Our Spring 2024 volume just shipped out to our subscribers and we think now is the perfect time to embrace the theme of transformation with some tips on how to update millennial gray decor! It’s important to note that “millennial gray” is more of a phenomenon than any sort of official, Pantone-approved color.
What is millennial gray?
The term “millennial gray” was coined by users on social media and rose in popularity on TikTok as a way to describe the millennial trend of choosing neutral gray for everything from furniture to wall paint to kitchen appliances. While some have criticized the color choice, calling it bland or boring, others appreciate the versatile choice that pairs well with other colors!
How To Update Your Millennial Gray Decor
Whether you’re a millennial or not, there’s a reason why “agreeable gray” is one of the top-selling paint colors! The soft, neutral undertones mean that this popular wall paint looks good in any lighting and pairs well with many accent colors. However, if you’re ready to embrace a more colorful lifestyle or you just want to bring some of your own personality into your home, we’ve got some great ideas for how you can update your millennial gray decor.
Start with Affordable Accessories
Start your interior design transformation with accessories in bold colors to add a contemporary twist. Accessories, like throw pillows, rugs, artwork, or other decor accents in colors that you enjoy, will update any space and help you identify your unique design taste.
Add Accent Walls
One of the easiest ways to update millennial gray decor is by incorporating accent walls that complement your existing palette! Be considerate of your lighting choices and the overall mood you’d like to create and try a pop of color that will add depth and visual interest to your space while keeping the timeless appeal of millennial gray as your base. If you haven’t brushed up on your color theory recently, read Iris Journal curator Angie Nordstrum’s comprehensive guide to color now!
Experiment with Texture
Another way to refresh your millennial gray decor is by incorporating rich textures into the design. Mix and match materials like velvet, faux fur, wood, and metallic finishes to add warmth to your space. Textured elements not only add intrigue but also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that improves the ambiance of any room.
Play with Patterns
Don’t be afraid to layer patterns to add personality and style! Incorporate patterned curtains, wallpaper, bedding, or area rugs to infuse your space with character and personality while maintaining the chic and understated vibe of millennial gray.
Transform Your Millennial Gray Aesthetic
Not sure where to start? We’ve put together some mood boards to help you determine what your updated aesthetic could look like!
Bold Boho
Believe it or not, gray is actually an excellent starting point for a beautifully bohemian design aesthetic. Adding warm wood elements, bright boho patterns, lots of texture, and plenty of living plants will breathe life back into what might otherwise be basic gray decor.
Romantic Rococo
Rococo interior design is back in the spotlight again thanks to the rise of the “coquette aesthetic” amongst Gen Z. When we hear “rococo,” we think of the timeless elegance and opulence of Marie Antoinette’s living quarters. This style’s soft pinks, gold, white, and floral accents help to soften gray interiors and bring a feminine, romantic feel to your living space.
Wonderfully Whimsical
If you’re someone who doesn’t take yourself (or your living spaces) too seriously, then whimsical decor is perfect for you! While “whimsical” can mean many things, we think it conjures images of butterfly motifs, floral patterns, plenty of color, and magical elements like fairies and toadstools that bring a sense of fun to a gray palette.
Exciting Eclectic
Can’t commit to one aesthetic? Eclectic decor combines modern and traditional design elements with intentionally curated decor elements to create a design that’s 100% unique to you! Start by choosing a unifying color palette and then add in unique elements like brass lamps, animal print rugs, modern art, and mix-and-match dishware.
What’s The New Millennial Gray?
Whatever comes next should be as soft, neutral, and versatile as millennial gray… Which is why we think sage green will be the next big decor trend! Keep your eyes peeled for sage green-inspired interiors and let us know what you think!
Looking for some more decor inspiration? Check out Iris Journal curator Karen Berg’s top five upcycled home decor ideas! They are perfect for design lovers on a budget.
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Turquoise Iris Journal for more tips, trends, and tutorials to inspire your creativity!
