Interior design in the English style - basics and rules of design

History of appearance

English interiors are decorated in baroque, gothic, classic and realist styles. However, they all have common features that characterize the way of life of the English aristocracy. The most characteristic of England are the interiors of the reign of Queen Victoria (Victorian style) and King George (Georgian style).

They developed in the era of prosperity and development of the country - at the end of the 17th - beginning of the 18th century. As a rule, they are distinguished by their attraction to expensive, respectable furniture and room decoration, and the presence in the interior of overseas decorative items made of precious and rare materials (ivory, mahogany).

A notable feature of English design of that period is its colonial gloss. That is, decorative and household items brought from India, Africa, America or Australia were often found in the interiors. They fit into the situation. According to custom, such items were preserved and passed on from generation to generation in excellent condition. The main feature that characterizes interior design in the English style is the abundance of antique furniture, decor, and dishes in an authentic setting.

Advice. When creating an English style in the interior of a modern apartment, you need to select finishing materials, furniture, textiles and lighting in the spirit of old England, without even a hint of modernity, speed of life, or the functionality of household appliances. The interior should create the impression of exquisite solidity, regularity and good quality.

Timeless classics from British aristocrats

The classic English style of clothing has stood the test of time and is the oldest, but its venerable age has not affected its popularity at all. This style does not obey changing and capricious fashion trends - it subordinates them, remaining the eternal embodiment of elegance.

Examples of men's clothing in the English style

At the origins of fashion classics

The exquisite style, adored by many, appeared in England in the 17th century and over time conquered all of Europe and then the world. Initially, strict noble suits were worn exclusively by aristocratic men, but the charm of the English style did not leave people of different professions, gender and age indifferent, as we can now see.

From purism to classics

The restrained style with a puritanical aura was quickly dubbed purism, confirming its eternal relevance, the name “purism” turned into “classic clothing style”. Nowadays it is customary to use a partly geographical definition of “English style”.

Examples of women's clothing in the style of Purism

Who is the English style suitable for?

English style in the interior will definitely appeal to the following categories of citizens:

#1. Collectors, since the furnishings of English rooms are replete with collections of beautiful dolls, exquisite dishes, antique furniture, decorative elephants, rhinoceroses and other items. On the mantelpiece and in the display cabinets there are various collections.

#2. Those who like to read natural paper books in a cozy chair in front of the fireplace, because in an English home there must be a home library. And regardless of its size, number and content of books, it is a place of relaxation and a study at the same time. Books are placed in large wooden cabinets equipped with a ladder (in order to easily get any book). In addition, libraries are equipped with a massive table and a comfortable chair with a standing floor lamp nearby.

#3. For connoisseurs of beautiful, comfortable and expensive furniture made from solid natural wood and fabric upholstery. In English interiors, furniture sets play a leading role. Furniture is carefully selected, combining various items with each other. It is bought not for one season, but for centuries.

#4. For owners of small apartments, interior design in the English style will come in handy. Since the rooms in English houses are small and even cramped. This is due to climatic conditions. A small room can be better heated in damp and windy weather. In this regard, you can safely borrow from the British the principles of room decoration, the use of colors and methods of arranging furniture.

#5. Adherents of the classics will like the interiors due to their symmetry, harmony and precise proportions. There is nothing superfluous in the design, everything is in its place.

Who suits the English style of clothing?

The English style of clothing with its restrained aristocracy is not suitable for everyone. In its purest form, this is the choice of real ladies and gentlemen, endowed with excellent taste. However, this fashion trend will definitely appeal to people who respect the classics in everyday life, and, of course, will provide all possible assistance in creating an office wardrobe with a strict dress code.

A striking and inspiring example of English style in real life can be the royal family, especially Duchess Kate Middleton.

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Despite the fact that the English style sacredly preserves historical traditions, many clothing designers take it as a basis, setting new fashion trends and directions. Combining what seems incompatible at first glance, they get quite interesting results. It is not for nothing that the world-famous Central College of Art and Design is located in London, which has become a symbol of High Fashion for many, and twice a year the weeks of the same name are held to show designer works from all over the world.

Basic English style

When designing interior design in the English style, modern designers rely on the following principles:

• living space must be clearly zoned;
• windows and other glass inserts are made from small parts - stained glass;
• for finishing surfaces, natural wood (most often oak), stone or their modern analogues are used;
• the living room, library or bedroom is equipped with a modern fireplace with a decorative shelf;
• lighting is selected dim and varied (sconces, floor lamps, lamps);
• when planning the furnishings of the rooms, they carefully consider the arrangement of cabinets, armchairs, sofas and other furniture;
• for textile design, choose natural fabrics with stripes, tartan, plain fabrics or small floral patterns are also suitable;
• the furnishings are decorated with decor - framed photographs, figurines, mirrors, paintings and portraits, vases.

The main elements of clothing inherent in the English style

Blazer

The jacket has become one of the most favorite clothing options in the English style. Especially now that jackets have become so relevant. The style of the jacket in the English style is quite classic. It can be straight or at the waist. No super wide models, voluminous shoulders or flounces. Everything is discreet and tasteful. The jacket is worn with a dress, then a model just below the waist or standard length is possible. If with other clothes, then a jacket is an option, covering the line of the belt on the hips. And to complement such a jacket, use a belt at the waist. The color of the jacket may vary. Most often these are solid basic colors - black, brown, dark blue, beige. A favorite print for an English-style jacket is plaid.

Dress

Women who support the English style most often wear dresses rather than skirts. And these dress models do not change; there is nothing flashy, daring or overly sexy about them. English-style dresses are often presented in the form of a fitted top to the waist without a neckline, and the skirt will be straight or flared. The length of the dress is also different. The shortest is 5 centimeters above the knee. More often they use this or covering the knee to the middle. The color palette of dresses is different. Most often these are neutral basic shades - beige, gray, brown, burgundy, blue, etc. But modernity makes its own adjustments and brighter shades have appeared - blue, light green, yellow.

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Coat

The coat has become a distinctive feature of the English style for a reason. England is a rather cold, windy and rainy country. Therefore, a coat comes in handy here. There are not many coat options, but they are all worthy of attention. The models are as follows: straight, coat-robe with a belt, coat with a skirt with flounces. These coat models are very versatile and will suit any look. Only a coat with a flounced skirt is better to choose for younger girls. And it’s best to combine it with a dress or skirt. With trousers it will no longer look like the English style and, moreover, it will be quite ridiculous. Another coat model ideal for the English style is a poncho or cape. This is a sleeveless coat with slits for the arms. A stunning option for stylish and fashionable girls. Pair with this style of coat with high gloves and you will feel like an English lady.

Costume

Although the English style adheres to traditional elements of clothing, modern innovations bear fruit. Suits have become an integral part of the wardrobe of English ladies. They are comfortable and practical, but do not lose the stateliness of the English style. The suit can be not only trouser, but also with a skirt. Look at the Queen of England and you will understand what we mean. There are wonderful species costumes. For example, take a look at Chanel models. There are now many copies of this version of the costume. If we are talking about a trouser suit, then the trousers are usually loose-fitting. These can be straight or slightly loose at the hips, like breeches.

Features of the layout in the English style

The main principle that governs all interior decoration and arrangement of rooms is symmetry. Doors in corridors, windows, rooms - everything is located symmetrically. As mentioned above, English houses are often characterized by the presence of small rooms. But at the same time, they can have two floors. A beautiful staircase in the living room leading to the second floor is not only a characteristic feature of the style, but also an important element of dividing the space.

Basic principles of English style

We have already looked at examples of English interiors here. Therefore, let’s go over the basic points, without which the English style is unthinkable.

Comfort comes first. Upholstered furniture is arranged so that it is convenient to have a conversation while gathered in the living room.

Bright accents. When there is a gray sky and rain outside, vibrant colors are so pleasing to the eye.

Interior color scheme in English style

As a rule, English design is based on combinations of the following colors:

#1. brown, terracotta and dark green with golden splashes of ocher;

#2. dark brown, sand, chocolate and beige.

On a note. Using dark, muted colors to decorate rooms is a typical feature. The following rule works: rooms facing the south are decorated in cool green, blue, gray tones, and those facing the north are made visually warmer and more comfortable with the help of warm colors - chocolate, ocher, crimson, sand.

Light interiors are less common, but are also acceptable in style. Typically, white, beige, and light gray colors are chosen for surfaces. At the same time, they try to combine the furniture upholstery with the decoration and patterns on the walls, and the wooden parts can be made of either light or dark wood.

Other characteristics of the fashion trend

Despite the unshakability of the main trends, the modern English style of clothing has nevertheless been enriched with various features. It was he who became the starting point for the development of new directions. Describing some of them will help to better understand the enduring authority and great opportunities of British fashion.

Vanguard

The founder of a non-trivial style opportunity was fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. She dared to challenge tradition by diversifying her fashion luggage with bright colors and unusual accessories. Her collections are permeated with the spirit of rebellion and protest against generally accepted rules. Vivienne Westwood has been called the queen of punk. Her clothes are decorated with numerous decorative elements - pins, embroidery, rivets. Fabrics often have the most unexpected designs in the form of abstract images. Sets often combine incompatible colors.

But if you look closely at the photos of the famous lady’s collections, you can note the main feature of her models. The motley variety of costumes is always based on the outline of traditional and national characteristics. Avant-garde models can be considered the fantasy of some crazy city lady.

Retro

Modern looks, based on fashion trends of the forties and fifties of the last century, include romantic dresses with small flowers and a tulip skirt. Women's suits are completed with an elongated jacket or an elegant tuxedo. It is preferable to choose narrow trousers, which favorably emphasize the slender silhouette of a woman’s legs. Evening dresses must have an open back and a long train.

Hairstyle, manicure and makeup - everything is very restrained and discreet. Accessories are exclusively antique: cane, hat, scarf-boa, clutch bag, decorated with rhinestones or sparkles.

Country

The image of an English country fashionista is characterized by exquisite simplicity and practicality. The main elements of the style are a straw hat, shoes made of straps or perforated leather, simple jewelry made of leather, beads, and stones. The rural image also includes wardrobe items typical of hunters. These could be breeches with suspenders, an unusual hat with a feather, or low-heeled leather boots.

Wall decoration

To finish flat surfaces, it is customary to use natural materials: wooden panels, paper wallpaper, plaster or water-based paint. To decorate a modern room in the English style, several techniques are used:

#1. The plane of the wall is divided horizontally, with the lower part covered with oak or walnut panels, and the upper part painted with matte light paint.

#2. The wall is visually divided using overhead moldings, after which they, along with the surface, are painted in the same color.

#3. To visually raise low ceilings, striped wallpaper is used; in rooms with high ceilings, patterned wallpaper with monograms or floral patterns is used.

Decoration in English style

English design is a model of elegance and excellent taste, so to fully recreate the Old English spirit will require significant expenditure.

Walls

Only natural materials are used for wall decoration.

It can be:

• wallpaper;
• panels made of expensive wood species;
• decorative plaster;
• emulsion paint.

To decorate rooms in the English style, several simple methods are used.

You can do this:

1. Divide the wall surface completely horizontally with a thin line. Cover the bottom with wooden panels and paint the top with light matte paint.
2. Visually divide the wall into parts using moldings, then paint everything together in one color.
3. To visually raise the ceilings, walls are covered with striped wallpaper; in rooms with high ceilings, wallpaper with large monograms or small ornaments is pasted.

Floor

In modern flooring finishing, special parquet boards made of natural wood are usually used. Ceramic floor tiles are installed in the kitchen and bathroom. The floors are covered with beautiful carpets with oriental patterns.

Ceiling

The ceiling is whitewashed with lime or painted with an emulsion of pale, almost white tones. To make it completely ready, the edges of the perimeter are decorated with stucco cornices, painted to match the color of the walls or ceiling. You can make them gold plated.

Lighting

When selecting lighting in the style of Colonial Britain, several options for lighting fixtures are selected for a certain part of the room. For example, in the hall there is a separate area for evening entertainment.

Floor lamps are installed next to armchairs and sofas or several sconces are attached above them. In the center of the ceiling (if it is high) be sure to hang a large crystal chandelier.

In the sleeping room, decorative lamps are placed on compact bedside tables, a sconce is placed on the wall above the dressing table, and a medium chandelier with 3-5 arms is hung on the ceiling.

The large kitchen is illuminated by two or three ceiling lights. For a small square, it is advisable to hang one small single-arm chandelier.

Furniture

Victorian style involves expensive pieces of furniture. All products are made from oak wood, mahogany or walnut. Sofas and armchairs have round armrests, lots of small cushions and are upholstered in beautiful expensive fabric with a striped or tartan pattern.

A special piece of furniture is the cozy fireplace chair, upholstered in velvet or genuine leather.

The rest of the furniture should have rounded armrests made of dense, high-quality fabric.

Textile

When choosing “clothing for windows”, choose curtains made of velvet, tapestry, and thick chintz.

Textiles used to decorate the bedroom:

1. Window openings are covered with heavy curtains.
2. The bed is covered with a quilted or printed bedspread and decorative pillows are laid out in artistic disorder.
3. A large soft chair or ottoman with thought pillows and a pouf is placed next to the window.
4. The dressing table is covered with a light lace tablecloth.

The patterns on the curtains should be harmoniously combined with the upholstery.

Decor

Decorative elements play an important role in decorating rooms.

For decoration use:

• volumetric mirrors in baguette frames;
• family reproductions or paintings;
• a collection of dolls in ancient outfits;
• dishes made of fine expensive porcelain;
• Victorian flowerpots and candlesticks.

A mandatory item is a decorative artificial or real fireplace.

Ceiling finishing

Most often, the ceiling is simply whitewashed or painted with light paint. To give it a finished look, it is decorated with stucco cornices along its perimeter (an echo of classics and baroque). Cornices are painted to match the walls or ceiling, sometimes gilded.

If the room is decorated in a rustic country style, then the ceiling is decorated with wooden boards or beams.

Floor finishing

In historical interiors, artistic parquet, polished boards, and stone tiles were used. Today it is acceptable to use modern materials that imitate natural texture. For example, to decorate the living room, you can choose laminate or parquet boards. Ceramic tiles are laid on the floor in the bathroom and kitchen. You can lay it out in a pattern, play with the size, color and texture of the details. The floor in the living room and bedroom is covered with a beautiful warm carpet with oriental patterns.

Lighting organization

To properly organize lighting in the spirit of colonial England, you should select several options for soft diffused lighting for each zone. This technique is especially relevant for the living room. It has a separate area for reading, evening tea and board games. Several floor lamps are installed next to the sofa and armchairs, and sconces are hung above them.

It is also common to hang a large chandelier with glass pendants in the living room. However, this technique can only be used if the ceilings are high.

To illuminate the bedroom, lamps are installed on the bedside tables, sconces are hung near the dressing table, and the ceiling is equipped with a small chandelier with 1 to 3 arms.

The large dining room is illuminated by several chandeliers and lamps. For a small kitchen, one lighting fixture is sufficient.

Correct selection of furniture

Interior design in the English style is, first of all, high-quality, expensive furniture. The British buy furniture for themselves and future generations. Tables, cabinets, chests of drawers, bedside tables, shelves are made from oak, mahogany or cheaper walnut wood. Upholstered furniture is characterized by comfort, respectable appearance and beautiful fabric upholstery. It can be striped, plaid or with a floral pattern.

Characteristic of English life are soft armchairs with “ears”, cabinets with small glazing (stained glass), sofas with round armrests and an abundance of pillows.

Examples of furniture in the English style:

Wardrobe requirements

There are certain requirements for an English-style wardrobe.

Male

A men's set of things of this style will not go out of fashion for a long time. It is optimal for classic lovers who prefer elegance, as well as conservatives who value chic simplicity and convenience.

It is difficult to imagine the favorite style of the British without a suit. Thanks to England, the world learned about a suit that has:

• notched lapels;
• slits on the sides of the jacket;
• fastening with one or three buttons.

A characteristic of expensive products is the presence of buttons on the sleeves, while in ordinary models they are sewn on for decorative purposes. And the lapel on the left side from the inside implies a loop for securing the flower.

The jacket does not really express the shoulder line, requiring only small shoulder pads; The style is slightly fitted, with the hem falling to the hips. The lower part of the suit consists of trousers at the waist that fit the legs. In the traditions of the style described is the use of suspenders.

Men's clothing style is a manifestation of the pedantry characteristic of this nation in various small details. Thus, a sports suit for them is a jacket with leather elbow patches. This is due to the aversion to sloppiness: everything is thought out before going out to avoid possible discussions of appearance. A man's wardrobe in this style is simple, and its base is made up of items that fit perfectly together - blazers and shirts made of thick fabrics, straight-cut trousers, coats and cozy large knit sweaters, classic ties and mufflers.

Female

Women's clothing in the classic English style implies the presence of a suit. It certainly differs from men's, but it also has elegance. Single-breasted or double-breasted fitted jacket with pockets and pronounced shoulders, straight or slanted lapels. Pants are usually wide or slightly tight-fitting with arrows, and skirts are of the “pencil” type, always midi or shorter. This costume characterizes a woman as having exquisite taste and impeccable manners.

Another traditional item of clothing for women remains a tailored jacket with lapels and sides, with trim, in the same tone as the item. It perfectly complements dresses and blouses and makes a harmonious pair for skirts and trousers.

An English coat gives a woman a special charm. The favorite style for girls has become a model that resembles a jacket in cut, length to the middle of the knees and a possible strap at the waist.

The English style in a woman's clothing is the presence of a dress. Numerous photos show its important features:

• fitted;
• knee length;
• no cutouts;
• wraparound or slotted cuts;
• decor – stitching to match the model.

In such a dress, a woman will not go unnoticed and will always be elegant.

Textile

The aristocratic commitment to an abundance of beautiful textiles is embodied by the English style in the interior. When decorating rooms, choose heavy velvet fabrics, damask, tapestry, checkered or striped chintz. The pattern on fabric and furniture upholstery is selected very carefully; it must be harmoniously combined.

Textiles are most used for bedroom decor:

• the windows are covered with heavy, straight-cut curtains;
• the bed is covered with a quilted bedspread and decorated with decorative pillows;
• near the window there is a cozy chair or sofa with pillows and an ottoman;
• the dressing table is covered with an embroidered or lace tablecloth.

Interpretations of English classics in the 21st century

The English style in modern interpretations is acquiring more and more nuances and expanding the list of permitted liberties. Due to the need for designers to break the rules, it is now customary to distinguish two key directions of English style: English classics with strict canons and British street style, which is an explosive mixture of elegance and shockingness.

Celebrity fans of the classics

English style of clothing in the wardrobe of the English Queen
The main icon of English style is Queen Elizabeth II, who delights the whole world with her elegant outfits.

It is important to understand that bright colors and graceful liberties are not violations of style, but the privilege of the queen, which should always be in sight. Other famous fans of the style include Victoria Beckham, Stella McCartney, John Galliano, Christopher Zane, and Zac Posen.

Accessories and decor

For room decoration you can use the following items:

• mirrors in a beautiful three-dimensional frame;
• family portraits or framed photographs;
• a collection of dolls in beautiful Victorian era outfits;
• porcelain dishes in cabinet displays;
• candlesticks and vases.

An integral decorative element of English furnishings is the fireplace. If earlier it also had a practical function - it warmed the room - now it performs a decorative function. It creates a unique feeling of peace and comfort in the room. Today, to arrange a fireplace area, you do not need to make a chimney. After all, modern systems operate environmentally and safely.

Interior decor items in the English style:

Accessories for English style

Clothing, of course, sets a special style, but it can also be realized with the help of accessories. For example, adding one or another accessory to classic modern looks, you can talk about an image in the English style.

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Hats

When watching films set in England, you probably noticed that many people prefer to wear a headdress, both men and women. There are many headwear options for women. For summer and special occasions, a veil (a small hat with a veil) and a boater (a hard-shaped straw hat with a cylindrical crown and straight brim) are suitable. In colder times, a cloche (a bell-shaped hat with a lowered brim), a cap, and a toque (a brimless hat with a high crown) are suitable for the English style. A wide-brimmed hat and a pillbox hat made from a different material will be universal for all seasons.

Gloves

The English style is about restraint and therefore it is customary to cover many parts of the body, this also applies to the hands. English-style gloves are an indispensable item. They come in a variety of textures and materials, from thin mesh to leather or suede. The length of the gloves also varies. With long sleeves and in warm weather, shorter gloves are worn, covering only the hand. And in the cold season, it is customary to wear long gloves with a coat with short sleeves that completely cover the exposed parts of the hands.

Photos of interior design in English style

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