Cherry red has been the color in everyone’s homes this year. From Pinterest Predicts naming it as one of 2025’s biggest color trends, to the shade appearing across SS25 furniture designs, it’s practically a modern staple.
An archival image of Doris Day’s living room in 1950 is a masterclass in decorating with red, 75 years before it went viral. Her space pairs a cherry red sofa with soft blue walls, making each shade stand out all the more. They are the perfect complements to one another. Though it’s from another era, the combination feels distinctly modern.
The cherry red trend is appearing everywhere. Design expert Shelley Cochrane explains: ‘It’s no surprise that cherry motifs are trending for 2025. They have a timeless charm that taps directly into our collective nostalgia. They evoke memories of retro 1970s desserts, vintage tableware, and carefree summers — think cherry-topped sundaes and gingham prints. There’s something irresistibly joyful, charming, and comforting about them.'
Shop the Cherry Red Edit
Made using the softest linen, La DoubleJ's cherry-covered tableware is a real feast for the eyes. Create a truly maximalist tablescape with a mix and match of different fun patterns.
Small decor items like cushions and throws are great ways to introduce a new color to your couch. This cozy ribbed knit throw adds texture, color, and warmth to snuggle up under.
Handmade in Puglia, Italy, this ceramic vase has been speckled in a rich red to give it a delicate splash of pattern. Place it in the center of your table or mantelpiece to brighten up the room.
She continues: ‘Cherry red taps into a broader shift we’re seeing towards more expressive, emotionally driven interiors. It’s a shade that feels both nostalgic and modern, reminiscent of retro 70s desserts, yet reimagined in today’s bold, sculptural design language. After years of soft neutrals, people are craving colour with personality, and cherry red delivers exactly that: warmth, energy, and a playful edge.’
Adding blue helps keep the cherry-coded trend grounded and mature, but there are lots of ways to style the color, taking inspiration from Doris Day’s contrasting home.
Shelley advises: ‘When it comes to styling cherry red at home, confidence is key. In the bedroom, introduce the shade through layered textiles, tactile rugs, and ruffled cushions. Pair with lacquered finishes and walnut furniture for a layered, elevated look.’
The shade is one of the best choices for a living room color.
Shelley suggests: ‘In the living room, cherry red works beautifully on statement pieces: think a glossy leather sofa, a high shine marble side table, or bold ceramic vases on open shelving. Sculptural shapes enhance the impact of cherry red, creating focal points that feel both artistic and inviting.’
She adds: ‘Don’t be afraid to go full colour-block either—cherry red pairs surprisingly well with bubblegum pink, deep burgundy or even soft lilac for a contemporary twist. For a final flourish, cherry motifs complete this playful and whimsical look.’
Design trends are always evolving. Although the look may have originated in the 1950s, the pairing of cherry red and blue will remain a major style for years to come.
