5 90s Decor Trends We're Actually Glad To See Again

2025.06.27

They say that what goes around comes around, and this is certainly the case with trends. Right now, the 90s are having a major moment again, from the fashion we wear to—you guessed it—the design of our homes. So, what exactly are the 90s decor trends you need to start raiding your parents’ house for? We’re glad you asked. Three Southern designers have answered that very question for you.

Nancy Meyers Aesthetic

Nancy Meyers is known for her timeless sets in movies like Father of the Bride and The Parent Trap. Her lifestyle-centric approach to design is coming back around. “Think of charming prints like floral and gingham, vintage pieces with oak accents, and warm beige whites,” recommends Jamie Gernert, founder of WYC Designs in Winter Park, Florida. Complete the look by layering in candles, lamps, books, and vintage finds to really make your space feel like home. 

Softer Colors

Chandler Helms, artist and founder of her namesake design firm in Austin, Texas, says that “soft yellows and light greens are taking center stage in many designs” right now. Meanwhile, Andrea Taylor, owner of Andrea Marino Design in Dallas, Texas, has noticed an uptick in mauve, dusty blue, and butter yellow fabrics. “This overall translates to a more neutral color scheme with a softer approach to color,” she explains.

For those who have been scared to shift away from grays and creams, these shades offer an ideal compromise. They’re not too dull and not too bright—they’re just right.

Checkerboard

Considered “forever a classic” in Gernert’s projects, she’s taken the pattern and used a variety of sizes and materials to make it feel current. Though black and white tile floors may be the first application to come to mind, backsplashes, accent walls, rugs, pottery, and more are equally fair game. This versatility makes checkerboard easier to translate into different aesthetics, allowing anyone to try the trend without feeling pigeonholed. 

Stainless Steel and Chrome

“I thought I wouldn’t see the day, but stainless steel had a moment during the minimalist phase of the 90s, and it’s certainly on its way back,” says Gernert. Chrome, another 90s trend with mid-century modern roots, is on its way back as well.

The beauty of stainless steel and chrome is that the finishes look the exact same regardless of when/where you got them. But between countertops, backsplashes, hardware, lighting, and even furniture accents, Gernert is confident that you’ll be seeing more of every silver tone.

Square Tile

According to Helms, “square tile has come back in a major way, and we’re seeing it resurface in bathrooms and kitchens.” Available in more colors and finishes than you can dream of, this simple trend has the ability to match any style. Making square tiles even more versatile? The wide range of applications (put them on your hood!), layouts (staggered vertical is fun!), and grout options (go tonal!) out there. The possibilities are truly limitless.