So you absolutely love nautical style when you see it in interior design magazines and on Houzz. But when you try to pull it off yourself, you find that you’re not quite as savvy as those who are featured in interior design magazines and on Houzz.

Anchors! Portholes! Lighthouses! Shells! There are so many options, yet you can’t seem to make them work.

Upon examining well-executed nautical rooms, you may notice recurring themes. Here are five of the main elements that make nautical decor look terrific rather than tacky.

Blue and white

This one may seem obvious, but it’s one of the most commonly found color schemes in gorgeous nautical schemes. It reflects the colors that you’d typically while sailing a boat. Check these out:

Navy and white is classic, but any shade will do. Add touches of red and you’re ready to set sail!

 

 

 

 

Accessories/decor

The easiest and cheapest way to add any style to a room is to accessorize according to theme. The key is not to go overboard – pick one key piece or a few smaller ones so as not to overwhelm the space and cross into tacky territory.

Try a great wallpaper with subtle accents in other areas:

 

One statement piece:

 

 

Or even just an inspired light fixture:

… or boat-shaped sink!

This incredible nautical bathroom is so subtle – no boats, fish, oars, or shells to be seen – but it automatically evokes visions of a misty, stormy sea:

Circles

 

Finally, using natural materials gives your home a nautical vibe. Try driftwood, seagrass rug, or even unfinished rope (not exactly “natural,” but close enough…).