Robert Peterson
The timeless allure of glamour remains constant, and we anticipate a revival of the retro glamour style after years dominated by minimalist and industrial trends. This design aesthetic is luxurious, intricate, and radiates sophistication and charm. Utilize our collection of expert-endorsed suggestions to infuse your space with the lavish and glamorous Hollywood look.
Meet Our Experts
Anthony Barzilay-Freund serves as the editorial and fine art director at 1stDibs, a premier online marketplace inspired by the Paris flea market.
Nicole Fontanella is the founder and CEO of Argent Design, a renowned international interior architecture and design studio based in London.
What Defines Retro Glamour?
Anthony Barzilay-Freund shares insights on the retro glamour style, drawing from the captivating design eras of the 20th century. “This aesthetic takes cues from the elegance of Art Deco, the exuberance of Hollywood Regency, the sleek modernity of Art Moderne, and the opulent glamour of the 1970s,” explains Barzilay-Freund. He adds, “In a world that can feel harsh and daunting, our homes serve as sanctuaries where we seek comfort and indulgence. Retro-glam interiors transport us to a seemingly simpler era that valued luxurious materials, refined shapes, and a touch of decorative drama.”
So, what propels this glamorous aesthetic into the spotlight? In an era marked by mass production and digital inundation, there is a growing yearning for authenticity, craftsmanship, and individuality. People turn to the past for inspiration, crafting interiors that narrate a tale while exuding luxury and indulgence. Nicole Fontanella notes, “Today’s individuals exhibit more openness and curiosity about history, valuing uniqueness—after all, who desires uniformity? Authenticity has assumed heightened significance in our current landscape.”
Related: Explore 11 Iconic Interior Design Styles You Should Know About
10 Ways to Embrace Retro Glamour at Home
The retro glamour style offers an opportunity to delve into the romantic nostalgia of past eras while embracing the journey towards modernity, resulting in homes that feel timeless, intimate, and distinctly original. The key lies in striking a balance between eras, materials, and bold details. Follow these design recommendations to achieve a retro glamour look that resonates with your personal style.
Related: Discover 6 Retro Decor Trends Resurging in 2025
1. Celebrate Historical Diversity
The allure of retro glamour stems from its fusion of influences from various time periods. Fontanella emphasizes the elegance of a character-filled home, stating, “A home exudes more glamour when it possesses character. Blending pieces from different eras lends depth to interiors.” She adds, “Every space tells a story, reflecting the building’s heritage and the room’s essence. Crafting the narrative, finding the right equilibrium, and seamlessly integrating diverse eras result in a cohesive fusion that highlights historical importance
Metallic accents are crucial for achieving the retro glamour look. Elements like gilded bronze, polished silver, and warm brass bring richness and a captivating luster to your space. Consider incorporating metal-clad cocktail tables, vintage bar carts, or sculptural metallic decor to enhance the luxurious atmosphere.
A vibrant living room by Cloth + Kind features walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Hazy Skies. To further elevate the glamour, consider adding pops of bold color with rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep burgundy through upholstery, drapery, or statement art pieces. These colors exude confidence and luxury, creating an inviting and dramatic ambiance.
Mixing antique and modern pieces can create a dynamic and eclectic retro glamour aesthetic. Pair a sleek modern sofa with a Baroque-style gilded mirror or a minimalist coffee table with a 1970s velvet armchair to blend past and present styles. This contrast keeps the space fresh and engaging without feeling overly themed.
Incorporating antique accessories and lighting is key to achieving a curated and refined look. Crystal chandeliers, Murano suspension lamps, candelabras, and vintage accessories like ornate picture frames and intricate vases add a touch of grandeur and sophistication to the space.
Chic finishes such as lacquered furniture, high-gloss French polish, shagreen, marble, onyx, and ebony with inlays add texture and richness to the retro glamour aesthetic. These finishes create a polished and opulent look that exudes luxury and indulgence.
Integrating reflective and clear surfaces like mirrored tables, Lucite furniture, smoked glass, and crystal accents can enhance the luminosity and openness of a space. Experimenting with exotic patterns and motifs, such as chinoiserie wallpaper, animal prints, and Art Deco designs, adds drama and flair while balancing them with solid colors and textures.
Lastly, prioritize collectability and uniqueness by seeking out vintage treasures and statement pieces that add a personal touch to your space. Authentic and one-of-a-kind items bring character and curiosity, making your home feel distinct and inviting.
When it comes to creating a stylish home, whether it’s showcasing a one-of-a-kind Murano glass lamp or a stunning midcentury chair, the key is to curate rather than simply decorate. Each piece should feel purposeful, telling a unique story through its design and materials.
One way to add a touch of glamour is to incorporate sumptuous upholstery. Fontanella explains, “The most exquisite designs have roots in history—our task is to enhance those classical elements and bring them into the modern era.” Mohair sofas, silk drapes, velvet lounge chairs, and fur throws offer a luxurious tactile experience. These opulent materials not only offer comfort but also enhance the luxurious, high-end ambiance of retro glamour interiors.
