3 Decor Trends From Grandma’s House That Are Suddenly Cool Again

One of the biggest design trends taking over interiors right now is the mix-and-match approach, combining pieces from different time periods. Today’s spaces are now curated with modern decor from this decade alongside more traditional, classic elements from the past—the very same ones your grandmother likely loved (and probably still does!). 

In fact, designers are often turning to those nostalgic touches to add charm and character to their spaces. (Grandma knows best, after all!) Here, we asked a few designers from this year’s REAL SIMPLE Home to share the old-school design trends they’re loving right now—so you can get the look, too.

Traditional Curtains and Hardware

Window treatments are one of the most overlooked elements in a room, and often, people will choose a style that’s clean and minimalist to keep things simple. But opting for something with a little more traditional flair will give your room a bit more personality.

“I’m loving bringing back very traditional curtain rods with more ornamental finials, especially in my old Mediterranean home projects,” says interior designer Mandy Cheng, principal of Mandy Cheng Design. And don’t forget the fabric itself—classic materials like floral chintz, toile, or even lace can make a big impact! 

Wallpaper Borders

There wasn’t a home in the 1980s and 1990s that did not have a wallpaper border in at least one room. It was a clever way to incorporate pattern into a space without papering entire walls. While they had a reputation for looking a bit dated by the early aughts, stylist and home decor expert Alexandra Gater is now fighting to bring them back. 

“I’m obsessed with wallpaper borders right now,” Gater says. “They’re such an easy way to make a statement, because they’re less commitment than full wallpaper, but still packed with whimsy.” She notes that you don’t have to be a wallpaper expert to install them, either. “It’s a great starter project if you’re new to DIY,” Gater says.

Scalloped and Embroidered Details 

The quintessential grandma decor item? Anything frilly! “I also can’t resist anything with a scalloped edge or a sweet little embroidered detail,” Gater says. “I’ve been spotting these touches everywhere lately—on table linens, bedding, and cushion covers.” 

They add an endearing, vintage-inspired touch to a space, and as Gater aptly says, “It’s giving cottagecore, but a little more grown-up and pulled together…AKA your grandma’s house but make it 2025.”