Dial-up tones and frosted tips can stay in the time capsule, but the 1990’s design DNA is making a comeback—and it’s suddenly everywhere. This time, though, it’s better dressed.
What’s behind the comeback? In the ‘90s, interiors pivoted (or rebounded) from the gloss of the ‘80s—the era of excess—to the relaxed, eclectic, and personal: velvet beside rattan, jewel tones flirting with pastels, and oversized sofas anchoring rooms that didn’t mind a little chaos. “It was a decade where homes had heart, and that’s what people are craving again now,” says Lowri Allpress, owner of Jo Alexander Garden Furniture. The quirky warmth feels fresh again, and designers are reviving the best parts (minus the lava lamps and inflatable furniture).
Below, the greatest hits of ‘90s style and the modern moves to keep them looking sharp.
Jewel Tones
The ’90s weren’t afraid of color—especially the rich, saturated kind that made rooms feel like jewelry boxes. «Deep, rich jewel tones are absolutely making a comeback, and I love using them to bring attention to a space,» says Isfira Jensen, CEO and Principal Designer of Jensen & Co. Interiors. «I’ll often apply a bold color across a large surface in a room, like a wall or built-in cabinetry, then balance it with neutral colors in other areas to tone down the high impact.»
Allpress remembers the era’s fearless approach: «Don’t be afraid of color. Aubergines, deep greens, burnt orange: those jewel-like tones were everywhere back then, and they still work beautifully when paired with more grounded, neutral backdrops.»
Chunky Furniture
The ‘90s rejected delicate, precious pieces in favor of substantial, comfortable furniture that made a statement. “I’m seeing a growing interest in the chunkier silhouettes from that era,” designer Christopher Boutlier tells us. “Deep-seated sofas, oversized lounge chairs, and exaggerated forms are showing up again, but we’re reworking them with better proportions and more thoughtful materials.”
Wallpaper Borders
Perhaps no element screams ‘90s more than wallpaper borders. “I’m loving the comeback of wallpaper borders, but in a much fresher, more creative way,” says interior designer Melanie Bryant. “Instead of dated florals from the ‘90s, we’re seeing bold trims like geometric patterns and unexpected colors used to frame doorways or accent walls.”
Bouclé and Tactile Textures
The ‘90s loved texture. “Tactile textiles such as bouclé, chenille, and chunky linen are also returning, especially on curvy furniture, adding warmth and texture to contemporary spaces,” designer Lauren Conner notes.
Boutlier sees this as part of a broader shift toward more substantial, meaningful pieces: “Try a sculptural chair. Something with curves and presence. Upholstered in a warm wool or bouclé, it becomes a statement without feeling nostalgic.”
Formica and Unexpected Materials
The ‘90s were a time of material experimentation, and some surprising choices are making their way back into homes. “We’re seeing a renewed interest in Formica—but not the old-school versions,” designer and co-founder of 18th Street Design Collective, Niki Cheng tells us. “Clients are loving it in lamp shades, serving trays, and home accessories.” Rather than overwhelming a room with retro elements, she suggests incorporating Formica through small, intentional applications.
Conner notes other materials making a comeback: “Light wood tones are back, as well, especially in Scandinavian-style furniture, stripped oak flooring, and minimalist bathroom vanities.”
Julia Cancilla is the engagement editor (and resident witch) at ELLE Decor, where she oversees the brand’s social media platforms, covers design trends and culture, and writes the monthly ELLE Decoroscope column. Julia built her background at Inked magazine, where she grew their social media audiences by two million and penned feature articles focusing on pop culture, art, and lifestyle.
