Perhaps blame (or thank) the Bridgerton effect for this, but pastel colours are gaining in popularity within homes and interiors as the Netflix show certainly champions a pastel colour palette of the Regency era. This has resulted in a hot new look dubbed the pastel eclectic decor trend.
This soft and sweet home decor trend is one of the outlined top styles in Pinterest’s Summer Trends Report for the upcoming season released just last week. Listed under the ‘dopamine decor’ umbrella, a joyfully colourful trend that reigned the interiors space all of last year, the pastel eclectic decor has seen a 130% increase in searches on Pinterest.
In the face of this fresh new trend, we've asked some of our interior experts about what exactly pastel eclectic decor is and how to incorporate the look into our homes.
What is the pastel eclectic decor trend?
According to experts, the pastel eclectic decor is just another expression of the current desire to make homes more fun and personalised.
‘I think it’s a look that particularly appeals to Gen Z, a generation for whom individualism and personal expression are highly valued,’ says Lucy Mather, design expert at Arighi Bianchi.
‘It’s also rising in popularity among other generations, because there is a definite driving force behind interior design styles at the moment – that we want to create homes that make us feel happy and personal; this trend certainly does that in abundance with its uplifting colours and overall approach of being fun.’
But apart from the pastel colour scheme, what is the trend all about?
‘Pastel eclectic decor is a playful, vibrant trend characterised by a harmonious blend of soft, pastel colours and diverse, eclectic elements,’ explains Alex Stubbs, Flitch interior stylist.
‘This style combines pastel hues—like mint green, blush pink, and baby blue—with various textures, patterns, and vintage pieces to create a whimsical and visually engaging space.’
The positive effect of the trend
But it’s not all about looks when it comes to this look, it's about the psychology behind it, too. Pastel shades are known to be calming and soothing which is why they make for some of the best happy colours for living rooms, bedrooms and beyond.
‘It’s a look that affects our emotions – which is very popular at the moment,' says Lucy. 'It offers a way to create personalised, comforting, and visually appealing spaces that resonate with contemporary lifestyles and values.'
'Pastel colours are known for their calming effects, reducing stress and promoting a sense of peace. An eclectic mix of beloved items can also contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness in one's home.'
How to get the look
One of the best things about this major colour palette for 2024 is that it’s innately playful – so there are very few rules when creating ‘the look’.
‘Its eclectic nature means that there are no strict rules, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable decorating process,' says Lucy. 'It’s about combining furniture and accessories that tell a story and add effortless charm to your interior.'
We often see playful shapes, from curved mirrors to pastel tables and bubble cube candles. The decor feels collected over time rather than matched. Layering different elements and styles creates depth.'
And while the pastel colour scheme is at the centre of the trend, it is often set against a few pops of bright hues or deeper tones to create a fun contrast.
‘Start with a base palette of soft pastel colours for walls or large furniture pieces,' advises Alex. 'Mix and match textiles in various patterns and textures, whilst adding vintage or unique items for character. Make use of accessories like pastel vases and quirky decor items to inject personality, balancing them with neutral tones to create harmony.’
Get the look
This trend is innately playful – and what's more playful than a marshmallow-shaped side table?
Since Bridgerton is potentially one of the reasons why this trend has taken off, why not opt for a piece directly inspired by the show?
This sweet bedside table from John Lewis combines two of this summer's major trends – pastels and a scalloped trim. And we're obsessed!
Scallops are currently everywhere, including cushions. And they look even better in this soft pink shade outlined with a darker shade on top.
Florals are intrinsically linked to the pastel eclectic decor trend and we haven't seen a better take on it than this tulip shaped two-toned pastel desk lamp.
An artwork is the perfect way to anchor both a look or a colour sheme you're trying to create in your space.
Have you ever seen more adorable coasters than these flower-shaped ceramic ones from Caroline Gardner? We sure haven't.
Butter yellow has been declared as one of the colours of the season and this pastel hue looks rather pretty on this feather-filled cushiony sofa.
Wiggle edges are another 'it' look of the season. So it's no surprise we're particularly taken by Dunelm's wiggle-trimmed wall mirror in a pastel green shade.
More than ever, this trend creates an opportunity to have fun and get creative. So why not take it?
