Description of Shabby Chic

Furniture

• Shabby chic furniture can be purchased new at specialty and department stores, which is ironic, since the look requires pieces that look old. The more authentically shabby chic look may be best achieved at flea markets and antique stores. Shabby chic furniture is solidly made, often of pine or oak. It's often painted white or another pastel shade. The furniture can (and should) show signs of wear and tear, or evidence of multiple coats of paint. Distressing techniques can give the same effect to new furniture.

Fabrics

• Sheer, gauzy fabrics like voile are what give the look its romantic, feminine appeal. Slipcovers are a popular tool in shabby chic décor, since the furniture pieces are often older and worn. Patterns found in this style of decorating are subtle -- check patterns and stripes, but in muted colors and with minimum contrast. Tasteful floral prints are sometimes used.

The Palette

• White is the touchstone color for shabby chic, especially the furniture. Pieces that are in darker hues are usually reserved for accent pieces. Fabrics are almost exclusively white, pale neutrals and pastels. Soft, romantic shades of pink, purple, or pale blue round out the palette. Accent colors can be burnished metallic, like bronze and antique gold.

Accessories

• Now for the "chic" part. A shabby chic room is often accented with elegant accessories meant to bring to mind a more luxurious era. Crystal light fixtures, rustic wrought iron candlesticks, or ceramic pieces that feature gold leafing can add quietly glamorous touches to a shabby chic room. Mirrors are a key shabby chic accessory, but usually not a plain mirror. Sometimes the mirrors are multi-paneled, feature faceted frames, or elaborate etching or scroll work.