Millennial grey is officially out of style – five colours to try instead, including the shade that’s making a comeback

GREY tones have dominated homes in the UK for most of the 2000s, with a number of celebrities plastering the cool colour all over their pads.

But with just three months left of 2025, it seems that the once very popular trend is officially on its way out. 

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With 2026 just around the corner, experts have claimed that the popular colour once loved by cleanfluencer Mrs Hinch isn’t going to make the cut. 

Instead, there’s five colours to try instead, including a shade that’s making a comeback. 

So if you’ve got an itch to spruce up your pad but aren’t sure where to begin, you’ll need to take notes.

As reported by Better Homes & Gardens, according to Hannah Yeo, senior manager of colour marketing at Benjamin Moore, grey replaced the strong, warm hues of the ’90s as a response to the era’s need for simplicity and streamlining thanks to the decluttering trend. 

But while grey was a hit with many thanks to its understated elegance, its presence is now shifting as more vibrant shades gain popularity.

The once-loved ‘millennial grey’ is officially out of style and now, homeowners are opting for more vibrant shades, often inspired by nostalgia or tranquility. 

Not only this, but warmer hues are also making a comeback. 

Erika Woelfel, VP of colour and creative services at Behr, said: “After years of neutral spaces, people are more open to the benefits that diverse colour ranges can bring, allowing them to reflect their personal style.

“The resurgence of bold colours is driven by a desire for more dynamic and energetic spaces.”

So if you’re eager to update your grey-toned home with fresh shades that still feel stylish and versatile, you’ve come to the right place as here, some top paint experts have shared their suggestions to help you ease away from the millennial trend.

Browns

Pantone’s colour of the Year 2025 was ‘mocha mousse’ – a classically neutral colour that’s simple but luxurious.

And according to Patrick O’Donnell from Farrow & Ball: “Browns are making a comeback, covering a broad spectrum from earthy tones like Farrow & Ball’s Mouse’s Back to the refined cacao shade of Cola.”

Natural tones

Instead of cooler greys, beige and creams are also in.

Hannah Yeo suggested opting for natural tones that offer a cosy and nostalgic feel with shades like Benjamin Moore’s Muslin OC-12, Natural Linen 966, and Wenge AF-180 great for warm and inviting spaces.

Interior Design expert advice

Historical pinks

As well as this, according to the pros at Lick, subtle pinks are on the up.

While Patrick O’Donnell suggested opting for “historical pinks with yellow undertones, such as Mortar Pink and Fowler Pink,” those at Lick claimed that shades such as White 06 are slightly brighter and still warm with “a subtle pink undertone that adds a soft glow.” 

Mid greens

We’re also sure to see lots more green shades in 2026.

The resurgence of bold colours is driven by a desire for more dynamic and energetic spaces

Erika Woelfel

For a neutral but deep shade, Patrick O’Donnell raved about mid greens such as Farrow & Ball’s Yeabridge Green and Saxon Green, while Lick’s Green 18 has been hailed a “sophisticated” option that’s on the warmer side. 

Blues

Finally, if you want to be a bit more daring with your colours, blue may be the route for you, with options like Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nova 825 gaining traction. 

Hannah Yeo explained: “These vibrant hues draw inspiration from everyday life experiences, like road trips or space exploration.” 

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