Imagine stepping into a room that whispers secrets of Hollywood starlets and glamorous burlesque icons – a private haven where you can unwind and let your hair down after a long day. Sounds divine, doesn’t it?
So why not transform your bedroom into your very own vintage boudoir? In this blog, we’re sharing insider tips to help you bring more glamour, comfort and timeless style to your space.
First things first, what’s a boudoir?
The word “boudoir” comes from an archaic French word meaning "to sulk" and refers to a comfortable and private space for the lady of the house. While sulking isn’t exactly on our agenda for 2025, carving out a space to relax and recharge definitely is. There’s no better way to start the year than by turning your bedroom into a sultry, stylish sanctuary inspired by the powerful women of the past.
We’ve packed this blog with ideas to help you along the way. Whether you’re looking to add a few vintage touches here and there or would prefer to go all out with velvet-covered walls, we’ve here for it! Let’s begin…
Turn your bedroom into a vintage boudoir in 7 steps
Follow these steps to transform your bedroom into a vintage boudoir!
Step 1: Choose your era
Designing a vintage boudoir is your chance to travel through time and create a space inspired by the glamour and charm of your favourite era. Each decade has its own unique personality, so pick one that speaks to you. Here are a few of our favourites:
– 1920s: Art Deco
The Roaring Twenties were all about opulence and drama. Think geometric patterns, metallic finishes and decadent touches of gold and silver. Add velvet cushions, mirrored furniture and a chandelier to channel your inner Gatsby!
– 1930s: Hollywood Glam
This era lent more towards soft, feminine touches. If you like satin fabrics, dramatic curved furniture, opulent throws, floor-length mirrors and rich jewel tones like emerald and ruby, the Golden Age of Hollywood is the era for you.
– 1940s: Pin-up Plush
The 40s were glamorous but also comfortable – think thick carpets, velvet settees and rich colours softened with pastel accents like blush pink and lavender. Curved furniture, ruffled drapes and floral prints were also big at the time.
– 1950s: Pastel Retro
Pastels were still thriving in the 50s, and dainty furniture, floral prints and upholstered headboards were popular too. This era also saw drinks cabinets, amber glassware and other knick knacks becoming popular.
– 1960s: Bold and Funky
The Swinging Sixties went bigger and bolder. Think black and white colour schemes with bright pops of orange or turquoise. If you like angles, patterns and making a statement, this era could be the one for you – just don’t forget to add some funky mirrors and lamps!
– 1970s: Boho Chic
The free-spirited vibe of the 70s lent more towards earthy tones and natural textures. Pick this era if you’re a fan of rattan furniture, beaded curtains and lots of plants. You could even mix things up with palettes of mustard, burnt orange and deep brown…
Once you’ve chosen an era, create a Pinterest board to inspire you, or take elements from several eras for a cocktail of pure luxury! This is about creating a space that’s all about you.
Step 2: Prepare your canvas
Before you can transform your bedroom into a vintage boudoir, you need to prep the space. Start by removing items that don’t fit your vision – donate or sell anything that doesn’t spark joy or use stylish storage solutions (like vintage trunks and decorative boxes) to neatly tuck away things you want to keep but that don’t need to be displayed.
This step is your chance to reclaim your space and make it entirely yours. Clearing out the old is like clearing the stage for the next act…
Step 3: Choose between paint or wallpaper
Use your Pinterest board as a guide to pick colours that reflect your era. Go for soft pastels, jewel tones, or bold, funky palettes depending on your chosen style. If you’re feeling daring, consider patterned wallpaper with motifs, floral prints or geometric designs that nod to your favourite mid-century style.
Top tip: If committing to full-wall paint or wallpaper feels like too much, why not create an accent wall behind your bed or dressing table? Accent walls are an inexpensive way to add texture and colour to your boudoir.
Step 4: Furniture shopping
This is where the fun begins – it’s time to hunt for ornate treasures that suit your vision! Hit up eclectic furniture stores, charity shops and antique markets to find vintage or vintage-inspired pieces that bring your boudoir to life.
Furniture to look out for:
- A statement bed frame, canopy or headboard.
- A dressing table with a stool, mirror and drawers to store all of your lotions, potions and perfumes.
- A chest of drawers or wardrobe to house your favourite lingerie, clothes, bags and shoes.
- A comfy arm chair or chaise lounge.
This step doesn’t have to cost a lot. Look for affordable secondhand items you can upcycle, such as a bedside table you can sand and paint to match your palette, or an armchair you can recover with fabric that fits your style. You can also search online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace or Etsy for era-appropriate furniture and decor at a reasonable price.
Step 5. Lighting to set the mood
Soft, warm lighting creates a romantic, intimate glow reminiscent of candlelight. It’s the perfect way to highlight the rich textures of velvet, ruffles and lace. Whether you choose a glittering chandelier, a fringed table lamp, sultry string lights or a retro lava lamp, lighting is at the heart of creating a romantic, empowering space that you can’t wait to come home to.
Step 6: Glamorous accessories
You’ve set the scene and taken care of the essentials – now it’s time for the finishing touches! Accessories are where your personality can really shine through.
First things first, have a think about mirrors. An ornate full-length mirror can become a stunning focal point in your boudoir, reflecting light and making the space feel bigger. Plus, it’s the perfect place to try on all of your dazzling fits. You may also need a mirror for your dressing table if it doesn’t have one built in. Consider a vintage mirror with vanity lights for the perfect makeup station!
Another major thing to consider is artwork. Whether you want abstract prints, posters of your favourite pin-up girls or vintage-inspired paintings, artwork on the walls will bring your boudoir to life!
At Scarlett Gasque, we’re also a sucker for knick knacks like jewellery boxes, vintage perfume bottles and other treasures like fresh or faux flowers in vintage vases that bring a romantic vibe to your space. If you want to go all out, a vintage phone or record player can work as functional accents that double as decor.
Last but not least, drape your boudoir from head to toe in soft furnishings. Cushions, throws and rugs in lush textures like velvet or faux fur will add the luxe and comfort you’re looking for and be the cherry on the top of your newly decorated bedroom.
Step 7: Living the boudoir life
Your boudoir is more than a beautifully designed room, it’s a space to live life with a little extra flair. Here’s how to make the most of your dreamy vintage haven:
– Dress the part
Slip into something that makes you feel like a total goddess. A silk robe, a lace-trimmed slip, or a pin-up-inspired corset are perfect for lounging in style. Whether you’re sipping tea, reading a book or practicing a little self-care, your boudoir attire should feel as luxurious as your surroundings.
– Set aside time to pamper yourself
Light some scented candles and give yourself a facial or manicure, write your dreams down in a journal or practice yoga to feel more intune with your body. You could even experiment with vintage-inspired hairstyles for no reason other than to feel fabulous. It’s completely up to you – just make sure you embrace the moment!
– Capture the magic
Your boudoir is the perfect stage for a playful and glamorous pin-up photoshoot! Slip into your favorite vintage-inspired lingerie, strike a confident pose on your plush bed or in front of an ornate mirror, and let the soft lighting and elegant decor do the rest.
Your vintage boudoir awaits…
Now that your vintage boudoir is complete, it’s time to dress the part! A luxurious robe with a faux fur trim or a figure-hugging waspie are a great place to start.
Explore our collection of sultry pin-up and burlesque-inspired lingerie and waist-cinching corsets and get ready to flounce around in style. Because darling, your boudoir deserves a little extra you…
P.S. We’d love to see your bedroom transformations! Share photos of your dreamy vintage boudoir with us on social media for a chance to get featured on our Instagram page.