Shabby Chic – What Is It?
Classic, soft, and timeless. These are the best words to describe the interior design style. Shabby chic is one of the most popular design styles these days. Many find it stylish, elegant, and romantic. It started in the 1980s in the United Kingdom and was conceptualized by the British designer, Rachell Ashwell.
Achieving the design style in your home is quite easy and affordable. Time to bring out old and unused items and furniture pieces. With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform your home into something marvelous. Read on to learn more about the design style and how you can achieve it in your home.
Features of Shabby Chic interior design style
There are similarities between shabby chic and other vintage-styled design styles, such as the French Country Interior Design. Shabby chic is actually a vintage style but with a twist to give it a modern appeal.
The vintage or classic look of the design style is due to the use of furnishings with signs of wear and distress. Fabrics are commonly made of cotton and old French linen. It is also common to see colors such as white and pastels to have a room that appears soft and bright.
The rooms also look romantic with the presence of pillows in vintage fabric, linens, chandeliers, and other items that have a rose design. Many likewise consider the design style to be eclectic with a touch of feminine and romance.
Why love the style?
There are many ways to illustrate and define shabby chic. What makes it unique and interesting is the experience that you will encounter. It is a design style where the old furniture pieces and furnishings become the highlight of your home.
Shabby chic was initially used in the 80s by the British designer, Rachel Ashwell. She brought it to the United States where it gained popularity. The design style was inspired by the large country houses and other vintage designs. Especially with the use of old and worn furniture pieces, curtains, paintings, and others.
These days, the use of recycled, upcycled, and repurposed items are common with the design style. It also makes use of colors that make any home look elegant and luxurious.
Achieving the design style is not that complicated. There are no strict rules to follow. Check out your old decorative items and furniture pieces and use them. See if you can recycle, upcycle, or repurpose some items. You can also visit antique shops or garage sales to get some items that will complete the design style. Who says that you have to spend more to have an elegant and luxurious interior?
Tips to achieve the style
Here are some tips that you can use to achieve the design style:
- Timeworn furniture pieces
- Cotton and old French fabric
- Pillows of vintage fabric
- Vintage chandeliers
- Use of white and pastels
- Flowers around the house
- Distressed wood
- Hand-painted cabinets
- Mirrors
- Wrought iron furniture
