New Ways To Add Vintage Ruffle Accents Back Into Your Home

You might think that ruffles are the kind of vintage décor trend that's more than just a little outdated; however, there are plenty of chic and contemporary ways to embrace this fabulously frilly aesthetic in your home. From practical items with just a few ruffles to pieces that take the dainty aesthetic to the extreme, you might be surprised by how many options you have if you want to indulge in these delightful touches. In fact, finding ways to blend older pieces with modern elements is the kind of eclectic design that could be the perfect style for you and your space.

A look that became a part of American homes after taking inspiration from English-country vibes, the second trend was originally inspired by the ornate Rococo style, which originated in France. Although the latter is an undeniably ornate and extravagant style, Anna Marcum, an architectural historian and preservationist in Brooklyn, told The Seattle Times, "Something that I think that English countryside style does is sort of take it down to a more accessible, natural level. It makes it a lot more romantic." Style blogger Paige Minear also spoke to The Seattle Times, stating, "I think ruffles just add that edge. That little bit of whimsy." 

Indeed, whether you're interested in something with a contemporary edge or prefer things that are simply pretty and frilly, you can make vintage ruffle accents a part of your modern home.

Many things with ruffles are made of fabric thanks to the fact that it's a material that can easily be folded and stitched together in ways that create wonderfully soft waves. However, the same kind of technique can be used for pottery that can be molded and shaped to have ruffles, which are then dried and hardened. These Pearlena Ceramic Table Vases, which cost $417 for the minimalistic pair, boast ruffles on each side that give them a unique and natural look while also creating playful shadows across the matte glazed white surfaces.

You can feature sleek ruffles on your table, shelf, dresser, or desktop by adding a bowl that has a scalloped upper edge. For instance, the lovely hand-carved Mela Artisans Wooden Scalloped Bowl with a decorative ruffle style, which is available for $15.97, has a natural-grain finish, and is meant to give off a vintage vibe. An item that could have seemingly endless uses — from holding nuts to serving as a storage space for your trinkets — it would also suit a number of interior design styles from laidback rustic cottage-core to beautiful boho-chic.

By adding ruffles to the entire outer surface area of a light fixture, it can end up looking like a fluffy white cloud. Style-savvy shoppers could take the effect even further with this $49.99 recycled polyester Vindkast pendant lamp that has ruffles sewn in to keep its shape. Pop this item above a bed, couch, or table where it can truly shine. And although the light fixture looks incredible when turned on and is meant to give off a soft glow, the ruffles make it just as lovely when the light is off.

Ruffles are delightful on their own, however, the Godsey Handmade Performance Ivory/Pink Rug, which sells for $113.60, uses the fantastic frill in a modern way that takes the aesthetic to the next level. By opting to fully cover the rug with frilly bits instead of just being left to the edges like an older piece would do, the ruffles end up looking like a carpet of fallen flower petals. This would offer any room an artistic accent in a way that indulges a romantic and whimsical feel.

Keep the modern floral aesthetic going by choosing pieces that look like fluffy flowers. Just take a peek at the Foindtower Ruffle Throw Pillow Covers. Available as a pair for $27.99, the back of each pillow cover is smooth while the front has ruffles in circular patterns that mimic the look of beautiful blooms. Perhaps they remind you of stunning dahlias, chrysanthemums (a.k.a. mums), or puffy hydrangeas. Made in a range of colors, you could stick with one shade or opt for a variety to make your room look like an indoor garden.

Blankets with ruffles — from duvets to throw blankets — are classic examples and staples of dainty décor that can be used in the bedroom, living room, family room, and beyond. Fortunately, you don't have to snap up blankets that are overly frilly and, instead, you can choose something that's both comfy and chic. For instance, the PiccoCasa Flannel Fleece Luxury Ruffle Trim Plush Microfiber Blanket regularly costs $66.69, and although it's available in burgundy, army green, and gray, you could always find another option in just the right shade for your space.

Add a little or a lot of ruffled flair to your home with window curtains. Depending on your particular taste, you might find your interest piqued by designs like the Belgian Linen Ruffle Blackout Curtain Panel (sold for $224-$254 each), which has one large ruffle at the bottom, or the Evelyn Ruffle Bottom Panel (sold as a single curtain or a pair for $194-$418), which has multiple rows of ruffles on the lower section. That's not to mention the Eyelet Appliqué Blackout Curtain Panel ($179-$194), which features lines of vertical ruffles.

Your grandparents may have a ruffled tablecloth that is covered in flowery lace and while we have no doubt that it's sweet and may even have sentimental value, you may prefer opting for a contemporary style. For instance, the Glory Season Retro Farmhouse Ruffle Tablecloth, which sells for $31.99, would suit any modern country kitchen or down-to-earth dining room. Made of cotton that is both soft and durable, it could end up being an item that sticks around for years, making it both a stylish and smart choice.

Add a simple yet oh-so-pretty hint of vintage-inspired style to your dinner table by picking up frilly placemats. Sold as a set of two for $18, the Geetuberry Ruffle Burlap Rustic Jute Placemats have folds that extend around the full circular piece. On top of that, they are made of jute, which perfectly suits the farmhouse aesthetic while also being easy to clean with a quick wipe. As if that's not enough, the material will protect the surface of your table from spills, scratches, and potentially burns if things don't get too hot.

Your table or sidebar can be adorned with ruffles in between meals if you put down a runner. Whether it matches your tablecloth or has its own style, it can offer your space a finished look. At the same time, you could also pop a runner on a dresser, desk, shelf, or any number of surfaces in your home. Simple yet pretty, there are plenty of options like the Pink Rustic Table Runner, which costs $11.99 and is made of modern crepe cotton fabric in blush pink, white, and natural (which is a light tan shade).