The Design Trends Every Pro Says Have Officially Worn Out Their Welcome in 2025
Trends come and go faster than ever, and this year’s home decor fads are no exception. What once felt luxurious or cutting-edge has, in many cases, crossed the fine line into overdone territory. But here’s where it gets interesting—some of these long-loved design staples aren’t bad ideas at all. They’re just overdue for a thoughtful refresh.
Key Takeaways
- Bouclé upholstery has lost its luster—its lavish texture now leans more gimmicky than glamorous.
- Too much wavy furniture turns whimsical rooms into cartoon sets. A little curvature goes a long way.
- Ditch the marble chain links. Try sculptural wood or handcrafted accessories for the same statement.
In a world where design inspiration spreads like wildfire on social media, it’s no surprise that certain styles start to feel repetitive. Even the trendiest decor can lose its charm once it’s been replicated a thousand times across Instagram feeds.
So, which 2025 design movements have outstayed their welcome, and what should replace them? We spoke with some of the industry’s leading experts to find out what trends they’re retiring—and how to give timeless design a modern twist.
Meet the Experts
- Mikel Welch – Interior designer, host, and founder of Mikel Welch Designs.
- Jennifer Cataldo – Interior designer and creative mind behind The Accidental Decorator.
Bouclé: From Chic to Cliché
Once the darling of textured upholstery, bouclé’s cozy, tactile charm used to scream sophistication. But after appearing on everything from sofas to headboards—even big-box store knockoffs—the material has become predictable.
“Bouclé started out feeling ultra-luxe,” says Mikel Welch. “But when it’s everywhere, it starts to lose its edge.”
So what’s the alternative? Welch recommends richer, more intentional textiles like mohair, wool blends, or hearty linens. These materials still ooze quality, but they feel curated rather than copied. Think of it as the fashion equivalent of trading a trendy fast-fashion piece for a tailored classic that actually lasts.
Curvy Furniture: When Whimsy Turns Wacky
There’s no denying that the sculptural wave of curved sofas, arched mirrors, and blobby tables brought playfulness to interiors. Inspired by designers like Sophia Collé and Gustaf Westman, these fluid shapes felt fresh—until they started showing up everywhere.
“A few soft lines can enhance a space,” Welch explains, “but when every piece is undulating, the whole room starts to feel cartoonish.”
Jennifer Cataldo agrees but adds a practical angle: “Some of these statement pieces look amazing online but aren’t built for lounging.” Her advice? Mix balance with comfort. Pair a structured, traditional sofa with a sculptural side table or rounded lamp base. The result feels sophisticated, not childish.
And here’s a thought for debate: does playful design always sacrifice comfort, or can we finally have both?
Accent Walls: Time for an Upgrade
Accent walls have long been the go-to trick for adding instant character, but many designers now see them as overplayed. “The accent wall has had its 15 minutes,” Cataldo says. Her modern replacement? Color drenching—painting walls, trim, and ceilings in the same hue for an enveloping, designer-approved effect.
Her favorite tones for this look include rich teals, deep navies, plums, and warm creams. These immersive shades add depth without relying on flashy gimmicks. Some may call it bold; others may call it too much—but either way, it’s undeniably statement-making.
Marble Chain Links: From Luxe to Lackluster
Marble chain links—those decorative loops that filled coffee tables and shelves everywhere—once symbolized modern elegance. Even Welch admits to buying into the craze. But in hindsight? He’s ready to move on.
“I’d rather see something more personal,” he says. “Sculptural finds, carved wood, or even a stack of vintage books with character.”
This subtle shift hints at a bigger design truth: timeless spaces are built on meaning, not mass-produced objects. Want your decor to last beyond a season? Choose pieces that tell a story, not just fill space.
Slatted Wood and Fluted Panels: Textured Out
There’s no denying the allure of wood slats and fluted detailing—warm, contemporary, and endlessly photogenic. But in 2025, their popularity may finally be peaking. “Slatted wood was beautiful at first,” Cataldo explains. “Now, it’s in every restaurant, bathroom, and Instagram background.”
If you still crave texture and warmth, consider reinventing the look. Cataldo suggests experimenting with custom millwork in geometric patterns or applying a subtle plaster finish to create depth without duplication. Fresh texture doesn’t always need to copy what’s trending.
So, are these trends truly over, or is there still room to reinvent them with a bit of creativity? Do you still love your bouclé sofa or wave-shaped mirror—or do you agree it’s time to move on? Share your take in the comments—this one’s bound to divide design lovers.
