French Flair

Fifi O'Neill shares her go-to advice on decorating with a style that's all French!

Lived-In Style 05.May.2025

International author and stylist Fifi O’Neill has continued to inspire us with her expansive library of home decor books. Her latest, French Flair; Creating a Home Inspired by French Style, illustrates an effortless way of life defined by sophistication and simplicity. It is an aesthetically fresh mix that feels at once current and familiar. We sat down with Fifi to get the inside scoop on all things French.

Lived-In Style: How are you are personally connected to French style?

Fifi: I was born and raised in Paris, France and was exposed to beautiful interiors early on, so it’s kind of in my DNA. My mother had a keen eye for great pieces, not necessarily for antiques (though she appreciated them) but for anything with character, may it be style or patina.

LIS: Is the American interpretation of French design different than one might see in France?

Fifi: It often is due to the fact that the style may get adapted to what one’s take on French style is. It also varies based on which part of the US a home is situated. For instance, because of the climate, Californians seems to have a connection with the South of France. Their interpretation is always a pretty good reflection of the type of exteriors and interiors you see in Provence; while in Texas, the rendition is usually more representative of very large homes, even châteaux, with furnishings that go hand in hand with the style. Those fortunate to be able to afford the ‘real thing” have the opportunity to acquire furniture imported from France via various sources from coast to coast. However, there is also the option of buying at flea markets or going for reproductions. Either way, it comes down to how each individual choses to create their version of French style.

LIS: How has French decor changed over the years? Are there trends within a style?

Fifi: French style encompasses a number of decor styles: French country (of course); French provincial; Rococo; Régence; Directoire; Empire, and now French Modernism. Today, unless you are a purist, it’s perfectly fine to mix styles. In America, the most popular style is still French Country.

LIS: What key elements communicate French style in a home?

Fifi: Shapely and well-scaled furniture.
Textural finishes like plaster, stucco, stone, wood.
Weathered and muted pieces.
Textiles such as linen and natural cotton with patterns like toile de Jouy, the mille-fleurs prints of Provence, and those with stripes, ticking, gingham and florals.
Interiors that look relaxed, not perfect or contrived.

LIS: Can one create the spirit of France in a new build or modern apartment?

Fifi: Absolutely! You know the old saying “It’s what’s inside that counts.” Well, that applies to a home, regardless of its architecture and location.

LIS: What are you working on in your spare time? (If you have any spare time.)

Fifi: I have been working on a novel “The French Girl’s Chronicles”. It’s quite challenging because it’s a complete departure from writing books on interiors. Plus, a lot of it is based on true events and characters (though often embellished for impact) and, of course, some made up happenings. So, it takes discipline and persistence.

The other activity I indulge in is gardening. That is my true escape from everything, one where I can just get lost in the moment.

LIS: Surprise us and tell us something we don’t know about you.

Fifi: In the past, I have owned 3 French restaurants, though not all at the same time.

LIS: What has been your greatest challenge and biggest highlight in your career?

Fifi: The greatest challenge was to get a newspaper to agree to letting me write a weekly gardening section for them. The biggest highlight? Well, I am still reaching for that one, but it will be when my fifteenth book is published, next year OR when the novel is made into a Netflix series, whichever comes first!

LIS: How do you stay inspired?

Fifi: I am not sure other than I am never at a loss for coming up with new writing projects. I am interested by so many topics– from food to homes and gardens, people and animals. It’s a blessing and a curse!! Speaking of animals, they are my true passion. Also, I am working on a beautiful book Visions of Christmas that will be released on Amazon this Fall, the perfect Christmas gift for animal lovers (just saying...) Why is that important? Because 100% of the net proceeds will be donated to animal shelters and rescue organizations nationwide.

LIS: What should any folks know when trying to add a bit of French style to their homes?

Fifi: Go for pieces with character and a gentle patina; a piece of artwork or two; fresh flowers, even if it’s just wildflowers, one rose, or a dainty sprig. Oh, and don’t forget a cat or a dog! No self-respecting French home would be without pets!!