6 Nostalgic ’90s Wallpaper Trends That Are Back (and Better Than Ever)

If you’re in the process of a remodel, don’t tear down that ’90s wallpaper border quite yet. Like many design trends from decades past, wall treatments from this nostalgic period are having a moment. Hannah Reach, brand manager for WallPops, is an expert on the latest wallpaper trends—and lately, she’s been noticing an increased demand for the patterns that dominated her childhood.

“I grew up in the early 2000s, which meant the ’90s were still lingering in the background with reruns of Friends on TV, floral chintz couches at my grandma’s house, and pastel striped bedding that felt impossibly cozy,” she says. “That nostalgic charm is making a full-blown comeback in our best-selling prints with soft pastels, delicate florals, and classic stripes that wouldn’t be out of place in a Nancy Meyers movie.”

These are the ’90s wallpaper trends that are back in style and have some staying power.

1. Cottage Chic Florals

The cottage-inspired design movement absolutely thrived in the 90s. Delicate floral patterns were a defining characteristic of this style, which drew inspiration from American prairie, classic French and English Victorian prints. It’s a timeless style that’s picking up popularity again.

“Shabby chic is making a comeback with a modern twist,” says Amanda Both, design director at Tempaper & Co. “Instead of traditional pastel-heavy designs, contemporary versions feature updated color palettes and unexpected scales.”

However, Reach has also noticed that even the pastel versions of romantic floral prints are making a comeback. But to keep your interior looking contemporary, she suggests pairing pastel floral wallpaper with sleek, modern furnishings and neutral accents.

2. Wallpaper Borders

We’ve been noticing a return of the wallpaper border, and it turns out we’re not alone. “Wallpaper borders are tiptoeing back into the conversation, but not in the way we remember,” says interior designer Vamsha Shetty of Saffron Interiors.

Instead of kitchy, themed borders that feel disconnected from the rest of the space, Shetty says designers are opting for tone-on-tone monochromatic patterns that add visual interest and using them sparingly above picture rails, framing ceilings, or as architectural accents.

3. Wicker and Caning-Inspired Patterns 

Large rattan lounge chairs with plush pillows and wicker bedside tables were common sights during this decade. While these furniture materials have been making their way back into today’s designs for a while now, we’re starting to see these textures re-emerge in wallpaper.

“The 90s love for wicker and rattan is influencing wallpaper, with subtle textures and patterns that mimic natural materials,” Reach says. However, walls aren’t the only place you can infuse this textured trend. Reach recommends adding wicker or rattan peel-and-stick wallpaper to furniture, such as the back of a bookcase. Quality peel-and-stick wallpaper won’t permanently alter the furniture’s surface, so it should be safe to remove if you ever grow tired of the look.

4. Bold Metallics

Shiny gold and silver accents are also making their way back into interiors, particularly in wallpaper designs. “Think back to the gilded accents of the ’90s, but today it’s less glam and more refined,” Shetty says. “We’re seeing metallics layered into wallpapers with texture and restraint.”

Shetty has been experimenting with this trend in powder rooms by choosing wallpaper that shows off small gold foil details and pairing it with brass fixtures.

5. Graphic Geometrics

Memphis style is a design movement born in the ’80s that still dominated the scene in the early ’90s. Geometric shapes in primary colors were a key characteristic of this style. While we aren’t quite seeing wallpapers with bright red, yellow, and blue shapes take over quite yet, we are seeing neutral-colored versions appear via checkerboard patterns and stripes.

“By using contemporary color palettes while maintaining the whimsy and statement-making appeal, these patterns feel fresh and stylish rather than dated,” Both says. “Mixing them with minimalist decor elements helps strike the perfect balance.”

6. Moody Jewel Tones

If you’ve been on the fence about installing some dark and moody wallpaper in your home, Shetty suggests going for it. “Deep, saturated tones were a staple in the 90s, but today’s versions feel richer and more curated,” she says. “Jewel-toned wallpapers in sapphire, emerald, and plum are being used to create high-drama, cozy spaces.”