Why Erin Napier’s Blue-and-White Mantels Are the Ultimate Secret to Storybook-Inspired, Layered Interiors
Mixing new and old pieces and varying the pattern, height, and scale creates the perfect vintage-style display
We've always admired Erin Napier's skill for creating the most homely and storied interiors, both on screen for her HGTV series Home Town, as well as in her own family home in Laurel, Mississippi. There's one particular element that regularly crops up in her interior schemes, which has become somewhat synonymous with Erin Napier's comforting and layered interior designs – blue-and-white ceramics. In particular, we love her display of vintage vases on her mantelpiece, but have also spotted these pieces elsewhere in her home.
Erin Napier's penchant for decorating with vintage ceramics is perhaps why her interiors feel so warm and lived in, and this also leans into her passion for shopping for antiques and supporting local artisans.
Buys Inspired by Erin Napier's Mantel Decor
Featuring a lotus flower design, inspired by the Qing Hua Ci tradition this porcelain vase is bold yet delicate and it's watertight if you want to display it with a bunch of flowers, without the lid.
With a delicate blue and white glaze and a rustic effect on this rim, this vase has the look of a vintage find. The smaller-scale print will work perfectly alongside a bolder floral one for contrast.
Featuring Dolce & Gabbana's signature 'Blue Mediterraneo' motif, this bold vase has a more geometric silhouette to contrast with more curved pieces, and would make a dramatic centerpiece.
Erin Napier's miniature trees planted in terracotta posts counter the vintage, patterned look with a rustic, earthy aesthetic. Any leafy green plant will work wonderfully alongside the blue and white.
This real leaf garland has been preserved for long-term use and can be artfully draped in and out of a collection of blue-and-white vases like Erin Napier's for a relaxed and natural approach to styling.
Erin Napier's over-mantel wall sconces, both frame and highlight her display of blue-and-white vases. The simple bronze sconce and cream linen shade doesn't detract from the display, but feels classic.
Erin Napier's mantel decor has an undoubtedly vintage look, which comes from sourcing old pieces from thrift stores, antique centers, and online dealers. Krystyl Baldwin, Owner of San Francisco Vintage explains: 'Hunting for antique examples in vintage shops and estate sales means the history becomes part of the appeal. The charm often comes from the patina, the slight imperfections, and the sense that the piece has lived a life before arriving in your home.'
But that's not to say that you can't mix old and new for a more eclectic look, says Krystal: 'I always suggest mixing new with old. Antique stores and flea markets often have unique forms that you will never see again. Pairing those with accessible modern pieces keeps the collection approachable while still giving it character.'
It's this variety that makes Erin Napier's mantel decor idea work so well. And that doesn't just go for mixing old with new, but also changing up scale and height, too. Juliana Mackin, Founder and Principal Designer at Hemenway House Interiors in Massachusetts, says: 'Blue and white vases add so much character and charm to a room. Coupling a few together of varying heights and shapes, angling them each a bit differently, and placing them at various depths in the space create dimension and visual appeal. Sometimes I even like mixing different shades of blue or adding in smaller animal figurines or cups to create more interest.'
Erin Napier styles her vases with a leafy garland (like West Elm's Eucalyptus and Olive Garland) whilst miniature trees in terracotta pots (try Walmart's) bookend the mantel. And flowers are another way to introduce variety and color to this sort of display. 'Blue and white ceramics pair beautifully with bold color. Hot pink peonies, ranunculus, or even simple leafy stems create a striking contrast against the cobalt tones,' says Krystal. But equally, blue-and-white vases can make a bold statement on their own. 'A grouping of vases without flowers can read almost like a porcelain still life, especially when balanced with warm materials like brass candlesticks or gilt frames,' adds Krystal.
When it comes to how to use vintage in your home, like Erin Napier's blue-and-white vases, 'there is no single rule,' explains Krystal. 'It really depends on the character of the space. In a more maximalist interior, I recommend mixing heights and silhouettes. Varying the scale creates depth and makes the arrangement feel collected rather than staged. A cluster of five to seven pieces in different shapes can feel rich and layered on a mantel.' However, Krystal suggests just a few more dominant pieces for a more pared-back look. 'In a more restrained space, fewer pieces can be just as powerful. Two or three substantial vases placed near a gold-framed mirror or a piece of art can create a sculptural moment without feeling crowded.'
With spring upon us, you might be looking for ways to bring a seasonal element to your decor. These spring mantel decor ideas make ideal inspiration, and may work beautifully with your Erin Napier-style blue-and-white vase collection.
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