Trend Watch: Inspirations Abroad

Prepared by Jessica Stresrud | Published on August 1, 2025

Think Globally

If you can’t travel the world, bring the world to your home! Inspirations Abroad is a key style trend for 2025 at NFM, rooted in rich textures, intricate patterns, and exotic design influences. This look celebrates the beauty of cultural craftsmanship, from handwoven baskets to artisan ceramics and bold folkloric prints.

It’s not about perfection or matching. It’s about collecting and layering pieces that feel personal, storied, and eclectic. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant tropics or desert-inspired tones, Inspiration Abroad lets you create a curated yet comfy space. You can even take it from sunny to cozy with just a few easy seasonal swaps!

Key Elements

• Global patterns & prints: Traditional folklore motifs, hand-block prints, and bold florals add movement and meaning.
• Artisan craftsmanship: Showcase one-of-a-kind finds like woven baskets, ceramics, carved wood, beading, and textiles with character. 
• Layered textures: Mix natural materials like jute, rattan, and cotton with brass or antique gold for a collected look.
• Mixed iconography: Sun symbols, cultural motifs, and worldly objects feel personal and storied.
• Lush & lived-in: Embrace greenery and try layered, cozy arrangements.

Summer: A Sun-Soaked Get-a-Way

Inspirations Abroad takes on a vibrant, breezy vibe in the warmer months. Think open-air markets, tropical destinations, and sunny escapes. Bring the look home with:

• Folkloric and artisan details
• Bold florals and sun motifs
• Handwoven baskets and textured materials
• Brass finishes for a warm, sunlit glow
• Mixed patterns and playful beading

It’s all about layering textures and colors that feel collected over time, like treasures discovered on your latest global adventure.

Fall/Winter: A Cultural Retreat

Seasons shift, and so does the mood. The look deepens and embraces cozy, grounded elements that tell a rich, handcrafted story. Get the look with:

• Traditional folk prints in deep, earthy hues
• One-of-a-kind, handmade pieces
• Cultural symbols and global iconography
• Mixed patterns with a moody twist
• Lush greenery to breathe life into your space

Inspirations Abroad is a global style that evolves with the seasons. It’s always rich in character and rooted in meaning.

Pro Tips to Get the Look

Create an Inspirations Abroad-inspired look in any space – all you need are some cherished personal items and a few new additions! 

• Focus on a statement piece: Start with a bold pattern to anchor the room and set the tone.
• Mix, don’t match: It’s all about contrast, and there’s no such thing as too many patterns or prints. 
• Artisanal over mass-made: Look for handcrafted details that tell a story. 
• Let it evolve: Think of it as your passport. Let your home reflect your journey and collect different places along the way!