1. Velvet Upholstery
Velvet was a staple in the glamorous homes of the mid-20th century, and now it’s trending again. It’s prized for its luxurious feel and depth of color, something modern flat-weave fabrics can’t quite replicate. Velvet sofas and accent chairs are popping up in jewel tones like emerald and sapphire, instantly elevating a room. The material is also surprisingly durable, making it practical as well as stylish.
The comeback is partly fueled by a craving for cozy, cocoon-like interiors. As people spend more time at home, they’re prioritizing comfort without sacrificing design. Velvet delivers both softness and drama, which explains why it’s everywhere in decor magazines and showrooms. It’s a tactile fabric that invites you to sit down and stay awhile.
2. Rattan and Wicker Furniture
Rattan and wicker had their heyday in the 1970s, but they’re back in a big way. Designers love them because they bring warmth, texture, and a relaxed vibe to interiors. Unlike heavy wooden pieces, wicker chairs or rattan coffee tables can instantly make a space feel lighter and more inviting. They also work well with a wide range of styles, from boho to coastal chic.
Part of their resurgence is tied to the renewed interest in sustainable and natural materials. Homeowners are leaning toward decor that feels organic and eco-conscious. Rattan, which is durable and flexible, checks both boxes. Plus, vintage pieces are relatively easy to find at flea markets or online, which makes the trend accessible.
3. Brass Fixtures
Brass used to be considered outdated, overshadowed by chrome and stainless steel in the early 2000s. Today, it’s appreciated for its warm, golden tone that instantly softens a room. You’ll find it on cabinet hardware, light fixtures, and faucets, where it adds a subtle vintage touch. It’s less flashy than gold but warmer than silver, which makes it incredibly versatile.
This resurgence is about more than looks—it’s also about longevity. Brass develops a natural patina over time, which gives it character instead of looking worn out. People are drawn to that aged quality, as it feels authentic and storied. Designers also love how well brass pairs with natural materials like wood and stone.
4. Mid-Century Modern Lines
The sleek, clean lines of mid-century modern design never fully disappeared, but they’re seeing a fresh wave of interest. Think tapered legs, low-slung silhouettes, and functional shapes. These pieces feel timeless because they balance form and function so well. They also mix easily with both modern and traditional decor, making them adaptable in any space.
The appeal today lies in their simplicity and craftsmanship. As mass-produced furniture has flooded the market, people are gravitating back toward well-made vintage originals. Mid-century furniture often uses high-quality wood, which stands the test of time. Owning one of these pieces also adds a touch of design history to your home.
5. Patterned Wallpaper
Once dismissed as fussy, wallpaper is having a major renaissance. Instead of beige walls, people are choosing bold prints, florals, and geometric patterns. Vintage-inspired designs give rooms a personality boost that paint alone can’t achieve. From powder rooms to accent walls, wallpaper creates instant drama.
The rise of peel-and-stick wallpaper has also made it easier to experiment. People can try out vintage patterns without committing long-term. This has encouraged more playful and creative uses of wallpaper, which feels very in line with past decades. It’s proof that what was once considered dated can feel fresh again with modern application.
6. Canopy Beds
Canopy beds may remind some of old-fashioned bedrooms, but they’re back in contemporary design. Today’s versions are often streamlined with simple frames, giving them a modern update. They create a sense of coziness and drama, turning the bed into a true focal point. A canopy instantly makes a bedroom feel more intentional and designed.
The appeal goes beyond aesthetics, too. In open-plan homes or loft spaces, a canopy can help define the sleeping area. Curtains or draped fabric add softness and privacy, just like in vintage designs. It’s a great example of a trend that’s both functional and nostalgic.
7. Terrazzo Surfaces
Terrazzo was big in mid-century design, especially in flooring, and it’s back with a contemporary spin. The material mixes chips of marble, quartz, or glass in cement, creating a speckled effect. Vintage terrazzo often featured muted colors, while today’s versions experiment with bold hues. It brings a playful, artistic quality to kitchens, bathrooms, and even furniture.
Part of its resurgence is thanks to sustainability—terrazzo often uses recycled materials. It’s also incredibly durable, which makes it a smart long-term choice. Designers love how customizable it is, as you can control both the size and color of the chips. That flexibility ensures it feels current while nodding to its retro roots.
8. Shag Rugs
Shag rugs instantly transport you to the 1970s, but they’re enjoying a stylish return. Their deep pile adds texture and softness underfoot that flat rugs just can’t match. They’re now being made in updated colors and patterns, making them more versatile. A shag rug can easily warm up a minimalist or industrial space.
The trend is driven by a growing appreciation for comfort-driven design. People want cozy, tactile elements in their homes, especially in living rooms and bedrooms. Shag rugs check that box while also adding a dose of nostalgia. Vintage versions can be found secondhand, which makes the trend accessible and sustainable.
9. Vintage Lighting Fixtures
Lighting from the past—whether art deco sconces or mid-century pendants—is being rediscovered. Vintage fixtures often feature unique shapes and materials that aren’t common in mass-market options. They add instant character to a room and serve as statement pieces. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to weave vintage into an otherwise modern space.
The reason for their popularity is partly practical. Old fixtures can often be rewired, giving them new life without losing their charm. They also pair beautifully with today’s energy-efficient bulbs, making them both stylish and functional. Designers often say that lighting is like jewelry for the home, and vintage pieces definitely fit that bill.
10. Colored Glassware
Think back to the vibrant glassware of the 1960s and 70s—amber, green, and cobalt blue glasses. These colorful pieces are making their way back into kitchens and dining rooms. They add a cheerful pop to a table setting and feel more special than plain clear glass. Collectors love hunting for them at antique shops and estate sales.
The return of colored glassware ties into the larger trend of playful, personality-driven design. People are less interested in minimalist “all-white everything” and more open to mixing bold colors. Vintage glassware also connects to a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings. It’s proof that even small decor items can carry big emotional weight.
11. Skirted Furniture
Skirted sofas and chairs were once seen as stuffy, but they’re being embraced again. These designs often hide legs with flowing fabric, creating a soft, tailored look. Vintage pieces tended to feature floral fabrics, but today’s versions often use linen or solid colors. The effect is cozy, elegant, and slightly romantic.
This trend is reemerging as part of the “grandmillennial” aesthetic, which mixes traditional elements with modern sensibilities. People are gravitating toward interiors that feel lived-in rather than stark. Skirted furniture adds a touch of charm while still feeling updated in the right fabric. It’s a great way to soften a room without overdoing it.
12. Checkerboard Floors
Checkerboard floors date back centuries, but they had a big mid-century moment and are back in fashion. Black and white is the classic combo, but now you’ll see softer palettes like cream and sage. These floors make a bold visual statement without feeling overwhelming. They’re especially popular in kitchens and entryways, where they set a vintage tone.
The comeback is fueled by the appeal of timeless patterns. Checkerboard feels both old-world and modern depending on the color scheme. It’s also versatile, working in everything from farmhouse to contemporary spaces. People love that it balances playfulness with sophistication.
13. Retro Appliances
From pastel refrigerators to rounded ovens, retro-inspired appliances are surging. Brands are releasing new models with vintage aesthetics but modern technology. These pieces instantly add charm and character to kitchens, making them feel less utilitarian. A mint green fridge or cream-colored range becomes the centerpiece of the room.
This trend reflects a desire to move away from the cold, stainless-steel look that dominated for years. Homeowners want appliances that feel personal and fun, not just functional. Retro styles nod to the past while still offering the efficiency of modern engineering. It’s a practical way to blend nostalgia with today’s conveniences.
This post 13 Vintage Decor Trends That Are Making a Comeback was first published on Greenhouse Black.
