You’ve heard of the millennial style that everyone’s talking about, and it’s what the Kardashians and Biebers of this era have popularised. But there’s a new trend that everyone is gravitating toward these days, and it speaks of a more traditional aesthetic.
Enter the grand-millennials: the little old ladies of the millennial group. Ranging in age from the mid 20’s to the late 30’s, this group has an affinity for comfortable trends that were once thrown aside as being too stuffy or old-school.
Chintz and ruffles, needlepoint pillows and scalloped lampshades are all a part of this design style that’s suddenly all that everyone’s talking about. Also fondly called Granny chic, this décor trend is wildly popular at the moment.
What is it that makes this theme so endearing, and how can you incorporate this in your own home? Our top designers have put together the design elements that underline this timeless vibe.
Tips and how-tos:
- This style speaks to traditions that are recreated without being kitschy.
- Embellishments like ruffles, pleats, tassels and fringes are seeing a revival, while fabrics like chintz, plaid and toile are updated to suit the convenience of today’s 30 years old.
- Hand-crafted patterns are preferred over store-bought creations.
- Simple botanical and floral patterns, or plain white furniture that is ornately styled, cater to the design thinking of young people who have a love for the old.
- Crisp, saturated colours and prints on a fresh white background are characteristic of this style.
Idea book
Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing. You can use these looks for inspiration, but always remember to go with what your heart feels is right for you:
Chintzy florals
Breezy floral prints on chintz fabric are making a big comeback with designers choosing to revisit their traditions. Hallmarks of classic decorating, like matched curtains and wallpaper, are trending. There’s an accent on functionality, though, as is apparent from the modern lines of the walk-in closet in the background.
Patterned slipcovers
An updated take on skirted slipcovers beautifully blends the old and the new, with the patterned upholstery and crocheted table linen being straight out of your grandma’s lookbook. In this décor theme, comfort takes centre stage.
Frills and fancy
Layers upon layers of white frills and lace go perfectly well with the understated elegance of this white wicker bed. Shag carpets and floor-to-ceiling drapes put a modern spin on this classic theme.
Tufted sofas
The exposed wooden frame of this tufted sofa, with its sectional seat cushions, is instrumental in bringing this design style up-to-speed with the twenty-first century.
Also Read: 5 Rules Millennials Follow When Shopping for Furniture
The charm of needle point
Yes, it’s time to bring out your embroidery kits from school. Cross stitching is now proven to be a significant stress buster, and many people love the sense of accomplishment that completing an intricate pattern gives them. Fine needlepoint is truly therapeutic as it helps to disconnect from modern-day technology and that’s something we all genuinely need.
Fringed lampshades
Old-school design trends like fringed lampshades and scalloped valances are coming back in style. Look for lovely old pieces from the attic, and reinvent them with a modern flavour to add a unique touch to your home décor.
Lace doilies
It’s all about the patterns and the detailing.
Remember those lovely lace circles your grandma used to painstakingly craft? Well, they’re back in fashion and you can now decorate with what you’ve always loved.
Wrought iron furniture
To pull off this look, you must accessorize with care. Wrought iron chairs beautifully complement this tiny table that’s topped with an enormous bunch of pink roses. The wicker basket is painted white to match the furniture.
Tasselled throws
Beauty and comfort are at the heart of the granny chic style, and tasselled throws and ornate candelabra-style chandeliers are all a part of the ambience. Long-forgotten collections of books, crystal, porcelain or figurines can be dusted out and showcased in style.
Wood and wicker
Wood and wicker groupings with interesting patterns and traditional designs are an integral part of the grand-millennial charm. This lovely décor style is full of warm, familial memories and togetherness and encourages you to put a contemporary twist on your traditions.
The stressed-out millennial can derive comfort from this style through elements of traditional décor, without sacrificing functionality. Although not completely vintage, it is a perfect blend of old-school & new-age and makes your home an extension of your personality.
So, don’t wait – channel the grand-millennial in you and create a mesmerising harmony of the old & new in your home décor.
This article is contributed by Dipti Das, AVP-Design, HomeLane.com.
(The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of RoofandFloor)