How to adopt the retro chic decorating trend?
The Retro-chic trend has emerged fairly recently, with vintage pieces and retro looks dictating the way some people furnish their spaces. While interior design trends are often in a state of flux, the Retro-chic look offers a timeless and natural alternative to so-called "fast homeware". Vintage decorating is making a comeback and, while some people look forward to what's new in the world of design, those who gravitate towards the Retro-chic style are looking for a more retro lifestyle that appreciates original pieces and their nostalgic appeal.
In this article, we share a few ideas and inspirations that will undoubtedly inspire you to adopt the Retro-chic style in your home.
In a nutshell, what is the retro-chic trend?
The original "retro" style originated in the 1960s, when post-war designers sought to create a style that was hopeful, bright and bold. As a result, the style had a fun, lively appeal that people today seek to bring back to life in their homes. The retro-chic style is characterized by timeless silhouettes that give the impression of having survived the ages. Sister to mid-century decorating, the retro-chic trend plays on heritage looks that are lively and impactful, and timeless pieces that are bursting with personality - like many styles that play on vintage decor.
How can you adopt the retro-chic trend at home?
Bolder colors
The ubiquitous color palettes of neutral whites, beiges and grays are being replaced by brighter, bolder hues, such as deep greens, rich wines and even sunny citrines. If you're a little hesitant, we recommend testing colors in smaller doses through artwork and accessories, whether it's painting a side table, adding a throw to your sofa or trying a bolster pillow in your bedroom.
Patterns and prints
While geometric patterns have been around since the middle of the last century, we're seeing a more contemporary take on those found in accessories like pillows and rugs. These geometric patterns are starting to become a little more glamorous, with a nod to Art Deco, they're all great ways to add architectural elements to a space that may not have much to begin with.
Furniture and accessories
Furniture and accessories can play an important role in achieving a retro aesthetic. While the '60s brought furniture with funky shapes, the '70s consolidated the evolution towards larger, bulkier and more voluminous models. In general, retro furniture is characterized by boldness and extravagance through unique shapes and fairly bright hues, which are usually complemented by vintage-inspired metallic gold accents in fixtures and finishes.
Curves
Straight, hard lines are replaced by softer curves and organic shapes, which breathe grace and rhythm and can lend an elegant air to your interior.
Textures and wallpapers
Faux furs, art fibers, macramé, velvet - texture is all the rage these days. Wallpaper, in particular, is a perfect way to add a touch of texture to your home and warm up your interiors, whether with an accent wall, a framed panel or even on the ceiling.
Blending modern and vintage
In recent years, these elements and details of design have reappeared in modernized forms. It's common, for example, to find furniture that looks like it was made in the 60s or 70s, but is made with modern, high-performance materials. With the help of new technologies, the materials widely used today - such as glass, acrylic, stainless steel, plastic, polycarbonate and foam - can be extremely durable, strong and molded into virtually any shape, thus easily appropriating the Retro-chic style.Trends are not always appreciated. With their inherent temporary nature, they are subject to personal preferences and tastes. But whatever the opinion, it's undeniably back in interior design and doesn't seem to be going away any time soon.