Skip to content

Vintage Decor Trends

However, life keeps on changing, and you do not have to search far and wide to realize that there is something very soothing when it comes to old things, especially when it comes to the decorations.

It is a reference to tradition, an expression of ‘L’Art de Recevoir’, and an opportunity to add warmth to rooms that the minimalist aesthetic of the current architectural style does not offer.

To establish clear links between your tastes and aesthetic and create a home that really resonates with you, it’s valuable to know what some of the main styles of vintage décor are.

Here are the top vintage styles you need to know that will help you make your house retro-chic.

 

 

Image Courtesy:- ELLE Decor.

Mid-Century Modern


Origins and Characteristics


The mid-century modern design refers to a style that originated in the United States of America and continued up to the late 1960s, or, from the mid 1940s to be precise.

This style is characterized by sharp outline, accent on the natural forms, and free from ornate and devoid of an excess of element.

It combines aesthetics and efficiency, preferring the concept of organic minimalism and the ART of NATURE.


Key Elements


Furniture: Isn’t it something like the Eames Lounge Chair that, or the Noguchi coffee table, or the Tulip chair?

These are usually crafted from teak, walnut, or rosewood, although can be constructed from different types of wood across the range.

Colors: Some of the shades which are evident in the image are; earthen colors, orange, vibrant yellow like mustard, and dark blues and greens.

Materials: Wisdom in the choice of furnishings which include wooden, leather and metals among others.


Two other materials used were also prominent through the efficiency in the manufacturing process which made plastic and plywood major materials that were used.


Patterns: Heredities such as the geometric fashion and abstract images are often found in textiles and wallpapers.


Read a detailed article on this trend here.

Incorporating Mid-Century Modern

These are easy starting points for bringing Mid-century modern into your home with some iconic furniture pieces that embody the style.

Great to incorporate pieces with modern features so as not to obtain an effect similar to a time machine.

Lamp: As another interior design idea for a house, the use of artwork and accessories that correspond to the color and pattern of the furniture is ideal.


Art Deco


Origins and Characteristics


Art Deco is the style which started in France in the period prior to the 1st world war and the style that brought it into a prominent fashion in the 1920 and 1930.


It symbolizes elegance, sophistication, and vibrancy: embroidery is the synthesis of the artistic genius and combination of innovative techniques and high-quality fabrics.


Key Elements


Furniture: Smooth pump western furniture with veneers of fancy and pearl and inlay of stardust.

Colors: Designs that incorporate bright, somewhat aggressive color combinations like black and gold, silver and chrome, and dark red, blue, emerald and violet hues.

Materials: In interior design; the oriental elements like; ebony at the furniture, ivory in carving, the intricate marble work and polished metallic surfaces.

Patterns: Intertwining forms and complex geometrical shapes are applied in Art Deco patterns and pointed Chevron, zigzag, and stepped forms are most typical for it.


Read this article for deeper insights on this trend.

Incorporating Art Deco

This means getting accessories right with accent pieces such as an eye-popping sideboard, mirrored coffee table or glamorous chandelier.


Accessorize with geometric pattern rugs, full aniline leather with velvet loose covers and brass or brushed nickel accents.



Victorian Style


Origins and Characteristics


Looking at the historical aspect of the Victorian décor can be described as the design that was used in the time of the reign of Queen Victoria which was from the year 1837 to 1901.

It is characterized by its manifestation, grandeur and ornate forms of decoration and is typical for the industrial period and the Empire.


Key Elements


Furniture: Intense and indoorsy furniture designs are typically gilded and opulently with bulky materials such as mahogany and oak.

Colors: To choose such contrasting colors, you may take into consideration the following suggestions: Rich, and deep tones, for example, burgundy, Emerald green and royal blue.

Materials: The use of rich fabrics such as velvet, damask and brocade for the interior design.

Patterns: In the form of floral patterns in wallpaper and upholstery as well as in embroidery and more formal damask patterns.


All you need to know about VS is here.

Incorporating Victorian Style

As already noted, Victorian style can be very oppressive if not properly managed, and that is why interior design often includes a lot of empty space.


Introduce one or two Victorian furniture statements and assimilate them with light modernist furniture pieces to prevent the room from becoming over furnished and stylistically heavy.

Choose the home curtains, pillow covers, and rugs with luxurious fabrics and deep shades of colors.

Industrial


Origins and Characteristics

The inspiration of the industrial style originally came from the appearance of factories and industrial buildings.

It forms a backdrop that pays homage to loose, rough, austerity and practical aesthetics.


Key Elements


Furniture: This in turn allowed designers to create unadorned objects in metal and wood which were utilitarian in nature.

Colors: A colorless approach to the designs with availability of gray, black, and brown colors prevailed.

Materials: It is one of a kind with features such as exposed brick, concrete walls and floors, metal beams, and re-used wooden accents.

Patterns: Simplistic, with an ornament that focuses on roughness rather than the geometry of the pattern.


Incorporating Industrial Style


Industrial design style should be approached via following several key tips: While some of these ideas always apply, there are several additional concepts in industrial design that are more specialized: For the type of furniture, find things with metallic and wooden features, and limit the ornaments as per your consumption habits to retain the minimalism.


Shabby Chic


Origins and Characteristics


Shabby chic is a contemporary style that emerged in the beginning of 1980s and was prophetically named in the middle of the 1990s, which stresses comfort and intentionally soft-looking furniture that looks deliberately aged and worn.


It includes ornamented and floral patterns, often in a muted or pastel color palette and elaborate details.


Key Elements


Furniture: Furniture in a DIY style that consists of painting wooden furniture to resemble aged, distressed pieces.

Work wearers are also seen in shades of white or pastel colors.


Colors: Subtle pastel tones and other harmonious monochromes such as skin and powdered sugar colors and simple flowers.

Materials: Organic fabrics such as; Wools, canvas, and natural fabrics like cotton and linen.


There are also fabrics made out of lace and floral fabrics too.


Patterns: The color schemes can be warm, bright, or muted with floral and vintage motifs, which can appear distressed or worn.


Incorporating Shabby Chic


For shabby chic furniture, use and incorporate furniture that has a rustic or worn out finish.

When it comes to stained fabrics and walls, paint them as lightly as possible, choosing pastel colors.

Among issues to consider when designing for a special occasion, one can consider integrating floral patterns and lace to the gown.

Other adornments include antique picture frames, candle holders and mirrors from the boutiques of bygone years.

Bohemian


Origins and Characteristics


Bohemian décor also termed as boho is widely associated with a relaxed or a non-conforming artistic philosophy, it combines elements from different world cultures and historical periods.


They promote freedom from rules, self-expression, and a bohemian aesthetic that embraces leisure and non-traditional lifestyles.


Key Elements


Furniture: This backing also has what can be described as a fusion of retro and crafted goods.

Decor and furnishing of these spaces could be characterized by low seating such as poufs and floor cushions.

Colors: Intense shades with a blend of a traditional look into the dark side.

Materials: Hues such as browns, beiges, and tans from wooden reinforcements, rattan, and woven fabrics.

Furniture featured includes native stuff from various parts of the globe like Moroccan rugs for textiles and Indian tapestry.

Patterns: The list of remarkable emerging trends also includes such elements as the velocity of weaves and floral prints, with some twist in paisley, ikat, and tribal touches.


To explore this collection click here.

Incorporating Bohemian Style

To obtain a stylish boho appearance, use and combine furniture pieces as well as accessories collected from various cultures and different periods.

Wear a variety of apparels, accessories, and shoes that have many textures with many bright colors and attractive designs.

Introduce more plants and ‘nature’ into the setting to create a more vibrant atmosphere.

Farmhouse

Origins and Characteristics


There are various elements of décor that come under the broad genre of farmhouse décor and these are based on country living.

It is profound, pragmatic and is characterized by the absence of commerce, gaudiness and pretentiousness.


Key Elements


Furniture: Fashionable and practical furniture pieces composed mainly of wood that has a heavy, warehouse-like aesthetic which has been worn to look old.

Colors: In terms of popular colors, these are neutral colors, predominantly white, creams, and softer tones of gray.

Materials: Prepared I and soft materials used in industrial products such as; wooden, iron and cotton.

Fabrics used include and others include cotton, wool, linen, velvet, suede, leather, canvas, burlap and more.


Patterns: Selected themes that would be evoked naturally, such as checks and stripes.

Incorporating Farmhouse Style

Remember that a farmhouse style implies more functional and practical pieces that are, at the same time, solid and reliable.

Avoid excessive use of primary colors and colors that are too glossy, designate a minimum of primary colors, and focus on natural tones.

For a country look, use farm implements like old fashioned gardening tools, mason jars, and other related items.


Retro 1970s

Origins and Characteristics


Old 1970s style is maximalist, groovy and possesses an energetic feeling thus describing some of the miracle social transformation of this period.

In terms of appearance, it has been described to encompass a diverse range of bright shades, diverse prints, and original structures.


Key Elements


Furniture: Sleek, lightweight furnishings of an extreme constructive contemporary style, volved in plastic, leather and chrome.


Colors: There are of course many examples, perhaps some of the worst to many people are the bolder and brighter such as orange, avocado green, mustard yellow, and brown.


Materials: Wall-to-wall shag carpeting, plastics, and chrome are symptomatic of different dynamics at play.


Patterns: Geometric-optical, poster, and psychedelic styles and floral and paisley designs.


Explore the range by clicking here.

Incorporating 1970s Retro


Here are some ways to incorporate the 1970’s look into your home: A great way to begin with the pop art look is to take on an ultra-popular color scheme.

Statement pieces should be made with furniture that reflects the craziness of the seventies, with accessories like lava lamps and beaded curtains being the finishing touch.

Pattern and texture overlap in a fun, unprofessional way that is sure to bring some fun to everyday life.



Image Courtesy:- The Spruce.

Hollywood Regency

Origins and Characteristics


This style has attracted many clients and has made a lot of sales since it began in the 1930s up to the 1950s.

In fashioning this style, there are always aspects of elegance, opulence and comfort brought in with a dash of theatricality.


Key Elements


Furniture: Very refined clothes, some of them big-sized appearance combined with tradition and contemporary inspirations.

Colors: Breathtaking colors such as black, white, gold, bronze or the brighter shades of violet, sapphire, emerald, ruby, red or blue, etc

Materials: Matte and shiny luminous fabrics such as velvet, bright lacquer and metal accents.

Patterns: Aesthetic and daring trends, which can be seen as a mixture of black and white and animal prints.


Incorporating Hollywood Regency

For this style, the goal is to create a glamorous and dramatic atmosphere, which reminds people of the golden days of Hollywood.

Staple assets include appropriate colors and quality fabric or other material to be used in designing Clothing.

Get a decadent look and feel, like purchasing mirrored furniture, crystal chandeliers, and furniture with velvet fabrications.



French Country


Origins and Characteristics


This design style usually features homes which are found in the French countryside region but having more of a refined look.

It has a friendly and welcoming appeal, which is then flavored with some fine dining elegance.


Key Elements


Furniture: Living room furniture styles in this type of homes are heavy and serious and may feature old looking furniture with distressed finishes.

Objects which are elaborated are generally carved out of wood and may possibly contain designs.


Colors: Subdued tones such as off white, ecru, and light, light hues as well as warm terracottas and muted tones such as those of our earth.


Materials: Such things as wooden furniture, hiking, and other furniture that uses mostly wood, stone and wrought iron.

Some examples used in textile industries are linen and cotton.


Patterns: Filigree and spring motifs, along with flower and toile designs, cheques and stripes.

Get more details here.


Incorporating French Country

The French Country look is best achieved with the use of antique, rustic furniture which is obtainable from many furniture stores and dealers throughout the country.

Ensure that the color scheme is low profile and the surfaces have natural elements incorporated into the design.

Decorate with vintage accessories to make it more charming.



Victorian Revival

Per the picking of the post, Victorian-themed furniture has been on demand in the recent past as many homeowners have embraced this ornate and romantic design.

Victorian reproduction furniture typically features more intense tones such as burgundy, forest green, and navy or any other dark shade that is resourcefully vibrant.

It is decorated with rich designs like flowers, damask and brocade among others.

Fabrics may include carve designs on wooden parts of the furniture, buttoned patterns on the furniture upholstery and decorative trims such as tassels and fringes among others.

This style tends to add some sort of elegance and richness to rooms and give a nostalgic feel to the glorious days of the past.


Retro Chic

This trend is remembered to be the styles of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s that are characterized by bright colors, diverse prints, and jazzy accessories

The furniture styles were bright jewel tones- orange, turquoise, avocado green, and graphic prints, such as polka dots, paisleys, and the iconic psychedelic design.

This furniture has clean lines, rounded edges, lacquered finish with plastic or vinyl and post-modernist space-age flair.

One of the most refreshing trends in the last few years is the singing of mid-century designs by carrying motives of the past into the future.


Art Nouveau

The Art Nouveau design style in furnishing was first launched in the last part of the nineteenth century and the first part of the twentieth century and is typified by forms and lines and premier intricate motifs influenced by nature.

It tends to feature such features as petals and curves and convoluted representations of vegetation and wildlife.

Art nouveau interior design pictures may also encompass furniture that is shaped and outlined with curvy lines and other casual accessories like glass paintings on doors, stunning ceramics on floor and walls, and fancy fabrics on the furniture.

Relying on the quality of work, the Art Nouveau adds an element of refinement to interiors; at the same time, furnishing and designing the space produces a harmonious feeling.




FAQ

What are some vintage decor trends?

Some of the more common approaches in vintage home decoration include; Mid Century Modern furniture design, which originated from the middle of the 20th century was traditional for its simplicity and thin outlines.

An exceptionally famous style is Art Deco which emerged in the period between 1920s and the 1930s characterized by the use of geometric patterns and the use of luxurious materials in the construction.

While Neoclassical collaborated simplicity with elegance, Victorian Revival reintroduces luxuries and passion from the Victorian times, including hues and curves.

Retro Chic is inspired by the America Decade fashion of the 1950s, and 1960s and early ‘70s and characterized by vibrant colors, radical prints, and trinket paraphernalia.


Where can I find vintage decor trends?


As vintage decorations’ trends can be seen in shops that specialize in vintage decorations, such as antique shops, flea markets and second hand stores, it is easy to find a thing that is different and extraordinary.

There are also online shops such as eBay, Etsy, and Chairish that also sell vast collections of vintage furniture and home décor products inspired by various eras and styles.

Also, today there are vintage shops where buying vintage items is pleasurable as well as examples of specialty or niche boutiques offering boutique selections of unique dresses purchasing which will not be difficult for lovers of vintage pieces.

Lastly, I would like to remind you about the great variety of different opportunities such as estate sales, garage sales, and even advertising in the Craigslist – to discover not only the unique pieces of decor but also the good and cheap repainting options.