The Return of Retro Glam: Mid-Century Modern Furniture for Summer 2025
- Anzah Nadeem
- 11 hours ago
- 4 min read

Does it feel like everything old is new again? That’s because it is, and we’re absolutely here for it!
As summer 2025 heats up, we’re seeing a revival of one of design’s most iconic eras: the mid-century modern movement. We’re talking about sun-drenched wood tones, sculptural silhouettes and brass accents. These are all complemented by a glamorous touch of vintage Hollywood.
But this time around, it’s not about sticking to the rules. It’s about mixing nostalgia with fresh energy and personal expression.
Welcome to the return of retro glam, a bold yet timeless trend that’s redefining homes. Keep reading to learn all about it!
Why Retro Glam Feels So Right, Right Now

Minimalism has been around (read: dominant) for quite a few years now. With this design trend, many homeowners began craving personality. And, mid-century modern furniture was able to bring just that. With its sleek lines, geometric shapes, and sophistication, this furniture style adds so much character to the space.
In 2025, it’s being reimagined with richer materials and modern performance fabric. We’re also anticipating the furniture will feel more lived-in. This trend is offering a beautiful balance: vintage inspo but with modern practicality.
So, what’s catapulting the retro glam aesthetic into the limelight? In an era of mass production, there’s a growing preference for authenticity, for craftsmanship, and for uniqueness. People look to the past for inspiration. The result is curating interiors that tell a story while feeling indulgent and luxe. People today are more open-minded as compared to the past. They have a growing curiosity about history and a desire for uniqueness. And we’re not blaming them; who wants everything to look the same? Authenticity has become all the more important! And retro glam is doing just that.
Elements of Retro Glam Mid-Century Style

So, how exactly do you recognize a piece of furniture and determine that it’s mid-century, with retro glam elements? Here are some defining features to look for…
Sculptural Seating
Curvy silhouettes are stealing the spotlight. Look for low-profile sofas with tapered legs, curved backs, and textured upholstery in jewel tones. Channel tufting adds a luxurious touch, as do sofas upholstered in boucle fabrics. Finally, use oversized cushions for a cozy vibe.

Price: $1,498
Shop: Sohnne
This piece, a Bubble sofa replica by Sohnne, is a beautiful choice. It has a cocoon-like, rounded silhouette, which adds an unmistakable glam vibe to your space. It’s the type of piece that testifies to summer 2025’s return to retro glam!

Price: $649
Shop: Sohnne
If you have a smaller space but would still like to introduce a retro glam seat, the Bubble sofa armchair replica is a mini version of the sofa above. It will fit into a nook and make a cozy corner that draws the eye.
Warm Wood and Walnut Everything
No material feels more mid-century than walnut. This season, we’re seeing walnut credenzas, coffee tables, and sideboards making a grand return. BUT, the hardware is sleeker and the legs are slimmer. And there’s just a little more modern storage integration.
Pair your walnut pieces with light, airy surroundings—think white walls, soft terracotta rugs, or linen curtains. This helps keep things summer-appropriate and fresh.

Product: Live Edge Solid Walnut Coffee Table
Price: $252
Shop: Artisan Born
This Artisan Born coffee table features flat black legs and a walnut top. It adds luxury to your interior while sticking to the retro glam aesthetic. You can also choose from other leg finishes, including hammered steel and satin bronze.
Brass is Back, But Softer
In 2025, brass isn’t going anywhere, but it’s more subtle than the flashy golds of the past. Now, we see it as brushed, aged, and a little more refined. Like slender brass legs on a console table. Or a mid-century pendant light with soft gold detailing.
We especially love brass in 2025 homes because it pairs beautifully with retro color palettes (like teal, cognac, olive, etc.).
Glam Lighting
Retro glam means leaning into statement-making details. This summer, geometric shapes are trending big, and we love adding them through the lighting! For example, a tripod floor lamp or hexagonal chandelier. Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood. Globe lights, frosted glass, and Sputnik chandeliers are perfect for creating a warm glow.
To reiterate, layered lighting (overhead + task + ambient) will keep your space functional and sultry.

Price: $505
Shop: Lights Online
This chandelier brings two elements of retro glam in one: brass and the sputnik design. It’s a glamorous fixture that will not only illuminate your room but will also double as the focal point.
Playful Colors
There’s one thing about mid-century glam that never changes: it doesn’t shy away from color. Instead of going full-on technicolor, the 2025 version prefers curated accents. For example, burnt orange throw pillows, sage green chairs, or a powder blue vintage bar cart. The trick here is to balance everything: anchor your room in warm neutrals and then add bold touches to reflect personality.

Price: $430
Shop: Homary
One accent chair to consider is this piece by Homary. It features a beautiful olive green color and luxurious gold legs.
How to Add Retro Glam to Your Home

A complete overhaul isn’t essential to add the retro glam vibe to your home this summer. You can ease into it with baby steps:
Start with one hero piece. A sculptural armchair can instantly set the tone, as can a vintage coffee table.
Mix old and new elements. For example, a mid-century sideboard will work well with a modern mirror. Or hang a retro chandelier over a modern dining table.
Accessorize thoughtfully. Add velvet cushions, record players, textured ceramics, or vintage artwork to introduce that nostalgic charm.
Ready to Enjoy Summer in Style?
The beauty of retro glam lies in its ability to feel timeless. It invites storytelling and celebrates craftsmanship. It reminds us that comfort and style can coexist beautifully.
You can use the retro glam aesthetic in independent areas of your home, too. Whether you’re redesigning your living room, revamping your outdoor patio with mid-century loungers, or simply upgrading a corner of your home with a retro flair, summer 2025 is the perfect time to embrace this aesthetic.
So channel your inner Don Draper—mid-century glam is back, and your space is ready for its golden-hour glow ✨