From pure white slip covers, chipped white painted furniture, and a mix of accessories - none of which match, this is Shabby Chic.

You can describe Shabby Chic as fresh and traditional; plain and patterned; casual and elegant; simple and ornate; rumpled and tidy.

'Shabby-Chic' is a wildly popular decorating trend. Rachel Ashwell, the owner of Shabby Chic and the 1996 author of "Shabby-Chic decorating" is credited for making the comfortable, eclectic and affordable - trendy and beautiful.

Rachel taught us to appreciate the glory of simplicity and imperfection. Aficionados of the style give ‘found’ items new life and function, celebrating their less-than-perfect appearance. They distress items, combine them, and make something cozy and stylish of ordinary old items that they love.

Shabby Chic style is characterized by such colours as pastel pinks, muted greens, and washed gray or neutral tones. Think vintage, well-worn, peeling, and well-loved. Think comfort. Shabby chic is not intimidating - it is warm, cozy and inviting.

Shabby chic is an easy style to achieve because it can include anything you love, mixing colours, patterns and textures. They key is finding a grouping of things you love and making them work together.

Valuable flea market finds...

A peeling, antique vanity in muted sea green...

An elegant, cracked chandelier...

An enormous, slipcovered sofa with deep, cushions...

"Comfort, the beauty of imperfections, the allure of time-worn objects, and the appeal of simple practical living: these are the cornerstones of what has come to be known as the Shabby Chic style. Like the cozy familiarity of a well-worn pair of faded jeans, the dilapidated elegance of an Italian viIla, or the worn grandeur of faded velvets and mismatched floral china handed down from your grandmother's attic, the Shabby Chic style is a revived appreciation for what is used, well-loved, and worn. It is a respect for natural evolution and a regard for what is easy and sensible," says Rachel.

Inspirations for Shabby Chic
Flea market finds can be given a coat or two of white paint. Don't restore items, leave them in their original "shabby" condition.

White or faded print slipcovers are not only decorative, they are practical as well. If covers become soiled, slip them into the washing machine... its as easy as that. Rachel's secret is to change slipcovers with the seasons - always having a fresh new look.

Big, plumped-up sofas, well-worn and comfortable. Just sink in and relax.

Accessorize with anything and everything. Take out granny's old teapot and place in on display. Mount those chipped, collectable plates, even flawed items are perfect for "Shabby Chic" decorating schemes.

Flowers and candles are a natural for a Shabby Chic room. Wildflowers and common garden varieties in a china vase, floral fabrics and needlework pillows, and candles to bring a romantic mood and interesting lighting.