The Enduring Comfort Of Nostalgiacore & Why Its Loved By Designers

This year is all about bringing personality into the home – and a design trend that’s perfect for doing just that is nostalgiacore. Think vintage decor, motifs from the past, retro patterns and cosy, comforting interiors. It’s warm, personal and layered, and in this digital age, it signals a desire to relive simpler times and joyous childhood memories.

Below, design experts delve into the nostalgiacore trend and exactly how to embrace the look.

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What is nostalgiacore?

Nostalgiacore is all about curating a home that feels warm, personal, and steeped in sentimentality. ‘It involves weaving in elements from the past, such as heirloom furniture, vintage textiles, or timeworn finishes to evoke a sense of comfort,’ says Danielle Taylor, interior designer and founder of Cosu Studio.

Why is this trend gaining momentum?

Counteracting today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, nostalgiacore signals a return to simpler, more grounded living and an escape from the stresses of everyday life. ‘The trend is reminiscent of simpler times amidst rapid societal changes,’ says Anita Lo, owner of Clara’s Box. ‘Popular culture also regularly features inspiration from the past, such as the reboots of Disney classics.’

This trend often brings in references from the 80s, 90s, and 00s. ‘Tom and I, founders of Divine Savages, are both children of the 1980s, so we grew up with kitsch-patterned walls and bold floral carpets all around us,’ explains Jamie Watkins. ‘I think it’s these memories we all have that have fuelled a desire for cosiness, nostalgia and individuality in our homes.’

a room with pink, cream, and orange retro wallpaper, a pink floral bench with cushions on it, and a white fireplace with a vase and photo frame on it

Lime Lace

Nostalgia wallpaper by Mindthegap, available at Lime Lace

Go for retro colour and patterns

Opting for retro-inspired patterns and earthy colours will allow you to create a nostalgic base to build your decor around. ‘Floral patterns, Victorian-inspired Toile de Jouy and aged colour palettes all work especially well for this,’ says Jamie. ‘Personally, I like vibrant and blousy blooms with velvet cushions piled on the sofa.’ Illuminating darker corners with statement fringed lamps is also a chic way to bring in character.

an orange boucle armchair with three patterned cushions and a yellow throw blanket on it, and blue floral wallpaper behind it

Wayfair

Shop furniture and accessories at Wayfair

Find pieces that evoke nostalgic joy

The fun part about this trend? Scouting out vintage furniture and decor. Anita suggests supporting small businesses with secondhand pieces like posters and antique chairs. If you don’t want to spend, you can always shop your own home or even family members’ homes (if they allow), searching for items that give you that comforting, nostalgic feeling. Importantly, embrace the imperfections of vintage pieces for a lived-in, cosy vibe.

a cosy white bedroom featuring a bed with a white duvet, a wooden bed nightstand, and a dress hanging on the door

Mix vintage finds with contemporary decor

Once you’ve found your vintage treasures, combine these with your existing modern pieces. ‘This will create a collected-over-time feel,’ says Danielle. ‘Layer textures like linen, wool, and aged solid wood to bring depth, and incorporate meaningful objects such as black and white photographs, old books, or artwork with a history.’ Think curated clutter that’s thoughtful and aesthetic.

‘Open shelving is a great way to add to the nostalgic feel – showcasing a collection of vintage crockery, books, or characterful ceramics can inject personality into a room,’ adds Lena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse. ‘Hanging plates on the wall is another way to nod to the past.’

The key is to create a space that feels rich with memories and gives you that sense of nostalgia – even if you’re just beginning to build them.