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An ode to '70s trends: 5 design classics making quite the stylistic comeback

The trend for '70s–inspired décor is alive – and taking over our homes one piece at a time.

70s trends living room with couch and rug
(Image credit: Future)

A little nostalgia is never a bad thing, and throughout these unprecedented times, a blast from the past is just what we – or our homes – frantically need, and that's where the surge in popularity of '70s trends is coming into play – especially in our homes. 

The decade of flares and disco remained at the core of fashion for what feels like forever, and when we're looking for ways to uplift our outdated decor, seemingly it's the go-to interior trend rounding out all of our vision boards. But what exactly does this trend constitute? 

We take a look at the updated, more elegant elements.

You don't have to do too much research of '70s trends to know that everything from rattan furniture to potted plants, geometric rugs, and bold color choices are your go-to's. The secret to achieving the updated version of the '70s trend is injecting eclecticism into our homes in a very subdued and modernized way.

Transform your space by seeing our favorite 70s trends — and the pieces to achieve them — below. 

1. Work in a lavish lighting fixture 

70s trends: table lamp on display

(Image credit: Amazon)

The generational shift of the '70s gravitated toward mod-inspired lamps that opted for earthier hues such as beiges, browns, and warm oranges; while incorporating wooden, brass, or metal accents throughout. 

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00HNRXSWA%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Rexford Walnut Brown Table Lamp  for $69.99, at Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00HNRXSWA%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">This lamp features pure structural shapes in a pecan polish among gold accents, attaches style to your home while delivering that most-sought-after '70's eclectic-vibe as well. 

2. Shift to this vintage-inspired plush sofa

70s trends: off-white couch in living room with black wall

(Image credit: Amazon)

The perfect combination of Mid-century and '70s style, this sofa will add detailing and muted colors to your living room scheme.

<a href="https://amzn.to/3p4wSei" data-link-merchant="amzn.to"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">CosmoLiving Adley Velvet Couch l Was $725.99, Now $599.99, at Amazon

Add a focal point to your living room with the help of this stylish <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FCosmoLiving-Cosmopolitan-Adley-Ivory-Velvet%2Fdp%2FB07XYQDS5B%3Fth%3D1%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="amzn.to"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">sofa. Available in a slew of dark to neutral tones, each piece is made from the same velvet upholstery bound to give your space a moody vibe that's very on-brand with the 70's trend. 

3. Resort to this rattan rug

Rug - 70s trend

(Image credit: Amazon)

From rattan rugs to rattan chairs, this go-to material was everywhere in the '70s, but how couldn't it be? The natural material and stunning woven method add character and richness to rooms and are suitable for every style and aesthetic. 

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FnuLOOM-Handwoven-Rigo-Jute-Natural%2Fdp%2FB007CQ401A%3Fref_%3Dast_sto_dp%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">nuLOOM Rigo Hand Woven Jute 9'x12' Area Rug, Natural l Was $309, Now $205, at Amazon

The perfect combination of style and durability, this jute and natural fiber <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FnuLOOM-Handwoven-Rigo-Round-Natural%2Fdp%2FB00A7WZZ4M%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">rug brings home effortless sophistication. 

4. Go green with this perfectly planted piece

70s trend

(Image credit: Amazon)

Houseplants were at the height of popularity throughout the 1970s, and in the present day, they're making a huge comeback. Whether you're turning toward single leaves or multi-plant planters, we profoundly recommend fusing retro-greenery into any vacancy to leave your guests green with envy. 

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FUmbra-Triflora-Hanging-Planter-Window%2Fdp%2FB07M8P93FD%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Umbra 1011748-660 Triflora Hanging Planter for Window l for $37, at Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FUmbra-Triflora-Hanging-Planter-Window%2Fdp%2FB07M8P93FD%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">This window décor combines the utility of a drapery rod with the beauty of potted plants for a piece of décor that displays greenery in your window with ease. 

5. Bring forth modernized style with this statement piece

70s trends: southwestern pillows on display

(Image credit: Amazon)

Throw pillows are an accessible way to bring forth regenerated '70s style without putting in much effort. All you need is one (or two) fringe or textile piece with a slightly modernized color scheme, and you've hit the nail head-on. 

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fcygnus-Patchwork-Leather-Bedroom-Cushion%2Fdp%2FB08TBWHJ19%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">cygnus Store Set of Two Throw Pillows for $17.99, at Amazon

This vibrant throw <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107655&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fcygnus-Patchwork-Leather-Bedroom-Cushion%2Fdp%2FB08TBWHJ19%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">pillow fuses various colors, designs, and compositions to suit any modern or even traditional décor aesthetic. 

Brittany Romano
Shopping Contributor

Brittany Romano wrote for Homes & Gardens as a U.S. Shopping Editor. A graduate of New England College, Brittany started her career as a freelance fashion market assistant at Marie Claire. She later joined AMI, where she designed a highly profitable commerce vertical. Noted for her award-winning content, she's covered everything from celebrity beauty hacks to the most lavish home decor.