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What is Shabby Chic?

Shabby Chic is a form of interior design where furniture and furnishings are either chosen for their age and signs of wear and tear or new items are distressed to give an aged appearance .......

In addition to the fact that shabby chic items can be new, creating this decor also involves coordination. The same basic elements of design still must be maintained when decorating in this style. Although the items may be worn and old looking, they should still complement one another and work together to create an overall pulled together look in the room. Only then will you have effectively pulled off this distinguished design style ......

The quintessence of shabby chic style is vintage and antique furniture painted and distressed for an aged, vintage appearance. The style is imitated in faux painting using glaze or by painting then rubbing and sanding away the top coat to show the wood or base coats ......

Fabrics tend to be cottons and linen and desired colours tend to be whites, vintage creams and soft subtle worn or bleached out pastels like muted greys, pale pinks and faded green, these all have a place in a Shabby Chic Interior ......

Shabby Chic History

The early forms of shabby chic were rather grand, but the style has progressed taking inspiration from many forms of decoration. These range from 18th century Swedish painted decoration, the French Chateau as well as the American Shakers where simplicity and plainness was essential ......

Shabby Chic is also a general term which can be used to refer to a person who is stylish rather than fashionable, where their style reflects quality as opposed to newness ......