When making initial decorating decisions for my home, I wanted to add a bit of my western raising and heritage into my design. After all, if this was to be a place that would set stage to many wonderful memories, it was important that it showcased who I was, what I liked, and what I stood for: cozy, elegant, and rustic.
Unfortunately, almost every design book I came across showcased nothing I had envisioned. Everything always seemed either too rustic — I could just see squirrels making nest in my log coffee table – or too country — something that reminded me of my prince charming’s eighty year old, great aunt Edie back in Iowa, bless her heart. Plus, neither of which seemed to incorporate the mounted bull head that has been passed down through my family. (Hey, I come from a line of ranchers and rodeo folks. What else would you expect?)
Thus, I decided to create my own décor style, Cowboy Chic.
What is Cowboy Chic, you ask? Well, it is a mix between the rustic, western style and the elegance of the famed ‘Shabby Chic’ design. It mixes earthy elements such as heavy woods, leathers, and rough metals together with neutral tones in an elegant, comfortable blend. But, it doesn’t stop there. It’s bold. It isn’t afraid to mix an occasional cranberry accent wall or plum colored throw pillow or two in.
For example, a living room might include heavy and dark wood tables and entertainment armoire. It might have suede painted, neutral tan walls. It might even have a rustic leather and nail head trim sofa with thick cushions, but behind that sofa could sit a scarlet red accent wall. Accents include old rope and rusted barbed wire candleholders, frames, and mirrors for that added “ranch house” appeal. Even drawer pulls in iron and rusted metal, shaped into western star or running horse designs, add subtle detail without overdoing the look.
The décor style is also a great way to beat the “battle of the sexes” when it comes to home design, as well. The Cowboy Chic style is about comfort above all else, so furniture items are very masculine. (Think of the type of furniture you wouldn’t be afraid to break if you put your muddy boots up on it.) However, occasional slight feminine details (such as plush rug or painted basket) help keep the heavy furniture at bay from taking over the room.
