A Taste of the 90s from Fashion to Interiors

The ‘90s are having a moment. From fashion to interiors, a sense of nostalgia pervades. Interior designers and creatives are looking back at the decade that brought us bold forms, glamour, and comfortable cool. But this isn’t just about recreating 90s playfulness and childhood bedrooms; the resurgence of the ‘90s ethos is the ‘90s with a new twist. Modern. Sleek. Confidently future-forward.

Remember the punchy, geometric shapes and saturated colors of the ‘90s? They’re back - but mixed with modern minimalism. We’ve seen a resurgence of checkerboard prints and sculptural furniture, but these kinds of elements are being used in a more intentional way. It’s about nostalgia without the kitsch.

Today’s version of ‘90s maximalism pairs statement furniture like wavy-edged mirrors or curved sofa with neutral backdrops. Think terracotta and cobalt blue blended with modern, minimalist silhouettes in black, beige, grey and white.

Glass blocks, once a staple in suburban home design, are back in chic new ways. Rather than full walls, today’s designers are using them as shower enclosures, offering both texture and light diffusion. These designs elements might remind of our favorite fashion photography and films from the 90s. It’s about playing with materials in a fresh, unexpected way.

Meanwhile, rattan and wicker, once relegated to sunrooms and beach houses, have made their way into contemporary interiors again. From sleek cane-backed dining chairs to sculptural pendant lights, these materials are back in vogue and being integrated into contemporary designs for warmth and texture.

White and beige kitchens are having a comeback but with updates that deliver a clean and modern effect, with a hint of vintage charm.

And for those who miss the cozy, country aesthetic of the ‘90s, vintage-inspired textiles and antique wood accents nod to the dreamy, romantic interiors that defined the decade.

• Avoid the literal ‘90s look by choosing one or two vintage or vintage-inspired pieces per room: a bold rug, sculptural sofa, or vintage lamp can bring ‘90s vibe without overwhelming a space.

• Update, don’t recreate. Instead of literal ‘90s replicas, look for modern interpretations of the era’s design trends.

• Carpeting is back. Opt for large area-rugs rather than the wall-to-wall carpeting everyone installed in the 80s and 90s. (The upkeep is impossible.) A soft, area carpet underfoot warms any room immediately.

• Keep the color palette balanced. The neons of the ‘90s have not withstood the test to time. Opt for '90s neutrals and organic tones like emerald green, oxblood and terracotta . Updated pastels are also back in fashion.

Remember this isn’t your childhood bedroom. It’s a reimagined take on a beloved era, designed for the way we live today. With thoughtful design, a return to ‘90s decor can prove that everything old can be new again - just with a little more polish.