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Why shabby chic is the interiors trend that will never die
The shabby chic decorating style, characterized by vintage wooden furniture with peeling paint, flea market mirrors, faded floral upholstery, twinkly chandeliers, and lace, emerged in 1989 with Rachel Ashwell's launch of Shabby Chic in California. This romantic and eccentric style has demonstrated remarkable longevity, defying minimalist and modernist trends, and continues to be highly popular on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where its hashtags boast millions of views and posts.
Rachel Ashwell, the UK-born founder, is returning to England to introduce a new fabrics collection with Cabbages & Roses, signaling a fresh evolution of the style. The contemporary interpretation of shabby chic is becoming less 'shabby,' with Ashwell describing her new fabrics as a "couture version" of her original collection. Many brands, including Oka and The White Company, offer refined versions of the aesthetic, incorporating vintage-look furnishings, soothing palettes, and tactile textiles.
Ashwell attributes the enduring appeal of shabby chic to its unique blend of prettiness and practicality. Her initial design, a sofa with a machine-washable slipcover, was a response to her needs as a young mother with small children. Over the years, her style has evolved from white smoky paint and pastel pinks and greens to include blues, teals, and earth tones. Despite facing bankruptcy in 2009, Ashwell's brand has experienced a resurgence, with her aesthetic aligning with current values of making memories, frugality, and creating heirlooms.
Christina Strutt, founder of Cabbages & Roses and a close friend of Ashwell, also highlights the style's enduring relevance, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. She argues that the comforting, nostalgic florals and ability to create a personalized, jumbled aesthetic provide a much-needed "food for the soul" compared to stark minimalist environments. Strutt's brand has gained a cult following, with celebrity admirers like Helena Bonham Carter and Gwyneth Paltrow.
The article also touches upon the potential "Tory vibe" of shabby chic, noting its appeal to those who prefer an aesthetic that suggests inherited furniture rather than new money. The loose covers, designed for durability against children and pets, further contribute to its practical, country-friendly image. However, regardless of its political associations or evolving interpretations, the core element of "prettiness" remains non-negotiable for the style, as Strutt emphasizes its ability to nourish the soul. The article showcases various examples of shabby chic interiors and products, illustrating its widespread influence and adaptability.
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