Using lace as a table runner or window covering adds to the shabby chic style.
For homeowners who prefer vintage-inspired decor and face a tight budget, decorating a room in shabby chic style is a good option. Shabby chic decor helps create a comfortable feeling by making use of worn, vintage pieces. Because this style emphasizes older, worn pieces, many homeowners may find items to use for decorating in their basement, attic or hall closet. Newer pieces can also work in a shabby chic room by using paint and sandpaper to give the items a weathered appearance.
Vintage Linens
To give your room a shabby chic look, opt for vintage or vintage-inspired linens. Tablecloths, bedspreads, curtains and rugs with a worn, aged look fit the style well. If you find linens at a store that you would like to give a vintage look to, try staining the fabric with tea so it fits in with the shabby chic decor. Lace is often used in shabby chic decor as well, and may be used as a romantic looking table runner or window coverings. Combining patterned linens, such as floral with stripes, gives a room a random look, which also helps contribute to the shabby chic style. See that the patterns have colors in common, though, so the room has a sense of cohesion. Typical colors for a shabby chic design scheme include soft pinks, yellows and greens.
Distressed Furniture
Furniture in a shabby chic designed room should have a distressed look. Any piece of furniture can be given a shabby chic makeover by covering it with white paint and chipping the finish so it looks weathered. For couches and arm chairs, find overstuffed, slouchy pieces, and cover them with slipcovers that have faded, worn-looking patterns. In a bedroom, a wrought iron headboard with a rusty or chipped finish can add to the shabby chic look. Using furniture pieces for unintended purposes is another decorating option for a shabby chic room. Use an old chair to hold a grouping of candles or a vase of flowers. Stack wooden boxes to serve as an end table, or use an old trunk as a coffee table.
Architectural Elements
Adding architectural items like antique moldings or a fireplace mantle to a room helps add interesting detail to a shabby chic room. Glass doorknobs and wrought iron curtain rods also help give a space a vintage look. Distressed wooden medallions can be added to a wall for visual interest as well.
Antique Knickknacks
If you decide to give a room a shabby chic makeover, it is the ideal excuse to go hunting through your attic or basement for fun knickknacks that have an antique or vintage feel. Old lamps, mirrors, fluted glasses, mismatched china and chipped teapots can all add character to a shabby chic room. Displaying family heirlooms gives your room a personal touch as well.
