This rug is very pretty and interesting to look at. It is also quite soft. he rug looks how it is portrayed in the photos. My camera made it look more white, but the light parts are light blue. Unfortunately, however, the rug is a bit thinner than I expected, but it works great for my living room. It's a very large rug at a great price, so there's little room to complain. 
Also: It's been a few months (about three) since I purchased this rug and it does not shed at all and has remained very well intact. Additionally, I have a small puppy that had a couple of accidents on the rug and stains have all come out easily.