With so many choices in household items, it can be hard to tell if your tastes are on trend.
Fortunately, experts at online marketplace Etsy have analyzed the research data to reveal the items British shoppers can’t live without, so you know if your home looks chic or understated.
After years of feeling isolated and cut off by the pandemic, clients are looking for furniture and accessories full of impressive texture.
Mood-boosting colors and ornaments reminiscent of our childhoods – like ’90s-inspired jewelry trays – are also seeing a surge in popularity.
Here, experts share five of the biggest trends to look out for this year…
1. Over the top textures
According to experts, after years of social distancing and feeling isolated, many people are craving all things tangible and embracing texture in their homes. Rattan lampshades, like this one from H&M, £39.99, can add a variety of texture to your home making it feel more dynamic and livable.
Etsy has seen an 83 percent increase in searches for patterned chairs, sofas and ottomans as shoppers search for comfortable textiles to enjoy at the end of a long day. Above, a boucle storage bench from Cult Furniture, £219
According to experts, after years of social distancing and feeling isolated, many people are craving all things tangible and embracing texture in their homes.
Etsy has seen an 83 percent increase in searches for patterned chairs, sofas and ottomans as shoppers search for comfortable textiles to enjoy at the end of a long day.
But it’s not just furniture that sees an enhancement in texture.
Incorporate texture into the design with braided murals and paper lamp shades, or even fluted or ribbed glassware. This can add visual interest to your space, making it feel lively and livable.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures, layering different materials together – from leather, velvet, and textiles to sculptural elements.
2. The graduates have grown up
Etsy searches for candles with tinted, gradient, or fuzzy hue increased 1 percent, while searches for tinted or gradient art increased 40 percent. Etsy, £7.26
Watercolor-like blending of light to dark tones can provide a calming and magical effect. Look for it in pastel colored art like the ones above. Left: etsy, £9.99. Right: Juniqe, £17.95
The ombre effect can be applied to everything from wallpaper and art to more and smaller decorative items, textiles, accent pieces or furniture (pictured). Etsy, £295
The tie dye is stuck at the moment. While ombre aesthetics have come and gone and evolved over the past decade, there is a shift toward more subtle, upscale, and older hues.
The ombre effect can be applied to everything from wallpaper and art to more smaller decorative items, textiles, and accent pieces.
Watercolor-like blending of light to dark tones can provide a calming and magical effect.
Etsy searches for candles with tinted, gradient, or fuzzy hue increased 1 percent, while searches for tinted or gradient art increased 40 percent.
There had been a sharp increase in aura art in the past three months.
Find dark in everything from candles to artwork and even woodwork.
3. Mirrors statement
Mirrors are now used decoratively to bring beauty and elegance to any room – as well as enhancing your selfie game. Above, a fun example available on Etsy, £79
There are a variety of mirrors on the market that can all serve a different purpose, for example an arched mirror that creates a focal point in a room, like this one from Oliver Bonas, £295
Mirrors are the epitome of form and function. They reflect light, brighten up dark spots, and have the ability to instantly make any room feel larger.
However, they are now used decoratively to add beauty and elegance to any room – as well as upping your selfie game.
Whether it’s vintage patterns, ornate antiques, or modern and contemporary pieces, mirrors have evolved into a style icon we’re proud to display.
Etsy has seen a 203 percent increase in searches for asymmetric mirrors and a 127 percent increase in searches for asymmetric mirrors in the past three months.
4. Mood-enhancing accents
Whether it’s sunny color schemes or bright neon abstract art, happy rising hues remind us not to take life too seriously. Above, mood-boosting lounge chair from Wayfair, £176.99
Vintage or ’90s nostalgic items, like these floral jewelry trays, can lift the spirit in an instant. Etsy, £17.76
The importance of wellbeing has been brought to the fore throughout the pandemic and surrounding yourself with bright and cheerful things is one way to boost energy.
Think vintage ’90s or nostalgic elements, pastel decor, and bright abstract art as a reminder not to take life (or ourselves) too seriously.
Whether it’s sunny colors, vintage pieces from a favorite childhood necklace, or fun motifs, bright colors add joy to any room.
Shoppers seem to be chasing the good vibes with searches for vintage or nostalgic items at 72 percent along with searches for pastel décor and bright abstract art.
5. Unexpected wall art
There has been an increase in functional items such as hanging breeding farms, hat hangers, and bike racks on the wall as people look to add creative flair to their walls. Above Bears and Daisies, £33
Etsy has discovered that people are interested in decorating their walls with unusual finds, from woven art to custom shade boxes. Above, tapestry hanging by Oliver Bonas, £50
Who doesn’t love a little creative glow? We’ve done so much in terms of paint and wallpaper, now it’s time to start thinking outside the box.
Etsy has found that people are interested in decorating their walls with unusual finds, from woven art to custom shade boxes.
Shoppers get creative and cover their walls with found items or memorabilia they cherish.
Searches for custom or custom shade boxes are up 32 percent, and there’s also an increase in functional items such as hanging breeding farms, hat hangers, and bike wall mounts.
