December 12th 2021

The unpleasant incidents can really pile up this time of year: burning the gingerbread cookies, hosting your nagging Aunt Edna for the holidays, and waiting for that package that just never seems to arrive. However, you can counteract those negative events with some drama that’s exciting and unexpected. And maybe it’s all centered in that oasis of a room you can always escape to and lock the door: the bathroom.

Don’t worry if your current bathroom is nothing more than four white walls with a glorified shower stall. We scoured Instagram and found this week’s top trends that are all about bringing the right dose of decor drama into your bathroom. So before you accept defeat that your bathroom will never be more than a boring box—keep reading!

Here are five looks you’ll want to steal for your soon-to-be haven ASAP.

1. Charcoal walls

For budget-friendly drama, you might want to grab a can of paint and look to these charcoal walls from @greeneacresfarmhouse for inspiration.

“Charcoal walls are a perfect neutral tone for when you want to create drama,” says designer Doreen Amico-Sorell, of Sorell Interiors. “It’s softer than black but packs a punch on the overall aesthetic of a room.”

2. Gold botanical accents

Another sure-fire way to amp up the wow factor of your bathroom is with a set of these gold garden-inspired wall sconces featured by @fireclaytile.

“Florals have been coming back in a big way, and this gold botanical accent is such an elegant and fun take on it,” says designer Jaime D. Huffman, of Charleston Blonde. “I’ve seen a lot of florals in wallpaper. But if you’re hesitant to make a bold move, adding something like this into a bathroom is a great way to commit without overdoing it. The gold here also complements the gold accents on the sink and mirror, making for a cohesive design with a bit of extra texture and elegance.”

3. Peacock chair

This rattan peacock chair from @8degreessouth is not only a high-impact statement but also one that’s easy to achieve. And it’s the perfect perch for luxuriating pre-bath with some tea or even as a place to display your favorite Turkish towel set.

“A peacock chair in the bathroom? Why not,” says Sorrell. “If you have enough space and are looking for some natural elements, a statement piece like a rattan peacock chair could be just the right element you need.”

4. Mermaid-green tile and wallpaper

While it might not be quite as daring as some of the other looks on this list, a ’70s-inspired shaggy bath mat (like this one from @mochagirlplace) is certainly cheeky in its own right. It’s also the perfect thing for a bathroom that lacks a bit of fun or color.

“There’s nothing more luxurious than stepping out of the shower onto a plush, shaggy rug,” says Glenn. “Traditional bath mats are limited in style, so shop the rug section instead of the bath section. It’s easy to shake out and fluff this rug before every shower. And you can get it extra-luxe by fluffing it in the dryer first.”

5. Shaggy bath mat

While it might not be quite as daring as some of the other looks on this list, a ’70s-inspired shaggy bath mat (like this one from @mochagirlplace) is certainly cheeky in its own right. It’s also the perfect thing for a bathroom that lacks a bit of fun or color.

“There’s nothing more luxurious than stepping out of the shower onto a plush, shaggy rug,” says Glenn. “Traditional bath mats are limited in style, so shop the rug section instead of the bath section. It’s easy to shake out and fluff this rug before every shower. And you can get it extra-luxe by fluffing it in the dryer first.”