Profile

"Shabby chic" may be part of the everyday style lexicon, but before 1989, the phrase simply didn’t exist—until Brit-born, LA-based interior decorator Rachel Ashwell introduced her family-friendly, washable slipcovers, and single-handedly revived a long-dormant (not to mention, dowdy) design aesthetic. Ever since, she’s been selling high-end merchandise, books, and even a television show anchored in her trademarked phrase—think cozy chintz sofas stuffed with goose down, gently-timeworn (read: intentionally distressed) painted wooden furniture, and comfy poplin bedding in an English country garden’s share of sun-bleached florals. A converted loft space with soaring ceilings, this massive Soho outpost is bisected by a row of imposing white pillars and filled with furniture, housewares and bedroom necessities. Everything on display is pastel and pacific; find every shade of white, plus pale tints and delicate floral patterns, often accented with ruffles. Check out the baby section for old-fashioned cribs and soft, adorable linens in pinks and blues. — Geeta Dayal