I’m not one for trends, but Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic methodology of affordable individuality has long been applied to some of the most successful main streets - anywhere, as well as the best third places.

Shabby chic is about combining the old and new for timeless comfort, which explains why it’s no longer ‘the hot trend’ in L.A. Then again, it’s these very principles that make Joseph’s Cafe (image) a premiere ‘who’s who’ hot spot in L.A.

While the concept centers largely on the home (imagine the art of combining your favorite old chair, new Ikea couch and Target curtains and flea market dishware), it can be wildly popular in cafes (like Tryst) and even town centers (old buildings mixed with renovated and new ones.)

“...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.“ Rachel Ashwell