Ever wonder what the word vignette means? The first time I heard it I thought it sounded like a dance from the Victorian era or that granny made it up. Neither is correct. A vignette is simply a small grouping of decorative objects, which can make a beautiful statement in any room. So when you decide to be creative, here are 5 tips to remember when styling the perfect vignette.
5 Tips to Remember When Styling the Perfect Vignette
The purpose of a vignette is to create an eye-catching pop of interest. And you can do so on any flat surface. Yep, that’s any flat surface.
When your surface is wide or large, count the wall piece as a part of your odd numbered items.
Here are several that come to mind. A console table, a bedside table or dresser, a coffee table, a countertop, window ledge, the top of a refrigerator, a mantel, on bookshelves, on the wall, in a cabinet, and even on the back of a toilet (ok, not my favorite spot).
Vintage Charm Porch Ideas
No matter where you choose to create a vignette, let me share how to make it look like you have the magic touch. I didn’t say professional because sometimes they can look over the top or stuffy. We want well done but casual. At least I do.
This small cabinet vignette is charming and delightful.
Tip #1 – Create a mood. The mood I set is usually going to be a positive one. Like happiness, whimsical, lighthearted or cheerful. I’m not sure I’ve ever done a vignette that’s anything but those listed but I can see how some can me mysterious, suspenseful or even fearful. Like Halloween or anything with a statue of a snake. Why?!
A dining table is a great place to throw together an interesting vignette.
Tip #2 – Stick to a theme. The photo above is on a dining room table and used as a centerpiece. Notice how all the items are similar and are dining themed? You may think it’s odd to use plates, napkins and flatware as a centerpiece but it’s not only pretty all sitting there together, it’s practical too.
Tip #3 – Use an odd number of objects. 3, 5, or 7 items are ideal for vignettes. But when your space is large or wide, consider the entire area when counting your items.
Short, medium and taller items together are more appealing.
Tip #4 – Vary your heights. Don’t ask why different heights or odd numbers look better, they just do. Imagine decorating a mantle with only votive candles across the entire thing. If everything is the same height, it’s boring. But if you’re going for a minimalistic look, surprise, it’s appealing. But an odd number of candles looks better. Just sayin’.
A wall is a flat surface that can turn into a fun vignette.
Tip #5 – Vary the textures. Glass, wood, wicker, iron, fabric, soft, smooth, rough, gritty, fluffy. Having different textures keeps things from feeling cold and harsh. You don’t need a ton of differences, just a couple.
I enjoy keeping everyday items gathered in a vignette on the counter.
All this said, don’t be afraid to step outside the box. Each area can be unique due to size, shape, etc. If 4 items feels and looks better to you, do it. There’s no right or wrong. If your space can handle 9 or 10 items, it’s okay!
Even the ground or a porch can be filled with vignettes.
These 5 tips to remember when styling the perfect vignette are only to guide you. They aren’t set in stone but they do create amazing vignettes.
Lastly, be you. Decorate with what you love and create your own niche!
That’s so funny that you opened. By defining a vignette. I literally read the title and asked myself what a vignette is! This was so helpful. I can hear you speaking it to me as you write! The vignettes you created are beautiful. I do notice that I get stuck on using the odd number. Even in your photos I was busy counting the pieces. For example, I LOVE the porch vignette with the tiny chair, but i count two items on the chair and wonder if the plant or the magazines count to make it three. I know you said not to be legalistic about it, but I did notice myself doing that in the photos. I’m learning, so I don’t think I have freedom and confidence to vear from odd numbers yet! 🤣
Author
I can’t believe you actually commented sister Jean! I am glad you found it helpful. As for the porch, you can look at it 2 ways. The rocking bench is one, the sewing box/planter is 2 and the blue chair is the 3rd since they are all bunched together. You can also look at is as the blue chair having 3 items on it – the wreath, the magazines and the blue insulator. Or you can use “stacks” of items as one thing so the blue chair is 1, the stack of magazines with the insulator as the 2nd and the wreath as the 3rd. Hope that makes sense. Call me anytime though. I love helping!
Such amazing tips and ideas, Cindy!! Thanks so much for sharing!!
Author
Hope you find it helpful. Thank you Rachel.
Thank you, you truly are inspiring. When I read your blog and see what you’ve done I catch myself looking around to see what needs changing. Have a happy day!!
Author
Aww, thank you so much Marlene. You made my day! I know some of my readers are counting the items in each photo. lol! Have fun with it!
I love how you always encourage everyone to be true to themselves and decorate in their own style! This is a great breakdown of how to go about putting together a vignette. I think until you take a few runs at creating a vignette, it can feel intimidating. This step-by-step walk-through is very helpful for anyone feeling uncertain. ;My favorite is the dining table vignette with the lemons in the glass pitcher and the hydrangeas in the white vase. It feels effortless, and as if everything that’s there is in it’s perfect spot. I’m pinning away to my Vignettes board!
Author
Thank you so much Kristine! I always want to encourage people. There are enough people out there telling us what to buy and making us feel less than when we don’t. I truly appreciate your comment. Hope you have a great week.
These are so cute and cheerful to me with a rustic charm. I have ZERO creativity when it comes to stuff like this. You just come on down to Florida and vignette my whole house for me. I LOVE looking at all your photos because they are always so charming, and just what I have in mind for my home. I can envision it, but I cannot execute it. I’m kind of the Queen of Pinterest Fails, so I don’t even try. LOL
Author
You fly me down there and I’d be happy to help! 😉 But I hope after the tips that you give it a try. There’s really no messing it up if you do what you like. Just start in one small space and play around until you like it. Odd numbers and different heights are the 2 most important things to remember. I’m a very practical person so many times my vignettes have a lamp I use daily or a plant that needs the shadows in that spot. Even kitchen canisters! Try it Stephanie and thanks so much for the sweet comment.
These are all such fabulous tips, Cindy! I see vignettes like these in antique stores or during big outdoor events and I want to recreate them so bad! Sometimes they seem complicated because of all the layers but these tips really help to break it down so that it feels more manageable. I can’t wait to get started and revamping some of the spaces and vignettes around the house. You’ve totally inspired me! Hugs, CoCo
Author
Woohoo – You go girl! I love an easy and casual, practical vignette. Enjoy the process and thanks for the visit.
Great decorating tips to kick off the new year, Cindy! Loved seeing all your example vignettes;)
Author
Thanks so much Lora. I love a good vignette and I’ve seen many on your blog. You’ve got the gift. 🙂
So many cute ideas. I love your style. Hugs to you, my friend.
Author
Thank you so much Renae. I appreciate that. Have a great weekend!
Lots of great ideas! Beautiful vignettes and beautiful photographs!
Author
Thank you Missy. Hope you’re having a great week.