Home decor trends come and go, but some of the most unique styles from the past are worth a revival. These forgotten decorating styles each bring a fresh yet nostalgic touch that can make any space feel interesting and memorable. From mid-century flair to rustic charm, here are 12 decorating styles from the past that you’ll want to bring back into your home.
Hollywood Regency Glam
Think luxury and bold style with Hollywood Regency. This old-Hollywood-inspired look mixes glamor with comfort, featuring plush fabrics, mirrored accents, bold patterns, and dramatic colors. Add touches of gold, velvet upholstery, and unique statement pieces to bring a bit of the silver screen into your home.
Art Deco Elegance
Art Deco is all about sleek lines, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials like marble and brass. Bring back the timeless elegance of the 1920s by adding in statement lighting, mirrored surfaces, and pops of rich colors like emerald, navy, and black. An Art Deco piece or two instantly elevates any room.
Rustic French Country
Rustic French Country style is all about warm tones, antique furniture, and natural textures like wood, linen, and stone. Reclaimed wood tables, distressed cabinets, and cozy linens create a welcoming, lived-in feel. Add vintage farmhouse pieces like wicker baskets or a stone pitcher for an effortless countryside vibe.
1950s Dinette Style
Retro diners have a playful charm, and the 1950s-inspired dinette style brings that straight to your kitchen! Try adding a booth or chrome-legged stools, checkered floor tiles, and colorful accents like mint, turquoise, or bright red. This style is full of personality and makes every meal feel like a throwback treat.
Victorian Parlor Drama
For an elegant, maximalist look, try Victorian-inspired decor. This style celebrates opulent furniture, ornate wallpaper, and intricate details. Layer in dark woods, velvet drapes, and lace tablecloths, and don’t be afraid to add a few decorative busts or Victorian-inspired paintings for a romantic, historical feel.
Cottagecore Comfort
Cottagecore brings rustic, natural charm and simple living to the forefront. Inspired by traditional English cottages, this style includes floral patterns, wooden shelves, cozy knits, and vintage decor. Add greenery and fresh flowers to capture that countryside vibe, and go for muted colors like sage, blush, and ivory.
Bohemian Eclectic
Bring back the boho flair with an eclectic mix of colors, patterns, and textures. Think low seating, floor cushions, woven rugs, and macramé wall hangings. Vintage furniture finds, colorful tapestries, and exotic accents create a free-spirited, laid-back vibe that’s all about self-expression.
Retro Mediterranean
Inspired by coastal villas, retro Mediterranean style features warm terracotta tones, mosaic tiles, arched doorways, and wrought iron. Incorporate earthy elements like clay pots, woven baskets, and rustic wood for that breezy, old-world feel. It’s a great look if you love warm, welcoming colors and Mediterranean charm.
Shabby Chic Whimsy
The shabby chic style combines vintage furniture with soft, pastel colors and distressed finishes. Look for antique-inspired furniture, floral patterns, and soft textures like lace and linen. This style is all about creating a cozy, romantic atmosphere with a touch of whimsy, and it’s perfect for bringing character into any room.
Retro Futurism
Inspired by 1960s and ’70s visions of the future, retro futurism mixes bold colors with space-age shapes and materials. Think sleek furniture, atomic-style light fixtures, and pops of orange or aqua. This style is playful and unique, capturing the excitement of mid-century futurism with a modern twist.
Colonial Revival
Colonial Revival draws on classic American decor, with a focus on symmetry, muted tones, and quality wood furniture. Pieces like high-backed chairs, wingback armchairs, and four-poster beds give a homey, traditional feel. You can add a classic touch with brass accents and soft, warm lighting for timeless comfort.
Japanese Minimalism
Known for its clean lines, natural materials, and minimalism, Japanese-inspired decor is all about simplicity and balance. Go for light wood furniture, tatami mats, and rice paper screens to create a calming environment. A few carefully chosen pieces of decor, such as a bonsai tree or traditional ceramics, add elegance without clutter.
Each of these timeless styles brings its own unique charm, proving that good design never goes out of style. Try mixing in elements from your favorite vintage era to create a home that feels warm, inviting, and full of character!
