These Statement Pieces Were Big In The 80s: Do They Deserve A Comeback In Modern Homes?

Glitzy, glamorous interiors reached their peak in the 1980s. While many of the gilded pieces might be considered gaudy by today's standards, there is one item that could make a chic comeback. While we might not be headed towards a revival of glittering maximalism, trends are definitely moving away from the stark minimalism of the past decade. This could easily lead to a renewed love for this '80s statement piece. Waterfall chandeliers are a great way to bring the '80s retro aesthetic into your living room, dining room, or foyer.

The Art Deco period had a major revival in the 1980s, and this was directly reflected in the lighting decor. Many of the tiered waterfall chandeliers appeared to be straight out of the '20s. Sparkle, shine, and reflective surfaces were all a part of the re-imagination of Art Deco in the '80s. They didn't have to be made from actual crystal, either — many chandeliers used beautifully cut or molded glass to achieve the same luxurious effect at a more accessible price. From colored glass to mirrored finishes, overhead lighting became a playful statement piece. If you love fixtures that blend personality with opulence, you can easily upgrade your dining room lighting with this vintage-inspired trend. With the shift towards tasteful drama, we think that this is a prime time for the glamorous waterfall chandeliers of the 1980s to have another major moment.

The most desirable renditions of 1980s chandeliers often used Murano glass. Produced on the Venetian island of Murano, this handcrafted Italian glass became synonymous with luxury lighting during the decade. Murano waterfall chandeliers featured cascading tiers of individually crafted glass pieces that caught and reflected light, creating a dazzling centerpiece. 

There were several different styles of Murano glass chandeliers popular in the 1980s. For example, a Murano glass chandelier available on 1stDibs is attributed to Venini, featuring a repeated glass elements known as Triedri, triangular prism-shaped pieces that create that signature cascading waterfall effect. Beyond waterfall designs, Murano also produced more delicate chandeliers with flower-shaped glass petals and crystal-drop accents. These airy, arching forms resemble glistening dewdrops, offering a more delicate take on 1980s lighting. Today, you can find authentic '80s chandeliers on sites like 1stDibs, Etsy, and sometimes Facebook Marketplace. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the best crystal chandeliers for under $200.