Founded in 1989 by designer Rachel Ashwell, Shabby Chic is a form of design that creates a balance between the elegant and the rustic. It celebrates the beauty of imperfections and timeworn objects. It’s this combination that provides a space that can be both lovely and lived in. 

Trademark Elements of Shabby Chic Design

As with all interior design styles, there are certain elements that make Shabby Chic what it is. Below is a breakdown of what those are. 

Delicate Colors

A dark foundation is the complete opposite of what Shabby Chic is known for. To get the look, opt for creams and whites accentuated by an assortment of muted pastels. The goal is to make the space look soft and welcoming. 

Pattens, of course, are always welcome. Just make sure the colors you choose don’t pull away from the foundational design. 

Organic Beauty

Let’s be honest: Shabby Chic is incredibly feminine. And it’s meant to be! Therefore, don’t hesitate to pull elements of nature into your design through floral patterns, carvings, embellishments, fresh flowers, wall hangings with floral motifs, etc. 

Rustic Furniture Pieces

Shabby Chic design is all about rustic themes and furniture. A well-designed Shabby Chic space will showcase painted and weathered woods, wrought iron, burlap, metal art and decorations, and any other items that have that farmhouse flair. In fact, the more worn the better— as long as it still looks stylish, that is. 

Furniture pieces are either chosen because of their age, or they are bought new and then painted and distressed to get the desired look. And almost any piece of furniture will blend well within the style if it’s painted white. Mismatched pieces? Pull them together with some slipcovers. In fact, slipcovers are definitely a popular element within this design style. 

5 Fabrics For the Perfect Shabby Chic Look

Now that we’ve talked about the primary elements that are at the core of Shabby Chic’s design style, it’s time to talk about textiles. Specifically, the fabrics that can elevate a Shabby Chic space to a whole new level. After all, this design style is known for its softness and femininity— so it’s only natural that there would be certain fabrics better-suited than others to help achieve the ultimate desired look. Here are 5 fabrics that are just perfect for any Shabby Chic space. 

1. Rose prints

Rose prints are huge in regards to Shabby Chic design. This fabric gives you just the right amount of elegance you need to soften up the room. It doesn’t matter if you prefer tiny floral prints or large rose prints, look for ones in pastel colors to get the best look possible.

2. Plaids

Plaids are almost as popular as rose prints. Try incorporating plaid fabric in soft colors such as soft pink, off-white or yellow on items such as chairs, bedding, or throw pillows.

3. Damasks

Since Shabby Chic thrives on vintage elegance, antique-looking damask fabrics fit the bill. Try your hand at using damasks to create bed coverings, quilts, pillows, and tablecloths. Mixing damasks or cottons printed to resemble them, pair great with rose prints.

4. Lace

Lace is known for its elegance, which makes it perfect for Shabby Chic design. For a truly authentic vintage look, avoid lace made from nylon or polyester thread and stick with cotton-based products. The most popular shabby chic colors for lace, are off-white or tea-dyed, although white can offer a crisp look as well.

5. Velvets

Velvets are a beautiful choice for Shabby Chic but look best in small amounts. Try your hand at making throw pillows with some worn or antique velvet. Velvets with crushed pile will have the best effect.

You can find most of these fabrics in light and upholstery weight so don’t just stop at making throw pillows or window treatments. Branch out and try to reupholster some of your existing furniture. Vintage pieces like chairs or larger pieces such as sofas and ottomans, look great when transformed to shabby chic. Matching these pieces with the handmade quilts and linens you have will complete the entire look. Just as always, stick with no more than 3 fabric patterns to tie your complete design together.

Ready to add some Shabby Chic beauty to your home? Whether it’s fabrics, lighting, furniture, or accessories you need, we can help! Come stop by one of our showrooms or visit us online to browse our beautiful selections. We look forward to helping you with your next decorating project!