When it comes to interior design, it’s no secret that we look back to our past for inspiration. We’re always looking to add vintage touches to our spaces and take the best trends of yesteryear with us into the future. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves… Some décor trends from past decades were right to be left in the past (at least for now). But today, we’re highlighting the best trends from four notable decades in American history and putting our own modern spin on them to bring them into the 21st century—PLUS, the GM prints we’d pair with them. (Because, why not?) P.S. All prints in the shop are currently 20% OFF, so we’d suggest you get shopping! Buckle up for a mini history lesson, and keep scrolling to get inspired by interior design from the ‘20s, ‘40s, ‘60s, and beyond…
Inspired by… the ‘20s
The ‘20s were all about excess, glamour, and the beginning of modernism, and the wardrobes and homes reflected that. Warm metals, mirrored surfaces, luxe fabrics, and geometric touches were in abundance—basically, they were way ahead of their time. These 1920s inspired décor pieces exude that same Art Deco excitement, while still being modern and not too over-the-top.
- Shanti Mirror, $565 | 2. Graceful Glam I Print, $249+ | 3. Calli Chandelier, $1,670 | 4. Curvo Light Grey Velvet Sofa, $1,999 | 5. Retro Swirl Switch Plate, $22-$28 | 6. Deco Bowen Chair, $1,198 | 7. Shy Pearl Pillow, $90 | 8. Martini Side Table, $159
Inspired by… the ‘40s
When the 1940s came around, patterned upholstery was all the rage, and interior design as a whole became a bit more toned down due to years of war. These up-to-date pieces keep things simple, but still reflect the love for embellishments, florals, and color the American public had during the 1940s.
- Jestine Chair, Natural Rattan, $455 | 2. IKEA Sinnerlig Pendant Lamp, $69.99 | 3. Quilted Brokhaw Pillow, $62 | 4. Guida Pillow, $58 | 5. Pretty in Pink, Beverly Hills Hotel Print, $299+ | 6. Topanga Ottoman XL, $2,495 | 7. Brushed Gold Aluminum Tray, $80.75 | 8. Pied-A-Terre Sofa, Valerie, $2,698
Inspired by… the ‘60s
Interior design during the 1960s shared similarities with previous decades in the fact that it didn’t shy away from color. But this time, colorful touches took the form of psychedelic accents and streamlined silhouettes. These 60s inspired décor pieces boast the best of midcentury modern design, while still being current enough to be incorporated into homes today.
- Specchio Mirror, $499 | 2. Jonathan Adler Lips Smolder Pillow, $165 | 3. Sunbathing Beauties Print, $299+ | 4. Forte Channeled Saddle Leather Sofa, $2,799 | 5. Warner Marble Base Floor Lamp, $279 | 6. Cyra Coffee Table, $905 | 7. Jonathan Adler Futura Circles Vase, $325 | 8. Jonathan Adler Acrylic Amoeba Sculpture, $295
Inspired by… the ‘80s
Ah, the 80s. This decade sure had its heyday in the fashion sphere, and 1980s interiors were no different! Décor trends included everything from bold animal prints, to stark black and white, to muted pastels, chintzy florals, and our favorite—tropical vibes. It was a time of exploration, to say the least, but this is how we would bring the 1980s into the modern age…
- Abernathy Chandelier, $2,206 | 2. Pastel Beach Umbrellas, Vertical Print, $249+ | 3. Florence Brass and Glass Vase, $24.95 | 4. Feather Collection Chair, $998 | 5. Leather Fringe Ivory Pillow, $99 | 6. Dottie Pillow by Claire Zinnecker, $95 | 7. Vera Sofa, $1,888 | 8. Peekaboo Acrylic Tall Coffee Table, $499
Which of these decades are you most inspired by?
We can’t pick a favorite… but do we really need to? ;) If you love being transported back in time as much as we do, take a look at these 10 nostalgic prints in the GM shop that pair perfectly with any retro décor.
Xx Team GM
Photos: @amimsy on Instagram