It is an ironic term, as shabby isn't usually chic, but it works! Think worn, distressed white furniture, elegant lamps, romantic flowers, chandeliers, slipcovered sofas, raggedy cushions, fine china, and anything scrolly, pretty, elegant and homely! Shabby chic also has a very cosy, cottage feel and has become an extremely popular style of decorating in the past few years.
The dominant color is white, also encorporating soft pinks, sage green and plenty of flowers. It is certainly a decorating style that can be achieved on a budget, as most things can be older items that you fix up yourself.
Just another thought: In the shop I also use the term "tattered grace" and one of the numbered "rules" (btw, in case you have not already figured it out the numbers of rules may mean nothing at all . . . but, then again) posted around, declares that, "There is a definite difference between Shabby Chic, and Tattered Grace." Customers have challenged me once or twice, to explain the difference. My answer is, first, as is true with the preceived value of any antique style, it is always in the eye of the beholder--dependent upon individual taste and preference. That said, when I think of "tattered grace," I think of fine old artisan designed, handmade fruniture, fashioned from top-quality wood; delicate old, beautifully decorated porcelain and silver; or linen and silk, embellished with handmade, fine lace. Things that might be worn, faded, and showing their age by their out-dated style, or that have been worn smooth in spots by their continued use over the ages, but that were so well designed and constructed in the beginning, that their quality, resilience, and originality still shine. Come to think of it, the same might be said of some people . . . .
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