What else is all-American? A sunny optimism, which translates into an openness to color, a love of florals, materials that emphasize quality and utility, and the confidence to take risks rather than follow rules. All these elements happen to define country style as well. And they're what JCPenney drew on to create its comprehensive new collection, American Living, which incorporates the best of American style in both apparel and home furnishings. "The pieces in this collection make an emotional connection, whether it's a quilt that reminds you of snuggling on a winter morning or a sun-faded plaid that evokes picnicking at the beach," says Country Living Style Director Nicole Esposito Polly. On the following pages, you'll find five elements that define today's easygoing interiors. Let them inspire your own interpretation of American style.
Element No. 1: Collections
Celebrating Heritage
Pieces we have inherited or that we collect tell a story about us; they help define our IDENTITY and link us to a personal history. Collections give a home identity and MEANING, too. So enjoy collections by living with them: Quilts, for example, could be draped at the foot of a bed, or over a railing to lend a shot of color and pattern to a landing, cheerfully greeting you every time you climb the stairs.
White matelasse quilt with muslin ruffle, Lilac Park collection; red checkerboard quilt, Modern Country collection: American Living for JCPenney.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Element No. 2: Layering
Free Expression
American fashion is often characterized by a casual, layered look. Think about our inclination to mix anything with jeans! The same can be said of the home, how COMBINATIONS of pattern and texture translate into comfort.
Plaid sneakers, blue jeans: JCPenney.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Here, a lighthearted jumble of patterns, from denim and chambray blues to a bandanna-inspired paisley to ticking stripes, dresses a bed in a fresh twist on TRIED-AND-TRUE favorites.
Paisley duvet cover, striped sheets, red geometric European shams, ticking-stripe throw pillow, Bay Harbor Club collection: American Living for JCPenney.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Element No. 3: Fresh Color
Inspired by Nature
Soft madras, playful gingham, and bright buffalo checks summon MEMORIES of the beach or a backyard garden. Their cozy color combinations are as cheerful for pillows on the couch as they are for a breezy sundress. And why not? Hues brought inside from the OUTDOORS always look right and mix together so compatibly.
Plaid pillows, Village Garden collection: American Living for JCPenney.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
For an instant hit of color, let plush towels pretty up the bath with vibrant vitality.
Plaid sundress; Hamilton towels: American Living for JCPenney.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Element No. 4: Florals
Prints Charming
Who can resist a winsome bouquet, gathered in a pitcher or captured in a PRETTY fabric? From chintz and needlework to bed linens, vintage tablecloths, and cafe curtains, flowers have long been a favorite motif in American homes.
Peony wreath: Posy Floral Design.
Display a fresh wreath from a grosgrain belt.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Here, feminine detailing -- an eyelet ruffle and delicate embroidery -- adds HEIRLOOM quality, while graphic checks or a crisp white background helps temper the sweetness.
Eyelet-trimmed floral pillow shams, plaid, white, and cross-stitched linens, pillows, Village Garden collection: American Living for JCPenney. Chair: High Falls Mercantile.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
Element No. 5: Comfort
Heart of the Home
Comfort means not only a place to put up your feet; it also means ROOMS that are a reflection of your taste. Living with things you love, put together your way, is what makes a house a home. Pillow shams improvise a tablecloth.
Womens' and girls' cotton sundresses: American Living for JCPenney. Cross-stitch European shams (on table), Village Garden collection.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
A vintage chest topped with treasures -- old, new, found, and collected -- tells a STORY about the experiences and the life of the person who cherishes them.
Checkerboard and bandanna-print pillows, Modern Country Collection: American Living for JCPenney. Windsor chair, mug, framed art: High Falls Mercantile. Wellies: Hunter Boots.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: 5 Elements of American Style
Miki Duisterhof
