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Over the years we’ve seen a lot of home trends come and go from the tropical wallpapers of the ’80s to the ’90s version of traditional and all the way back to when shag carpets were popular. It’s no surprise to learn that these trends fade in and out of style – often more than once. Many people are now turning to a cozy new home trend to spruce up their pads and it’s being called “grandmillennial” style.

toile wing chair and side table
Via: EVG Culture/ Pexels

With the name like grandmillennial it might sound something like Hollywood regency. But, the word is actually a portmanteau of “grandmother” and “millennial”. This is the trend for all the people who have been loving more traditional decor even as neon signs and mid-century modern style furniture took over many design magazines and Pinterest boards. The term was first coined by House Beautiful in 2019, but has gained traction recently as many people are releasing their inner grandma and embracing the comforts of traditional decor.

Most of us are well acquainted with the term “granny chic” so the question now is how does grandmillennial style different from granny chic? The latter style is more focused around things our grandmothers actually used, like handmade doilies and vintage furniture. However, this new grandmillennial trend is a 2020s revamp of traditional decor. This includes antique and reproduction furniture, floral and trellis wallpaper, and “old fashioned” types of furniture like wardrobes and buffets.

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As a rebellion against sleek, monochromatic interiors, grandmillennial embraces color and pattern, even almost clashing at times. One can’t help but think of the pattern mixing of the 1930s that was common back then. Patterns like toile de jouy, chintz, plaid, chinoiserie, and ditzy florals combined in harmonious color schemes make this trend a lively one. Some have called it lighthearted and an informal way to use fabrics and wallpapers that were once considered stuffy.

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Another take on this trend is to use traditional furniture and patterns but in a limited color palette for a more modern look. The trend can at times hit on elements of English country style. And this fits with the types of patterns making a comeback: Laura Ashley fabrics are back in vogue, as are linen slipcovers and other features of English country style.

English country interior
Via: Leora Dowling/ Unsplash

Hand-me-downs and heirlooms are also a key part of this look. Antique gilt mirrors, floral tea cups, Jadeite, and depression glass are some of the items that are coming back to prominence.

There are those who point out that this type of decor has never not been in style as it’s very classic, but with the modern twist of being designed around younger lifestyles and ease of use.

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While the grandmillennial style is more playful and eclectic than the decor of yore, it’s not really boho, though elements of boho style can certainly fit into a grandmillennial room. Exotic items like caned chairs or rattan baskets do make appearances, but overall the look is much more traditional than boho.

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What do you think about this return to a more traditional way of decorating? Are there elements of this trend that you’d want for your own home?

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