The "beige aesthetic," also known as "sad beige," has taken the design world by storm, gaining immense popularity on platforms like Instagram. This trend, characterized by a neutral color palette, extends beyond home decor to fashion and interior design. Influencers, celebrities, and homeowners alike are embracing these shades, seeking a sense of calm and serenity amidst the chaos of modern life. According to trend forecaster and color specialist Keith Recker, the term "sad beige" aptly captures the essence of this movement.
Pantone's 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, exemplifies this trend with its warming, rich hue. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, suggests that this trend is not merely a fleeting fad but a long-term presence in design and fashion. It serves as a reaction to the "millennial grey" aesthetic associated with a generation of renters perceived as lacking creativity, as noted by Joa Studholme from Farrow & Ball.
The beige aesthetic encompasses more than just beige itself. It includes an array of neutral shades such as taupe, fawn, parchment, and bisque. The trend has found advocates among public figures like Kim Kardashian, who has transformed her home into a "minimal monastery" with neutral tones. This aesthetic isn't confined to adults; it has also made its way into children's spaces, with some parents opting for neutral palettes in their kids' bedrooms and play areas.
Isabelle Gregory, owner of a beige-on-beige home in Hampshire, highlights the trend's widespread appeal on social media platforms like Instagram.
"It's a look that's all over Instagram." – Isabelle Gregory
She emphasizes the fresh and clean feel that these neutral tones bring to a space.
"There is a fresh and clean feel to it." – Isabelle Gregory
Mina Tran echoes this sentiment by noting how neutral colors create a conservative, yet versatile environment.
"It's a neutral zone – you don't have to take a stand. It's conservative." – Keith Recker
Tran also shares how these hues have infiltrated areas of her life she can't control.
"They creep into areas of my life that I can't control." – Mina Tran
Additionally, she appreciates the calming effect these colors have on her living space shared with her child.
"We have one play area and that play area is also the living space." – Mina Tran
The allure of the beige aesthetic lies in its simplicity and ability to evoke a sense of tranquility. Amidst fast-paced lives, many individuals opt for this neutral palette to simplify their environments and reduce stress. Isabelle Gregory asserts that this trend is not just about aesthetics but a quest for calmness.
"I don't want to stare at something hot pink and neon green every day." – Mina Tran
While the beige aesthetic has garnered significant support, it is not without its critics. Some view it as boring or unoriginal. Keith Recker acknowledges the sentiment of sadness or lack of creativity associated with this trend.
"Sad beige" is spot on for me, because that's what I feel when I see it – Keith Recker
Yet, despite these criticisms, the trend continues to thrive as a reflection of contemporary times and a response to life's complexities. Leatrice Eiseman suggests that these neutral colors resonate with individuals seeking stability in an unpredictable world.