Notable traits of shabby chic decor
While shabby chic is often an eclectic array of patterns and textures, several elements are distinct to this style. This section of our guide identifies some of the signature characteristics and components of shabby chic interior design.
Anachronistic yet varied vintage design
Shabby chic certainly has an antique quality to it. However, there’s no one true era that perfectly characterizes this type of design. Consequently, you may want to include furnishings and accents from a variety of decades for an artfully eclectic effect. Combine an ornate 1930s mirror with a colorful weathered 1980s dresser or bureau to give your bedroom unique flair.
Combination of elegant beauty & bucolic appeal
Shabby chic is a juxtaposition of two separate elements of interior design. The style effectively intertwines the comforts of rustic style with the elegance of refined beauty. Incorporating this design into a room creates a sweet getaway. Worries are faint as the style’s pastel colors, and the nostalgia of sitting at grandma’s kitchen table envelopes the soul. This timeless motif is known for featuring textured materials that have been worn down with love and use.
A whimsical assortment of furnishings, lights & decor
One of the best parts about a shabby chic design is that it creates beautiful order out of surface-level chaos. There certainly are elements that are unique to this school of decor – such as wood furniture or vintage accents. However, it’s ultimately up to you to find a way to make them all fit together. Experiment and rearrange pieces until you find a style that works for you and your home without copying anyone else. Interior designers can stumble upon these one-of-a-kind items anywhere from high-end boutiques to flea markets.
Distressed textures, patinas & weathered woods
Timeworn finishing on wooden furnishings and weathering of metal chandeliers, lamps and accents are signatures of shabby chic interior design. Whether on authentic antiques or new pieces made to look old, wood surfaces feature unevenly faded or chipped paint. The natural patina reinforces the live-in look and gives furniture a one-of-a-kind feeling absent in uniform mass-produced pieces. Distressed metallic frames and oxidized iron lighting, knobs, drawer pulls and decorative accents also add to the vintage ambiance.
Neutral color palette accented by a pastel aesthetic
This particular style is typically light and airy. It’s common for shabby chic homes to have a color palette made up of neutrals. Whites, ivories, creams, grays and beiges are all wonderful for walls, bedding, trim, flooring, etc. That’s not to say that color can’t be introduced to the room. Bring in soft pastel colors using couch pillows, area rugs, flowers, vintage accessories and slipcovers. Pastels including light greens, dusty pinks and sky blues complement the whites and creams throughout the home.
Shiny details hint at the glamour of yesteryear
Despite the weather-worn look of many pieces, this aesthetic relies on the glint of gold and silver for aristocratic appeal. Gilded accents on a headboard and polished metal candlesticks are shiny elements that zhuzh up the style’s neutral palette. Oyster inlays are another subtle way it expresses its soft-spoken elegance.
Theatrical curves & flutes evoke a sense of movement
While shabby chic decor is infused with reminders of eras long since passed, the style is anything but lifeless. Curlicues, spirals and dramatic sweeping lines create a dynamic visual flow, while intricate carvings provide textural appeal. Cabriole legs, with sensuous silhouettes, are a staple of this interior design and a direct reflection of its European heritage. Molding, banisters and pilasters incorporate engraved flourishes, curving leaves and other intriguing hints of nature.
Boho style imbued with feminine energy
The look emits a distinctly feminine vibe due to the vintage materials and antiques used in a shabby chic house. Floral upholstery, lace curtains and chenille trimming with pinks, light greens, yellows, whites, and light blues perfectly complement and energize the aged appeal of shabby chic furnishings.
Natural elements complement its pastoral roots
The style’s French country and farmhouse influences elicit images of grassy hillsides, lush fields and babbling brooks. Reinforce the light and airy feeling with floral appliqués on shabby chic bedding and curtains. Carved wooden details with depictions of shells and twisting vines are another great addition. Place live plants and floral bouquets around the house or lay a jute rug to add to the natural ambiance.
Finding or adding shabby chic styling
One of the nice things about shabby chic design is that you don’t have to break the bank. Sure, there will always be new items that are intentionally made to look old. You might say they’re like acid-washed jeans. On second thought, don’t say that. The point is, this weather-worn style can be achieved through a variety of second-hand outlets or you can treat existing pieces yourself. In the final section of our guide, we walk you through ways to achieve the shabby chic look.
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