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The world of interior design is ever-evolving, and one of the most charming trends making a comeback is “granny chic.” This style, also known as “grandmillennial” or “grandma chic,” blends vintage elements with contemporary touches to create a cozy, nostalgic, yet modern-day space. This article will explore the essence of granny chic, providing insights and ideas on how to incorporate this delightful style into your rustic or cottage decor home.

Podcast Discussion of the Granny Chic Design Trend

Granny Chic Design Trend Podcast Transcript

Hey, everyone. Welcome back. Are you ready to get comfy? We’re taking a deep dive into a trend that’s super popular right now, and honestly, I get it. Who doesn’t love a little cozy nostalgia?

We’re talking about granny chic and how it’s taking over our homes. It’s really interesting how something that feels so vintage can be so now. You know? Totally. Like, I feel like I’ve been hearing about granny chic everywhere I turn, but what exactly is it?

Yeah. So it’s not just about recreating your grandma’s house. Right? It’s more about taking that feeling of warmth of things made with care and kinda, like, updating it, making it feel fresh. Okay.

So it’s like embracing the good parts of the past without, like, living in a time capsule. Exactly. And it’s interesting. There are actually a bunch of different names for this trend. Granny cheek, grandma cheek, grand millennial.

I think that just goes to show how many people are into it. It’s true. K. It’s like that vintage dress you find in the back of your closet. Suddenly, everyone wants one.

Yeah. So let’s talk about what makes it granny chic. It’s gotta be more than just, like, doilies and floral wallpaper. Right? Right.

Although, honestly, even floral wallpaper is having a moment. But you’re right. There’s a whole recipe to it. One of the key ingredients is definitely the patterns and fabrics. Think like floral chintz, but maybe in a brighter color than you’d expect.

Oh, I can see it. Like, a sunny yellow chintz instead of, like, a dusty rose. Yes. Exactly. It’s about taking those classic elements and making them feel modern.

Okay. I’m already feeling cozier just thinking about it. So we’ve got the patterns. What else? What else makes Granny Chic?

Another big one, Vintage furniture. Those pieces with a little history, you know? Think curvy legs on an armchair. Those little details you just don’t see so much anymore. Oh, yeah.

Totally. It’s like each piece has a story to tell. I love that. And it’s not just about looks either. A huge part of granny cheek is comfort.

Think plush sofas, piles of pillows, that kind of thing. Yes. Give me all the comfy. It’s like that feeling of sinking into your grandma’s big comfy armchair. Speaking of comfy, what about the color palette?

Is it all muted pastels? I’m kinda picturing Dusty Rose again. Dusty Rose, Well, you’re not wrong. Grainy cheek can definitely do those softer colors like dusty blues and sage greens, but it’s not afraid of a little bit of brighter color either. Oh, I like that.

So, like, maybe a pop of something bolder? Exactly. Like, imagine a big vase of sunflowers on that Chintz armchair we were talking about. I love it. Okay.

So it’s like a warm hug, but with a little bit of spice. Yes. Exactly. It’s all about creating that feeling of warmth and energy. Oh, and speaking of adding those personal touches, we can’t forget about handmade items.

Oh, yeah. The handmade like, macrame wall hangings. It’s like, I’m kidding. But also kinda not. Right.

But, really, those handmade elements are so important. They bring a sense of, like, love and personality. You know? Totally. It’s like you’re adding a little piece of your soul to your home.

Exactly. And speaking of bringing it home, how do we actually do it? Like, how do we make granny chic work in our own spaces? Yeah. That’s what I was thinking.

Like, do you have to go all in with it, or can you just add a few touches? It’s totally up to you. Yeah. You don’t have to turn your home into a time capsule. You know?

Let’s say you’re working with a living room. You could have a cool vintage sofa reupholstered in that modern chance we talked about. Love that. And then maybe pair it with, like, a really sleek and modern coffee table just to keep it feeling fresh. Okay.

That makes sense. It’s like mixing and matching different eras. So we’ve talked about the living room. What about other rooms? Could you do granny shake in a bedroom?

Absolutely. I mean, the bedroom is actually the perfect place to go full on cozy. Right? Think like plush bedding, maybe a vintage vanity, definitely some floral wallpaper. Okay.

You’ve convinced me I need a floral wallpaper bedroom. Yeah. What about the kitchen, though? That one’s a little hard for me to picture. Like, how do you mix granny cheek with my stainless steel appliances?

It’s all about finding the right balance. You bring in some open shelving and display some vintage china alongside your modern cookware. Oh, okay. I like that. Or how about some cafe curtains?

Like, a cute gingham print. Something like that can really soften the look of any kitchen. Okay. Those are really good ideas. You know, it’s interesting how this trend is kind of about sustainability too.

Like, our source mentioned that a lot of Granny Cheek fans are really into upcycling and thrifting. Oh, absolutely. And that’s huge right now. People are way more aware of, like, the environmental impact of furniture and fast furniture, especially. Granny Cheek is all about choosing quality over quantity.

Mhmm. You know, giving those older pieces new life. Right. It’s like giving them a second chance, which I love. So we’ve talked about all the good stuff, comfy vibes, vintage charm, sustainability.

But is there ever a time when granny chic, like, clashes with other styles? What about, like, minimalism? Can those 2 even exist in the same world? That’s a good question. I mean, on the surface, they definitely seem, like, total opposites.

Right? But I think deep down, they’re both coming from a similar place. It’s about being intentional about your home. Oh, that’s interesting. So it’s not about, like, choosing one over the other.

It’s more about, like, the why behind it. Exactly. Minimalism tends to be about simplicity and functionality, while Granny Chic is maybe more about personal history and a sense of abundance. It really just depends on what you want your space to say about you. It’s like telling your story through your decor, which I love.

Speaking of stories, there’s one group that seems super drawn to granny chic, millennials. Like, what is it about millennials and wanting to be just like grandma? It is kinda funny. Right? Yeah.

But I think it makes sense. Like, this is the generation that grew up with that early 2000 minimalism. Maybe they’re just ready for something with a little bit more soul. Yeah. Totally.

Maybe it’s a reaction to everything being mass produced. Like, they’re craving that uniqueness. You know? Absolutely. And it’s not about, like, copying their grandparents exactly.

It’s more about taking inspiration from the past and then, like, remixing it for today. Totally. They’re taking the best of both worlds, which I love. Speaking of taking the best of both worlds, our source mentioned another really interesting variation on granny cheek coastal grandma. What is a coastal grandma?

Well, you know, you don’t actually have to live at the beach to get in on this trend. It’s more of a vibe. You know? Okay. I like it.

So, like, if granny chic and, like, a beach house had a baby. Exactly. Think whitewashed furniture or maybe some nautical stripes, those kinds of things. And lots of seashells. Right?

Like, artfully arranged on a vintage dresser. Of course. Gotta have the seashells. It’s about creating that space that’s both relaxed and, like, little bit whimsical. I love that.

Okay. I am sold. So we’ve talked about, like, a 1000000 different takes on Granny Chic, which I love, but I think it’s more than just, like, throw pillows and floral wallpaper, isn’t it? It feels like we’re kinda getting it something bigger here. I totally agree.

I think it really speaks to our need for connection. Like, we’re craving that feeling of authenticity in our homes. Yeah. Totally. It’s like we want our spaces to feel, like, lived in and loved, not, like, you know, straight out of a catalog.

And in a world that feels, like, increasingly digital and impersonal, it makes sense that we’re finding comfort in these, like, physical reminders of the past. That makes a lot of sense. It’s like surrounding yourself with things that have a story to tell. Yes. And it’s interesting how this all ties back to sustainability too.

Like, grainy cheek is inherently sustainable in a lot of ways. Right. Because it’s all about choosing well made pieces that will last forever. Exactly. It’s about quality over quantity, finding those pieces that you’ll want to have forever, not just until next season.

It’s like that favorite sweater you’ve had for, like, 10 years, and it just keeps getting better with age. Yes. 100%. And just like that sweater, Granny Cheek is okay with things being a little bit imperfect. It’s about embracing the stories that our homes tell.

You know? I love that. So for our listeners who are, like, totally on board with all of this, how do they actually bring a little granny chic into their own lives? What would you say to them? Well, first of all, don’t overthink it.

Like, start small. It could be as easy as swapping out your throw pillows for something with a vintage vibe or, like, you know, finally displaying your grandma’s china instead of keeping it hidden away. That’s such a good idea. I think a lot of people are, like, afraid to try new things in their homes, but you don’t have to do everything at once. Right?

Exactly. And there are no rules. Just like you wouldn’t copy your grandma’s outfit from head to toe, you can take inspiration from Granny Cheek and make it your own. Totally. So if you love vintage finds, comfy vibes, and maybe a little bit of nostalgia, Granny Chic might be calling your name.

And, hey, who knows? Maybe you’ll even inspire a whole new trend. Right. We’ll call it, like, You Chic. Just embrace what you love and make it your own.

I love that. This deep dive has been so much fun, and honestly, I’m feeling so inspired to add some more personality to my own home. Me too. Yeah. I think that’s the best part of exploring different styles.

It helps you figure out what you really love. Totally. So to all our listeners out there, we’d love to hear about your design journeys, what speaks to you, what stories do you want your homes to tell. Until next time. Happy decorating, everyone.

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What is the Granny Chic Aesthetic?

Granny chic, or grandma chic, is a decor style that combines the charm of your grandmother’s home with modern-day aesthetics. It is characterized by the use of vintage pieces, floral patterns, and an eclectic mix of textures and colors. This style reflects a leisurely, comfortable, welcoming, stylish aesthetic.

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Key Elements of the Grandma Chic Style

To create a grandma chic or grandmillenial space, you need to focus on several key elements that define this style:

  1. Patterns and Fabrics: Floral fabrics, toile, gingham prints, and chintz are staples of grand millenial decor. These patterns can be found on everything from wallpaper to upholstery, adding a touch of nostalgia to any room. Mixing and matching these patterns is encouraged to create a layered, textured look.
  2. Vintage and Antique Pieces: Incorporating vintage and antique furniture and decor items is essential. Look for pieces with curved arms, cabriole legs, and ornate details. Antique vases, vintage silver, and brass candles are perfect for adding character and history to your space.
  3. Comfort and Coziness: Granny chic is all about creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Overstuffed chairs, cushy sofas, and plenty of pillows and blankets are a must. Choose pillows with floral fabric and double pleat edges, and mix them with solid velvet pillows for a luxurious feel.
  4. Color and Light: Soft tones like pinks, greens, and blues are common in granny chic decor. These colors create a light, airy feel that is both soothing and stylish. Bold, saturated hues can also be used to add a pop of color and make a statement.
  5. Handmade and Personal Touches: Handmade items such as knitted blankets, embroidered linens, and crocheted throws add a personal touch to your grandma chic space. These items not only enhance the cozy feel but also reflect your personality and style.
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Creating a Granny Chic Space

Now that we understand the key elements of granny chic style let’s explore how to incorporate them into different areas of your home.

Living Room

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The living room is the heart of any home and is the perfect place to showcase your granny chic style. Start with a vintage sofa or an overstuffed armchair as the focal point. Add layers of pillows and blankets in floral fabrics and gingham prints to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Incorporate antique vases filled with fresh flowers, vintage silver candlesticks, and classic artwork to add character and history. Don’t forget to include a mix of modern elements, such as a contemporary coffee table or a bold piece of art, to keep the space from feeling too dated.

Bedroom

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A granny chic bedroom should be a sanctuary of comfort and style. Choose a vintage bed frame with ornate details and layer it with quilts, blankets, and pillows in a mix of floral and solid fabrics. Add a toile wallpaper to one wall for a touch of nostalgia.

Incorporate vintage ceramics, such as a rose medallion chinoiserie vase, on your bedside table. Use soft, muted colors like blues, pinks, and greens to create a calming atmosphere. Don’t forget to add personal touches, such as family heirlooms and handmade items, to make the space truly your own.

Kitchen

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The kitchen is another great place to showcase your granny chic style. Display vintage kitchenware, such as antique cake stands and glass goblets, on open shelving. Use floral or gingham print tablecloths and slipcovered chairs to add a touch of charm.

Incorporate classic elements like crown molding and corbels to add architectural interest. Add fresh flowers in a vintage pitcher or antique vase to bring life and color to the space. Don’t forget to include modern touches, such as contemporary light fixtures or a sleek countertop, to keep the space feeling fresh and updated.

Granny Chic Decor Ideas

Here are some additional ideas to help you embrace the granny chic style in your home:

  1. Mix and Match Patterns: Don’t be afraid to mix different patterns and prints. Combine floral fabrics with gingham prints, toile, and chintz to create a layered, textured, quintessentially granny chic look.
  2. Use Wallpaper: Wallpaper is a staple of granny chic decor. Choose colorful, patterned wallpaper to add interest and character to your walls. Stick to classic patterns like florals, toile, and gingham for an authentic look.
  3. Incorporate Vintage Knickknacks: Vintage knickknacks, such as antique vases, silver candlesticks, and old books, add character and history to your space. Display these items on shelves, sideboards, and tables to create a curated, collected look.
  4. Add Handmade Items: Handmade items, such as knitted blankets, embroidered linens, and crocheted throws, add a personal touch to your granny chic space. These items enhance the cozy feel and reflect your personality and style.
  5. Embrace Color: Soft, muted colors like pinks, greens, and blues are common in granny chic decor. These colors create a light, airy, soothing, and stylish feel. Bold, saturated hues can also add a pop of color and make a statement.

Granny Chic and Sustainability

One of the great things about granny chic style is its emphasis on sustainability. Instead of buying mass-produced pieces, those embracing this trend often search through second-hand and thrift stores for one-of-a-kind decor to upcycle. This not only adds character and history to your space but also reduces waste and promotes sustainability.

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Granny Chic vs. Minimalism

Granny chic is the antithesis of minimalism. While minimalism focuses on bare surfaces and a lack of clutter, granny chic is all about embracing “cluttercore.” Shelving, sideboards, and tables are typically decorated with unique tchotchkes, travel curios, and fresh flowers. This style is perfect for those who love collecting and displaying items with meaning and history.

The Grandmillennial Movement

The term “grandmillennial” was coined by Emma Bazilian in a 2019 article for House Beautiful. It describes a resurgence of traditionally classic styles among millennials. Grandmillennials have an affinity for design trends considered by mainstream culture to be “stuffy” or “outdated,” such as Laura Ashley prints, ruffles, and embroidered linens.

Grandmillennial style is a modern twist on traditional decor, emphasizing mixing patterns and colors. This style is all about creating a cozy, comfortable space that reflects a love for vintage and classic elements.

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Coastal Grandma Chic

A sub-genre of granny chic is “coastal grandma chic,” which combines the cozy, nostalgic elements of granny chic with the relaxed, airy feel of coastal decor. This style is perfect for those who love the beach and want to bring a touch of the coast into their home.

To create a coastal grandma chic space, incorporate elements like wicker furniture, nautical decor, and soft, muted colors like blues and whites. Add vintage coastal artwork, seashells, and fresh flowers to complete the look.

Incorporate Granny Chic Into Your Home Decor

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Granny chic is a delightful blend of vintage and modern elements that creates a cozy, nostalgic, yet stylish space. You can create a granny chic space that reflects your personality and style by incorporating floral fabrics, vintage pieces, and handmade items. Whether you’re a grandmillennial or simply love the charm of vintage decor, granny chic is the perfect way to bring a touch of nostalgia into your home.

Remember, the key to granny chic is to mix and match patterns, embrace color, and add personal touches that make your space uniquely yours. So, say goodbye to bare surfaces and minimalism and embrace granny chic’s cozy, cluttered charm.

You may also love my Shabby Chic Home Decor Ideas!