Granny chic has transformed into an ideal fusion of nostalgic and contemporary decor, appealing to those who desire warm and refreshed living spaces. This style, often referred to as “grandmillennial” or “grandma chic,” showcases traditional, ornate, and decorative elements, featuring elegantly curved furniture and decorative pillows, complemented by a selection of modern art and furnishings. We consulted various interior designers and stylists who focus on vintage and grandmillennial aesthetics to explore how you can incorporate granny chic into your home.
What does Granny Chic style mean?
Granny chic is a decor trend that combines elements of shabby chic, maximalism, and eclecticism, creating a uniquely personalized space.
I am drawn to the grandmillennial aesthetic due to its ‘anti-trend’ nature,” explains Julie McConville, the proprietor of the vintage home decor shop Fox & Park. “This timeless style, with minimal adjustments, will remain relevant for many years. It’s akin to the Jackie O of interior design.
Ashley Hardison, the owner of FIG Design Company, describes granny chic interiors as being “rich in patterns, textures, illumination, and inviting spaces for gathering,” featuring vintage furniture, classic literature, candles, and a vibrant color palette.
Here are several additional suggestions, along with eight illustrations, on how to incorporate granny chic aesthetics into your living space.
- Create an unmistakably warm atmosphere: For many, the term “Granny” evokes a sense of comfort. Envision granny chic as a blend of comfort and elegance, featuring knitted or crocheted throws, patchwork quilts, and intricate crewel embroidery.
- Embrace tradition: Timeless features like traditional crown molding and corbels form the foundation of a grandma chic space. Incorporate additional classic touches, like a decorative crystal chandelier.
- Indulge in plush comfort: It’s hard to resist the allure of a beautifully overstuffed wing chair or a soft upholstered seat adorned with an abundance of decorative pillows.
- Embrace a retro vibe: A granny chic space is adorned with decor that tells a story and exudes personality. Enthusiasts of flea markets and pre-owned furnishings will surely appreciate the eco-friendly charm of granny chic decor. Incorporate a variety of collectibles, including classic vases, decorative trays, retro candlesticks, and vintage cookbooks.
- Incorporate artisanal pieces: Items that are crafted, embroidered, or handmade enhance the individuality of a granny chic environment, ensuring that each grandmillenial room is uniquely distinct.
- Incorporate contemporary elements: To give a grandma chic room a more relaxed vibe, introduce modern accessories, a sleek coffee table, or a striking piece of art. These additions will revitalize the space and introduce playful accents to the granny chic aesthetic.
Always Opt for Wallpaper
Vibrant, patterned wallpaper is essential to the granny chic aesthetic. Consider using peel-and-stick wallpaper for a hassle-free way to infuse this style into your space. Interior designer Jennifer Harrup from Jennifer Laura Living notes, “A grandmillennial look is never truly finished without a touch of wallpaper. Incorporating a toile or floral design instantly gives your room that grandmillennial vibe.”
Choose Your Design(s)
Textiles bring a touch of vintage charm to a room. According to Harrup, decorative cushions, draping curtains, and furniture covered in floral, toile, plaid, and other grandmotherly designs are ideal for achieving this aesthetic.
Floral Energy
Floral designs and the grandmillennial aesthetic complement each other perfectly. Integrating these elements into your wallpaper, textiles, ceramics, or art is essential for achieving the grandma chic look. According to blogger and stylist Katherine Medlin from Pender & Peony, “Fabrics featuring patterns like chintz, Indian block prints, and botanical designs are stunning, while ceramics benefit from Dresden florals, Rose Medallion, and other Chinoiserie styles.” Stylist Hardison adds, “Floral prints are lovely for slipcovered chairs, tablecloths, or pillows of any size. Floral art is always appealing, and an antique vase or pitcher filled with fresh blooms is a timeless choice. You can either use the same floral pattern throughout or create a unique look by mixing different floral textiles.”
Incorporate Color
Grandmillennial style embraces a vibrant palette, ranging from gentle, airy pastels to striking, deep colors. According to McConville, popular choices in the granny chic aesthetic often feature shades of blue, pink, green, and white. Hardison emphasizes that in terms of color, there are no strict rules; the key is to ensure that color is a prominent element in the design.
