People Are Bringing Back 80s Bedrooms And It’s Surprisingly Cool

I never thought I’d be this excited about the decade that gave us scrunchies and shoulder pads.

There’s something so refreshing about those bold colors, playful patterns, and unapologetic personality that feels like the perfect antidote to all the beige we’ve been drowning in.

It’s not about copying your parents’ old room exactly—it’s about taking those fearless design choices and making them work for right now.

---

Bold Geometric Patterns Are Back (And I’m Here for It)

Geometric patterns were absolutely everywhere in 80s bedrooms, and I’m thrilled they’re making a comeback.

Think bold triangles, zigzags, and angular shapes that add instant energy to any space.

I recently added a geometric duvet cover to my guest room, and it completely transformed the vibe from bland to interesting in about five minutes.

The beauty of these patterns is that they create movement and visual interest without feeling too busy if you balance them right.

My personal tip?

Start with one geometric piece as your focal point—maybe bedding or a rug—and keep everything else relatively simple.

You don’t want to go full-on pattern overload unless that’s specifically your thing.

I love pairing geometric bedding with solid-colored pillows in colors pulled from the pattern itself.

It creates this cohesive look that feels intentional rather than chaotic.

Another hack I’ve discovered is using geometric patterns in unexpected places, like on your headboard wall as removable wallpaper.

It gives you that bold 80s statement without committing to painting or permanent changes.

The emotional reason this works so well?

Geometric patterns feel confident and playful.

They tell everyone who walks into your room that you’re not afraid of a little personality.

If you’re nervous about going too bold, try a black and white geometric pattern first—it’s striking but still feels sophisticated and easier to style around.

---

Memphis Design Is Having Its Main Character Moment

Memphis design is that wonderfully weird 80s aesthetic with squiggly lines, confetti-like dots, and clashing colors that somehow work together perfectly.

I’m completely smitten with how this style refuses to take itself too seriously.

It’s joyful, quirky, and adds instant character to any bedroom that’s feeling a little too safe.

You can incorporate Memphis design through accent pieces without going full commitment—think a funky side table, lampshade, or even just some throw pillows.

I found a Memphis-inspired alarm clock that makes me smile every single morning, and that tiny detail genuinely improves my mood.

The trick with Memphis design is balancing the chaos with some calmer elements.

If you have a Memphis-patterned rug, maybe keep your walls in a solid color so your eyes have somewhere to rest.

I love using Memphis accents in predominantly white or neutral bedrooms because the contrast makes those playful pieces really pop.

One of my favorite personal recommendations is getting Memphis design artwork or prints—they’re affordable, easy to switch out, and add that retro vibe instantly.

Another variation I adore is mixing Memphis design with modern minimalist furniture.

The juxtaposition creates this really interesting tension that feels both nostalgic and current.

Emotionally, Memphis design works because it celebrates imperfection and fun.

It reminds us that our bedrooms don’t have to be serious showrooms—they can be spaces that spark joy and creativity.

If I could only add one Memphis piece to a bedroom, it would be a colorful abstract lamp with those signature squiggly shapes.

---

Neon Accents That Don’t Scream “Too Much”

Neon was huge in the 80s, but I promise you can do it without making your bedroom look like a nightclub.

The secret is using neon as intentional pops of color rather than the main event.

I added a small neon pink table lamp to my nightstand, and it creates the most gorgeous ambient glow at night without being overwhelming.

Neon signs with words or phrases have become super popular, and I think they’re perfect for adding personality to your space.

Choose something that resonates with you personally—a motivational phrase, your name, or even just a simple heart shape.

My hack for incorporating neon without commitment?

Battery-operated neon-style LED lights that you can move around or remove whenever you want.

Another option I love is neon picture frames or small decorative objects like a neon cactus or lightning bolt.

They give you that 80s vibe in the most manageable, non-permanent way.

It becomes a statement piece that channels that 80s fearlessness without requiring you to repaint entire walls.

I’ve noticed that neon works especially well in bedrooms with plenty of natural light during the day—it adds energy without making the space feel dark or cave-like.

The emotional appeal of neon is pure optimism and energy.

It’s unapologetically bright and happy, which can genuinely lift your spirits when you walk into your room.

Just remember: a little neon goes a long way, so start small and add more if you’re loving the vibe.

---

The Return of Lacquered Furniture

High-gloss lacquered furniture was an 80s staple, and I’m so excited it’s coming back in a big way.

That super shiny, almost reflective finish adds instant glamour and sophistication to any bedroom.

I recently scored a vintage lacquered dresser at an estate sale, and it’s become my favorite piece in my entire house.

The beauty of lacquered furniture is how it reflects light and makes spaces feel bigger and brighter.

If you have a smaller bedroom, a glossy white or cream lacquered nightstand can actually help open up the space visually.

My personal favorite is black lacquered furniture because it feels dramatic and chic without being too flashy.

Pair it with softer textiles and you get this amazing balance between sleek and cozy.

One variation I’m obsessed with is colored lacquered pieces—think deep emerald green, rich burgundy, or even a bold cobalt blue.

These make incredible statement pieces that anchor your entire bedroom design.

A hack I’ve learned is that lacquered furniture is actually easier to clean than you’d think—a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth keeps it looking pristine.

The downside?

It does show fingerprints and dust more easily, so it’s not ideal if you want truly low-maintenance furniture.

But honestly, the visual impact is worth the extra minute of cleaning to me.

Emotionally, lacquered furniture feels luxurious and special.

It elevates your bedroom from basic to boutique hotel vibes instantly.

If you’re hesitant about full furniture pieces, try starting with a small lacquered tray on your dresser or nightstand to test the waters.

---

Oversized Wall Art and Posters Done Right

The 80s were all about big, bold wall art, and I think we need to bring back that confidence.

I’m talking oversized framed prints, massive canvas art, and yes—even posters if you frame them properly.

The mistake people make is hanging posters with thumbtacks like a college dorm room.

Instead, invest in some nice frames and suddenly your poster becomes legitimate art.

I have a huge framed geometric print above my bed that I got for practically nothing, but in a sleek black frame it looks like something from a gallery.

My tip for making oversized art work is going bigger than you think you should.

That tentative medium-sized piece usually looks awkward—go bold or go home.

Another variation I love is creating a gallery wall of smaller 80s-inspired prints and photos arranged in an asymmetrical cluster.

It captures that maximalist 80s energy while still feeling curated and intentional.

If you’re on a budget, print your own oversized art from free online sources and take it to a print shop.

You can get a huge print for a fraction of what you’d pay for pre-made art.

The emotional reason oversized art works so well is it makes a definitive statement about what you love.

It shows confidence in your taste and creates an instant focal point that draws the eye.

One of my favorite personal recommendations is mixing different art styles—abstract with photography, vintage posters with modern prints.

That eclectic mix feels very 80s but also keeps things from looking too theme-y or costume-like.

---

Venetian Blinds Are Cool Again (Who Knew?)

I never thought I’d be recommending Venetian blinds, but here we are.

Those classic horizontal slatted blinds that were in literally every 80s bedroom are suddenly having a moment.

And honestly?

I get it now.

They create these gorgeous light patterns when the sun filters through, adding instant atmosphere and mood.

I installed some wide-slat Venetian blinds in soft white, and the way they control light is actually incredible.

You can angle them for privacy while still letting in natural light, which is such a practical feature.

My personal hack is pairing Venetian blinds with soft curtains for a layered window treatment that feels both retro and current.

The blinds give you the 80s nod while the curtains soften the overall look.

Another variation I’m loving is colored Venetian blinds instead of the traditional white or beige.

A dusty pink or soft gray can add subtle color without overwhelming your space.

The key to making Venetian blinds not feel dated is keeping everything else relatively modern and clean-lined.

They work best as a deliberate retro choice rather than looking like you just never updated your windows.

I’ve noticed they look especially good in bedrooms with minimal decor because they add texture and interest to windows without competing with other elements.

The emotional appeal is all about nostalgia and that comforting familiarity.

For many of us, Venetian blinds remind us of childhood in this weirdly cozy way.

If you’re unsure, try them in just one room first—you might be surprised by how much you love them.

---

Color Blocking Your Walls Like It’s the Good Old Days

Color blocking was such an iconic 80s technique, and I’m thrilled people are brave enough to try it again.

The concept is simple—use two or more bold colors on your walls in distinct sections or geometric shapes.

I did a horizontal color block in my bedroom with soft peach on the bottom two-thirds and cream on top, and I’m obsessed.

It adds architectural interest to a boring rectangular room and creates the illusion of different zones.

My biggest tip for successful color blocking is choosing colors that share an undertone so they harmonize instead of clash.

You want contrast, but you don’t want it to feel jarring or like a mistake.

Another approach I love is diagonal color blocking—it’s unexpected and adds dynamic energy to your space.

Paint one color from the floor on one wall up to the ceiling on the opposite wall in a diagonal sweep.

It sounds wild, but when executed properly, it’s absolutely stunning.

If you’re nervous about commitment, try removable wallpaper in two different patterns or colors for a temporary color-blocked effect.

You get the visual impact without the permanence, which is perfect for renters or commitment-phobes like me.

The emotional reason color blocking works is it feels intentional and creative.

It shows you put thought into your space rather than just slapping on a single neutral color.

One variation I recommend is color blocking just one accent wall rather than the entire room if you’re testing this out.

You can always expand to more walls if you love the result.

---

Mirrored Everything (But Make It Modern)

Mirrored furniture and decor were absolutely everywhere in 80s bedrooms, and the trend is definitely experiencing a revival.

I’m talking mirrored nightstands, dressers, picture frames, and even whole mirrored accent walls.

The appeal is obvious—mirrors reflect light and make spaces feel larger and more glamorous instantly.

I added a mirrored nightstand to my bedroom, and the way it catches morning light is genuinely beautiful.

My advice for incorporating mirrored pieces is balancing them with matte textures so your room doesn’t feel too shiny or cold.

Pair a mirrored dresser with a plush velvet chair or soft linen bedding.

Another option I love is antiqued or smoky mirrored furniture instead of the super bright, clear mirrors.

It adds that glamorous reflective quality but feels more vintage and softer somehow.

If full mirrored furniture feels too bold, try smaller mirrored accessories like trays, vases, or picture frames.

They give you that sparkle without the major commitment or expense.

One hack I discovered is using mirrored tiles as a DIY headboard or accent wall—you can find affordable mirror tiles at most home improvement stores.

The effect is dramatic and totally captures that 80s glamour vibe.

Emotionally, mirrored pieces feel luxurious and special, like something from an upscale hotel.

They elevate everyday spaces into something that feels more curated and intentional.

My personal recommendation is keeping mirrored furniture limited to one or two pieces per room—more than that can start feeling like a funhouse.

Balance is everything with this trend.

---

The Platform Bed Renaissance

Low-profile platform beds were the ultimate 80s bedroom staple, and I’m so glad they’re coming back.

There’s something sleek and modern about a bed that sits close to the ground with clean, simple lines.

I switched to a platform bed a few months ago, and it completely changed the feel of my entire bedroom.

The room suddenly feels more spacious and airy because there’s less visual bulk taking up vertical space.

My favorite thing about platform beds is they often don’t require a box spring, which saves money and makes bed-making easier.

If you want that authentic 80s vibe, look for platform beds with built-in side tables or storage drawers.

Those integrated nightstands were super popular and actually incredibly functional for smaller bedrooms.

Another variation I’m loving is upholstered platform beds in rich jewel tones like emerald or sapphire.

They feel retro but also current and luxurious in a way that plain wood frames don’t always achieve.

A personal hack—add a thick, plush rug beside your platform bed since you’re getting in and out closer to the floor.

It makes those first morning steps so much more comfortable.

The emotional appeal of platform beds is their minimalist simplicity combined with that nostalgic familiarity.

They feel grown-up and sophisticated without being stuffy or overly traditional.

If you’re worried a platform bed might be too low, remember you can always add a thicker mattress to get a bit more height.

I’d recommend trying one if you’ve never experienced that low-profile sleeping situation—it’s surprisingly cozy.

---

Pastel Pink and Mint Green Combos I’m Obsessed With

This color combination screams 80s in the best possible way, and I cannot get enough of it.

Soft pastel pink paired with mint green creates this dreamy, Miami Vice-inspired palette that feels both retro and incredibly fresh.

I incorporated this combo through bedding and accessories in my guest bedroom, and every single person who sees it comments on how pretty and unique it is.

The trick is using these pastels in generous amounts rather than tiny accents—you want the colors to actually make an impact.

My personal recommendation is painting one wall mint green and bringing in pink through your bedding, curtains, or artwork.

Another variation I adore is flipping it—pink walls with mint green accessories and furniture.

Both approaches work beautifully depending on your personal preference and existing furniture.

If you’re hesitant about painting, try this color combo through textiles first—pillows, throws, curtains, and rugs.

You can test the palette without any permanent changes to see if you genuinely love living with it.

I’ve found that adding touches of white or cream helps balance the sweetness of pink and mint so it doesn’t feel too candy-like.

Brass or gold accents also look absolutely stunning with this color combination.

The emotional reason this palette works is pure joy and optimism.

These colors feel happy, fresh, and youthful without being childish.

One hack I love is adding actual plants to a pink and mint room—the natural green complements the mint beautifully and adds life.

If I could redo any room in this color scheme, I absolutely would in a heartbeat.

---

Rattan and Wicker Making a Serious Comeback

Rattan and wicker furniture were absolutely iconic in 80s bedrooms, and I’m thrilled they’re trendy again.

These natural materials add warmth, texture, and that casual California-cool vibe that works in basically any bedroom.

I have a vintage rattan headboard that I found at a thrift store, and it’s hands-down my favorite furniture piece ever.

The beauty of rattan is how it pairs with literally everything—bohemian, modern, traditional, whatever your style.

My tip for incorporating rattan is mixing it with other materials so it doesn’t feel too theme-y or tropical.

Pair a rattan bed frame with sleek modern nightstands, or add a wicker chair to a room with contemporary artwork.

Another option I love is painted rattan furniture in unexpected colors like black, white, or even soft pastels.

It keeps the texture and retro vibe but feels more current and personalized to your aesthetic.

If full rattan furniture feels like too much, try smaller wicker accessories like baskets, lampshades, or decorative trays.

They add that natural texture without dominating your entire space.

One hack I discovered is that rattan and wicker actually photograph beautifully, so they’re perfect if you like your bedroom to look Instagram-worthy.

The emotional appeal of these materials is their warmth and organic quality.

They make spaces feel lived-in and cozy rather than cold and showroom-perfect.

Rattan also has this subtle nostalgic quality that feels comforting without being overly retro or costume-y.

My personal recommendation is starting with a rattan mirror—it’s affordable, easy to find, and adds instant character to any wall.

---