Old is still gold: 5 decor tips to welcome vintage style into your contemporary home in 2025
The saying 'old is gold' holds true because something that's inherently classy never stays buried for long; it always finds a way to make a comeback. The same applies to home decor as well. In a world where fleeting trends dominate the scene, shaped by Pinterest boards or celeb home tours, nostalgic vintage designs offer something solid to lean on. What was once sidelined as too old-school and hyper-maximalist is now making a refined return, finding its place in modern interiors by seamlessly blending the old with the new to create sleek homes that still feel lived-in. Bring back old-school charm with vintage furniture.(Unsplash)
Giulia Baima Bollone, Director, Embassy Interiors Pvt Ltd, shared with HT Lifestyle that today's homeowners are leaning more towards vintage interiors because of their quiet luxury charm.
She said, "In today's fast-paced world of trends and sleek finishes, many homeowners are rediscovering the quiet appeal of vintage interiors. With their timeless materials, shape, understated charm, and functional longevity, vintage elements are making a comeback in a more thoughtful and practical way. The current approach isn't about recreating a historical period, but about integrating vintage details within modern layouts. A simple contemporary sofa may be paired with a mid-century chair, or a clean white wall may be contrasted by a reclaimed wooden console. These choices don't feel out of place; they add depth and character without overwhelming the space. Moreover, reusing vintage pieces helps reduce waste."
Here are 5 design tips Giulia shared with us that help to incorporate vintage styles in modern spaces: 1. Timeless designs
One of the key reasons vintage works is that it brings long-term value. Many vintage furniture pieces are made from solid wood, brass, or stone, offering far more durability than their modern, mass-produced counterparts.
These materials age well, reduce the need for replacement, and bring a sense of authenticity to the interiors. 2. Starting point for vintage style
You don't need a full redesign. Start with a statement piece, a vintage mirror, a restored side table, or even handcrafted lighting. These can change the feel of a room while preserving its modern structure.
Always allow for breathing space, vintage items benefit from minimal surroundings to let their form and finish stand out. 3. Harmonise, don't replicate
The success of vintage interiors lies in their balanced contrast. Avoid theme-based decor.
Instead, look for ways to match tones, textures, or shapes. For example, a modern coffee table and a retro lounge chair may share similar curves or materials, creating a cohesive visual rhythm. 4. Material choices make a difference
Vintage pieces often use high-quality materials, like aged leather, rattan, brushed metal, or reclaimed wood. These finishes not only last but also bring tactile comfort and visual texture to modern spaces.
Consider how a handwoven rug, a natural-finish cabinet, or an oxidised metal light fixture can add value, not just in appearance but in usability. 5. Embrace the imperfect
Unlike mass-market furniture, vintage items may come with minor flaws, scratches, irregular finishes, or faded edges. These imperfections add personality and help soften the polished look of many modern interiors.
They remind us that a home is not a showroom, but a lived-in, evolving space.
ALSO READ: Maximalism is making a comeback: Tips on how to make a modern maximalist home
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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Old is still gold: 5 decor tips to welcome vintage style into your contemporary home in 2025
The saying 'old is gold' holds true because something that's inherently classy never stays buried for long; it always finds a way to make a comeback. The same applies to home decor as well. In a world where fleeting trends dominate the scene, shaped by Pinterest boards or celeb home tours, nostalgic vintage designs offer something solid to lean on. What was once sidelined as too old-school and hyper-maximalist is now making a refined return, finding its place in modern interiors by seamlessly blending the old with the new to create sleek homes that still feel lived-in. Bring back old-school charm with vintage furniture.(Unsplash) Giulia Baima Bollone, Director, Embassy Interiors Pvt Ltd, shared with HT Lifestyle that today's homeowners are leaning more towards vintage interiors because of their quiet luxury charm. She said, "In today's fast-paced world of trends and sleek finishes, many homeowners are rediscovering the quiet appeal of vintage interiors. With their timeless materials, shape, understated charm, and functional longevity, vintage elements are making a comeback in a more thoughtful and practical way. The current approach isn't about recreating a historical period, but about integrating vintage details within modern layouts. A simple contemporary sofa may be paired with a mid-century chair, or a clean white wall may be contrasted by a reclaimed wooden console. These choices don't feel out of place; they add depth and character without overwhelming the space. Moreover, reusing vintage pieces helps reduce waste." Here are 5 design tips Giulia shared with us that help to incorporate vintage styles in modern spaces: 1. Timeless designs One of the key reasons vintage works is that it brings long-term value. Many vintage furniture pieces are made from solid wood, brass, or stone, offering far more durability than their modern, mass-produced counterparts. These materials age well, reduce the need for replacement, and bring a sense of authenticity to the interiors. 2. Starting point for vintage style You don't need a full redesign. Start with a statement piece, a vintage mirror, a restored side table, or even handcrafted lighting. These can change the feel of a room while preserving its modern structure. Always allow for breathing space, vintage items benefit from minimal surroundings to let their form and finish stand out. 3. Harmonise, don't replicate The success of vintage interiors lies in their balanced contrast. Avoid theme-based decor. Instead, look for ways to match tones, textures, or shapes. For example, a modern coffee table and a retro lounge chair may share similar curves or materials, creating a cohesive visual rhythm. 4. Material choices make a difference Vintage pieces often use high-quality materials, like aged leather, rattan, brushed metal, or reclaimed wood. These finishes not only last but also bring tactile comfort and visual texture to modern spaces. Consider how a handwoven rug, a natural-finish cabinet, or an oxidised metal light fixture can add value, not just in appearance but in usability. 5. Embrace the imperfect Unlike mass-market furniture, vintage items may come with minor flaws, scratches, irregular finishes, or faded edges. These imperfections add personality and help soften the polished look of many modern interiors. They remind us that a home is not a showroom, but a lived-in, evolving space. ALSO READ: Maximalism is making a comeback: Tips on how to make a modern maximalist home
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Need a mid-work stretch? Try these 5 easy yoga poses without getting up from your work desk
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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
PJs but make it chic: Sleepwear is getting a luxe upgrade in 2025, making it work double duty for everyday looks
Sleepwear is getting a major luxe glow-up as now it's going beyond just your regular sleepovers and binge-watch marathons. Your PJs are now out and about in broad daylight, from casual brunch to running. With the magic of styling, sleepwear is getting upgraded. The luxe touch is so low-key, main-character vibe that it gives the 'I woke up like this but still look better than your 9 to 5 fit'. With a hybrid world, wardrobes are finally starting to reflect just how fluidly routines blend; from couch to commute and coffee runs to client calls. The upgrade is hot girl sleepwear styling that helps you nail the lounge to luxe look.(Shutterstock) Chahatt Khanna, founder & CMD of Ammarzo, shared with HT Lifestyle her insights on this trend, the reason behind the shift, and most importantly, how one can style sleepwear to step out in it with confidence. She said,'In 2025, the distinctions between loungewear and luxe street wear have never been more obscure. Today's sleepwear isn't just about comfort and cosiness; it's about confidence, versatility, and an effortless fashion statement both at home and out. Sleep fashion is proving itself capable of being a legitimate style staple in its own right as a type of high-end casual wear. This rising lounge-to-luxe trend has been driven by a cultural shift towards comfort-driven fashion. Global embracement of hybrid lifestyles, being half homebody, has caused consumers to seek out fashion wardrobes that are chic, versatile, and above all else, comfortable. Moreover, this change promotes smart consumption. Investment in good-quality sleepwear that doubles as daywear is not only stylish, but it is also green.' Chahatt Khanna shared a detailed guide with us, outlining the basics of luxe sleepwear styling: Basics of styling lounge to luxe sleepwear: From fabric to colours, the smallest details can change the look.(Pinterest) Fabric Matters : Luxe materials like satin, modal, cotton poplin, or linen immediately elevate the look. Select fabrics that have a nice drape and texture, those that don't scream 'sleepwear' at first sight. : Luxe materials like satin, modal, cotton poplin, or linen immediately elevate the look. Select fabrics that have a nice drape and texture, those that don't scream 'sleepwear' at first sight. Prints and colours : Faint prints like pinstripes, muted florals, monochromes, or geometric patterns look more 'ready-to-wear' than cartoon or very loud prints. Earth tones, jewel tones, and pastels easily become daywear. : Faint prints like pinstripes, muted florals, monochromes, or geometric patterns look more 'ready-to-wear' than cartoon or very loud prints. Earth tones, jewel tones, and pastels easily become daywear. Tailored cuts and figured silhouettes : A loose fit works perfectly, but too baggy or formless styles feel too laid-back. Sets with discreet tailoring, a crisp collar, cuffed bottoms, or a belted waist can be the game-changer. : A loose fit works perfectly, but too baggy or formless styles feel too laid-back. Sets with discreet tailoring, a crisp collar, cuffed bottoms, or a belted waist can be the game-changer. Detailing: Contrast piping, buttons, pleating, or raised hardware gives it sophistication. These subtle details make your sleepwear appear deliberate, rather than random. Outfits elements 1. Co-ord pieces In a two-piece satin, loose shirt and wide bottoms, you're on equal footing with any suit when paired with heeled mules, a low, sleek bun, and a structured mini bag. Add gold hoops for artsy events like a gallery opening or fancy lunch date. For a casual version, pair cotton or linen co-ords with white kicks, layered necklaces, and a crossbody pouch. 2. Styling sleepwear shorts Sleepwear shorts can also be worn outdoors. A high-quality, wide-leg pair in a high-end fabric can double as statement pants, too. Match them with a cropped sweater, fitted tee, or even a tucked-in top. Balance the baggy lower half with a more fitted top and shoes, try ankle boots or sleek sandals. 3. Sleepwear robe as outerwear Layering is your secret trick when sleepwear crossovers into streetwear. A robe-style duster that sweeps the floor over a simple tee and jeans looks effortless. A cami from the PJs underneath a spotless blazer or fitted denim jacket, too, looks chic but subtle. Look for layering items that are a complementary colour to complete the look, and combine. ALSO READ: Commuter core decoded: 6 ways to comfortably style fashion trend that is for all the girls on the go
