To say that I’ve got a thing for all things Shabby Chic would be a serious understatement. In fact I’d go as far as to say I’m full-fledged obsessed! But mine is not a one girl club. From home to wedding day decor, Shabby Chic happens to be one of the most popular design approaches around. Defined by floral patterns, soft hues and distressed finishes, by its very nature Shabby Chic puts an effortless twist on the formalities of Vintage and a sophisticated spin on the casual carefree ways of Homespun. Right in the middle is where you find Shabby Chic, with its abundant layers, sheer feminine textiles and pink that goes for miles. Could anything be better to frame your wedding day celebration? I think not!

So without any further delay, let’s explore all the design elements that come together to create a stunningly Shabby Chic event, including our very own design twist tips on how to make the look uniquely yours.

The Look – Effortless Beauty

Shabby Chic is about the appearance of a balance between the tossed at whim and the perfectly placed. From the hair, to the shoes, to all the things that come in between, the key is to make it all appear effortlessly natural even though it takes meticulous planning to get the look right. The end result, well worth the effort, is drop dead gorgeous.

The Design – Distressed and Layered

If it’s not rich in layered fabrics or defined by distressed finishes, it need not apply! And what’s the easiest way to bring in dimension and complexity to your set up? Props. Think outside the must have pieces that serve a tangible function and incorporate items that are purely decorative. And although traditional textiles, like linens and lace, will always have a place in a Shabby Chic design, don’t be afraid to mix in your own fabric of choice, like we did with burlap.

featured here: ornate vintage chalkboard

featured here: vase trim created using ruffled jute and pink ruffled fabric ribbons, bound with craft paper twine

featured here: vintage inspired ceramic bottle vases

featured here: rolls of ruffled fabric ribbon used as decorative accents

featured here: ‘a sweet embrace’ cake topper

featured here: vintage inspired taper candle holder, lace pattern glass globe votive holders (large) and rolled burlap flower

featured here: vintage inspired ceramic bottle vase, ruffled burlap wreath and decorative over sized button (large)

The Colors

There’s no mistaking that the Shabby Chic design has its own distinctive color palette. But how you incorporate and blend the pinks and blues that inherently make up this theme’s color story, even what exact shades you select,  is up for interpretation. Make them mere accents to a dominant white palette, allow them to overtake your design as a whole, or mix with an unexpected shade like pewter grey. Get inspired by your selected venue’s existing look and feel and go from there.

featured here: custom backdrop made using burlap table runners and fabric ruffle flowers (all sizes and colors)

featured here: vintage inspired wood case used as a centerpiece prop

featured here: vase trim created using layered ruffled fabric ribbons bound with craft paper twine

featured here: faux floral arrangement made using single stem ruffled fabric flowers

featured here: custom chair back – ruffled burlap wreath and vintage inspired distressed key hook

Love It? Want More?

For more inspirational eye-candy from our ‘Burlap Chic’ shoot pick up a copy of this year’s issue of Weddingstar’s print magazine, and shop the entire look on weddingstar.com.

xoxo.