Shabby chic décor and design is an interesting one: first popularized in the 1990s, briefly imperiled during the recession, back on-trend with modern touches, inspired by a wide variety of styles—its popularity endures. It’s easy to see why. The hallmarks of shabby chic are intriguing, producing an overall elegant effect. Whether new or old, furniture and fixtures in shabby chic rooms looks aged for a comfortable, lived-in look that evokes large British country houses.

Common décor elements for shabby chic include the color white, gold accents, softer pastel colors, patinas (to produce the aged look), rustic touches, flowers and anything evoking shabby chic’s many inspirations—French chateau style, American Shaker ideals, beach cottages and Mediterranean culture among them.

Designer Rachel Ashwell has been synonymous with shabby chic for more than 20 years. She opened her first home furnishing store in 1989 in Santa Monica, California and often sourced flea markets for her inventory. It was very popular and shabby chic style took off in the 1990s. Ashwell wrote books and even had a Shabby Chic TV show from 1999 to 2003. Though her business struggled during the recession, she’s back in prominence and shabby chic style reigns again.

Get inspired by shabby chic with this great selection of lighting fixtures and home décor.