Farmhouse style is certainly having a moment. Many homeowners crave a cozy retreat, particularly as the outside world feels increasingly harsh. And the style, long a staple in rural areas, has become an aspirational look for urban homes as well, in part thanks to HGTV and shows such as “Fixer Upper” that have brought the aesthetic to a broader audience.

Some would say, though, that the overuse of the look has pushed it into kitsch territory. For anyone who loves those cute sayings and can’t imagine a kitchen wall without the stencil proclaiming “Live, Laugh, Love,” by all means, you do you. A home should be a reflection of your own style. But if you want to implement that cozy, rustic style in a subtler, more classic way, listen up.

Kim Leggett of City Farmhouse in Franklin, Tenn., author of “City Farmhouse Style,” said the key is to keep things simple, relaxed, natural and unfussy.

“Rooms don’t have to be cohesive with each other” in a farmhouse-style home, Leggett said, “and I think that’s part of the attraction for designers and homeowners. We’re all so busy that when we come home, we want to walk into a space that feels warm and cozy.”

Here are her suggestions for creating a comfortable space with a farmhouse vibe – minus the cliches.

First, say no to mass-produced pieces.

Part of the kitsch problem, Leggett said, is that a lot of big-box retailers sell mass-produced items to capitalize on the farmhouse trend. But the style is best with authentic pieces.

“It’s just more of a storied approach to design,” she said.

People have been trained to go in that cookie-cutter direction because it’s all over social media, Leggett said.

Instead of searching Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration, Leggett suggested turning to books and magazines from 10 to 20 years ago for a more authentic version of the aesthetic. Leggett likes Architectural Digest, Country Living and other shelter magazines, or books such as “New Farmhouse Style” by Terry John Woods.

Then, shop local antique shops, flea markets and thrift stores to find items you love. There are also large annual antique shows, such as the Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas, or the Nashville Show in Tennessee, that can yield great finds while doubling as a fun getaway (though getting larger pieces home could be problematic, depending on where you live).

When choosing furniture, go with a minimalist approach, Leggett said.

“Farmhouse style is not formal or fussy. Select furnishings that are simple in design with straight lines, kind of like the Shaker-style furniture.”

Items made with brown wood are showing up in homes again, Leggett said. “Shunned for years as ‘too dated’ by designers and home decorators, these classic pieces are making a strong comeback,” she said.

Keep it neutral.

“Most design mistakes are the result of color,” Leggett said.

She suggested keeping the walls white. She likes Dune White from Benjamin Moore and Pure White from Sherwin-Williams, saying they work well in large and small spaces and complement both white and gray upholstery.

Leggett prefers white sofas to keep things light and bright. Although she generally recommends antiques and one-of-a-kind items, this is one area where she said to buy new. You want your seating to be comfortable (to match that laid-back decor), and newer pieces are better for everyday lounging. She shops Pottery Barn and One Kings Lane for Southern/farmhouse-style upholstered seating.

Warm up the neutral walls and furniture with colorful accessories, including pillows and area rugs.

“A rug is the best place to start if you want to incorporate some color,” Leggett said. Because it’s on the floor, it’s a little more subtle than putting a bold color on your walls. She likes vintage or Persian rugs with some wear or fading that give the sense that they are timeworn. Shop antique or vintage stores, she said, and look for somewhat muted colors. One Kings Lane also has new and vintage rugs.

Make textures and accessories the star.

“Accessories are the jewels of the space,” Leggett said. But choose them carefully. They should be conversation pieces, rather than generic items purchased online.

“You have to get out and visit places where you can find these things,” she said. “The thrill of the hunt is part of the story, and these things will be more meaningful.”

But don’t go overboard. Edit the accessories to create the look of a carefully curated space. Instead of a cliche saying, either in a frame or painted on the wall, assemble a collage of vintage portraits or prints in interesting frames. A special mirror over a large piece of furniture is a great way to create a focal point and make a space seem larger, Leggett said.