17 Retro Decor Style Ideas
Retro decor style is a hot trend right now. The 1960s and the 1970s are back with a modern twist.
You can bring the retro style back to your home with the right accessories and furniture.
It’s a fun style, and the bright colors are sure to put you in a good mood!
Retro decor style is all about fun and bold colors, patterns, and textures.
It’s also about mixing different styles, like the mid-century modern style with the 1970s boho style.
You can use vintage furniture, but you can also find new furniture that has a retro look.
If you love the retro style, you can create a modern, updated look for your home. Here are some tips to help you get started!
1. A rainbow of colors
The 1950s were all about color.
It was the first time in decades that people had access to a variety of colors and styles after World War II.
That’s why you’ll find a lot of color in this style of decor.
To keep the look from feeling chaotic, try picking a few colors you want to use and stick to those. I chose pink, blue, and yellow as my main colors.
2. Funky patterns
The 1960s and 1970s were all about bold and funky patterns. You could find them on everything from wallpaper and curtains to furniture and rugs.
To incorporate this trend into your home, start by adding a few pops of pattern here and there.
You could choose a fun wallpaper for an accent wall, or add some colorful throw pillows to your sofa.
If you’re feeling really bold, you could even go for a patterned rug.
3. Conversation-starting furniture
If you want to channel the 1960s, think about bringing in some conversation-starting furniture.
“Retro furniture is a great way to add a pop of color to your space,” says Smith. “You can also mix in some fun patterns to give the room a more bold look.”
Look for unique pieces like a colorful, curved sofa or a funky chair to make a statement in your space.
You can also shop for vintage pieces to get an authentic retro look.
4. A nod to the past
If you’re a fan of the 1960s, ’70s, ’80s, or ’90s, you’re in luck.
You can easily integrate a nod to your favorite decade into your bedroom without making it look like a time capsule.
This modern bedroom, for example, has a few subtle nods to the ’70s, including the color scheme, the velvet headboard, and the geometric shapes.
The key to making it work is keeping the retro elements to a minimum and balancing them with more modern pieces.
5. A mix of materials
Retro style embraces a wide variety of materials, from wood to glass to metal and more.
This kitchen features a metal oven hood and refrigerator, wood cabinets, and glass pendant lights.
This mix of materials makes the space feel more dynamic and interesting.
If you don’t want to spend a ton of money updating every surface in your kitchen, consider adding a few new materials in the form of lighting, hardware, or a new appliance.
6. A place for the past to shine
Retro style is all about looking to the past for inspiration, but that doesn’t mean you have to decorate your home with all vintage pieces.
In fact, mixing in some modern furniture and decor can help prevent your home from feeling like a time capsule.
This living room, for example, mixes a retro-inspired sofa with a modern coffee table and wall art.
7. A little bit of kitsch
The best part about designing a room in this style is that you can really let your personality shine.
This style is perfect for displaying your favorite vintage finds, like a retro radio or a funky lamp.
Don’t be afraid to go a little over the top with your decor. You can mix and match different styles and eras to create a look that’s totally unique to you.
8. A space that feels lived-in
The most important thing about a home is that it feels like one.
A space that feels lived-in is a space that feels comfortable, and comfort is key in any home.
A lived-in look can be achieved in a number of ways.
You can pepper in some vintage pieces, like a mid-century modern coffee table or a retro rug, to give the room a sense of history.
You can also add a few personal touches, like family photos or art made by you or your loved ones.
Finally, you can make sure that the furniture is well-worn and well-loved, so that it feels like it has been a part of your life for years.
9. A whole lot of fun
The retro style is a fun and vibrant one, so make sure your decor reflects that.
This living room is a masterclass in how to bring a whole load of color into a space while still making sure it feels cohesive.
The walls are a soft pink, but the room is grounded by the darker, more muted tones of the rug and the sofa.
10. A fondness for the ’50s
The 1950s is one of the most popular eras for retro enthusiasts.
The post-war era brought a sense of comfort and security to the country, and the design of the time reflected that sentiment.
The 1950s is characterized by bright, bold colors, playful patterns, and a focus on convenience.
The kitchen, in particular, became a place of pride in the home, and the introduction of new appliances and gadgets made cooking and cleaning easier than ever.
If you’re looking to create a 1950s-inspired space, consider adding a pop of color with an accent wall or a colorful appliance.
You can also introduce retro patterns, like polka dots or gingham, to your decor.
Conclusion
Retro decor is a fun and whimsical style that can be incorporated into any home. It’s easy to find retro decor on a budget at flea markets, thrift stores, and garage sales. You can also find retro-inspired decor at many home decor stores.
