All things shabby chic and vintage are in right now. This has a lot to do with the state of the economy and people are trying to save money wherever possible, but it can also be put down to the fact that people are spending a lot more time at home, looking for entertainment indoors with family and friends so a cosy, warm interior is essential.
What is shabby chic?
Shabby chic is a style that draws on a variety of inspirations and includes classic, aged pieces. Shabby chic homes are extremely welcoming, cosy, light and airy and full of items, old and new, that are bright, colourful and mismatched. The great, and perhaps most appealing, thing about shabby chic is the fact that it doesn’t have to cost a lot, other than some creativity. Although you can buy new furniture that has been crafted to look old, there’s no need to spend a lot of money. All you need is a tin of paint and some creativity and you can transform an old, dowdy piece into something modern and beautiful in no time.
Where will you find it?
You’re just as likely to find a shabby chic item in your grandparents’ living room as you are in a boutique store on the high street because the style is so fresh and timeless. Quite often, the most effective shabby chic homes are full of much used and much loved items that have been given a new lease of life with a splash of paint.
Worldwide influences
This kind of style is extremely cute and although the ditsy floral prints, polka dot tea sets and brightly coloured crockery show, obviously, that the style originated in England, there are many other influences from all over the world that have helped to create the style that’s so popular today. The French countryside and Parisian elegance are a big influence of shabby chic, along with the simplicity and functionality of the style of American Shakers. Stripes, dots and floral patterns are extremely popular, along with pastel colours like baby blue and lilac and neutral colours such as cream.
Adding warmth
Although shabby chic is extremely popular, it’s important not to let the cooler colours take over because this will completely destroy the warmth, cosiness and welcoming nature of your home. Rugs are a brilliant way to add warmth in an understated fashion. There are plenty of designers out there who specialise in cute, ditsy patterns that will suit your shabby chic home down to the ground. Orla Kiely is a particular fan of cute vintage patterns. Her rugs are hand knotted and made using only the best New Zealand wool. In keeping with the shabby chic trend, if your budget won’t stretch to this kind of designer rug then there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of other quality items out there that will suit your budget. This Harlequin rug for example is made of 100% wool and has a thick soft pile that will instantly introduce warmth to any room. Although summer’s on its way there’s nothing like having a soft, plush rug under your feet – especially when you come in from outside as the temperature starts to drop.
If you prefer something a little simpler then this kilim style wool rug will look great in any room of the house and really is perfect for any cute but practical shabby chic interior.
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