Wallpaper from the 80s: A Mix of Pastel Chic, Power Design, and Pop Culture

1980s Wallpaper: Between Pastel Chic, Power Design and Pop Culture

Step into the iconic world of the 1980s – a time when wallpaper dared to stand out with colour, shine, graphic elements and character. From soft pastels to bold Memphis patterns, these years brought walls to life. Interior design followed fashion, music and art – playful, glamorous and full of personality.

COLOURS – From Powdery Soft to Neon Bright

The 80s colour palette had two distinct sides:

Soft pastels
Peach, baby blue, mint green and lavender created a romantic, dreamy atmosphere – perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.

Neon accents
Fuchsia, lime green and turquoise brought energy and punch, often on white, black or grey backgrounds.

Black and white graphics
Strong contrasts for a modern, stylish look.

Metallics
Gold, silver and copper added a touch of futurism or glamour.

Grey and mauve
Frequently used in minimalist or professional interiors – calm, sleek and modern.

PATTERNS & MOTIFS – From Memphis to Romance

The 80s were eclectic and played with contrasts:

Memphis style
Born from the Italian design group Memphis (1981), with asymmetry, zigzags, confetti and quirky geometry. Bold, playful and anti-minimalist.

Romantic florals
Soft watercolour roses, ivy and field flowers brought calm and beauty – ideal for bedrooms.

Abstract and painterly
Brush strokes, splashes and textured prints gave walls a tactile, artistic feel.

Tropical and exotic
Pastel palm trees, tropical birds and jungle prints – perfect for bathrooms or verandas.

Stripes and checks
Classics with a twist: pastel stripes, black-and-white contrast or playful rhythm.

STYLE CHARACTERISTICS – The 80s in a Nutshell

Visual impact – Walls were meant to stand out
Accent wall – One patterned wall, the rest more subtle
Vinyl wallpaper – Durable, washable, practical
Shine and metallics – Mirror effect, glamour, futurism
Functional and decorative – Practical and beautiful
Style mix – Romance plus graphics equals pure eighties

APPLICATION – Where Was It Used?

Living rooms – Pastel geometry, large florals or graphic prints
Bedrooms – Florals or abstract painterly patterns
Kitchens and bathrooms – Vinyl wallpaper with subtle or bold prints
Teen rooms – Neon, typography, pop art graphics
Shops and studios – Memphis prints as trendy eye-catchers
Waiting rooms and offices – Abstract with metallic or grey tones

Why 80s Wallpaper is Back

Designers and vintage fans are rediscovering the power of 80s wallpaper. Bold, original and expressive – perfect for retro interiors, creative spaces or as a statement in a modern home.

Explore our original 80s wallpaper collection – authentic, rare and full of character.