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Like any other era, the ’90s come back and grace us with their nostalgic presence. Design trends come and go, but some come back, and ’90s aesthetics are no exception. If you want to experience the best of the decade without spending a fortune, here are some ideas to get you started.
Add some texture
In contrast to the austerity of modern minimalism, 90s minimalism is more about a relaxed feel where comfort is the focus. One way to achieve this look is to add texture in a warm white palette. A structured area carpet ($127.48) or structured pillowcases ($12.74/pair) are affordable ways to introduce some gentle minimalism. If your existing furniture doesn’t match your ’90s interior design, you can also try Sofa cover ($69.99) to change the color of your sofa inexpensively.
Choose earth tones
The 90s often referenced earthy, natural tones (also lots of mauve). Monochromatic palettes as well as corals and naturally inspired greens are a 90s nostalgia design style that you can pull off for under $200. You can get a earthy green ($43.98/gallon) accent wall or paint some trim or cabinet fronts to get some ’90s earth tones. You can also try hanging some Coral pattern curtains ($38.99/pair) to bring in some earthy ’90s colors.
Hanging wallpaper
Anyone who lived through the 90s remembers all the wallpaper. While some are not worth revisiting, there are some prints that have potential in today’s interiors. Try some Floral wallpaper ($7.98/ 17.7 x 78.7 inch roll) for a 90s vibe or you can also get a striped pattern ($49.08/ 20.5 in. x 33 ft. roll). If you can’t wallpaper an entire room, you can always wallpaper one wall as an accent with a large size. Watercolor mural ($77.88/69 x 98 in.) Abstract watercolor patterns were popular in the ’90s, and with a self-adhesive wall mural, you can inexpensively incorporate that aesthetic into your space.
Use a checkerboard print
In the ’90s, the checkerboard pattern was used in many ways. While you don’t have to overdo it, a bold black and white contrast can help you bring the ’90s into your design theme. The trick to using the checkerboard pattern without it being completely overwhelming is to keep the rest of your colors within the black and white palette. You can use a Checkerboard carpet ($69.99) or you can paint an old table top with a checkerboard pattern using Black ($15.48/quart) and White ($17.48/quart) High gloss enamel paint. To make your squares, you can measure and use Painter’s tape to cover every color. If the black and white chessboard is too boring for you, you can also choose a Checkerboard pattern in neutral tones ($30.99/runner 2 x 4.4 feet).
Add a bold multi-color print
Taking inspiration from some of the best colorful prints of the 90s is a great way to pay homage to the decade without going overboard. Since high-contrast, multi-colored prints can create a clash when layered, you can either embrace the clash or hold back with one or two statement pieces. A set of watercolor print decorative pillow ($14.95/set of 4) can give you a taste of ’90s color—or you could opt for some Accent tables ($79.99) with colorful print on top.
