Remember the 1980s trend where every other house had wallpaper borders running along the tops of walls? Whether it was apples, country ducks, hunting dogs, or (yes) drunk roller-skating clowns, you couldn’t walk into a home without seeing some kind of whimsical or cheesy print staring back at you.
What you may not know is that wallpaper — and especially those quirky borders — quietly disappeared in the 1990s when sleek, modern decorators declared war on anything that wasn’t a smooth, painted wall. For years, “updated” meant stripping down to neutral colors and bare surfaces. But as with many things in design, what goes out of style always finds a way to come back.
Welcome to the great wallpaper revival.
If your grandmother’s house still sports 1960s or ’70s wallpaper and you’ve long considered it outdated — think again. You may have just crossed into hipster territory, because vintage wallpaper is officially back, and this time, it’s bold. Graphic, retro-inspired wallpaper is one of the hottest home décor trends sweeping the design world right now.
In fact, if you’re looking for a visual reference, think of the 1977 cult horror film “Suspiria.” The vibrantly patterned walls from that eerie classic are the kind of statement designs that are popping up in modern homes everywhere. Online shops like Wallpaper From the 70s offer some of the most eye-popping prints, perfect for those who want to channel a little vintage energy or make a serious artistic statement.
Mural wallpaper is also making waves. Walnut Wallpaper, for instance, offers large-scale natural motifs like trees, birds, and cascading leaves — perfect for anyone who wants to bring a little of the outdoors inside. These pieces blur the line between wallpaper and wall art.
And let’s not forget Target, everyone’s favorite style-on-a-budget destination. The retailer now offers its own line of modern graphic wallpapers and digital wall murals, making it easy and affordable to redecorate your space with designer flair.
So go ahead — rip off that beige paint and embrace the bold. Your walls are ready to make a comeback.
Say it ain’t so!! I HATE wallpaper. It’s such a chore to put up and take down. Fortunately, some of the same prints in the hot new wallpapers are also available in home accessories like curtains and throw pillows. I really like the new brown/blue prints. It’s so retro, but has staying power, IMO. It’s on my radar for my soon-to-be-redecorated guest room. 😉
Yeah, this modern wallpaper also kind of reminds me a little of “The Shining” hotel, but some of it is pretty cool. I’m impressed that Target has it. They never fail to impress me by staying so cutting edge.