How To Determine If A Style Is Trendy Or Timeless, According To Southern Designers

Spoiler: There’s room in your home for both.

Over time, certain decorating moves, like incorporating antiques or natural materials, have earned their place in the proverbial Timeless Design Hall of Fame. On the other hand, there are design choices that most people will firmly declare trendy, like the shag carpet craze of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Though there are some looks that we can generally come to a consensus on, determining whether a style is trendy or timeless is ultimately a matter of opinion: Some will tell you that pink bathroom tile was a decorating crime that should have stayed in the ‘50s and ‘60s, while others will argue that pink bathrooms are as current as ever. Keeping this in mind, we asked several Southern designers how to determine if a style is trendy or timeless—and when it’s worth experimenting with a trend in your own home.

Train Your Eye to Spot a Classic

“Timeless design will stand the test of time,” says Atlanta designer Bailey Ward. “Architectural millwork details, natural materials, classic patterns like stripes and florals, the finish and feel of quality furniture [are all hallmarks of enduring style]… Looking back at some of the decorating greats such as Sister Parish, Albert Hadley, Mark Hampton, and Mario Buatta helps to get a sense of how timeless design never goes out of style.”

Look to the Big Box Stores

“One of the easiest ways to determine if a style is trendy or timeless is by taking a look at big box stores,” advises Yvonne McFadden, who is based in Atlanta. “What styles and pieces are they embracing? Oftentimes, I have found that the styles being pushed by these larger stores are more trendy than they are timeless. Of course, there are pieces offered by big box stores that are more timeless than trendy, but if you are noticing similar styles and designs offered across multiple brands, it is safe to say that you’re seeing a trend.”

Take Things Slow…

“Don’t go for a particular look just because it’s all over Pinterest or Instagram,” says Atlanta decorator Liz Williams. “Consider the longevity of your design decisions. Will you love it in 10 years?” Beyond accounting for your long-term feelings, she also suggests taking a breather before overhauling your house to make room for a trend. “Give it some time before making a rushed decision,” she says. “See if your interest continues or if the trend is everywhere and overdone…think barn doors!

…But Don’t Treat “Trendy” Like It’s the Plague

“Trendy” doesn’t have to be a bad word when it comes to decorating. “Trends wouldn’t exist without appealing to a wide audience, and just because something is trendy doesn’t mean it should be avoided altogether,” says McFadden. “Mixing old with new is our go-to approach when incorporating trends. We opt for a more classic and timeless approach when selecting large area rugs and upholstered pieces to anchor a space, allowing our clients to have more fun with smaller, trendier pieces that can be easily changed should the trend feel dated.”

Try A Trend On for Size

Hudson Valley and Palm Beach designer Maryline Damour cites accessories as a low-commitment and affordable way to incorporate trends in your home. “The lower price point means you can add a few pieces into your current decor to ‘get the look,’ she notes. “It also means you can love it and leave it without guilt because you didn’t spend a lot!” McFadden also suggests containing trends to spots that are more manageable to rework: “Powder rooms are great spaces to go wild and incorporate color trends with bold paint choices or wallpapers, as its smaller scale makes it easier—and more affordable!—to change should you want to tackle the next, latest trend.”

When In Doubt, Prioritize What Makes You Happy

“I focus less on trends and more on how people want to live and designing spaces to reflect that,” says Damour. “More people are entertaining at home, so creating and using dining rooms has become trendy. Embracing trends that are about living better is always good.”

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