Click to view Shabby Chic
Rachel Ashwell With Glynis Costin
Photography by Art Streiber
Regan Books/Harper Collins

Former movie set designer and founder of the Shabby Chic home decor stores Rachel Ashwell clues us in on creating Shabby Chic style, "a revived appreciation for what is used, well-loved, and worn," in the home. From fabrics to lighting, in detailed text and lively color photographs, this book shows how the "charm is in the flaw." Witness the ragged piece of wooden gate the designer transforms into a headboard in her bedroom.

Boucoup great ideas for comfy but elegant trappings plus practical advice on flea-market shopping, restoring furniture, and basics in the slipcover science.