Posted by Caren – November 13, 2007 3:02 PM
Tags: gift guide, shabby chic

(1 of 7 holiday home decor gift guides my fellow decorating editor, Chelsey, and I have put together according to design style)

Everyone knows someone who's into Shabby Chic, but among certain design circles (read: modern) you'd be hard-pressed to find someone to admit to it. Although the name may turn off some, the tender, sweet design style makes me want to slow my life down, if only for a day of tea parties and muffin-baking sessions.

But for those who mistakenly think it's all doilies and fringe-laden lamps, one look at the gifts on this list shows that Shabby Chic style has modernized itself beyond the tea party into comfortable living environs. Just look at Shabby Chic pioneer, Rachel Ashwell's offerings — you probably already know her from her Shabby Chic line at Target.

Photos from Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic

So be proud, Shabby Chic lovers, this gift guide's for you — and the modern friend who knows your secret.

Esther Derkx Improved Crockery Teapot
My career as a gymnast ended around second grade when I learned that standing on your head really stinks. A much safer bet: pouring out your aerobic inclinations with these vintage teapots screenprinted with gymnasts and dancers. You choose the gender.
Buy: ReForm School, $120

Westie Bookends
Westies are cute. Really, really cute (and I know this firsthand because my brother has two!) How perfect for the Shabby Chic dog lover to have a pair of these cast-iron bookends?
Buy: C.S. Post & Co., $42

Nature Correspondence
The collage is quite possibly the second mainstay of Shabby Chic — right after the distressing technique — so these bird and butterfly files and postcards will feel right at home in your recipient's nest.
Buy: Room Service Home, $15-18

Dragonfly and Honeybee Mugs by Laura Zindel
Gift these mugs to Shabby Chic friends who aren't afraid of bugs — or beautiful ceramic style. They're hand-built and signed by the artist, so your lucky recipient is guaranteed an original.
Buy: The Guild at The Artful Home, $40 each, $145 set of four

Raspberry Birdie Arch
I'm head over heels for these cute one-of-a-kind birdies from independent shop, Summer Salt Design. Better grab one of these for your Shabby Chic friend before they all fly home for winter!
Buy: Summer Salt Design, $27

#42 Seaweed Wall Accent/Tray
Quite possibly the brightest color your Shabby Chic friend may put in her home. Handpainted and pieced together by artist John Derian. Be sure to special order this for a 2-4 week delivery.
Buy: lille, $176

Vintage Rose Coaster Set
A little bit of shabby, a little bit of chic and the perfect hostess gift for the holiday season.
Buy: Layla Grace, $26

Trash Chic Bags
Good gifters don't buy trash for their family and friends, but we'll let you make an exception. Besides being a totally unconventional gift, these chic bags give a new meaning to "Shabby" and are great for the aesthete whose trashcan itself already looks nicer than your living room.
Buy: Firebox.com, $14.95 for 80 liners

See all the 2007 gift guides for the home:
Modern Style
Old World, Traditional Style
Whimsical Style for Kids
Eco-Chic Style
Graphic Design Style
Ethnic Style, Around the World Gifts
Stocking Stuffers
Wrapping Paper Guide

Shop for more Shabby Chic gifts at HGTV.com's MarketPlace.