Shabby Chic: A Classic

One of my favorite designers, 

if not my favorite designer, is Rachel Ashwell.

She claims to not have invented Shabby Chic, 

but can be accredited for 

today's trend.

However, it can not really be called a trend.

Her book, Shabby Chic 

was written in 1996

and remains a classic today.

She writes, 

"Shabby Chic goes far beyond the stereotype

of a few tea-stained florals and some cushy chairs.

Some have called this shabby yet elegant look 

'a marriage between the laid-back, breezy ease 

of Los Angeles beach life and the romantic 

prettiness of English country life

at its most casual'."

The pink candlesticks and floral dresser box

atop the vanity mirror

have the "romantic prettiness"

that is described in Rachel's book.

The sheer curtains share the 

practicality and faded splendor 

of the shabby chic.

"To these qualities I would add that the style

suggests things that are inherited rather

than store-bought and handcrafted 

rather than mass-produced."

I like to imagine that the candlesticks 

and the dresser box were wedding gifts

from a grandmother, 

an inheritance to share with the 

next generation.

I dream of a beach house 

decorated with white and soft pastels and

loosely fitting fabrics draped across comfortable seating.

I imagine wide wood-paneled white walls

and sheer white panels 

that blow with the ocean's wind.

I imagine ruffled pillows

and soft throws 

for relaxing while enjoying 

my favorite pastime, reading.

I imagine a large front porch 

with a close view of one of 

God's most beautiful creations

that remains and stands the test of time. 

This is shabby chic living.

Hope you enjoyed a relaxing Monday. 

I did!

Bonnie:)