist. Use an ornate gold frame for bonus points!
- Porcelain figurines or elegant candlesticks can serve as mantle decor.
Shop Rococo Art + Decor
Textures
- Velvet, silk, and embroidered fabrics create that lush feel.
- Try a damask-patterned throw blanket or velvet drapes for an instant upgrade.
- Thick patterned rugs add comfort and style.
- Wallpaper with a slight sheen can add a pop of brightness and romantic style.
Shop Rococo Textures
Color Palette
- Soft pastels rule the Rococo world! Think powdery blues, delicate pinks, and creamy whites.
- Add metallics like gold or brass for extra glam.
How to Achieve Rococo Style in Specific Rooms
Bedroom
- A canopy bed with flowing drapes sets the tone.
- Layer luxurious bedding with pastel tones and embroidery.
- Add a vanity table with an ornate stool for a royal touch.
Living Room
- Curved sofas or armchairs with gold trim.
- Place a gilded mirror above the fireplace for a stunning focal point.
- Use a baroque-style coffee table and pair it with a pastel area rug.
Kitchen
- Opt for intricate moldings on cabinets or shelves.
- Display a collection of vintage porcelain dishes or teacups.
- Add gold or brass hardware to give cabinets a Rococo flair.
How to Make Rococo Work in Small Spaces
Even if you’re short on square footage, you can still enjoy the elegance of Rococo. Here’s how:
- Focus on Statement Pieces: Choose one standout item, like a gold-framed mirror or a petite velvet armchair, to define the space.
- Keep It Light: Stick to pastel colors and airy fabrics to avoid a cramped feel.
- Dual-Purpose Furniture: Opt for ornate furniture that also serves a purpose, like a storage bench with carved details.
- Mirrors: Use mirrors to reflect light and make the space feel larger while adding that Rococo charm.
- Vertical Decor: Add Rococo details to walls, like framed art or sconces, to draw the eye upward and save floor space.
The Best Rococo Paint Colors
One of the easiest ways to get that rococo charm is to paint the walls! Color drenching is a great option here, but you can also start with an accent wall.
I’m personally a huge fan of a pink bedroom! It’s the perfect spot to showcase those dreamy pastel tones.
A few houses ago, I painted our primary bedroom pastel pink—it was so beautiful!
Sadly, the color I used (Ralph Lauren Tea Rose) is now discontinued, but there are some other great options on this list!
If you want your walls to echo Rococo elegance, try these stunning shades:
- Farrow & Ball – Pink Ground: A soft, warm, blush pink that feels both luxurious and inviting.
- Sherwin-Williams – Watery: A delicate, pastel blue that brings calm and sophistication.
- Sherwin Williams – Quietude: A beautiful green with a light blue-gray undertone. As an added bonus, this shade also happens to be the color I painted our front door last year, as well as the 2025 color of the year! 🙂
- Benjamin Moore – Rose Rococo: Aptly named, this rococo paint color is a pretty light pink that pops.
- Behr – Rococo Beige: A light, playful gold that pairs perfectly with pastels.
These colors perfectly capture the essence of Rococo while staying modern and versatile.
DIYs to Try for a Rococo Aesthetic
Want to dip your toes into Rococo without breaking the bank? Here are some fun ideas you can DIY:
- Gilded Accents: Use gold leaf or gold spray paint to update mirrors or picture frames.
- Thrift Magic: Hunt for ornate furniture or fun accessories at flea markets or on Facebook marketplace. Here are my top tips for thrifting success!
- Wallpaper Love: Choose a floral or damask print to create an accent wall. I’m personally a huge fan of peel and stick wallpaper!
- Painted Furniture: Give old furniture a Rococo twist with pastel chalk paint and distressed edges, just like I did with my painted piano.
Small changes can make a big impact!
FAQs
Is Rococo too extravagant for modern homes?
Not at all! Balance is key. Focus on a few statement pieces, like a gilded mirror or velvet armchair, to bring elegance without overwhelming the space.
Can Rococo work in small spaces?
Absolutely! Choose items like a petite gold-framed mirror or a single ornate chair to add charm without clutter.
What are budget-friendly ways to achieve Rococo style?
- Thrift stores and flea markets are gold mines for vintage finds.
- DIY projects, like painting furniture or adding gold accents, are cost-effective.
- Look for Rococo-inspired decor at affordable retailers.
Do I need to stick to pastels, or can I use bold colors?
While pastels are traditional, bold jewel tones like emerald green or royal blue can bring a modern twist to the Rococo vibe.
Shop the Rococo Era Aesthetic
Want to get the look with minimum commitment? Layer in a few of these accessories into your home!
Let’s Rococo!
Rococo style is the perfect way to add elegance and whimsy to your home. Whether you’re going all-in or just adding a few touches, it’s all about creating a space that feels luxurious and fun.
Have you tried Rococo decor? Share your favorite pieces or ideas in the comments below—I’d love to see your space!
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