6 Home Decor Trends From The 1980s That Are Making A Hot Comeback We Honestly Can't Complain About

It comes as no surprise that people have been feeling nostalgic about the '80s recently, thanks to shows like Stranger Things, which evoke every memory we had of that decade—arcades, big hair, funky and neon clothes, playing board games, and genuinely enjoying life. This decade undoubtedly brought us many iconic moments in pop culture, and even years later, many are still longing for the kind of retro life the '80s offered, even those who weren't born in that decade.

While some people would rather forget the oddities of '80s trends (like those big perms and the neon-on-neon combinations), what is often overlooked is that the decade also introduced an interesting wave of decor trends that differ from those that emerged in later years. The late 2010s had us fawning over minimalist designs, courtesy of the Kardashians, but retro decor will always hold a special place in our hearts—especially for those of us who desire a touch of vintage in our spaces. Who wants a bland house filled with muted colors anyway? (Sorry, Kim K.)

Yes, some decor trends from the '80s were dreadful, such as carpeted bathrooms and outdated wallpapers, but when viewed from the perspective of someone who studies interior design, many of the designs from that era are still considered classics. There are numerous home decor elements from that time that can still be beautifully incorporated into our modern homes today.

From oversized furniture to vibrant pops of color—here are some '80s home trends that are making a comeback today:

1. Tambour Wood

You may remember tambour wood in your rolling kitchen cabinets and appliance garages back then—but today, designs featuring this material are much sleeker and more modern. Come to think of it, wood accents never really go out of style (just check out Nordic-style interiors), and they always make a great addition to your space when you're looking for a refreshing look.

Stephanie Russo

2. Memphis Design

The Memphis design movement began in 1980 as a rebellion against the minimalism of the 1970s. Ettore Sottsass, the creator, was inspired by Art Deco's playful geometry and the bright colors of Pop Art.

Marie-Lyne Quirion

3. Deep Sofas

While sofas today tend to be much stiffer and sleeker, those from the '80s were low, bold, and deep. They were often covered in floral patterns—or, if not, in bold colors of velvet fabric or checkered designs.

They're perfect for lively living rooms and serve as a great alternative to the dull-colored cushions that seem to dominate homes these days.

Kai Byrd

4. Bold Pops of Color

If there's one thing that's truly recognizable about the '80s, it's the funky pops of color found everywhere. In an era where everyone seems to favor all-white and neutral palettes, adding a punch of color can liven up your space—especially when you choose a great combination like blue, red, and black, as seen in this photo.

Emma Fiala

5. Lucite

Many people may not be fans of lucite because they perceive it as cheap-looking decor, but it can actually blend seamlessly with any aesthetic you have at home. These see-through furniture items create the illusion of a smaller footprint, making a room appear larger than it is.

The best way to modernize lucite is to mix it with metals, woods, and upholstered items. Why not try a clear coffee or dining table for this purpose?

Lauren Kolyn

6. Brass Accents

Brass accents have never truly gone out of style since the '80s—it's the perfect choice when you want to add character and warmth to your space. It's best to pair brass with other metals for a more modern look, such as incorporating it into your light fixtures and furniture trims.

Mixing it with darker colors creates an elegant style, while using it as an accent against lighter colors brings a refreshing vibe to your space!

Bazaar

What better way to add a vintage touch to your space than by enlivening it with some classic '80s decor that still looks elegant today? These trends are definitely worth splurging on—just be sure to do it right!

Which of these would you like to incorporate into your home? Share your thoughts in the comments, or share this article with your family and friends!