On Thursday, I ventured to SoHo in the rain for a party celebrating two decades of Shabby Chic, Rachel Ashwell's new book (Shabby Chic Interiors), and the opening of Shabby Chic Couture shops. The iconic Shabby Chic brand also took a hit from the recession and actually filed for bankruptcy last January. There was an article in the New York Times about Rachel Ashwell and Shabby Chic's comeback story. I love hearing stories of making it work (as Tim Gunn would say), amidst all the sour news of this economic crisis. The party was fun — David Stark did an amazing job of styling the space for the soiree. Just look at those flowers!! The shop felt like one pretty, comfy, girlie, English fairy tale.
When Shabby Chic was founded in 1989, people more often adopted the entire look as a decorating scheme. The tides have shifted (thanks in part to Domino, I think) and now people decorate with soft, girlie Shabby Chic elements as an accent rather than a room filled exclusively with ruffles, flowers, and dusty colors. My style is definitely more industrial chic, rather than Shabby Chic. (Jane just posted a great piece on industrial chic style.) But I appreciate how a mix of styles is what creates the surprise in design. I'd love one of those giant fabric pendants (that looks like it came straight out of the costume collection of Bright Star) in our loft. Rachel's Shabby Chic collection is lovely, especially in person, and the shop feels so cozy and inviting inside. The lighting was my favorite — lots of filament bulbs everywhere.
Here's Rachel, who makes age 50 look fantastic. And her new book takes you through the rooms of her Los Angeles house. Her home is filled with vintage furniture, and the look of pretty but imperfect. And she clearly has a love of little treasures. I can relate. I think I spent 80 percent of my packing time for our last move wrapping up little, quirky treasures I've adopted.
Rachel Ashwell has a popular line at Target you probably know, called Simply Shabby Chic. The photo above is a peek at her Target collection. The dishes are so sweet and romantic. Her Target line includes bedding, dishware, and even fabric banners.
The party food was delicious. They had cupcakes, my favorite!
All of these lovely photos are by the super Patricia Willis. Patricia is sunshine. And the party was a bright spot on my Thursday.
