the Rose Wreath bath collection is one of my all-time favorites. Q: What are some of your favorite Simply Shabby Chic pieces?Ī: The balloon shades are timeless. Sometimes it might be an old ribbon for gift wrapping, or a vintage tin container for a gift.īlending flea market treasures with yesterday's magic is what I love. I also don't shop for everything at flea markets. How much am I willing to pay for this piece? This way I'm not surprised or forced to make a tough decision when I hear what the price is. Rachel Ashwell was one of the first to find success with her shabby chic designs and made them accessible selling them at Target. When I find a piece I like, I think about the value of the item to me. I look for items with authentic paint - colors that I'm drawn to are pale green, ivory and bleached woods. That way I have a direction or purpose for my shopping.

But when investors persuaded Ashwell to expand. Q: When you're at markets searching for new finds, how do you select what is worth buying?Ī: Before I go shopping, I evaluate what pieces I need and what rooms I'm shopping for. By 2008, she had six stores selling comfortable but stylish furniture and a licensing deal with Target. I love the entrepreneurial aspect of flea markets the culture, conversing with people, the stories and the history. My dad was an antique book dealer and I'd watch him at markets - it taught me to be quick on my feet and trust my gut when making decisions. She embraced the imperfections in the pieces she made. My mother made clothes for antique dolls - she would use frayed pieces and worn ribbons and fabrics. Q: Have you always been interested in design?Ī: I grew up going to flea markets with my parents. I was raised in this setting, so it's natural for me. It's intimidating to be in a setting where everything is perfect and polished, so I like things with character, charm and imperfections. Q: What draws you to timeworn and antique pieces?Ī: I'm drawn to pieces that are imperfect.

In honor of last week's paperback release of 'The Shabby Chic Home' (Harper Design, $24.99), we compiled a few items from Ashwell's Simply Shabby Chic signature line at Target and asked Ashwell to share her design inspiration and insider tips on hunting for great pieces.

Rachel ashwell target