New Classic continues a heady run in design circles, combining fresh style and spirited charm that is anything but old-fashioned. Associations with France drive the latest look in both furniture and accessories, punched up with updated prints. Hints of gilding, cane and painted wood weigh in heavily, while traditional French motifs like bees, scrolls and urns add ornamental interest. The feminine flair of this theme cannot be denied, executed in graceful curves and softly shaped forms.

Simply sophisticated, the Ascot lamp from Arteriors updates the traditional urn form in gleaming polished nickel. eLink 502

Long associated with the sovereigns of France, the bee motif (a symbol of immortality) graces The Portfolio Collection's whimsical print. eLink 610

Delicate scroll motifs enhance the feminine sensibility of Busbin's wood two-over-two chest ($4,995). eLink 528

Elegant damask motifs punctuate an open field with dramatic contrast in The Rug Market's hand-tufted Aurora design ($365, 5×8). eLink 615

Pears and monkey pods add a distinctive twist to the classical Nature's Gallery arrangement of sunflowers and hydrangeas, finished in an Old World-style weathered urn ($398). eLink 599

Subtle stripes throw Aubergine's Ava bed into relief, enhancing the powerful damask print. eLink 507

Finished in Artisan Gold, the Villa Medici Collection mirror from Murray Feiss refers to the splendor of the Renaissance period with gilded floral motifs and graceful, curving lines. eLink 587

Derived from antique French designs, the cane armchair from S.E.E. Imports establishes a sophisticated presence with understated embellishment. eLink 633

Hand-painted silver leaf gilds the lily, so to speak, in Bailey Street's inherently curvaceous Romana bowfront chest ($590). eLink 530