Shabby Chic: The Gift of Giving

by t-bradley-back-timothy-j-gallion

First Edition 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Stated

Genres: Interior Design, Nonfiction

120 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Victoria Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my line of work, as a fashion/feature writer, there are few books that really inspire and teach me something new every time I read them, but out of this small group, "Shabby Chic: The Gift of Giving" by Rachel Ashwell remains at the top of my list. I had forgotten how attached I was to it until I had to bring three books, to class that inspired me and I could create lessons from, for my "ECE 4: Language and Literature for the Young Child" course at Santa Monica College last fall, and it was the first one I checked out of the library. Along with bringing in the books I had to create a class-related project to go with each one.
Utilizing the "Shabby Chic" palette of pink, blue and white, and the gift ideas from the book, I went to my local "Goodwill Industries Thrift Store" and bought decorative soaps and porcelain gift items, arranged them in a box and photographed them in all their soft pastel splendor. Now that I take my own photos for blogs, articles and other projects, I also rediscovered photographer Amy Neunsinger's lush and captivating images, that've made this book so memorable.
Originally published in 2001, Ashwell's messages to find, appreciate and give beauty in even something as mundane as a leaf found in an alleyway or a flower placed in an "Arizona Tea" bottle or can, still resonates with me and reminds me that value doesn't have to come from the rare, the pricey or the trendy.

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, I do not regret buying this book. The photography is simply phenomenal, and it is inspiring just to look at the pictures. But unfortunately, there are not really many gift giving "ideas". So if you bought this book looking for a new twist on gifts, you will be disappointed.

Ideas include putting flowers from the garden into bottles, or using big "floppy roses", or colored packing peanuts. Not to original, but still beautiful. She does convey the importance of giving thoughtful gifts, not just store bought items. Some reviewers had said that this is just a repeat of what is shown on her television show. I personally don't watch the show, so it's not a repeat for me.
Without the photography, I would have rated this book a two. But the pictures are what inspires you to give creative and thoughtful gifts.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic: The Gift of Giving is a visually pleasing book. The pictures are abundant and telling, the descriptions are well done. Ms. Ashwell has a very definite style that is quite enjoyable- she mixes the old with the new in such a way as to feel totally & uniquely just yours. I like the thought given to each example and idea. She has done an impressive job!

[Melissa Bond · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high expectations for this book. I love decorating my home in Shabby Chic style, but even better is giving gifts inspired from it. While there were a few ideas that that sparked my imagination, the majority of them were just slight variations of another. I expected much more.

[Kelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The photography makes this book. Does the book inspire me to do beautiful things? Yes, most assuredly so. Does it help me in how to do a better job in presently a present? Some what but not really. If I want to know how to compose an amazing photo of my art I know where to look for inspiration.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

there is some great gift ideas in here and the way to recycle and reuse in a beautiful and personal way. loved this. inspiring!

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

She reminds you that gift giving should be a personal sentiment.