The idea that something "shabby" (old and worn) can be considered "chic" (elegant and stylish) is the foundation of the "shabby-chic" decorating style of today. Shabbiness, in its ignorance of what is modern, new and extravagant, as well as its refusal to be perfect, is exactly what makes this type of decorating style so appealing. Cozy familiarity of furniture and fabrics versus the stiffness of contemporary newness is captivating a wider audience in the home decor realm.

Erin, at Unfolding Moments, describes her decorating approach as kind of a vintage/cottage/shabby chic type of style.  She looks for used items that need to be fixed up at garage sales and discount stores. This type of eclectic potpourri goes against some of today’s modern "matchy-matchy" grains, and that is precisely what she is trying to do. Erin likes the idea of having a story behind the things she owns rather than hiring a decorator to fill her home with a bunch of boring expensive items. Her colors throughout, include the soft, palatable, tones of pale blues, sage greens and white with subtle splashes of pink, brown or red to accent various rooms.

Rachel Ashwell, in her book Shabby Chic, sums up the key to the Shabby Chic style:

"the key lies in getting rid of the unnecessary, trusting in your instincts about what is comfortable and practical, noticing details, experimenting with new and complementary combinations of colors and fabrics, and looking at imperfection and age with a whole new appreciation for their unique significance and beauty."

Shabby Chic is the appreciation of the vulnerability that affects a piece due to time, weather, and touch.
It can provide a stylish look that is versatile and boundary free in any type
of environment.