Bright white trim is technically a timeless neutral that will never truly go out of style. However, stark, high-contrast bright whites are currently less trendy. Today's popular designs favor warmer, softer, or monochromatic looks over harsh, brilliant-white baseboards and door frames.
Look to the undertone of your wall paint color to determine which shade of white will look best on your trim. If your wall color is warmer—with undertones of red, yellow, or orange—choose a white trim color with a similar undertone. If your walls are a cooler color—blue, green, or purple—stick with a crisp white hue.
Warm whites, natural wood tones, soft taupe, and deeper coastal greens are trending for 2026.
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A home typically looks outdated when it features overdone, time-stamped trends from specific past decades, such as honey oak cabinetry, popcorn ceilings, or generic word art. Outdated homes also often suffer from poor lighting, worn-out flooring, and heavy window treatments that block natural light.
A tacky look isn't always the result of bad taste or budget mistakes. Designers say it often comes down to overcommitment—locking into trends, finishes, or layouts to the point that a home stops feeling lived in.
As we look toward 2026, one thing becomes clear: interior design is shifting toward spaces that feel meaningful, rooted, and deeply connected to the way we live. These trends highlight a collective desire for warmth, craftsmanship, and authenticity.
Beige tones, hues of white, and grey should be the colors of choice for your furniture, curtains, drapes, and other home accessories. Neutral colors not only give that plush look, but they also give you that warm feeling.
Cool gray is being replaced by "mushroom" neutrals (warm taupes and greys with subtle green or violet undertones), warm earthy khakis, and soft, natural sages.
Colors that do not combine
The official white Color of the Year for 2026 is Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201).
Minimalist and flat baseboards are currently the most popular. The contemporary design focus is on clean lines and subtle elegance rather than ornate millwork.
Fashion in 2026 is seeing a massive wave of nostalgia, reviving everything from edgy late-2000s indie sleaze to relaxed, boho-chic. The biggest comeback styles currently dominating include:
The most popular, designer-favorite white trim color is Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17). It is a versatile, soft white with a subtle greige undertone that perfectly balances warm and cool wall colors without looking stark or overly yellow.
When it comes to trim and molding, it's always a good idea to opt for something timeless to prevent your home from looking outdated. Gaines' preferred paint color is just that — a strong pure white that will never go out of style. This might just be the perfect color for your trim too.
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Scientifically, the "ugliest color" is Pantone 448 C (a drab greenish-brown). Also known as "opaque couché," it was officially crowned after extensive market research in 2012 to find a hue so universally unappealing that it would discourage people from smoking.
Blue and green are the most effective colors for calming anxiety. Soft, muted hues like light blue, mint green, and lavender naturally soothe the mind, while their grounding connection to nature helps lower both heart rate and blood pressure.
Colors that clash the most are typically those directly opposite each other on the color wheel (complementary colors) when paired at maximum saturation and equal brightness.
To make a home look expensive, rely on sophisticated neutrals, earthy greens, or muted blues rather than stark whites or highly saturated brights. High-end spaces feel cohesive and intentional, using layered tones, natural materials, and high-quality finishes to create a calm, custom feel.
Joanna Gaines’ favorite gray paint colors span from soft, silvery sage grays to moody charcoals. Her top picks offer timeless versatility that complements both modern and rustic spaces.
For interior design, the overarching color trend is defined by warm, earthy neutrals and soft, airy whites. Instead of cold grays or stark whites, the most popular palettes center on grounding, nature-inspired tones.
Create a luxurious-looking sitting room with a deep chocolate brown paint color. Pair the rich walls with a light pink ceiling and dark, red-toned décor for a bold and sophisticated design that works effortlessly.
Making a house look expensive is all about intentionality, cohesive styling, and a few clever budget-friendly upgrades. You can easily elevate your space using inexpensive tricks like swapping cabinet hardware, hanging curtains high and wide, utilizing plush pillow inserts, and introducing fresh greenery.