Jane Austen

Woman is fine for her own satisfaction alone. No man will admire her the more, no woman will like her the better for it. Neatness and fashion are enough for the former, and a something of shabbiness or impropriety will be most endearing to the latter.

British Writer

Monty Don

Bamboos can go from shining health to shabbiness in weeks. The problem is too much wind, too little water and tired compost.

English Celebrity

Use 'shabbiness' to describe visible signs of aging or lack of maintenance on objects.

Visual Decay

Sometimes 'shabbiness' can imply a sense of charm or character, particularly with antiques.

Not Always Negative

'Shabbiness' often suggests a rough or frayed texture in fabrics or materials.

Material Texture

Use 'shabbiness' to describe someone's lackadaisical approach to their appearance.

Personal Presentation

Highlight 'shabbiness' by contrasting it with cleanliness or tidiness.

Contrasting Cleanliness

'Shabbiness' can refer to a general state of disarray, beyond just physical appearance.

Not Just Physical

Use 'shabbiness' to indicate economic hardship or a low standard of living.

Economic Indication

Indicate that 'shabbiness' implies more than meets the eye, often a deeper socioeconomic issue.

Beyond Appearances

'Shabbiness' can describe intangible aspects like quality of life, not just physical objects.