Well, I'm finally back! We had a fabulous trip to CA. I covered a lot of ground - from L.A. to Cost Mesa to Newport Beach to San Diego. I made it to flea markets, antique shops, cupcake bakeries, flower markets, museums, and lots of incredible shops. And I have so many things to share that I almost don't know where to begin.
But, I guess I will start with one of my first loves...Shabby Chic. As I mentioned in my last post, Shabby Chic was always one of my most favorite places to shop when I went to L.A. and I have been VERY disappointed ever since it went out of business. Nevertheless, I thought it was only fitting that I go by it's original flagship location on Montana Avenue. I wanted to see it. See what, if anything, was remaining. I didn't really know what to expect. Would it be replaced by a new store or restaurant? Would it be all boarded up? Torn down?
Funny thing though, when I got there - I was completely surprised by what I found. The building was still the same. The pretty painted "Shabby Chic" sign was still intact and there were some lights on inside.
And, yes, a peek through the large glass paned windows showed that it was indeed empty.
Except, well...not completely empty. For in each of the front windows, there was a very simple and beautiful, "shabby" vignette. In one, a french chair and a table with some pretty china plates.
In another, just a simple old dressing screen.
Or some beautiful vintage textiles.
But, it was this window that seemed like a sign to me...
Just a simple arrangement of vintage millinery flowers trailing on the floorboards.
And while I don't know exactly what all these window displays mean, I have to believe they mean something. I am hoping that they are a sign...a sign that Shabby is definitely not gone forever. Just on a little vacation... and hopefully coming back home very soon.
:-)
Jessica
Oh! ?? You think?? I live in California and would love to know where this is. If it isn't too far, I can keep an eye on it for you!!! :)
(Don't tell my husband!)
Wouldn't it be fun to actually see a business go back INTO business for once?
Posted by: Karen DeCapite | August 27, 2009 at 10:27 AM
I have missed you! So glad you are back...oh I adore Shabby Chic! Thank you for sharing this post...I have been to the store when it was up and running...my heart is sad to see it so empty...but nice to know a bit was left behind for all us to appreciate! Welcome back!
Posted by: koralee | August 27, 2009 at 12:05 PM
So incredibly sad when they went away :-( Love the shabby stuff.
Posted by: Jocelyn | August 27, 2009 at 12:05 PM
Hi Jessica!
Oh, these photos just made my heart sink! I have almost the same exact photos of the storefront from my trip 2 years ago. I remember walking thru the shop, looking at EVERY detail! I just missed Rachel by 10 minutes, she had just left.
Thanks for sharing these pics, I'm with you... the window vignettes are very telling.
xo
Analise
Posted by: Analise | August 27, 2009 at 12:22 PM
Gone but not forgotten! The scenes in the window are so poignant....I yearn to see what filled the store before it was vacated.
Perhaps, you're right.....the items that linger are silently keeping vigil.
Best Wishes,
Kay
Posted by: Kay Flynn-The Wrought Iron Gate | August 27, 2009 at 12:51 PM
Sounds like a fabulous trip! The photos of the windows make me sad. I have always loved Shabby Chic too...and wish she could have saved her business!
One good thing, her new book comes out in September!
Can't wait to read more about your trip.
Cerri xo
Posted by: cerri | August 27, 2009 at 01:08 PM
Hello Jessica.... :o) !
THANK YOU for these lovely pics....I visited the Santa Monica & Malibu stores in April this year when I made a mercy dash from Australia....I think it's a GREAT sign that a new business hasn't moved into the Santa Monica store....I have a BIG smile on my face as I think of the possibilities.... :o) !
Cheers from 'Down Under',
Tamarah :o)
Posted by: Tamarah Charter | August 27, 2009 at 05:06 PM
I love that... I think you are absolutely right, I feel as if it is a message of hope, that all is not lost!! Thanks!
Isabel
Posted by: Isabel ~ Maison Douce | August 28, 2009 at 12:05 AM
I think it's typical Rachel Ashwell to even in the despair of the stores closing she's thought of window displays.
I was lucky enough to visit the store last year and even more exciting I'm meeting the lady herself in October at her book signing in London.
Victoria xx
Posted by: Victoria | August 28, 2009 at 05:36 PM
I've been to this shop once, several years ago. Oh, my, I hope you're right...
Posted by: Zita - Mlle Magpie | August 29, 2009 at 05:39 PM
Where can I get one of thoughs pink dressing screens I love it ? Exactly what I'm
Looking for ?
Posted by: Cassandra Creed | December 08, 2013 at 04:22 AM