I ordered the Romantic Style book by Selina Lake and Sara Norman and it arrived today.
I will be elsewise occupied for the rest of the week while I paint all my furniture a creamy white.
I want to eat in that dining room.
What I like about this book is that it isn't too twee. I think the Shabby Chic look has gone totally awry (except for the original, Rachel Ashwell). Too much pink and florals and mint green and cheap lace. None of the faded charm that made the Shabby Chic look so appealing. The history that was in every detail.
Not to say that this book is just recycling the original Shabby Chic look - it has a fresh spin on it, not a poor imitation. It is, after all, called Romantic Style – not Shabby Redux. I think the shabby and the romantic look are close cousins.
Normally I wait and buy used copies of decorating books but I didn't want to wait around for this one. It is worth it.
Hi Andrea,
I’ve been a reader for quite some time and love your blog and writings. I totally agree with your comments on shabby chic gone awry but must ask what “twee” means. I hope I’m not pointing out a typo, it’s just I also love finding new words and their meaning. I remember reading Charles Dickens sophomore year and the nun was floored that no one in a class of 40 knew what the word dung meant! Thanks so much and “hi” to the girls and family.
I know I’d love this book. I am planning to paint something(s) white while my sweetheart is away on a hunting trip. Hope I don’t get too carried away!
~Adrienne~