Understanding the shabby chic style
Think of a grand French chateau that’s a little worn around the edges, but still exudes charm and elegance. Armoires filled with beautiful linen, dressers displaying pretty mismatched crockery and soft, squashy sofas are all part of this look, along with sparkling chandeliers and drapes in faded toile de jouy fabric.
Shabby chic, or vintage chic as it’s also known, is a style that can work in any room. Pair soft pretty chic fabrics with chalky white walls and you can’t go too far wrong.
Mix shabby chic fabric and sheer lace
Shabby fabric works best in a linen or linen-look material and usually features pretty vintage florals and faded leafy prints.
In a bedroom, lace or sheer fabric at the window, coupled with white wooden shutters, will give a pretty, relaxed feel to your room. Pile throws and eiderdowns in shabby fabrics onto an antique bedframe for a charming feminine look. And don't be afraid to mix floral fabrics as this will only add to the care-worn look you’re aiming to achieve.
Toile de jouy fabric also works well in bedrooms and living rooms. It’s a timeless pattern that can be stylish and understated, paired with neutral walls and simple accessories.
Choose distressed and reclaimed furniture
To complement your shabby chic fabric, choose furniture that has a lived-in feel. Salvaged and distressed wooden furniture is ideal and French pieces work especially well. Try arranging cushions in pretty chic fabrics on an upholstered chateau-style sofa.
Pick accessories that are one of a kind
Shabby chic is a style that you can enjoy building over the years.
Start your scheme with a beautiful fabric – you can buy shabby chic fabric by the metre, which is ideal for creating cost-effective drapes and cushions at home.
Then shop around at antique shops, car boot sales and reclamation yards to pick up unique accessories that’ll lift your scheme. Ornate distressed mirrors and crystal chandeliers will bring sparkle and light into the room, while mismatched paintings and vintage plates are great for dressing the walls.
