Chabi Chic is a term loosely applied to a number of styles and types of chic. Commonly used to describe items associated with shabby chic decor, this style is a charming and nostalgic approach to furnishing your home. Using delicate fabrics, rustic distressed finishes and aged wood and furniture, shabby chic furnishings can add a lot of charm to an otherwise ordinary space. If you are thinking about renovating an entire room, chabi chic is definitely the way to go!
Unlike other modern decor, shabby chic decor allows you to get away with a lot of different things. This is because, unlike regular style furniture, shabby chic pieces tend to be very simplistic in their structure. For example, a chair may be made from one piece of fabric and have no design on it – this makes it very functional and practical. Some pieces, however, can be completely unique because they are decorated in a very distinctive and feminine manner. These are the ‘shabby chic’ pieces that you should look out for.
The colors used in shabby chic home decor are generally neutral or pale shades of brown. They are usually soft and mellow, rather than bright and vibrant like the colors of most contemporary decor. Dark or light brown stains can also be used in order to lend the room a worn or antique look. If your shabby chic home decor is inspired by the French countryside, then you will find that your furniture choices are mostly French farmhouse inspired. You can achieve this look simply by selecting farmhouse chairs and tableware in dark or light brown.
Accessorizing the look of your shabby chic home with bits and pieces which have a vintage feel is essential. Antiques are a great way to complement the shabby chic theme as authentic and classic pieces are hard to find. Vintage fabrics such as brocade and velvet can be used for curtains, tablecloths and lamps. Remember to choose accessories that are not overly large, so as not to overpower the room. Smaller items may also go well with larger ones, as long as they do not clash.
As with most things, shabby chic accessories come in two basic styles: the vintage and the distressed. Vintage style pieces are made from original pieces which have been restored and keep their original traits. They are often made from solid wood, unlike the distressed style which is made from painted or stained fabric. Vintage furniture is also more expensive as it is more difficult to find.
In shabby chic decor, the walls can be bare or painted in neutral tones. This adds a touch of elegance to the room. Any artwork on the walls such as paintings or prints can be chosen to compliment the decor. Remember that shabby chic decor should have neutral tones so as not to create an opposite effect. Decorating using this style can bring out the natural beauty of a room.
Once you have the basics in place, add a few decorative items to complete the look. Look for items that mirror the shabby chic style, such as antiques and old books. Wrought iron candle holders or candelabras look great on the walls and are easy to clean. Remember to choose pieces which tie in with the color scheme as well as the texture and material of the room. Pieces with a neutral color on a black or dark floor will help give the room a cozier feel.
You can easily transform shabby chic decor into your own personal haven by choosing coordinating lighting and furniture. Since shabby chic decor is not bright and bold, it works well with furniture that has a soft, cottage, countryside or aged look to it. For example, find pieces with an antique look or pieces made from wicker, rattan or wood. Your shabby chic decor can easily become your personal sanctuary with just a few careful decorating steps.