From Bows to Horses
Interior design trends often mirror fashion, and the recent fascination with bows in home decor, particularly in 2024 and 2025, exemplifies this connection.
Influenced by popular culture like 'Bridgerton' and 'The Gilded Age,' bows became a prominent decorative element, especially around the holiday season, aligning with the coquette aesthetic. However, industry professionals predict that this trend is ephemeral. For 2026, the focus is shifting from novelty accents to enduring styles. Designers are suggesting a move away from whimsical symbols like bows, cherries, or sardines, embracing instead a more classic and sophisticated aesthetic. This transition heralds a new era where lasting elegance replaces fleeting fads in home styling.
The Equestrian Revival
The clear frontrunner for 2026's dominant decor theme is the sophisticated equestrian look, championed by designers who see it as a timeless and inherently elegant choice. This trend draws inspiration from the heritage of riding and the noble imagery of horses. Notably, 2026 also aligns with the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, adding a layer of cultural resonance to this emerging style. HomeGoods has also recognized 'modern equestrian elegance' as a key trend for 2026. This motif offers a sense of legacy and depth, conveying qualities such as strength, grace, and freedom, which designers believe can be subtly integrated into interiors to add character without overwhelming the space. It represents a move towards decorative elements that possess intrinsic meaning and historical grounding.
Subtle Equestrian Integration
Incorporating equestrian elements into your home in 2026 is about refined subtlety rather than overt thematic displays. Instead of literal interpretations like an abundance of horseshoes or bridles, the focus is on elevated and nuanced accents. Designers suggest looking for abstract or vintage-inspired horse artwork and sculptures, or incorporating rich leather materials in saddle-like tones. The beauty of this trend lies in its ability to age gracefully, evident in warm wood finishes and subtle brass hardware. These choices echo craftsmanship and tradition, providing a sophisticated foundation that feels rooted and enduring, moving beyond the superficiality of passing trends.
Nature's Enduring Charm
While the equestrian motif takes center stage, natural elements continue to play a significant role in interior design for 2026. Materials such as wicker, wood, stone, and clay remain popular, offering a grounded and organic feel to living spaces. Joining these established natural elements is a fresh detail gaining traction: moss and moss-covered decor. This trend, particularly noted for its emergence in spring and Easter decorations, brings a soft, organic texture and a connection to the natural world. It offers a calming and visually interesting dimension that complements the broader move towards timeless and nature-inspired aesthetics in home styling.
