Do you feel like current aesthetics just don’t really get you? They’re too, well, conformist? Maybe they’re overkill, and none of them really feel like you. Have you look at pictures of bedrooms in the 1990s of other teenagers and college students and felt some envy?
Well, that’s totally understandable! Do you just wish you could be transported back then, right when rebelling in a unique way was how things went, the “f*ck it” attitude (with some cynicism thrown in), and just all around enjoyed the music?
Well, what’s stopping you from doing that with your room? Seriously, if you love Grunge, and if you love Grunge music like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains, then why not? Honestly, if you look at pictures of grunge bedrooms in the 1990s, they’re similar to the clothing where everything was slapped together, no real structure, and rough around the edges even.
But honestly, is it really as simple as just putting a bunch of vintage posters up in your bedroom? Not exactly, so, how about a dive into the grunge aesthetic and how you can create the grunge aesthetic for your bedroom!
The Backstory and History of Grunge
First, let’s take a quick trip back to the 90s. So this is pretty basic, so no matter where you look, the origins are still going to be the same. So, grunge started as a music genre in Seattle with bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden leading the charge.
It wasn’t just about the music though; grunge was a full-on lifestyle. It rebelled against the glitz and glam of the 80s, favoring a raw, unpolished vibe. This attitude spilled over into fashion and home décor, creating a unique aesthetic that’s still loved today. All of this happened right at the end of the 1980s buck really took off in the early 90s.
What Influenced the Grunge Aesthetic?
So, what exactly influenced this look? Well, music was a huge part, of course, but it also had roots in the socio-economic climate of the time. Grunge was about thriftiness and practicality. It celebrated worn-out jeans, flannel shirts, and anything that looked like it had a story to tell. The decor was no different. For example, you can think second-hand furniture, DIY projects, and a mix of old and new that felt personal and lived-in.
Famous People That Led the Grunge Scene in the 90s
When we talk about grunge, it’s impossible not to mention the icons who defined the era. Kurt Cobain, the front man of Nirvana, is often considered the face of grunge. His raw, emotional music and distinct personal style—ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and unkempt hair—became synonymous with the movement. Alongside him was Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, whose powerful voice and intense stage presence helped propel grunge into the mainstream.
Chris Cornell of Soundgarden also played a crucial role, with his haunting vocals and dynamic song writing. And let’s not forget Layne Staley of Alice in Chains, whose dark, brooding lyrics and powerful voice added a deeper, more somber dimension to the grunge sound.
Together, these artists not only shaped the sound of grunge but also its aesthetic, influencing fashion and culture far beyond the Seattle scene. Their music, style, and attitudes continue to inspire new generations, cementing their legacy as the pioneers of grunge.
What Did a Grunge Bedroom Look Like in the 1990s?
There’s not a lot of content online of 90s grunge bedrooms, so what you might want to do is to ask family members for scrapbooks and family albums, maybe even old home videos- it’s where you can truly expect to see the real deal. But what all does it entail though?
Well, you’d probably see a lot of dark colors—black, gray, deep greens, and browns. The furniture was often mismatched, with a heavy emphasis on comfort over style. Posters of bands and old concert tickets covered the walls, and there was a general sense of organized chaos. Everything had a place, but it wasn’t necessarily tidy.
How to Create a Modern-Day Grunge Bedroom
Fast forward to today, and the grunge aesthetic has evolved but still holds onto its core principles. Here’s how you can create a modern grunge bedroom that feels fresh yet nostalgic.
Color Palette
Start with your color palette. Modern grunge still loves its dark hues but isn’t afraid to throw in some unexpected pops of color. For example, you might want to look into charcoal gray, deep burgundy, and forest green mixed with mustard yellow or burnt orange. These colors can give your room depth and a cozy, moody vibe.
Grunge Bedding
Next up, let’s talk bedding. Go for materials like cotton, linen, or even flannel. Actually flannel would be perfect. Patterns like plaid, stripes, or even florals with a vintage feel work great. Feel free to check your local thrift store, because there might be some options there, who knows. But anyways, you’re going to want to this effortless, just-got-out-of-bed look that’s quintessentially grunge, so don’t add a lot of pillows, plushies (none at all), or too many blankets.
Wall Decor
Now this is hands down the best part! So, for your walls, think posters, artwork, and personal items. Vintage band posters are a must, but you can also mix in some modern prints or DIY art. If you want it to feel like a time capsule, then keep to vintage, but if you want a modern take, then it’s as simple as mixing and matching. But overall, just don’t be afraid to make it look a bit haphazard—grunge is all about that lived-in feel.
Desk Decor
Your desk should be functional but also reflect your style. Actually, it’s going to be best to just look for vintage lamps, old books, and quirky knick-knacks. Again, it’s about being effortless, but technically there isn’t a right or wrong way to go about this.
Key Details
It’s the little things that make a big difference. Which is exactly why you should add some grunge-approved lighting like string lights or a lava lamp. But you could even throw down a rugged rug, add some distressed picture frames, and maybe even a record player if you’re feeling retro.
What’s the Difference Between Modern-Day Grunge Bedrooms and 1990s Grunge Bedrooms?
You might be wondering how today’s grunge bedrooms differ from those back in the 90s. When look at the pictures above, do you see a difference? On the left, you’ll find authentic pictures straight from the 1990s of teen and college-aged grunge bedrooms. On the right, it’s modern day grunge bedrooms.
Well, the core elements are the same, but modern grunge often incorporates a bit more polish and intentionality (that’s technically what aesthetics are all about). While 90s grunge was more about rebellion and nonconformity, today’s grunge blends those elements with a touch of contemporary style—think sleek furniture paired with thrifted finds.
Incorporating Music into the Decor
So, what what was mentioned earlier, music plays such a major part to the grunge music. It wasn’t just about fashion or the laid back decor, but the music too. It was raw, organic, a lot of melancholy, and the songs and their meanings varied. Maybe it was a story, political protest within lyrics, or something that doesn’t really have any true meaning- but when you’d hear it, you’d know it was grunge. So, how can you incorporate music effectively?
Band Posters and Album Covers
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Vintage band posters are a must-have. Look for original prints or reproductions of iconic grunge bands.
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Frame your favorite album covers and hang them on the walls for a personal touch.
Vinyl Records and Record Player
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If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, display your record collection. This not only adds to the decor but also gives you an authentic way to enjoy your music.
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But you could even create a dedicated space for your records, perhaps a corner with a cozy chair and some ambient lighting. But if you want to go more 90s then look for tapes and CDs instead.
Instruments as Decor
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If you play guitar or any other instrument, consider hanging it on the wall as a statement piece.
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Even if you don’t play, old instruments from thrift stores can make great decorative items that add to the grunge vibe.
What’s Pastel Grunge?
Alright, now getting grunge out of the way, there is a subgenre of it (sort of), it gets labeled as “pastel grunge” and “pastel goth”, but the terms are used simultaneously. So, what is this though? Well, this subgenre mixes the dark, edgy vibes of grunge with softer, pastel colors.
It’s like if your favorite grunge band had a baby with a pastel rainbow. It’s extremely feminine and it’s not really all that big, it was more popular back in 2012, but it still deserves a mention, especially since all subgenres eventually come back in fashion, so it’s only a matter of time before this gets some traction too.
What’s So Different About Pastel Grunge?
Pastel grunge stands out because of its unexpected color palette. Instead of dark, moody colors, you get soft pinks, blues, and purples combined with the same DIY, thrifted aesthetic. It’s a bit more whimsical but still keeps that rebellious edge. Again, it’s more cutesy feminine while still being edgy too. In a way, it’s more polished, as there’s more effort that gets put in this.
FAQs
Where can I find grunge-inspired decor items?
If you want to make this authentic to the 1990s, then buying second-hand is the best way to go. You can check out thrift stores, online marketplaces like Etsy, and even garage sales are great places to start.
What’s a must-have item for a grunge bedroom?
Definitely some band posters and a comfy, well-worn flannel blanket. It’s hard to really call a room grunge if it’s missing this.
