5 Decor Accents That Are Completely Overdone, According to Designers

If you’ve been staring at your gallery wall and wondering whether it still feels stylish—or just a little stale—you’re not alone. As we settle into 2025, home decor is shifting away from formulaic trends and toward pieces that feel more storied.

We asked a few designers which once-popular décor trends they’re officially over and what fresh ideas they’re embracing instead so you don’t have to guess.

Sweater Knit Floor Poufs

It’s easy to see why sweater-knit poufs had their moment. Affordable, lightweight, and endlessly versatile, they added a cozy pop of color and texture to just about any space.

The reality is, at their price point, they were never built to last; over time, many start to lose their shape and fade, making them feel more tired than trendy.

“We love a good ottoman, but we suggest an ottoman that is more substantial in leather,” says designer Heidi Semler. “It will last longer and be easier to clean and maintain.”

If you simply love the shape, try a leather ball pouf for a modern, elevated take with a little more staying power.

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!

Wallpaper Accent Walls

There will always be a time and place for an accent wall, but the trend is waning fast; they can sometimes make a room feel unfinished or like the budget didn’t quite stretch far enough.

That doesn’t mean wallpaper is off the table, though. If covering every wall feels like a splurge, consider getting creative with placement.

“We prefer using wallpaper in more unique ways such as wallpapering the ceiling, a lampshade, or even a piece of furniture,” says Semler.

Wallpapering the inside of an armoire or the back of a bookshelf is a stylish, budget-friendly way to add pattern without it feeling like an afterthought.

Word Art

While word art is meant to inspire, it can sometimes come off a little heavy-handed or overly sentimental. The good news is your space can still feel uplifting without literally spelling out phrases like “love lives here.”

“Instead, find a piece of art that gives you the same feeling as the word,” says designer Melissa Roberts. “For example, opt out of word art that says ‘love’ and incorporate art that you love and brings you joy.”

That could mean framing a photo from a family vacation, or hanging a painting above the fireplace that reminds you of a favorite getaway. The key is to let your space reflect your story—not spell it out.

DIY Fiber Art

When fiber art first started popping up, it felt fresh and creative. Now, it’s everywhere in a way that feels overdone and borderline Big Box. As for what’s replacing it, our experts are looking toward pieces that feel more meaningful and collected—things with story, soul, and intention.

If you’re ready to retire the DIY textured art trend, consider framing a vintage textile instead. A patterned silk scarf, an embroidered linen coverlet, or even a panel from a kimono or sari can add rich texture and personal history to your walls, without feeling like a weekend craft project.

Black Lacquer and Stone Accents

Once a go-to for adding a touch of glam, black lacquer accessories topped with bold stones—like neon agate slices or jewel-toned malachite—are starting to lose their luster, says Roberts.

If you still love a little shine, Roberts recommends swapping those high-gloss finishes for pieces with patina or texture—like aged brass, antique wood, or colored marble with natural veining.

“These one-of-a-kind elements are timeless statement pieces that not only bring value to the space, but they also feel personable without looking overdone,” says Roberts.