Interiors By Katherine Sorrell
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Grandmillennial Style This comfortable, colourful, chintzy look could also be called ‘granny chic’ – and it’s the style of the moment for youngsters and the young at heart. They say that if you wait long enough, all fashions will come around again. And for the Millennial generation (roughly speaking, those in their twenties and thirties now) the trend du jour harks back to the cosy style of their mothers and even grandmothers – a look that has been dubbed ‘granny chic’ or ‘grandmillennial’. Could it be that this cohort is seeking familiarity and security in an uncertain world? That wouldn’t be so surprising. It is certainly a trend that, however old you are, is a welcome change from the cold, monochromatic, minimalist looks that we have seen in recent years. Grandmillennial is definitely nostalgic (and not in an ironic way), but it’s timeless rather than outdated, combining a more-is-more approach with a careful edit of traditional elements alongside modern touches. It’s fun, pretty, happy and approachable; all in all an invigorating expression of individuality. Furniture Essentials Dark wood furniture is having a moment once again. Good quality, polished walnut, mahogany or rosewood, for example, all work with this look. On the other hand, wicker, rattan and cane pieces
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will also fit right in – think headboards, occasional chairs and small tables. When it comes to relaxing, choose the super-comfortable Victorian style of deeply buttoned upholstery, in the form of sofas, armchairs and ottomans – or even (think back to your nanna’s house) a pouffe. Velvet or chenille are both great fabrics to use, with a desirably soft, tactile and warmly traditional feel. Embellishments Ever since the Modernists decried the use of ornamental additions, interiors have become more and more pared down and unadorned. Not with this style! Extravagant embellishments are your goto for perfecting the grandmillennial look. Tassels, fringes, gathered skirts, pleats, scalloped edges, ruffles, braids and ribbons. These are the little extras that make this look interesting and different. Can you have too many? Maybe, but why not give it a try anyway? Pattern and Colour Pattern and colour are the heart of this design style, and while it’s true to say that they can be bolder and more layered than in the average
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