Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Interiors: My rooms, treasures and trinkets Paperback – August 23, 2012

I've been a Shabby Chic fan since the beginning and I happily often had the opportunity to go to Rachel Ashwell's Santa Monica store. Even when it was closed, the window was still interesting to look at.Anyway, I was so much curious of this book that I couldn't wait to read it and I read it too quickly !I would say it is a little different from the other ones, more eclectic, more "industrial style" but still Shabby and Chic, more Bohemian too, more "artistic". It is also more nostalgic than the first ones, probably because of the circumstances while this book has been written.The more "junk" and hodgepodge sides come certainly from the fact her kids are adults now, still students and she obviously is influenced by their tastes, something quite normal after all.Our period is also different from the 80's, Rachel can't forever stick to the same stuff again and again.But it remains her style, still coherent. Her explanations are very clear, it is very easy to understand how her creation process works, which are her motivations, what kind of trend has an influence on her.But at the end, it is Shabby Chic - Rachel Ashwell.In this book, I loved her homes, in L.A. and Malibu but was a little less interested in Marylin Monroe's home and her other friends' houses which are not exactly of the same style, a little less defined and messier.And it is true that the rooms on the pictures didn't look quite finished, I don't know why, less details, more naked truth maybe.Anyway, actually I was more interested in what she was saying in her book, than the photos themselves. Because I like to understand what there is behind people's minds, rather than what they want to show.If you are a Shabby Chic fan and want to spend a few hours in Rachel Ashwell's world, that is the book for you, a must in that case. If you just like beauty, that is still a book for you.But if you are researching for something completely mad, new, very modern or "bizarre bazaar", I am afraid it is not that kind enough. Just pass your way, and come back when you search for something more cozy, comfy and chic.My only problem with this book : I had not enough to read. I need to know more. I need another whole book like this. The least I can say : I've not been bored while reading it !

The book was delivered fine. The problem was the book is exactly the same as ones I have ordered before. The only difference was that the cover picture was different. How am I supposed to know that they have published the original book with a updated cover?

I just finished Rachel Ashwell's latest book, Shabby Chic Interiors: My Rooms, Treasures, and Trinkets. I thought the book was very inspiring. Amy Neunsinger's photography was fantastic and I think it's great that Rachel is evolving her look with more saturated colors and some leather pieces thrown in for good measure. It feels just as feminine and chic but maybe a little more mature and sophisticated. Without a doubt, I love that she gets rid of all the modern "fancy-smancy" additions by replacing them with the old, well-worn look we love her for. I was very happy with this new book and will happily add it to my RASC collection! It's a definite keeper that you will refer to often for helpful tips and great suggestions on ways in which to beautify your home with simple everyday items that we all have access to. Keep up the good work. I can't wait to see your new store in NY.

OMG I LOVE Rachel Ashwell. She used to have a local store but no one could afford the pieces in it so it closed up and now I'm just left with books like SC Interiors to dream the Shabby Chic dream. As I mentioned in another review, we're moving and I'd do the whole house SC and my husband said he'd rather move in with his mother and divorce me than see one chandelier in the bathroom. He doesn't know what he's missing. Maybe after sitting in one, fluffy white chair during a football game he'll change his mind. Until then, I am left with this lovely book for ideas and inspiration for a dream I will forever dream....Back to Potterybarn.

I enjoyed it.

This book is just wonderful. It is written as if she is having a conversation with you and taking you on her journey. I find myself going back to it every time I have a quiet moment to myself. Great book!

For those who were saddened by the closing of Shabby Chic stores and look to Rachel Ashwell's blog for inspiration, Shabby Chic Interiors will thoroughly satisfy. Ashwell's friendly tone, along with Amy Neunsinger's delicious photography, take the reader through exactly what is promised: her rooms, treasures, and trinkets. She manages to make a barn beautifully charming, and her collection of vintage prom dresses is nothing short of gorgeous. In short, if you enjoyed The Shabby Chic Home (or any of her other books, as well), then you will love Shabby Chic Interiors.

This book should allow potential buyers to see some of its chapters and especially its not too inspiring photos. Do not let the cover fool you as it did me. As a fan of most shabby chic elements in home decor, this is a true disappointment due to its rushed and thrown together look. Some of the dedications and family memories by the author are sweet...but what happened to all the photos? I must say that all of the CHIC was taken out; sadly leaving us with only SHABBY, BORING AND DEPRESSING IMAGES. I know this look has been around for two decades, but past books and images seemed more romantic and timeless with a bit of a euro feel...now it is starting to look very junky and you can't wait to run out of the rooms...her kid's shoes, scary white cross, prom dresses, the so called celebrity rooms...Munroe's former bedroom (yuck!)Sorry to be so harsh...but the decorating ball was really dropped on this book project.