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The Triumphant Return of Mauve

Pop culture and paint colors return to the 1980’s

“Mrs. Johnson, the 1980s called and they would like their mauve colored wall back.” That’s right, like many other pop culture fixtures, colors are also coming back. “Ladies and gentlemen, please stand and join me in welcoming the triumphant return of mauve!”

Martha O'Hara mauve paint
Martha O’Hara Interiors

What do you think? Is it too soon for mauve to make a comeback? If you’re of a certain age you still may experience flashbacks from the 80’s and agree with the Facebook comment, “Too soon to bring that color back!” It will be interesting to see if a younger generation is as passionate about mauve as they were in the 80s.

I’m looking forward to seeing how the 80s mauve is used in 2014. In the above photo the wall color is unexpected and feels fresh and new and exciting. The 80s aren’t coming back — they’re already here!

flame stitch from the 80's
Flame stitch – 1980’s

Flame stitch design is another trend from the 1980s making its way back in 2014. Interestingly, many experts say flame stitching has a history that predates the ’80s significantly, reaching all the way back to the 13th century. There aren’t many trends from that period that are making their way back into popular design, however, flame stitch design is back on point.

Scion Spirit and Soul book
Flame Stitch – 2014

Raise your hand if you remember “Garanimals!” You may have been too old to wear them in the 80s however, the “matchy-matchy” way of the times came through in children’s clothes back then. It was also prevalent in design. Of course, today, the colors, fabrics and designs may be somewhat different, but the idea of matching design certainly seems to be on the way back.

Matching wallpaper and bedskirt
Matchy-Matchy – 1980’s
Hampton's Designer Showcase 2014
Designer Tobi Fairley does “matchy-matchy” in the Hampton Designer Showhouse 2014

There are some who might contend that Southwest design never went away – especially those who live in the Southwest! Today’s version adds vibrant color and daring patterns. The designs today may not be from your relative’s adobe in New Mexico, however, it is still distinctively Southwest.

Southwestern print
Southwestern Decor – 1980’s
southwestern style interior
Southwestern Decor – 2014

Additional photos from this gorgeous home with interiors designed by Martha O’Hara Interiors can be found here.

Becky Harris, Houzz contributor, wrote a great piece, “Pop Culture Watch: 12 Home Trends from the 80s Are Back.” It’s a fun read with references to Facts of Life, Charlie’s Angels and Miami Vice!

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