Shabby chic – it has to be beautifully "shabby"!

Perfection is out – embrace the charm of imperfection

The "used look" is in vogue.

Scratches, peeling paint, wormholes, rust – these are the kinds of flaws and signs of wear that define the shabby chic style. Shabby chic seeks beauty in imperfection, seeing lived history in the nostalgic charm of worn, old furniture. The term "vintage," meaning something like "old and exquisite," also describes fashion and design with a retro look. Anything that isn't actually old is styled to look old.

Anyone acquiring such a shabby-chic piece of furniture has to dig deep into their pockets. Furniture with a "used look" is all the rage. The shabby chic trend, which originated in Great Britain in the 1980s as a rejection of the luxurious living of the upper middle class, has also taken hold here.

What gives the style its personal touch is the skillful combination of antiques, heirlooms, flea market finds with new furniture and homemade accessories. Anything goes, as long as it pleases us and has meaning for us.

A light-colored sofa with floral cushions lends a romantic, rustic flair. Seating groups or individual armchairs made of wicker or rattan, painted white, also fit very well with the vintage style. Old lampshades exude nostalgic charm.

Cushions and blankets add colorful accents. Delicate floral patterns in pastel shades are often combined with stripes and lively gingham checks. Quilts or patchwork blankets are perfect for shabby chic. Even Grandma's crocheted doilies make an appearance – it's all about the mix!

The attention to detail can be seen in decorations such as ruffles and ribbons, gathered pillowcases or playful furniture knobs.

Crystal chandeliers and shimmering accessories such as playful vases, silver candlesticks and silk fabrics add highlights.

Those who wish can choose wallpapers with floral prints such as the "Toile de Jour". Peonies, hydrangeas and lilacs are particularly well-suited as floral decorations for the shabby chic style.

By the way: You can easily give an old chest of drawers or side table a distressed look. Signs of wear can be created with sandpaper or a wire brush. Patination makes furniture look "old".