Is Wallpaper Out of Style?

Wallpaper is one of the most polarizing interior design topics. The very mention if it can bring out deep-seated opinions. In the great wallpaper debate, I fall firmly on the side of loving it. That is, if it’s done right. So, that begs the question, what is “right”? To me, it means that the wallpaper feels modern—be it through fresh colors, patterns, or both. I think the easiest way to demonstrate that wallpaper is definitely not out of style is with examples. Sharing some of my favorite wallpaper styles below.

Patterned Wallpaper

I would consider this category the OG of wallpaper. But, you probably do not want to mauve damask pattern your grandma had. Looks for classic patterns in fresh new color ways If you’re feeling a bit timid about wallpapering an entire room, I suggest starting with a powder room. It’s a small space (less $ in materials), it’s a space most guests see, and it’s not somewhere you spend a lot of time. Don’t have a powder room? Consider the inside of a closet, a laundry room, mudroom, or even a hallway. Below are three excellent examples of modern patterned wallpaper.

Sarah Bartholomew bird and thistle wallpaper — Sarah Bartholomew

Heather Chadduck bathroom — Heather Chadduck

Grasscloth Wallpaper

Grasscloth wallpaper is a great way to add texture to walls without committing to a pattern. Basically, grasscloth wallpaper is made from woven fibers. These fibers create texture and some color variations within the product. This means that grasscloth wallpaper will have visible seams and won’t be “perfect”.

Ashley Whittaker bedroom — Ashley Whittaker

Chinoiserie Wallpaper

Of all the styles of wallpaper, I think this is the most “on trend”. When I think of Chinoiserie wallpaper, I envision lots of hand-painted flower covered vines with figures of birds. Covering a full room in this type of wallpaper can be very expensive. A more economical way to get the look is to order one panel and frame it so it becomes a piece of art. If you have picture frame molding, you can also apply the wallpaper just inside the frames.

Deborah Hensley Dining Room — Deborah Hensley

Dana Gibson framed Chinoiserie wallpaper — Dana Gibson

Leta Austin Foster Dining Room — Leta Austin Foster

Peel and Stick

Peel and Stick wallpaper deserves an honorable mention here. Though not a wallpaper style, it is a game changer. The theory is that it can be applied like a sticker and removed without damaging walls. I’m not sure how well this works in practice. Be sure to read the reviews and application instructions! However, I am linking to some of the prettiest styles I have seen.