Ever walked into a room and got an overwhelming feeling of “What were they thinking?” You’re not alone!
Interior designers are here to help us avoid those cringe-worthy moments with a list of things they’re begging us to leave on the store shelf. From outdated trends to impractical pieces, here’s a fun guide to keeping your home stylishly sane.
Dive into these 25 items that designers wish you’d never buy again, and let’s keep your space fabulous and functional!
1. Frilly Doilies
Frilly doilies might remind you of grandma’s house, but in modern decor, they’re a definite no-go.
These lacey wonders can make even the sleekest furniture look outdated. Instead, opt for smooth, minimalist table runners that add a touch of elegance without the frills.
Not only do doilies collect dust like magnets, but they also clash with most modern aesthetics. If you’re aiming for a fresh look, it’s time to let these relics go. Trust us, your vacuum will thank you!
2. Plastic Fruit
Plastic fruit can scream tacky from a mile away. While it might seem like a low-maintenance option for kitchen decor, it often ends up looking cheap and uninviting.
Consider using real fruit that adds color and is edible!
Not only does real fruit enhance your decor, but it also brings a fresh aroma to your space. So, ditch the faux grapes and apples. Your taste buds – and design sense – will appreciate the real deal.
3. Over-the-Top Wall Decals
Wall decals can be fun, but when they’re over-the-top, they can overwhelm a space.
Giant decals often make a room look cluttered and chaotic. Instead, use subtle, well-placed art or paint to add personality to your walls.
If you’re decorating a child’s room, try to balance whimsy with simplicity. A few tasteful stickers can do the trick without turning the room into a visual circus. Less is often more when it comes to wall decor.
4. Faux Animal Rugs
Faux animal rugs, like zebra stripes or leopard spots, often look more kitsch than chic.
They can dominate a room and make coordinating decor a challenge. A neutral area rug can provide the same texture boost without the wild vibes.
These rugs also tend to wear badly, fading over time to reveal their less-than-natural origins. Give your room a lasting foundation with quality textiles that stand the test of time.
5. Clunky Entertainment Centers
Clunky entertainment centers can dominate a room, leaving little space for anything else.
Today’s sleek flat-screen TVs and streaming devices call for minimalist solutions, not heavy, oversized furniture.
Not only do these behemoths eat up space, but they also trap dust and become clutter magnets. Consider wall-mounted units or streamlined consoles to keep your living area open and airy. Let technology float, not sink in wood!
6. Cheap Blinds
Cheap blinds can ruin the aesthetic of an entire room.
Flimsy and often broken, they’re more hassle than help. Investing in quality window treatments like curtains or shutters can transform a room’s ambiance.
Good blinds provide style and functionality, allowing you to control light and privacy with ease. So, skip the cheap imitations and give your windows the treatment they deserve. Your eyes—and your interior designer—will thank you.
7. Theme Furniture Sets
Theme furniture sets can make your home feel more like a showroom than a personal space.
These matchy-matchy designs often lack individuality and flair. Instead, mix and match pieces that reflect your personal style.
Creating a cohesive look doesn’t mean buying everything in a single theme. Use varied textures and colors to add depth and interest. Remember, your home should tell your story, not a manufacturer’s catalog.
8. Mass-Produced Art
Mass-produced art lacks the uniqueness to make a statement in your home.
While it might fill a wall, it doesn’t add personal value or character. Consider supporting local artists or creating your own art for a truly unique touch.
Your walls should reflect who you are, not just fill space. Original pieces can become conversation starters and add a layer of sophistication to your decor. Art is personal, so let your selections speak for you.
9. Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds might have been all the rage in the ’90s, but today they’re seen as outdated and cumbersome.
They often break easily and are a nightmare to clean. Consider replacing them with sleek curtains or modern panel tracks.
These alternatives offer a fresh, elegant look and are much easier to maintain. With smoother lines and a softer feel, your space will breathe new life away from the rigid lines of vertical blinds.
10. Inflatable Furniture
Inflatable furniture might seem fun and quirky, but it lacks durability and style.
Often more suited for a pool than a living room, it’s time to deflate this trend for good.
Not only is inflatable furniture prone to punctures and quick wear, but it also fails to offer the comfort and support of traditional seating. For a truly inviting home, invest in quality pieces that provide both style and substance.
11. Fake Plants
Fake plants may be low maintenance, but they rarely fool anyone.
They collect dust and lack the vibrancy of real greenery. Real plants not only look better, but they also purify the air and bring life to your space.
Choose hardy, low-maintenance varieties if you’re worried about upkeep. Succulents and snake plants are great options! It’s time to swap plastic for petals and let genuine nature grace your home.
12. Overly Distressed Furniture
Overly distressed furniture can appear more worn-out than vintage chic.
While a touch of distressing adds character, going overboard can make your home look neglected. Opt for pieces with subtle weathering or patina.
Balance is key in achieving that charming, lived-in look without veering into shabby territory. Your decor should whisper stories of the past, not scream them. Let your furniture age gracefully, not artificially.
13. Beaded Curtains
Beaded curtains might give you a retro vibe, but they often end up looking kitschy and impractical.
They tangle easily and serve little functional purpose in modern interiors.
Instead, consider fabric curtains or sliding doors that offer both privacy and style. Beaded curtains can be fun in small doses, but for everyday living, practical elegance is the way to go. Let your space sing, not rattle and clink!
14. Mirrored Furniture
Mirrored furniture can be dazzling, but it often borders on gaudy.
While it can add light to a room, it also requires constant maintenance to keep smudge-free. Instead, choose furniture with reflective accents for a chic, understated shine.
These pieces can offer the same glamour without the high upkeep. Reflect your style with substance, not just shine. After all, who wants furniture that shows every fingerprint?
15. Word Art Decor
Word art decor, like ‘Live Laugh Love’ signs, can feel clichéd and uninspired.
While intentions are good, these pieces can make a room feel generic. Opt instead for art that speaks to you on a personal level.
Words are powerful, so choose decor that genuinely resonates with you. Personalized pieces or custom-made signs can offer a unique, meaningful touch. Let your walls narrate your story, not just popular phrases.
16. Shag Carpets
Shag carpets are an icon of the ’70s, but they don’t belong in modern homes.
They’re difficult to clean and can harbor allergens. A low-pile rug in a neutral tone will offer warmth without the hassle.
These carpets also tend to show wear quickly, losing their plush look. If you miss the texture, try a shaggy throw or pillow. Let your floors be stylishly smooth, not a blast from the past.
17. Neon Lights
Neon lights can make a bold statement, but they often overpower a room and verge on tacky.
While fun in small doses, they’re best left to commercial spaces or themed parties.
Instead, use sophisticated lighting solutions that highlight your decor without stealing the show. Dimmer switches and layered lighting can create the perfect ambiance. Let your home glow with warmth, not just neon glare.
18. Flocked Christmas Trees
Flocked Christmas trees can appear artificial and messy, with faux snow shedding everywhere.
A natural tree or a well-made artificial one without the flocking offers a cleaner, more authentic look.
While flocking might seem festive, it’s often more hassle than it’s worth. Embrace the natural beauty of a tree, and let your decorations shine. Your holidays will feel more genuine without a blizzard indoors.
19. Curtain Swags
Curtain swags can seem romantic, but they often look dated and can overwhelm windows. Simple panels or sheers offer a cleaner, contemporary style that’s easier to maintain.
These traditional drapes can also block natural light and collect dust.
Modern window treatments provide both function and fashion, allowing your space to feel open and airy. Let the light in and your style shine through without the heavy drapes.
20. Too Many Throw Pillows
Too many throw pillows can clutter a couch and make sitting uncomfortable.
While a few well-chosen pillows add comfort and style, excess can turn your seating into a no-sit zone.
Focus on quality over quantity, choosing pillows that complement your decor. Swap them out seasonally for a fresh look without the fuss. Remember, pillows should invite you to relax, not prevent you from finding a seat.
21. Plastic Tablecloths
Plastic tablecloths are practical for picnics but can cheapen a dining room’s vibe.
Opt for fabric tablecloths that elevate your dining experience and complement your decor.
These alternatives are re-usable and add a touch of class to any meal. Choose patterns and colors that resonate with your style for a table that’s as inviting as the food served on it. Dine in elegance, not in plastic!
22. Heavy Wood Paneling
Heavy wood paneling can make a space feel dark and dated.
Brighten your walls with paint or lighter wood finishes to create an open, inviting atmosphere.
The transformation is instant; what was once a cave becomes a canvas for your decor. Choose hues that reflect light and add vibrancy to your space. Say goodbye to dreariness and hello to modern warmth.
23. Edgy Paint Colors
Edgy paint colors, like deep purples or blacks, can dominate a room and limit decor options.
Softer, neutral tones offer flexibility and keep a space feeling airy and open.
These bold colors can also affect mood, making a space feel more cramped than cozy. To add drama, consider using bold hues as accents rather than the main event. Your walls should welcome you, not overshadow you.
24. Overstuffed Furniture
Overstuffed furniture might scream comfort, but it can overwhelm a room.
It’s often too large for smaller spaces, making movement difficult and the area cramped. Choose streamlined pieces that offer style without sacrificing comfort.
Quality cushions and supportive design can provide the same coziness in a more refined package. Let your space breathe and your guests sit comfortably without the bulk. Less stuffing, more style!