Designer Rachel Ashwell, founder of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic, created the brand that is synonymous with her design sense and lifestyle. Rachel based the brand on the aesthetics of beauty, comfort and function. The company was founded in 1989 with the opening of the original store in Santa Monica, CA, which sold Rachel's washable slipcovered furniture and fabulous flea market finds.

Born and raised in England, Rachel Ashwell was already an innovative commercial and print stylist when the birth of her first child led to her original design concept. "I needed a versatile home that could handle children and a busy lifestyle," Rachel says. "The answer came to me in the form of slipcovers. They could be easily washed and gave a warm, open feel to the rooms." Her friends soon wanted their own set of Rachel-designed slipcovers.

Complementing the growth of the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic brand was the publication of Rachel’s first design book,"Shabby Chic" in 1996, with followed by four more books on home design, gift giving and parties. In Fall 1999, "Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell" television series premiered on the E! Channel and Style Network.

A WORD FROM RACHEL
"As both a mother and the creator of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic, my thoughts about decorating are that a home can be truly lived in and still be lovely. I believe in cozy relaxed settings where kids are free to put their feet on the sofa and guests can place their cups on the coffee table without a care. For me, the secret to living well is to surround myself with beautiful things that are practical and deliciously comfortable."

"My designs are inspired by flea market finds and the appeal of sensible living. Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic is the marriage of my English heritage with the fresh and eclectic qualities of my California lifestyle."

I look forward to bringing you into the world of Shabby Chic!