Shabby chic style decorating is relaxed and comfortable

Hand me downs and well loved family items fit right in with this decorating style

We've talked about the philosophy, and creating the background to achieve the shabby chic look. Now we will move on to fabrics, colors, and accessories that are the popular choices for this interior decorating style.

Fabrics Used in the Shabby Chic Style

Fabrics used should be of good quality that can stand (or have stood) the test of time. They should be light, casual and have a loose flowing quality. As with furniture, fabrics that have been aged, mended and faded with time add to the appeal of shabby chic.

Natural fabrics are the preferred choice for this decorating style. Silk, linen, and cotton are natural choices. Floral chintzes that have been dyed in tea to resemble age are often used in slipcovers and draperies.

Lace, chiffon, gauze and batiste are often used for window dressing under some of the heavier drapery materials.

If you live in cold climates, heavier fabrics such as velvets, cashmere and wool can be used in this style of decorating. Bedding made of flannel and down filled comforters always create a warm and inviting "Come in, plop down, and relax after a long day" atmosphere.

Bedding and table linens with an obvious vintage lineage are much sought after. Lace trim, tatting, ruffles, are all indigent to these vintage linens. Don't worry if you can't find a complete set of bedding or table linens. Part of the charm of shabby chic is it's ability to mix and match. Don't hesitate to buy one or three of something and mix them with other half sets. You will never find yourself without enough place settings if you are using this style!

Preferred Colors of the Shabby Chic Style

Because furnishings and fabrics of this style are vintage and aged, the colors that naturally work with this decorating scheme are soft and muted.

• Greens are pastel and soft such as seafoam and celadon.
• The reds come more from the pale pinks and dusty roses.
• Blues are sky blue and very light pastels.
• Grays are muted and aged.
• Above all, whites predominate and as I mentioned earlier, all shades of white are used.

Accessories Are Important in the Shabby Chic Style

As with all aspects of the Shabby Chic style, anything goes when choosing accessories. Below is a list to get you started on the accessory trail:

• Tapestries with a floral or Jacobean theme
• Needlepoint pillows with a bargello theme
• Small trunks to be used for end tables or storage containers
• Painted wooden containers such as milk containers or berry baskets for holding all sorts of kitchen items
• Vintage candlesticks of sorts
• Aged picture frames holding vintage photographs
• Wrought iron scones, lamps, and candle holders
• Interesting vintage lamps with colored glass shades and brass pull chains
• Anything made of wicker
• Vintage mirrors whether wall hung or used on bedroom bureaus or tabletops
• Wall art with antique weathered frames

There is no end to this decorating style

If you have read this far and are still with me, you can see there is no end and there are no rules here. This is a style that keeps evolving in your home. If you are a dedicated flea market consumer you will find your home just keeps on changing and evolving with each new purchase you bring home.

This style is great fun and there is always a new treasure to be found and enjoyed. If this is your decorating style, I envy you. Your home will always be fresh and new. There will always be a changing atmosphere around you and an excitement about your latest find.

Enjoy your latest discovery and Happy Flea Marketing!


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