| Trend forecasters have named shades of blue and | | | | In response to the color trend, Belle Escape, a boutique |
| turquoise as the colors of 2010. These calming, | | | | retailer of cottage-style decor and furniture, has added |
| soothing colors will make their way into homes as the | | | | new items with breezy blue accents to its "Aqua |
| latest styles of furniture and decor begin to reflect this | | | | Breeze" collection, a line of products popular among |
| trend toward blue. | | | | fans of coastal-cottage style. |
| It is no surprise that blue is a popular choice for homes | | | | The collection features distressed, French Louis-style |
| today. In these difficult economic times, more and more | | | | furniture freshly hand-painted with shades of antiqued |
| people are forgoing vacations in exotic locales and | | | | aqua and blue motifs. Standout pieces include an aged, |
| instead choosing to create an escape within their own | | | | vintage-white French writing table painted with light |
| homes. Blue--the color of sky and sea--is both | | | | aqua ornamental artwork, and hand-carved Louis XV |
| optimistic and uplifting, calming and relaxing. | | | | armchairs with plush cushions adorned with whimsical |
| To transform a home into a retreat, first identify the | | | | aqua botanicals. |
| mood you wish to create. For a dreamy, ethereal | | | | For those who seek to transform their home into an |
| escape, consider blending the styles commonly known | | | | oasis, introducing furniture and decor in shades of blue |
| as shabby chic and coastal cottage. Each is known | | | | is the perfect starting place. To learn more about |
| for its weathered yet lush, comfortable furniture and | | | | creating a home escape, visit the online boutique Belle |
| welcoming, tranquil shades of distressed blue and | | | | Escape. |
| aqua. | | | | |