Everyone Owned It In The '70s — Now It's Worth Hunting For At Your Local Thrift Store

What once was kitsch can become charming once again, and one bold '70s look is now trending. While the late mid-20th-century saw experimental patterns and daring looks, the millennium turned folks towards "millennial gray" and minimalism. Today, however, design is shifting back towards more expressive decor, and we're seeing vibrant animal prints returning to interiors. "Right now, its comeback is tied to a few broader design shifts," Miranda Cullen of Inside Stories tells Real Simple. "People are more open to personality, texture, and a bit of boldness. Animal print fits perfectly." Animal prints on furniture, textiles, and artwork are one trend taking over spaces and giving a new meaning to Animalcore.

While animal print furnishings have existed throughout history, from hide rugs to vintage "safari" print wallpapers, the 1970s and 1980s saw an uptick in animal print patterns as the counterculture movement became mainstream. Today, many people are enjoying adding these fun, bold, and expressive patterns to their spaces. There are several animal prints and patterns, some bolder and some more relaxed, that even minimalists are adding animal print to their homes. Those seeking these eclectic pieces could find valuable goods in thrift stores or antique malls where high-quality items from the '70s are waiting for someone to take them home. Vintage animal print furniture can range greatly in price. Depending on the designer and quality of the piece, you could pay $25 to $25,000 for an animal print piece. The best bargains are found through places like Facebook Marketplace or a local thrift shop.

Whether you secure a deal on an animal print chair at the thrift or splurge for secondhand vintage on a collector's site, knowing how to style the piece will take it from tacky to trendy. The key to using animal print is to start small with this bold home decor trend. Purchase a few smaller animal print items like a couple throw pillows, art prints, or smaller statement furniture like side tables or chairs. This allows you to use the animal print as an accent. However, if you want to go bold, make an impact by turning the animal print into a focal point via a sofa or rug. A fully animal print upholstered piece like this vintage zebra print modular sofa from Nate Berkus could be fantastic for packing a punch.

Another thing to consider is the color palette. Experts often recommend sticking to neutrals when using animal print, as it becomes a good base to allow the print to shine. You might use neutrals similar to the animal print to better blend the design scheme. Think black, white, and gray tones to work alongside zebra print. In some instances, design experts are considering the animal print itself as the neutral in the palette. Additionally, texture is important for pulling off animal print in a modern way. Natural textures like leather, wool, wicker, or stone used alongside or expressed on animal print surfaces can make a space look and feel more organic and authentic.