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updated COUNTRY FRENCH

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Using Spray Paint to Fix my Decorating Problem

By Anita 71 Comments

I feel like I need to show you the before first, so you can see the problem I was fixing. Well you need to see two before photos. I love the look of the dresses, but I did not like the black frames. Well I liked the black frames, just not next to the white headboards. Yes they are very easy to see, but they felt disjointed from the white bed frames.

 

Meanwhile I tried several different looks that you can see HERE. Below you see that I added shutters behind the beds, changed out the ottomans at the foot of the beds, and changed out the bedding. I felt the room looked too boxy.

So here is where we are now. I am not going to pronounce the room ‘done’ because I will probably always be changing things up. It looks fresh and clean to me, and not boxy. I have my special dresses back on the wall, but without the dark frames. I think the dark frames could work in a room, but looked odd next to our white headboards.

I’m actually very happy with the current look. I loved those dresses and am thrilled they are back. It is not as traditional French as it was, but I am enjoying the happy fabrics. I still have the gingham lavender fabric and will probably use it again.

I might change out the rugs in-between the beds as well. They don’t go very well with the new bedding. Someone suggested I change the wall paint color. Although I would love to see it a different color, I don’t want to spend money on that right now, so we are going to keep the current paint color for a bit longer. That’s life, right?

 

What are my take-aways?

  1. You are never done decorating!
  2. Be careful not to overdo an element in a room. I felt the new benches and the shutters behind the beds were two boxy elements that when added to the boxy beds were too much.
  3. Repeating a color in a room is good design!
  4. White always looks fresh.
  5. Don’t be afraid to move things around and try something new.

So now I have some extra shutters, so I need to figure out how I am going to use those, or sell them. Hmmmm..

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Filed Under: accessorizing, bedroom, Project

Comments

  1. suzanne ludwic says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:09

    I love the gingham draped over the shutters.

    Reply
    • Tamra Lee says

      January 28, 2017 at 10:21

      I have always loved those little dresses above the beds. . .so charming, glad to see them back!

      Reply
  2. Elaine R. says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:22

    Anita,

    Love how you have decorated this room. The dresses are adorable and make me remember I may have on of my own around the house!

    Have a beautiful day!

    Reply
  3. Angie Osborn says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:33

    Just found your blog yesterday and am so happy to find a fellow Texan! Love the crisp, clean feel of the room, along with being able to see a hint of the headboard and the gorgeous ottomans.

    Reply
    • Anita says

      January 28, 2017 at 13:41

      So happy you joined us Angie!!

      Reply
  4. Jennifer Holston says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:36

    I didn’t think I would like the frames painted but they do look better in white with your headboards! I noticed the placement of the rug under the beds, clever! I would not have thought to do that. Ideas like that are why read blogs!

    Reply
  5. Ginger Valdes says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:55

    Ok, I think that did the trick! Now the wall color isn’t an issue at all. I can see beige and white ticking to go with the lavender checks also. Love that the little dresses are back!!!
    Ginger

    Reply
  6. Cindy Nimmo says

    January 28, 2017 at 06:55

    Yes! I love seeing the dresses there again, and I thinks it’s beautiful now. The color change is just what it needed. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  7. Karen W. says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:05

    Your creative solutions inspire me!

    Reply
  8. Jane says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:06

    I agree, the dresses in the white frames is a wonderful look. Also, WOW, those benches! Can you tell us where you got them from?

    Reply
    • Anita says

      January 28, 2017 at 13:41

      I have a link for purchase here. (affiliate) http://rstyle.me/~9rHxO

      Reply
  9. Karen Rorison says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:09

    The dresses are such a personal touch. I love it.

    Reply
  10. Jan Canales says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:38

    Those dresses were one of the first things that drew me to your blog, so I ‘m happy that they’re back! Love this room!

    Reply
  11. Regina T says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:42

    I love all the white!

    Reply
  12. Cheryl Bull says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:44

    Voila! I think it is perfect!

    Reply
  13. Julia says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:51

    I love it! Painting the frames was the perfect solution. I agree that the little carpets aren’t quite right with new bedding. It is never-ending, isn’t it? I told my husband I need a warehouse for all of my decorating items. I like to switch things out but don’t have the room to store everything!

    Reply
  14. Ellen Vogel says

    January 28, 2017 at 07:58

    I love the frames painted white. I wish the headboards were up higher to be seen better. I think the room looks beautiful and inviting though. Well done.

    Reply
  15. Candy says

    January 28, 2017 at 08:04

    Love the little dresses there and the painted frames look great. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  16. Rebecca Musser says

    January 28, 2017 at 08:11

    Spray paint to the rescue again!

    Reply
  17. Linda says

    January 28, 2017 at 08:30

    Think the white frames were the answer!

    Reply
  18. Martha Durick says

    January 28, 2017 at 08:37

    Each look is great!

    Reply
  19. Deb says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:08

    I can imagine myself and sister loving this room. Soooo pretty.
    Deb

    Reply
  20. Sherry says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:08

    I think all look good however, the little dresses look so cute.

    Reply
  21. Joan says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:15

    I just love those little dresses and the frames that set them off. The white is nice, but there is something about the black that I really like. I think I would have played up the black with bedding such as a black and white toile or check (or both)! But I am really into that right now, so that’s probably why! I like your current choice of bedding, too. It’s fresh and sweet!

    Reply
    • Maryellen says

      January 30, 2017 at 00:46

      Me too, I loved the frames black. I don’t care for the floral bedding, it’s too puffy and the pattern is too busy (just my opinion). Black and white toile would look gorgeous. Perhaps a floral chintz with a more subtle pattern to incorporate the wall color also….

      Reply
  22. Starr says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:18

    Love those little dresses too!

    Reply
  23. Kelly says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:23

    I love using spray paint .

    Reply
  24. Sherry says

    January 28, 2017 at 09:38

    Yes, spray painting was a quick and good idea. The dresses looks so much better in the white frames.

    Reply
  25. Lauren@SimplyLKJ says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:22

    The power of spray paint! The dresses are darling, and are such a sweet display. I love the new look.

    Reply
  26. Cheryl Ann says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:24

    I love all of these changes…just so beautiful and creative! Blessings

    Reply
  27. Beth Pozzini Putz says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:26

    I love the gingham on the beds as an additional layer of texture and interest. I am a sucker for beautiful, complicated, layered bedding! Beautiful room…do the dresses have some significance?

    Reply
  28. Chicki Atwell says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:30

    I adore the little dress frames. Such a pretty shape! and white is better! and the comforters are gorgeous in the room! Wow! You do inspire me!

    Reply
  29. Esther says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:33

    The white frames did the trick….

    Reply
  30. Julie Bresette says

    January 28, 2017 at 10:36

    I love the bulleted list of “take aways”! Especially #1. I get stuck thinking I have to find the perfect something so that I will be done decorating.

    Reply
  31. Penny Rose says

    January 28, 2017 at 11:09

    Very cute, The white frames look great and the dresses are adorable. I personally liked the gingham better but still a beautiful room. And you’re right we’re never done decorating.

    Reply
  32. Maritza says

    January 28, 2017 at 11:22

    I love those sweet little dresses, they are so sweet so glad you decided to hang them back up…and the frames look great in white….if I might ask where did you purchase the benches at the foot of each bed???

    Wishing you a great weekend~~
    Maritza

    Reply
  33. Rebecca M says

    January 28, 2017 at 11:38

    I liked the dresses framed in black better but it still looks fine with the white frames. I would have painted the headboards black to match the dress frames. Black and white bedding with an accent color of your choice. But I get that spending money right now isn’t possible so this looks fine! The little dresses are so perfect for a decorative idea. I might consider something like this in my guest room.
    No matter what, your guest room is fresh and inviting!

    Reply
  34. Ann says

    January 28, 2017 at 12:02

    I like the white frames with the dresses; just a more serene feeling. I absolutely adore the ottomans! But, I have to say, although the florals are pretty, I love the gingham spread best, along with the mixture of pillows. But either way, it’s all beautiful, and I’m sure your guests are thrilled with the room.

    Reply
  35. Susi says

    January 28, 2017 at 12:16

    That bedding/duvet covers are GORJUSSSS! Love the watercolor-y appeal they have. The room is absolutely beautiful; I think he changes you’ve made make the room appear larger, brighter. The changes you made are soft & feminine, perfect for a girl’s room. It’s always such a pleasure to read your posts, thank you ! 🙂

    Reply
  36. Deb G says

    January 28, 2017 at 12:51

    You’re a courageous decorator and that is always encouraging and enlightening.
    Miss the gingham though.

    Reply
  37. Cynthia says

    January 28, 2017 at 12:56

    They all look great but I guess I like the first picture the best. I saw that bench at World Market and wanted it so badly….

    Reply
  38. Christi Maze says

    January 28, 2017 at 14:24

    Love that the dresses are back, and I do not think painting them ruined their appeal! Inspires me to go through by boys’ memory boxes and frame one of their most beloved clothing item when they were tiny (before sport jerseys). Makes me nostalgic. I think the duvet covers are divine. The whole room is fresh, updated and appears open and airy. Fabulous ideas here on your site. Thank you for the inspirations!

    Reply
  39. Joanne E Boulter says

    January 28, 2017 at 14:40

    I am in love with the beautiful quilts for the beds. They are so refreshing. I really like florals. Thank you for the giveaway.
    xoxo Jo

    Reply
  40. Cindy in Oklahoma says

    January 28, 2017 at 15:09

    I had one of those dark metal pieces and sold it in a garage sale a couple of years ago… why didn’t I think of painting it???? Love them painted. Love the little dresses.

    Reply
  41. Paula says

    January 28, 2017 at 16:13

    You are absolutely correct for painting the dress frames white. The bedroom must be very large to accommodate three twin beds. While I love the splash of color the poufy comforters seems too crowded between beds, maybe if they laid flat showing the rugs between the bed make look more balanced. Great design!

    Reply
  42. MARY-ANN (FROM CANADA!) says

    January 28, 2017 at 16:51

    Anita, the bedroom is beautiful! Don’t change a thing! I really love those little dresses hung on the frame above each bed — so very pretty!

    I bought one of your frames and just love it! I thought of painting it white but when I hung the little dress up, I decided to keep it black as the “old” dress is ivory and just looked better in the black frame. It is hung in our guest room and all our guests comment on it! The little dress is ivory satin with a smocked top, ruffled satin collar and sleeves and have satin bows on the sleeves! It’s so pretty — and my Grannie made it for me to come home from the hospital in — 60+ years ago! Up until I saw your idea with the frame and the dress, my little dress was kept in my cedar chest! It is just so pretty hanging in the frame!

    Have a nice week-end!

    Blessings!

    Reply
  43. Linda says

    January 28, 2017 at 17:09

    Glad to know I am not the only one that has to stretch out the decorating plan. Great design and an inspiration for me.

    Reply
  44. Karen says

    January 28, 2017 at 18:09

    I adore the little dresses. Makes me think back to when I dressed my baby girl in lace and frills…and spent my free time ironing the garments. How times have changed.

    Reply
  45. Erika says

    January 28, 2017 at 21:24

    Absolutely LOVE THE DRESSES and the colors in the bedding.

    Reply
  46. Nancy Walden says

    January 28, 2017 at 21:47

    I think the white frames and the little dresses are perfect!

    Reply
  47. Colleen says

    January 28, 2017 at 21:50

    I love those little dresses and am so glad they’re back! While I liked the architectural element that the black added, it was a a little jarring when combined with the white headboards.

    Reply
  48. Marie Pearson says

    January 29, 2017 at 00:45

    Beautiful room. Maybe my idea is too matchy-matchy, but the next time you paint, consider some sort of blue on the walls. I definitely like the white frames better than the black – very nice setting for your cute little dresses. The benches are absolutely lovely and I love the cheerful bedding.

    Reply
  49. Debra says

    January 29, 2017 at 02:16

    Love, love, love! Fresh and beautiful and it didn’t cost a thing!

    Reply
  50. Linda says

    January 29, 2017 at 15:10

    Hi Anita,

    I do like the fabrics and the dresses above the beds. Only being able to see the room in photos is a real disadvantage for me. That said, I might take the benches and the baskets away from the ends of the beds. And I agree about changing the rug color. I do like all of the things you do so please don’t hate me for offering my take on the darling bedroom.

    Linda

    Reply
  51. Barbara Harilaou says

    January 29, 2017 at 15:28

    They look so much better painted white .They shutters I thing were too much [bulky] the dress frames fit right in with the whole look. Beautifully done.

    Reply
  52. Kat says

    January 29, 2017 at 16:13

    LOVE it! The little dresses add so much character. I think it looks great. I agree with you on changing the rugs out between the beds. But is seriously is absolutely a beautiful room.

    Reply
  53. Elizabeth Roderick says

    January 29, 2017 at 17:07

    Painting the frames was a great idea. They look airy and ready for Spring. Love the bedding too.

    Reply
  54. Barbara says

    January 29, 2017 at 21:44

    I absolutely LOVE this room and the dresses are my favorite element, then those beautiful floral duvets, that do not show a repeat, the eyelet bed skirts, the pompoms on the long pillows, the lacy iron beds and the blue benches. It is just so airy and light and feminine. I appreciate and learn when you share your process. For my suggestions, a pastel on the walls and perhaps the rugs. Thanks again, Anita.

    Reply
  55. Kristi Riggs says

    January 30, 2017 at 08:31

    The dresses are my favorite thing in that room! I agree, changing the rugs to a different color would make the room flow better. Still a great room though!!

    Reply
  56. Bonnie says

    January 30, 2017 at 12:18

    I really like the frames painted white and the little dresses are so cute.

    Reply
  57. Jan says

    January 30, 2017 at 12:51

    I love the room with the 3 beds, so beautiful, gave me great idea for guest room. Is this a guest room? Looks so much prettier with new design. Thank you for inspiration! Love your blog always look forward to getting it!
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Anita says

      January 30, 2017 at 20:19

      No it’s my girls’ bedroom with one bed for a friend.

      Reply
  58. Lin Shultz says

    February 6, 2017 at 07:17

    I love the room! The little dresses are similar to how I used two of my baby dresses. The only thing I would change is the fabric on the duvets. Somehow it just seems to take precedence over the rest of the room….I think I would like the gingham for the duvet covers. But the room is lovely overall!!!

    Reply
  59. Portia R says

    February 7, 2017 at 00:14

    Perfect Anita! ?

    Reply
  60. Kim in PA says

    March 11, 2017 at 08:42

    I also love the dresses and white frames!!
    Is the following idea too much? I would love to see a small hint of color on the dresses….pulled from the colors on the bedding. Like maybe a small flower i.e. rosebud or ribbon by each collar, off to side, not centered. I think it would pull everything together, be super cohesive and super sweet!
    Always enjoy the decorating posts.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Anita says

      March 11, 2017 at 19:18

      Great idea Kim! I’ll have to think on that one.

      Reply
  61. Erika says

    March 11, 2017 at 08:50

    Love the white painted frames but then it is a little harder to see the beautiful “lattice” work within the frame. Also, as I don’t know the size of the shutters, maybe you could use them as room dividers just as they are or put a few together. I know it will be lovely whatever you decide to do.

    Reply
  62. Vicki Haney says

    March 11, 2017 at 09:38

    Love the dresses above the beds. A neck roll pillow of lavender gingham might be cute on the bed or on the bench. I love pillows.

    Reply
  63. Bonnie says

    March 13, 2017 at 11:56

    I really like the little dresses hanging inside the white frames. That room looks very comfortable.

    Reply
  64. Nancy Pharr says

    June 2, 2017 at 09:23

    I have painted frames so many times. It can change everything! Spray paint is my best friend!

    Reply
  65. Connie Fowler says

    January 12, 2018 at 06:09

    LOVE the benches and baskets at the end of each bed. Genius!

    Reply

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