Each January we enjoy taking a look at what is “trending” for the year ahead, particularly as it encompasses a timeless, classic aesthetic. Happily enough, classic style just so happens to be in style. It’s rather amusing to watch trends in this digital age as particular looks go viral, causing a sensation with a cutesy hashtag-able name, yet sadly often fizzling as quickly as they began. That is why it is is so important to develop your own personal style, regardless of what is “in” or “out”. While it’s fun to follow the trends – and we love getting fresh ideas! – you don’t want to become a cookie cutter version of the latest “look” and eventually grow tired of being one in the crowd. That’s why we prefer to call them “anti-trends” and personally, we love to mix and match from them all.
That said, let’s dive into a few of our favorite styles for 2024:
- Grandmillennial
- Coquette Core
- Grandpa Chic
- Heirloom Heritage
“Grandmillennial” Style splashed onto the scene five years ago causing an entire generation to re-examine and embrace their Grandmothers’ style… Think chintz, antiques, fine china, wallpaper, needlepoint pillows. The Glam Pad still cannot get enough! While this classic style isn’t going anywhere, in 2023 we began to see a further increase of girl-centric interiors and fashion. It was the year of Barbie’s return and all things pink. Dubbed “the year of the girl”, pretty florals, big bows, silky ribbons, and powdery pastels dominated our Instagram feeds.
A step beyond the timeless Grandmillennial, the Coquette Core trend is defined by playful and whimsical elements, including bows, gingham print, heart shapes, and soft pastels, celebrating the unabashed embrace of girlhood. While remaining true to a similar traditional core, this style presents a far more feminine, sugary sweet palette. It is the reincarnation of “Shabby Chic” which shook the design landscape 20+ years ago, topped with a bow. Not only were designers and vendors incorporating a plethora of bow motifs throughout their work, but bows began adorning the most mundane of objects. Delicate ribbons were superfluously added to champagne glasses, tapper candles, and even croissants.
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As the year unfolded, we witnessed an interesting contrast taking shape. Suddenly, ultra feminine interiors started vying for attention alongside exquisitely refined masculine designs, signaling a notable shift in the trend landscape. Spaces adorned with cherished heirloom pieces, characterized by clean lines and adorned with Georgian-era motifs, started to gain prominence. Country Club/Old English style was renamed “Grandpa Chic” began to take hold. Defined by rich warm tones, tartan patterns, and leather chairs… this got us thinking. Are we yearning for a sense of visual relief while remaining eager to cultivate a sense of refinement?
Also towards the end of the year, we began to see the re-emergence of a rich, elegant, worldly and sophisticated European style. The Glam Pad is dubbing this “new” look “Heirloom Heritage”. Key elements include antique everything – books, old master paintings with ornately gilded frames, Persian rugs, tapestries, cut crystal, bronze and brass accents, sculptures and busts, alabaster and marble, fine English and French furniture, and ornate chandeliers.
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All classic looks! We thought this comment from a reader in response to this week’s feature on Coquette Core sums it up nicely, “…so happy to see this time-tested style come back. Now it’s called ‘Coquette Core,’ but it’s been around forever. Anyone who lived through the 1980s, or the 1940s, 1930s, 1920s, etc. etc. will welcome this supremely pretty style. Just a new generation thinking they’ve re-invented the wheel.”
The Glam Pad couldn’t agree more and is happy to nurture and inspire the next generation of traditionalists.
Loved the post, but Mario Buatta did it all before and better. . His influence is there in every room.
Check out Charles Faudree if you aren’t already familiar.