8 Retro Bathroom Trends That are Back In Style

Retro decor has been experiencing a major resurgence in the last few months, adding a splash of nostalgia to everything from kitchen cabinets to bathroom design. When you think of retro bathrooms, chances are you picture floral print wallpapers and salmon pink tiles. While these iconic features are making an updated comeback (spoiler alert!), experts say nostalgic decor classics are returning in a more stylish form.

“Retro bathroom trends are returning in an updated and refined way, with an emphasis on warmth, texture, and balance,” says bathroom design expert Daniel Siegel. From colorful terrazzo to skirted sinks and small-format tiles, what’s old is new again. “When paired with clean lines, thoughtful lighting, and modern details, these retro touches feel timeless rather than trendy,” Siegel shares. Here are the eight biggest retro bathroom trends that are back in style, according to designers.

1. Skirted Sinks

There is something inherently charming about console sinks with tailored fabric skirting. If you love the vintage-inspired look, you’ll be happy to hear that designers say it’s back. “Skirted sinks introduce texture, movement, and a softer visual language,” says interior designer Thecla Glueck. Beyond their charm, the design expert highlights their practicality. “They discreetly conceal storage and reinforce the idea of the bathroom as a thoughtfully designed room, not just a utilitarian space,” she says.

2. Terrazzo

“Terrazzo is everywhere again, and not just on floors—we’re seeing it on shower walls, vanities, even integrated sinks,” says bathroom design expert Jill Siegel. The expert shares that the retro material is playful, durable, and visually interesting without being too precious. Plus, it’s taking on a more modern look these days. “The newer versions feel more refined—larger aggregate, softer color palettes, or very controlled contrast,” Siegel says.

3. Retro-Style Tiles

“Retro bathrooms are gaining momentum heading into 2026, and tiled bathrooms are a big part of that,” says design expert Lindsay Fluckiger. As homeowners crave more personality in their homes, retro-inspired tiles are a great way to add character and a touch of nostalgic charm. “The 4×4-inch size tile, for example, offers that quiet throwback feeling without becoming overly vintage, and we’ve seen that come back,” Fluckiger says.

4. Colorful Fixtures

Colorful bathroom fixtures are the retro trend making a big splash in bathroom design right now. “Sinks, tubs, and even toilets in soft pinks, greens, and muted yellows are making a comeback,” Siegel says. There is one difference according to the experts, however: restraint. “When all the fixtures are in the same tone and paired with clean tile and modern hardware, it feels designed—not retro for the sake of it,” the expert shares.

5. Layered Wallpaper Patterns and Classic Tile Patterns

Patterned wallpaper was once a key tool for adding personality to bathrooms, and because what’s old typically becomes new again, the retro look is making an updated comeback. “Layered thoughtfully, retro and vintage-inspired patterns bring intimacy and warmth, transforming the bathroom into a cocooning retreat rather than a purely functional environment,” Glueck says.

Additionally, she’s noticing the return of tile in classic patterns. “Checkerboard in classic black and white marble or jewel-tone checks, small geometric shapes such as penny rounds or hexagon, pastel mosaics, floral, or softly faceted subway, are returning with a more restrained, contemporary lens,” Glueck shares. When these retro features are balanced with more modern fixtures and used within a disciplined color palette, the designer says they deliver utmost charm.

6. Oval and Rounded Mirrors

Daniel and Jill Siegel share that retro-inspired oval and rounded mirrors are showing up again in bathroom design. “They’re an easy way to add character without committing to something permanent like tile or color,” they say. When the rest of the bathroom feels calm, oval and rounded mirror shapes contribute to the overall design in a subtle and pleasant way according to the pros.

7. Retro Color Pairings

Interior designer R. Jane Morgan says retro bathrooms were known for being fun, colorful, and “unabashedly unafraid of playing with colorful tile combinations.” If you’re a fan of playful colors and a little bit of whimsy, the good news is that some of these bold color pairings are making a comeback.

“Salmon pink with black accents and butter yellow with navy are some examples of retro combos that are making their way back into bathrooms that are over and done with all white,” Morgan says. She predicts the coming year will see high-impact tile selections. “2026 will also see bathrooms shed any shyness when it comes to tile selections: look for bold colors in great color combinations,” she says.

8. Wood Vanities and Accents

Warm wood tones were a staple in retro bathrooms, and experts see them making an upgraded return this year. “Warm wood tones—especially walnut and white oak—are being used to soften bathrooms again,” Siegel says. It you want to soften and warm up the space, incorporate warm woods through a bathroom vanity, open shelves, or integrated panels.

9. Vintage-Inspired Lighting

If you love the retro look but don’t want to commit to something as permanent as floor tile or as expensive as a bathtub, changing your lighting is a great way to add some retro flair. “Globe sconces, simple brass or black finishes, and lighting that feels more decorative are replacing harsh overhead fixtures,” Siegel says. It’s a great way to give a nod to vintage style and create a layered lighting plan so you can adjust how the space feels from day to night.