Shabby Chic - Creating The Look

Shabby Chic has become an increasingly popular style of home decor over the last few years. Some call it glamour styling, but whatever you call it, there is nothing more charming and romantic! Let’s find out how easy it is to create the shabby chic look.

The first rule for decorating in this style is that all surfaces and soft furnishings are pale or shiny. Occasionally a little black or dark navy is added for dramatic contrast on woodwork or furniture. Furniture is normally kept fairly simple. For example, a sofa covered in pale damask is perfect for the shabby chic look.

Floors can be carpeted or wood. When using wood flooring, an off white or cream color is absolutely stunning! You can accomplish the look yourself if you already have wood floors. Simply sand the floor down, paint it with a pale colored paint that is durable and made for floors. Finish off with a couple of coats of semi-gloss polyurethane for protection. If you decide to use carpeting, a biscuit colored berber is perfect for using in the shabby chic decor.

There are a variety of ways to decorate your walls. A pale, neutral colored paint for the walls adds to the roomy and airy feeling
You can also use wallpaper, with patterns such as a fine striped or delicate floral effect. Top this with a textured border that depicts a three-dimensional effect for a striking room!

If you have large picture windows in your home, these are perfect for the shabby chic style. Use delicate sheers in pale colors, or a small stripe or floral pattern works as long as the colors stay in the white, pale pink or cream color. A very small touch of black or navy will work as well.

Accent your new look with distressed finished pieces such as wall mirrors, chandeliers and plant stands. A plant stand overflowing with delicate greenery adds romance and charm to your room. You can also find magazine racks, candleholders and shelves that are designed in the shabby chic decor style.

Shabby chic is the way to go if you’re a romantic and love the charm and elegance this style affords. You can also use this style and stay within your budget, since there are many aspects of this decor that you can easily do yourself. So get started on that new look - you will love the clean, uncluttered and airy atmosphere this style lends to your home!

Tess Tackett is the owner of All About Home Decor where you will find exquisite home and garden decor in many styles at wholesale prices! Also visit her blog, Interior Motives for more decorating tips and recipes.