One of the hottest trends right now has got be vintage- and it is easy to see why. When done with the right balance between old and new, the vintage chic look is bright and charming. Mixing old shapes and styles with update fabrics helps create a balance, so you don’t feel like you stepped back in time!

This dining room is a great example of the sereneness you can create with this style. Shades of antique white, creams and natural woods are offset with a pair of blue velvet chairs and the lush green in the centerpiece.

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Below, a modern olive green leather is tufted onto a classic sofa, with shades of washed out whites and light wood grains keep the room interesting. The  chandeliers in a high gloss white and strung with crystals screams glamor and the contrast between the shabby old floor and modern mixture of colour and brightness really make this pop.

Start with a neutral background, think  creamy greys or taupes, and mix in shades of white and ivories. Don’t worry about matching the shades of white, the clash of tones will help the eclectic feeling that vintage chic brings with it. Add a few colours to the space, like muted pinks, turquoise or jade into patterned goods like accent chairs or throw pillows. Be careful not to overdo the vintage- get a few great pieces like a worn trunk and use as a coffee table, and a few worn and weather candle holders to start. Mixing the old with the new, keep some modern and contemporary pieces and play with the balance you like! A great floral pattern is a staple in vintage chic design, so why not try a pretty wallpaper that combines all of the above!

Check out this wallpaper- too dreamy! Mix it up with some gold tones, rather than silver, like this antiqued chandelier.

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In your search for vintage items, be sure to check out your local garage sales, thrift stores and antique shops. Keep on the lookout for interesting items, or quirky conversation pieces. If you are in the Edmonton area. be sure to check out The Old Strathcona Antique Mall.  Happy hunting!

http://www.PalmDesignGroup.com, http://www.grahambrown.ca/us/product/17869/Isabelle+%3A+Blue+Wallpaper, http://www.homedepot.ca/lighting