Do you ever walk into a bedroom or living room and feel instantly calm, or conversely, super energized? A lot of that vibe comes from colors and patterns in the space. In home decor (especially things like bed linens, curtains, cushions), certain print patterns come in and out of style. And the colors we choose can affect our mood. In this blog, we’ll take a friendly tour through some trending print patterns and touch on color psychology – how colors in your decor can influence feelings. Whether you’re redecorating or just a decor enthusiast, this is for you!
Timeless Patterns Making a Comeback
Some prints never truly go out of style; they just ebb and flow in popularity. Right now a few classic designs are trending again:
● Paisley: Those swirling teardrop-shaped motifs (originating from Persia/India) are back in vogue, especially in boho and eclectic decor. Paisley prints on bedspreads or wallpapers add a touch of global charm and artistry. They often come in rich colors. Psychology angle: Paisley, being curvy and intricate, can feel creative and dynamic. In softer blues/greens it’s soothing; in reds/oranges it’s invigorating.
● Damask: This is a pattern with ornate, symmetrical motifs (often floral or foliage-like) usually in a tone-on-tone or two-tone color. Think of vintage wallpaper or luxury hotel bedding. Damask patterns in modern decor might be in fresh colors (like silvery grey on white, or even funky colors for a twist). It brings a sense of elegance and tradition. Psychology: Because of its formal, repetitive nature, damask can feel orderly and luxurious. In subdued colors, it’s calm and upscale.
● Plaid (Tartan) & Checkered: Plaids (multi-color stripe crisscross) and simple check patterns (like gingham or buffalo check) are perennially popular but have moments of being hot. They’re cozy and homely. Right now, rustic and farmhouse styles have propelled plaids (think plaid throws, checkered bedsheets in minimal two-color schemes). Psychology: Checks and plaids, with their straight lines, offer a sense of stability and comfort (perhaps reminding us of picnics or classic holidays). Depending on color (black/white checks = bold contrast, pastel gingham = gentle and nostalgic).
● Floral Prints: Florals are always around, but what changes is the style (watercolor florals, tropical leaves, tiny ditsy florals, etc.). Currently, bold botanical prints (big monstera leaves, palm fronds) and vintage chintz florals are trending. Florals in general bring nature indoors, which can be calming or uplifting. Green leafy prints evoke freshness and growth (calming, restorative), while bright blossoms on a dark background (a trend in “grandmillennial” decor) can feel dramatic yet warm.
Modern Geometric and Abstract Prints
Geometric patterns give a contemporary vibe. The trends here include:
● Trellis (Lattice) Patterns: These are the prints that look like interlocking lines or a geometric web (often forming diamonds or arabesque shapes). Popular in rugs, wallpapers, and of course bedding. A trellis print adds structure and a hint of Moroccan or Mediterranean flair if it’s the arabesque style. Psychology: Geometrics like trellis offer a sense of order and symmetry, which can be pleasing and calming for minds that like organization, yet the flowing lines keep it from being too rigid.
● Chevron and Stripes: Chevron is that zigzag stripe (V-shaped continuous pattern). It had a huge surge some years ago (the gray and white chevron everything!). While that craze toned down, chevrons and classic stripes are forever staples. Now we see stripes in more varied ways – pinstripes on sheets for a subtle look, or bold cabana stripes for a fun statement. Psychology: Stripes, depending on orientation, affect perception. Horizontal stripes can make a space feel wider, vertical stripes taller. Regular stripes feel stable; zigzag chevron adds energy and playfulness.
● Abstract Prints: This is broad – basically any artsy, non-figurative pattern. Think brushstroke designs, watercolor swirls, or “mud cloth” style dots and dashes. Abstract prints are trending because people are embracing a bit of an eclectic, artistic touch. These prints can break the monotony of too much symmetry. Psychology: Abstract patterns can spark creativity and feel unique. They often don’t impose a strong specific theme, so the brain just sees them as “interesting texture,” which can either be stimulating (if high contrast) or soothing (if in gentle colors).
● Medallion motifs: A medallion print is like a large circle or ornate shape repeated (often seen in some Indian or Moroccan-inspired designs). These can almost act as a focal point on a bedcover. When done in subtle tone-on-tone, they read as texture; in bold contrast, they become an eye-catching feature. They evoke a bit of tradition and symmetry, giving a balanced, harmonious feel to a room.
Nature-Inspired & Ethnic Patterns
Global and nature motifs are very in:
● Batik & Tribal Prints: Batik prints (with their characteristic cracked dye look) and tribal-inspired patterns (like zigzags, diamonds, motifs from African mudcloth or Native designs) are popular in modern boho decor. They add character and a story to a space. Psychology: These patterns often carry cultural significance; using them can make a space feel soulful and grounded. The irregularities in hand-made style prints also create a relaxed, not-too-perfect atmosphere.
● Ethnic & Block Prints: Indian block prints, Moroccan tile patterns, Japanese shibori tie-dye patterns – these are beloved by decorators to add a worldly vibe. They often involve repetitive geometric or floral elements but with that handcrafted variation. Having such prints at home can feel both invigorating (because of the rich cultural vibe) and comforting (we often associate textiles with human touch and tradition).
● Tribal/Aztec Geometrics: We see a lot of cushions and throws with what’s often termed “Aztec” or “Southwestern” prints – bold geometric shapes often in earthy colors. These give a trendy desert chic look.
● Ditsy Floral: On the opposite end, ditsy prints (tiny scattered flowers or shapes) are in play, especially in cottagecore and vintage-inspired rooms. A ditsy floral bedsheet in a soft color gives a charming, cozy feel.
Seasonal and Novelty Prints
Depending on the time of year or personal style:
● Seasonal Prints: e.g., Christmas-themed sheets (reindeer, snowflakes), Halloween prints, etc. These obviously affect mood by aligning with festive times – instantly creating excitement or coziness tied to that season.
● Camouflage Print: Interestingly, camo comes in and out as a trend even in home items. In decor, it’s more for a quirky or teen room style. Camo adds a rugged, adventurous feel. Color-wise, the classic green camo introduces a lot of green and brown (earth tones – can be grounding).
● Checkers & Houndstooth: Classic patterns like houndstooth (that jagged check, often black and white) appear in modern iterations (maybe on a pillow or an accent chair). They are bold and make a statement – black and white patterns specifically create a strong visual contrast that energizes a space.
The Psychology of Color in Decor
Now, patterns aside, color plays a huge role in how a space feels:
● Blue: Often cited as a calming color, great for bedrooms. Light blues = serenity (like the sky or ocean, very peaceful). Dark blues = cozy and stable (like a midnight sky – can be luxurious and enveloping but be careful not to overdo or it can feel somber).
● Green: Restful and refreshing. Reminds us of nature. Sage green bedding or walls have been very popular – they act almost as a neutral, but with that hint of nature that soothes. Brighter greens bring energy and life.
● Yellow: Sunny and cheerful. A little can go a long way. Pale yellow can brighten a room softly; bold yellow accents add happiness but too much might be overstimulating in a bedroom (maybe better as a pop of color).
● Red: Passionate and energetic. Often used sparingly in bedrooms (like a few red throw pillows or an accent wall) because it can be intense. Reds and oranges can increase energy and even appetite (why you see them in dining areas often). In a living space, they add warmth and vibrancy.
● Pink: Depending on shade, can be soothing (dusty rose, blush pink can act almost neutral and comforting) or playful (hot pink for bold statements). Pink often gives a sense of warmth and can be quite calming if it’s a soft tone (hence the trend of “millennial pink” walls in calming spaces).
● Gray: A very common modern neutral. On its own, gray is emotion-neutral – too much cool gray can feel a bit dreary or impersonal, so it’s often paired with brighter accents. Warm grays (greige) are cozier. Gray patterns (like gray chevron, gray damask) are popular because they provide design without overwhelming color – good for a calm, modern aesthetic.
● Purple: Associated with luxury and creativity. Light lavenders can be restful (with a similar effect to blue but a bit more warmth), while rich purples are very regal and introspective. Could be nice in a boudoir or as accents.
● Orange: Fun and energetic, but also associated with warmth (think sunset). Orange decor elements can stimulate creativity and a sense of comfort (terra cotta and muted oranges are very in with boho styles).
● Black & White: High contrast black-and-white decor is modern and chic, but too much contrast everywhere can be jarring. However, when balanced (like a mostly white room with some black pattern accents), it can feel clean and sophisticated. Black itself adds depth; white adds a sense of space and purity.
Using Patterns and Colors Together
When decorating, consider what mood you want:
● For a calming bedroom: choose patterns that are softer or more subdued (like a gentle floral, a simple stripe, or a minimal geometric) and colors that are cool or neutral (blues, greens, lavenders, whites, gentle grays). For example, a sage green botanical print duvet cover – pattern from nature + calming green = restful retreat.
● For an energizing space (say a creative office or a lively living room): you might pick brighter colors or strong contrasting patterns. Maybe throw pillows in a bold abstract print with yellows and reds, or a statement wall in a trendy wallpaper with a vibrant pattern.
● Mixing patterns: That’s advanced, but a tip – stick to a color scheme if patterns differ. E.g., you can mix a paisley and a stripe if they share common colors, and one is more dominant while the other is accent. Vary scale: one big pattern, one small pattern, so it’s not too chaotic.
● Trend vs Personal Preference: Trends like those mentioned (paisley comeback, trellis, tropical prints) are fun to follow, but always filter through your personal comfort. Color psychology can vary person to person too (maybe you find blue depressing instead of calming, etc. – always go with what you feel).
At Pure Decor, we stay on top of these trends to offer stylish options, but we also believe in timeless appeal. We love to incorporate trending patterns (say, a block print or a modern stripe) in classic color palettes that you can enjoy for a long time. And we consider color psychology when designing – we want our bed linens, for example, to promote a good mood and good sleep!
In Conclusion
Your home’s patterns and colors are more than just aesthetic choices; they influence how you feel every day. From the lively energy of a bold tribal print to the soothing embrace of pastel florals, there’s a whole rainbow of emotion you can curate in your space. The trending patterns give you fresh ideas, and understanding color psychology helps you pick what’s right for the function of each room.
So next time you’re picking out a new bedsheet or repainting a wall, think about the mood you crave. Trendy or traditional, vibrant or muted – let your decor be a canvas for well-being as well as style. Happy decorating, and may your home always feel just right!
