Just when you thought Gen Z had exhausted every possible retro revival look, they’ve unearthed a new (yet old) obsession: vintage jazz. According to Pinterest’s latest report, “Jazz-inspired outfits, dimly lit venues and lo-fi looks are all on the rise,” with a 75 percent increase in searches for “jazz funk” and a 105 percent increase in “piano jazz.” And as a native New Yorker—someone whose dad took them to tiny, dimly lit jazz bars where the air was thick with the sounds of Miles Davis and Billie Holiday—this look is scratching all of my nostalgic itches. There’s something incredibly comforting about the moody atmosphere, the rich textures and the unmistakable elegance of a space that nods to an era when jazz was the heartbeat of the underground scene.
Jazz Revival Is The Only Home Trend I'm Coveting This Fall
Coltrane just made his way into your living room
Still, this trend is about more than just plucking red velvet sofas and vinyl records from a speakeasy into your living room. So below, find a breakdown of how the aesthetic is creeping its way into this year’s fall home trends (and how to nail the look without turning your living room into an homage to the Django).
The most essential rule to recreating a jazz vibe is start with a roaring ‘20s-inspired color palette. Deep, saturated tones like burgundy, rust and emerald green are what set the stage for a cozy, intimate atmosphere. You want to select hues that instantly transport you to another time—ones that’ll make your living room feel like the kind of place where you’d sip an Old Fashioned with a saxophone wailing softly in the background. Velvet is also your best friend here, whether it’s on a plush couch or heavy drapes. You want to make sure you’re incorporating these tones into lavish fabrics that add a touch of indulgence. (Fun fact: Velvet helps absorb sound, which is ideal if you’re planning on blasting jazz from your Sonos speakers.)
Moving towards more livable interiors, curved lines are key. Think: round tables, sumptuous armchairs and sofas that you can sink into. This isn’t the time for anything too modern or minimalistic; instead, go for pieces that feel inviting and storied. I’m talking the kind of seating that begs you to stay awhile, paired with low, chunky wooden tables designed for setting down your drink. Add in a few eclectic touches, like a collection of vintage jazz records or a framed print of John Coltrane, and you’ve got yourself a space that’s ready for a night of smooth listening (and even smoother vibes).
To that end, the artwork and accessories are what truly bring this look together. This is because jazz bars aren’t just about the music—they’re visual experiences, too, with striking instruments and walls adorned in eclectic pieces that tell a story. Recreating this effect involves incorporating grand pianos, bold tapestries or large-scale artwork that serve as statement pieces, setting the tone for the entire room. Abstract wallpaper with rich color palettes can also draw you in, just like a great jazz improvisation—you want it to be unpredictable yet harmonious.
And of course, if you can’t splurge on $10K worth of art or a Steinway & Sons piano, lighting and metallic details can also bring the space to life. A soft, warm glow, courtesy of table lamps or sconces, helps create a cozy atmosphere. Brass and gold accents (even small touches on framed prints) will add a touch of glam—interior designers often incorporate these tones to reflect just enough light for a subtle, sophisticated shine. Together, these elements—offset by rich tones, plush textures and eclectic adornments—will add depth, texture and a sense of history. You want to make the space feel like it’s been there for decades; waiting for you to step in, relax, and let the music take over.