Welcome to the World of Shabby Chic

Creating a brand synonymous with her aesthetic and lifestyle, designer Rachel Ashwell founded Shabby Chic in 1989 on the philosophy of beauty, comfort, and function.

Introduction to Shabby Chic and its founder, Rachel Ashwell

Shabby Chic is more than just a design style; it's a way of life. Rachel Ashwell, a renowned designer, established Shabby Chic in 1989, aiming to bring together beauty, comfort, and function in her creations. With her unique vision and talent, Rachel has revolutionized the world of interior design.

The philosophy behind Shabby Chic: beauty, comfort, and function

At the core of Shabby Chic is the philosophy of embracing the beauty of imperfections and creating a comfortable and functional living space. Rachel Ashwell believes that every item, whether it's a piece of furniture or a decorative accessory, should have a purpose and bring joy to its owner.

The first Shabby Chic store in Santa Monica, CA

Rachel Ashwell's first Shabby Chic store opened its doors in Santa Monica, California. This store quickly became a haven for those seeking a blend of vintage charm, elegance, and relaxed comfort. It was here that Rachel showcased her signature washable furniture slipcovers and fabulous flea market finds.

Expansion of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ flagship stores

The success of the Santa Monica store led to the opening of additional Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ flagship stores. These stores, located in California, New York City, the UK, and Texas, have become destinations for design enthusiasts seeking the timeless allure of Shabby Chic.

The Prairie: A unique Bed and Breakfast in Round-top Texas

In addition to the flagship stores, Shabby Chic offers a unique experience at "The Prairie." Situated in Round-top, Texas, this charming Bed and Breakfast captures the essence of Shabby Chic living. Guests can immerse themselves in the ambiance and enjoy the carefully curated Shabby Chic decor.

Simply Shabby Chic® line of bedding and home accessories

One of the most successful endeavors of Shabby Chic is the Simply Shabby Chic® line of bedding and home accessories. Launched in 2004 through an exclusive partnership with Target stores, this line brings the elegance of English design and the laid-back California style to customers nationwide.

International exposure through partnerships with House of Fraser and Japan

Shabby Chic's influence extends beyond the United States. Through an exclusive partnership with House of Fraser in the UK and a distributor in Japan, the brand has gained international exposure. In fact, there are plans to open two retail locations in Japan in 2014, further expanding the global reach of Shabby Chic.

Rachel Ashwell's published books on Shabby Chic

Rachel Ashwell's passion for Shabby Chic is beautifully captured in her published works. She has authored nine books to date, with the most recent one titled "The World of Shabby Chic," published in 2015. These books serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for those looking to incorporate Shabby Chic elements into their homes.

Shabby Chic's success over 25 years in business

Celebrating over 25 years in business, Shabby Chic has become a beloved brand for design enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique blend of English elegance and California casual has resonated with people seeking a comfortable and inviting home environment.

Plans for an expanded marketing and licensing campaign

With a strong foundation and a loyal customer base, Shabby Chic has ambitious plans for the future. The brand is set to launch an expanded marketing and licensing campaign, aiming to grow the Shabby Chic family of brands at retail. This strategic move will bring the beauty of Shabby Chic to even more homes around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shabby Chic, founded by Rachel Ashwell, has created a design aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfections and combines it with comfort and functionality. With flagship stores, a Bed and Breakfast experience, successful product lines, international partnerships, and a strong presence in the publishing world, Shabby Chic has established itself as a leading brand in the world of interior design. As the company looks toward the future, it continues to innovate and inspire, bringing the essence of Shabby Chic into the lives of more people.