Whether you’re decorating for the Fourth of July, or looking for subtle ways to celebrate your American pride all year long, incorporating elements of Americana allows you to express your unique personal style, while embracing your American heritage. America is a big country with a rich history; Americana offers many ways to celebrate the tapestry of American life.
Patriotic Americana
This might be the first thing that people think of when they think of Americana – especially this time of year. This style pulls from iconic American symbols, not the least of which is the American flag. Actual American flags (vintage flags are especially popular), American flag motifs, and a red, white, and blue color palette are common motifs. Incorporate stars and stripes in bedding, throw pillows, area rugs, dish towels, or furniture fabrics. For a more subtle look, use only stars or stripes, or go with a slightly muted palette and substitute cream for white. You can also get creative with décor items – such as classic Uncle Sam posters, replica of the Declaration of Independence, or other elements of American history.
Farmhouse Americana
This style of Americana celebrates the history of American farm life. When people think of Americana, this is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Think warm woods, overstuffed furniture, 1940’s style quilts with fruit motifs, and 1950’s style red kitchens. Use an abundance of natural materials, including country-style fabric. Roosters and chickens are iconic for farmhouse décor. Consider using mason jars as decor pieces – they work great as a vase for fresh cut flowers. If you’ve got rustic metal décor pieces or vintage farm tools, they are ideally suited for this style of Americana. When selecting a color palette, go with muted primary colors, warm woods, peaches, and creams.
Western Americana
Celebrate the wild west with décor that features cows, horses, and other classic cowboy styles. Rustic furniture, distressed wood, and vintage elements like old weather vanes work well with this style. Alternatively, you can incorporate a slightly southwestern theme by including rich desert colors, geometric patterns, pottery, and hand-woven rugs.
Nautical Americana
The color palette for this style is primarily shades of blue and white. Look for seafaring décor such as anchors, lighthouses, and boats to accent the look.
Tips for Americana-Inspired Décor
Source: Shaby Brocante via Pinterest
For a short-term Americana look, make use of easy-to-add décor items you can easily add such as throw pillows, couch covers, dish towels, tablerunners, and small accent pieces. Vintage-inspired glassware, mason jars, and distressed wood boxes are easy items to add to a space without requiring an entire makeover.
For a more permanent décor, consider the overall structure of your home and the history that speaks most to you, from colonial era to 1950’s retro. Select wicker, rustic, or overstuffed furniture with Americana-inspired coverings. Walls can be painted in shades of blue, red, and white. Alternatively, peaches, creams, and natural wood colors work well for Americana. There’s actually an entire paint line inspired by the Americana style. Alternatively, you can use patterned wallpaper to create the vintage country feel. For the windows, consider drapery with Americana-inspired details or iconic American shutters.
Hunter Douglas Heritance® hardwood shutters
No matter what Americana style speaks to you, there are many ways to celebrate American history beyond Fourth of July fireworks. You can blend elements of multiple styles to create a look that speaks to you, whether for a day or for all year.
