Modern Cottage? Relaxed Cotswold? Not-So-Shabby Chic???

All this thinking about my living room sort of got me thinking about the "style" for my house. I said before that I love the Cotswold look on the exterior and the house should look very English out there. But what about inside? I love English interiors. I like keeping a somewhat "period" vibe in my house. (Meaning, no mini bluds... don't paint the woodwork... ) But, since the house was dramatically remodeled, I don't feel the need to be 100% authentic.

You know, I like looking at Cottage magazines. But I can say, that I don't like the craftsman look since it seems so dark and dreary sometimes. I do like the Rachel Ashwell look, but white walls and slipcovered furniture would never work with 4 little boys, 3 bigs dogs, 2 cats.... yeah.


Where do I fall? Well, here is a "defining moment" story. I went to the local fabric store with the full intention of buying something pretty, pastel and creamy, to make a closet curtain. Maybe something shabby chic-like. So I go through bolt after bolt of creamy pink florals when a bright rose print catches my eye... and I end up going home with 2 kinds of Amy Butler fabrics in a bright rose floral. (You can see them in my master bedroom blog thread.)


I totally love my mother-in-laws shabby chic living room. But yet, I like my Amy Butler prints too. I love English. (Man, do they do an AWESOME kitchen. I have to have an AGA.) I love cottage. I like airy, breezy and comfy and not too formal. I do like a nice neutral wall... but in MY idea of neutrals. Which, so far, consist of sage, khaki, pale blue, pale pink, and that sort of thing.


So, what can I call my style? I don't know. I haven't exactly put my finger on it. Maybe it is because my house projects are fairly new and I haven't had enough time to put my finger on it.


Anyone else have a groovy "catch phrase" to define my style?