How to Dress in Shabby Chic

Choose antique-inspired clothing in soft colors.

Dressing in shabby chic is wearing the perfect combination of new and antique pieces of clothing and jewelry. The term shabby chic means dressing in vintage-inspired, often layered clothing that evokes a feminine feeling. The antithesis of modern fashion, shabby chic clothing is pastel in color, such as antique rose, lavender, white, gray, butter and pale blue. It's also loose fitting on the body. Usually women dress in shabby chic style, with a big push toward baby clothing that resembles old-fashioned play and values.

Instructions

1. 

   Ruffles create a nostalgic feeling.

   Look in your closet before shopping. Seek out loose-fitting sundresses, skirts and tops that are flowing and pastel colored. Look especially for soft, flowered prints and ruffles. Light-colored pants also work when paired with vintage-inspired shoes and antique jewelry.

   Set aside the pieces of clothing that already feature a shabby chic look. Write down what you need to fill in the missing shabby chic wardrobe pieces. Head out to clothing stores that carry vintage-inspired, romantic clothing and accessories.

2. 

   Clothing items should fit loosely.

   Layer everything. Wear camisoles, preferably with lace, and tank tops underneath button down, gauzy shirts. Tops with ribbons work well when paired with a faded pair of jeans. Add a pair of footless tights, with lace at the bottom, underneath a flowing, linen skirt. Pair a long-sleeved, pastel-colored thermal shirt with a tank on top. The idea is loose-fitting without looking sloppy.

   Add antique-looking, delicate necklaces such as long chains with petite flowers or heart lockets, and layer choker necklaces. Chandelier earrings, broaches and rings featuring roses, rhinestones and aged metal complete the shabby chic outfit.

3. 

   Soft, floppy hats compliment the shabby chic style.

   Add faded outerwear to your outfit if the weather permits. A loose-fitting, small-knit weave sweater that hangs below the waist, in a neutral color such as beige, tends to go with all shabby chic outfits. Patterned jackets, such as small flowers or thin stripes, and crocheted, fitted hats work well with the shabby chic look. Remember that the overall look is feminine and old-fashioned looking, so no baseball caps or top hats, for example.

4. 

   Choose understated ballet flats.

   Put on shoes that are simple in pattern and design. Beige, pink or cream ballerina flats with or without a tie bow are perfect with any outfit. Wear classic loafers in cooler months, and sandals and feminine-looking flip flops when the weather is warm.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out secondhand stores for vintage fashion.

• Visit a fabric store and look at vintage fabrics for inspiration.

• Wearing several flowered patterns together looks busy instead of sophisticated.

• Stay away from black, unless it's a shoe color.

• Makeup should be soft and subtle to complement shabby chic clothing.

References

• Not Too Shabby: Little House Fabric by the Yard
• Shabby Chic: Heritage

Resources

• Free People: Vintage Loves