Freddie Mercury Perfected Clashing Back in the 1970's – Designers Say 'Contrast, Rhythm and Restraint' Are the Secret to Making it Chic in 2026

Homeowners are often cautious about mixing patterns, for fear it will look messy, but when it's done right, pattern clashing can create a wonderfully multi-layered look that feels design-led and intentional, rather than a chaotic jumble of prints and colors.

In this 1973 photo of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury lounging amid a collection of decorative prints from florals to stripes (let's not ignore his bold shirt design), it feels 'right'.

But before you take this look on yourself, it's important that you know how to mix patterns in interiors, so I've called on the experts for their advice on how to try the trend that Freddie Mercury made cool before it even had a name. I've also picked out some patterned pieces in vintage prints – from a striped throw pillow (Wayfair) to a floral stool (McGee & Go) – to help you recreate his bohemian look.

Shop the Pattern Clashing Look

When it comes to mixing different patterns like the stripes and vintage prints in the picture of Freddie Mercury, 'the key is to create tension with resonance,' says Kati Curtis, Founder and Principal at New York-based Kati Curtis Design.

She adds: 'The most successful layered rooms usually have a common thread, which might be a shared color family, a similar tonal depth, or a balance of scale. I like to think of it as giving each pattern a role: one can be the anchor, one can be more lyrical or organic, and one can provide contrast or rhythm.'

In the photo of Freddie Mercury, the striped cushions, traditional rug, the tapestry stool, and even the teacup and saucer (find similar at Williams Sonoma) all work together to achieve that subtle sense of balance.

The most effective way to try the pattern-on-pattern look is through considered layering. 'What makes it feel intentional is variation in scale and enough visual breathing room around each element,' explains Kati. 'If every surface is shouting at the same volume, the room becomes chaotic. But when you mix a larger, more dominant print with a tighter stripe or a smaller floral, and repeat colors across the room, it starts to feel composed and sophisticated rather than busy or overwhelming.'

Kati adds: 'Vintage prints are especially effective because they often bring irregularity and soul – they keep a room from feeling too formulaic. The trick is not to match everything perfectly. A room feels more elevated when the patterns are in conversation with one another. That’s where the magic is: contrast, rhythm, and enough restraint to let each element shine on its own.'

Despite the fact that the archival photo is black and white, in my mind's eye, I am picturing a warm retro palette of rusts, ochres, and moss greens holding together this jamboree of clashing prints. These are, incidentally, some of the 70's colors inspiring designers in 2026, which also taps into our current obsession with nostalgia-core.

'Nostalgia-core in interior design is a compelling trend that draws on the comforting aesthetics of the past. It’s about recreating the emotional connection to bygone eras,' says Shelley Cochrane, Accessories Buyer at Furniture Village. 'Nostalgia-core interiors often feature retro colour palettes, iconic patterns, and furniture that harks back to previous decades, evoking a feeling of warmth and sentimentality.' And, pattern-clashing prints play a big part in that. Shelley advises: 'Adorn surfaces with painted ceramics, patterned lamps, and decorative artwork to tell the story of your authentic style and personality.'

Want to bring some 1970's vibes to your home without making it look like a time capsule? Read our guide on how to embrace retro decor in a timeless way for lots of useful tips and tricks.

If you enjoy our celebrity news and interior design advice, why not sign up to our newsletter so you never miss the latest features.