Nostalgiacore: Your Childhood Bedroom Never Looked So Stylish

Nostalgia is back! Well, it never really left. This year, we're letting our inner child choose our home decor.

Featuring our Orla Kiely Cut Stem Multi Rug.

What Is Nostalgiacore?

Nostalgia is defined as “a sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past”, and nostalgiacore is all about indulging in the sentimental and incorporating childhood memories into your home. The style features elements from people’s childhoods from the 70s to the 00s. Think mid-century modern teak furniture, brightly coloured shelves with your favourite vintage toys on, fun duvet sets, and patterned curtains.

We can see the rise in popularity for this look in Throwback Kid, one of Pinterest’s 2026 top trend predictions. With “1970s kids toys” up 125%, “2000s kids toys” up 140%, and “nostalgia toys” up 225%, Pinterest says that “in 2026, childhood gets a throwback twist with vintage-inspired outfits [and] classic toys from the ‘60s… Let’s go back in (play)time”. People want to see their happy childhood memories reflected in their space, and nostalgiacore does just that.

Featuring our Reef Stacks Multi Rug.

How To Style a Nostalgic Home 

So, you’re probably wondering how you can make your childhood toys and retro furniture look cool. This is how you style nostalgiacore in a chic, “grown-up” way. 

Blending The Old and The New

The key to making nostalgiacore feel current and stylish is balance. To modernise retro or vintage pieces, pair them thoughtfully with contemporary elements that bring clarity and calm to the space. This approach works beautifully within eclectic minimalist interiors, where clean lines and organic silhouettes create a strong foundation for playful colour and character.

Think mid-century wood furniture offset with glossy finishes, sculptural lighting or sleek shelving. Warm teak tones feel fresher when layered with pops of joyful colour, whether that’s a bold rug, a graphic cushion or a painted accent wall. Modern materials like glass, metal and lacquer help ground nostalgic pieces, creating contrast without clutter. The result is an interior that feels collected rather than chaotic, blending past and present in a way that’s cohesive, expressive, and nostalgic. 

Retro Decor 

At the heart of nostalgiacore is the joy of collecting pieces that spark a personal sense of nostalgia. Start by sourcing items with a retro feel that genuinely make you smile, whether that’s mid-century modern teak furniture, an 80s ruffled bed skirt or even a classic 90s lava lamp. These characterful finds add warmth, individuality, and history. 

If vintage hunting isn’t your thing, there are plenty of modern recreations that channel the same spirit. From retro-inspired rugs to colourful furniture and playful bedsheets, today’s designs make it easy to tap into the look. Embrace the vintage vibe, mix eras freely, and enjoy the process.

Featuring our Romy Retro Pink Rug.

Primary Colours 

Primary colours are a playful way to tap into childhood nostalgia while still keeping your space feeling considered and stylish. Bold reds, blues and yellows remind us of toys, books, and bedrooms from our early years, but they don’t have to feel juvenile. The trick is to use them with intention and balance them with contemporary furniture and clean-lined silhouettes. Paired with modern materials and a more restrained backdrop, primary colours feel fresh and confident, bringing a sense of joy and personality to your home without the space feeling juvenile.

Featuring our Romy Morse Multi Rug.

Finding Nostalgic Gems

The key to truly unlocking nostalgia is seeking out pieces with personal meaning. Whether you’re raiding boxes in your parents’ loft or hunting online for forgotten favourites, focus on items you genuinely remember and love. A cherished toy, a well-thumbed book or even a plate you ate from as a child can become a thoughtful feature. Displayed proudly in your home, these nostalgic gems add character, warmth and, most importantly, will make you smile every time you see them. 

Bring Out Your Inner Child 

Above all, nostalgiacore is about embracing your inner child and decorating with joy. Your home should feel personal and expressive. Have fun with colour, celebrate the pieces you love, and don’t overthink the rules. If your space makes you feel happy, comfortable, and like yourself, you’ve done it right.

Featuring our Matrix Asiatic Statement Navy Rug.

Find Your Dream Colourful Rug

Ready to bring the look home? Explore our extensive collection to find your dream nostalgic rug. From bold, colourful rugs to retro-inspired styles, we’ve got the perfect piece to tie your space together. Shop now and get free next-day delivery.