What is Considered Retro Style?

Retro style is a design trend that draws inspiration from the past, typically referencing the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. These decades each had their own distinctive looks, and today’s retro-inspired decor celebrates the bold, quirky, and nostalgic elements of these eras. Whether it’s furniture, colors, or lighting, retro style often evokes a sense of vintage charm and fun nostalgia, with a blend of old-school aesthetics and modern-day functionality.

In this blog, we’ll explore the defining decorative styles of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s and how these influences shaped the interiors of the time. From earthy, bohemian patterns to the rise of sleek minimalism, the evolution of retro style is a fascinating journey through design history.

The 1970s: Earthy, Eclectic, and Bold

The 1970s were all about embracing earthy tones, psychedelic patterns, and an eclectic, bohemian vibe. After the freedom and creativity of the 1960s, the 1970s ushered in a more relaxed, informal style of living, heavily influenced by natural elements, counterculture movements, and a desire for self-expression.

Key Features of 1970s Retro Decor:

• Earthy Color Palette: The 1970s were dominated by warm, earthy tones like avocado green, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and brown. These colors were used extensively on furniture, walls, and textiles.
• Natural Materials: Wood, rattan, and wicker were the go-to materials for furniture, often paired with textured fabrics like corduroy, velvet, and linen.
• Bohemian and Eclectic Designs: Influenced by the rise of the hippie and counterculture movements, the 1970s embraced a laid-back, boho-chic style. Think of macramé wall hangings, shag rugs, and floor cushions.
• Vintage Lighting: The 1970s lighting fixtures were all about making a statement, with oversized pendant lights, swag lamps, and brass or chrome finishes dominating the scene. Globe-shaped lights and tulip-style lamps were common in homes.

The Impact of 1970s Design Today:

To capture the spirit of the 1970s in your space today, focus on earthy tones, bohemian patterns, and statement lighting. Incorporating vintage-inspired floor lamps and globes can immediately evoke a sense of 1970s nostalgia.

The 1980s: Glamorous, Geometric, and Colorful

The 1980s were a decade of exuberance, boldness, and glamour. Following the more laid-back style of the 1970s, the 1980s saw the rise of excessive design, from neon colors to geometric patterns and high-tech materials. This period was also influenced by the early days of personal computers and the growing interest in technology, which was reflected in the sleek lines and industrial finishes of the time.

Key Features of 1980s Retro Decor:

• Bright, Bold Colors: Neon pink, electric blue, bright purple, and fiery red were common in the 1980s, often paired with black, white, and gray for a high-contrast, energetic effect.
• Geometric and Abstract Designs: Shapes like triangles, squares, and zig-zags were popular in wallpaper, furniture patterns, and textiles.
• High-Tech Materials: Plastic, chrome, and glass were common in furniture and decor items. Shiny lacquered finishes and polished chrome brought a sleek, modern edge to the home.
• Glam Lighting: Lighting fixtures were often bold and shiny, with fluorescent lights and chrome table lamps providing a futuristic vibe. Track lighting became popular, as did pendant lights and wall-mounted sconces.

The Impact of 1980s Design Today:

The 1980s is all about playfulness, bold colors, and tech-inspired furniture. To recreate the vibe of the 1980s, you might consider incorporating geometric prints, bright neon accents, and high-shine finishes. For lighting, go for metallic fixtures like chrome table lamps or track lighting to get that sharp, futuristic look.

The 1990s: Minimalism, Neutral Tones, and Tech-Inspired

The 1990s marked a significant shift toward minimalism and functionalism in home decor. While the previous decades embraced bold colors and patterns, the 1990s were about clean lines, neutral tones, and practicality. The rise of technology and the increasing popularity of home computing influenced the design of this decade, leading to the development of ergonomic furniture and sleek, modular layouts.

Key Features of 1990s Retro Decor:

• Neutral Color Palette: In the 1990s, colors became more muted, with shades of beige, gray, black, and white dominating interiors. These neutral tones were often accented with deeper colors like burgundy or navy blue.
• Minimalist Design: Furniture in the 1990s was streamlined and simple, with an emphasis on functionality over ornamentation. The decade was defined by clean lines and minimal decor.
• Tech-Inspired Furniture: The boom in technology brought an interest in ergonomic furniture and modular systems. The design of the 1990s reflected a more high-tech approach to home living, with furniture pieces that were flexible and multi-purpose.
• Recessed and Subtle Lighting: The 1990s favored recessed lighting, track lighting, and soft, indirect lighting to create a calm and uncluttered environment. Lighting fixtures were simple, often made from brushed steel or frosted glass, in keeping with the minimalist aesthetic.

The Impact of 1990s Design Today:

To achieve the look of the 1990s in your home, focus on neutral tones, simple furniture, and multi-functional designs. For lighting, opt for recessed lights, spotlights, and dimmer switches for subtle, flexible illumination.

How to Incorporate Retro Style into Your Home Today

If you want to bring retro style into your home, it’s all about mixing vintage-inspired pieces with modern sensibilities. Here are some tips:

1. Choose Statement Lighting: Lighting was an important part of retro design. Consider adding a globe pendant light (1970s), a chrome table lamp (1980s), or a recessed light fixture (1990s) to your space.
2. Incorporate Iconic Colors: Play with retro colors like avocado green (1970s), neon pink (1980s), or beige and gray (1990s). Use these hues for accent walls, textiles, or smaller decor items.
3. Mix Old and New: Combine vintage furniture with modern accessories to keep the space functional while maintaining that retro vibe. You can also create a boho-inspired nook with throw pillows, rugs, and plants to channel the eclectic spirit of the 1970s.

Conclusion

Retro style decor isn’t just about mimicking the past; it’s about celebrating it with modern flair. Whether you’re drawn to the earthy bohemian looks of the 1970s, the bold geometries of the 1980s, or the minimalist simplicity of the 1990s, each of these decades offers unique design ideas to incorporate into your space. By choosing vintage lighting, classic colors, and timeless furniture, you can easily create a retro-inspired home that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Ready to add a bit of retro flair to your space? Check out our curated selection of vintage-inspired lighting and decor to create the perfect retro ambiance!