Where Lilac is Showing Up, and Why

Lately, designer Ashley Hauza has noticed pastels like lilac popping up more in decor accessories and linens, and she believes this says something a bit deep about what we’re longing for as a society.

“I think that people are turning back toward more whimsical colors as a pushback against the previous domination of minimalism,” she says. “There’s a draw right now to more play, and a desire for simpler times, which I think is driving the ‘Grandma Chic’ trends on social media.”

Does Lilac Have Staying Power?

Designer Bridget Beari believes lilac is more of a seasonal trend experiencing extra popularity this year, but loves seeing it in decor year-round. “Like its namesake flower, the color lilac often blossoms in spring decor,” she says. “However, the pale, pastel purple is really a perennial neutral when used thoughtfully.”

Hauza agrees that lilac can be a classic accent color, but she thinks its life as a trending dominating hue in a color scheme will be short-lived.

“I do not think lilac has staying power and is really just a momentary trend,” she says. “My clients are much more interested in spaces that are richer, sometimes moodier, and feel lived-in. The best way to incorporate lilac into your home to ensure it outlives the trend cycle is to keep it limited to a secondary color, rather than a primary one.”

Courtesy Peggy Haddad Interiors; Photo by Kara DeYoung Photography

How to Incorporate Lilac Into Your Home

Try It Out in a Children’s Room

Pastels are whimsical by nature, which is why designer Peggy Haddad is a big fan of using the color lilac in children’s rooms. One of her favorite takes on the color is New Age by Benjamin Moore.

“We used it in a recent girls’ bedroom project where we layered in natural textures, soft whites, pastels, and warm brass to bring the whole palette to life,” she says.

Paint It On Your Ceiling

If you want to apply the color lilac via paint in a unique way that won’t overpower the room, Bridget Beari suggests using it on this one surface.

“Painting just the ceiling in lilac is an approach that transcends trends,” she says. “It creates an unexpected moment and feels like a canopy of calm infusing gentle color without overtaking the room.”

Embrace It in Accent Decor

If you’re still feeling a little hesitant to incorporate lilac into your home decor, Hauza says to keep the stakes low and apply it in small amounts.

“I recommend adding [in lilac with] select decor items that won’t break the bank and can easily be swapped out,” she says. “A really easy way to add any color is through throw pillows and blankets... I also recommend finding a lilac vase or a small ceramic bowl. A large lilac floor vase can make a huge impact filled with flowers next to a console, sofa, or even an end table. Small ceramics are very easy to layer on tables or bookshelves along with books or other decor items. They create such an easy, yet fun little punch of color.”

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Sophisticated or Whimsical: Consider Which Direction to Take It

Haddad says lilac is a very flexible color. It can read as elevated and sophisticated or more whimsical and playful. The difference lies in what colors and textures you pair it with.

For example, she suggests pairing lilac in main living areas with rich woods, aged brass, and deeper colors for a mature feel that will age well. But if you want to lean into the garden aesthetic, pair lilac with other floral hues like rich green for a timeless combination.