By Kathryn Weber

This bedroom would make any little girl feel like a princess in her castle, complete with crystal chandelier

This bedroom would make any little girl feel like a princess in her castle, complete with crystal chandelier

With the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton behind us, there will undoubtedly be a surge in little girls dreaming of castles, crowns and golden carriages.

And while most families don't live in palaces and the likelihood of romancing a genuine prince is low, it is possible to indulge the would-be princess in your life with a bedroom fit for royalty.

THE ROYAL TREATMENT

Start with a royal color scheme. Instead of the usual pastel pink, why not try something more elegant, such as rich taupe or royal blue? Then use soft blue, pink, or lavender as an accent color. To really glam things up, try traditional Rococo colors of white and gray, lemon chiffon, or pale blue. Even celadon green would be a wonderfully rich departure from traditional hues, adding depth and authenticity to the royal "feel."

GILD THE LILY

Once you've chosen a color palette, the real fairytale work can begin. What royal bedroom would be complete without a touch of gold or silver gilding? Lots of shiny elements and classic trim will lend an ethereal quality that just oozes princess charm. Today, with many crowns and royal embellishments available in home decor stores, those fairytale elements are easy to find. Another key princess touch: white furniture.

CRYSTALLIZE THE DREAM

Creating a bedroom fit for a princess calls for a few archetypal elements like a "magic" mirror and lavishly festooned bed. Look for a mirror that's ornate, then make it do double duty by combining it with a dressing table.

Simple white dressing tables are available inexpensively online at stores like Ikea. Be sure to include a standing mirror, too, where your princess can try on gowns and tiaras. For the full-tilt royal treatment, add a flowing canopy over the bed, rich fabrics and accompanying sheets. Or create your own four-poster by attaching a faux crown to the ceiling directly above the bed. Insert a ring in the crown and add long, flowing strips of fabric extending to the four corners of the bed. (For instructions, do an online search for "canopy bed projects.")

Lamps or wall sconces with crystal pendants can add sparkle.

GO OVER THE TOP

To top things off, add a room divider in one corner to create a dressing area. Play up the theme by hanging some second-hand wedding or formal dresses on padded satin hangers. An ornate metal-and-glass shelf trimmed in gold and lined with velvet pillows is perfect for storing tiaras. These small but classic touches will make the bedroom feel truly magical.

 

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Interior Decorating - How to Create A Girl's Bedroom Fit For A Princess