How to Make Monogrammed Decor Feel Modern (Yes, Really)

Learn how to create a modern monogram and then make a mark in your home.

Bold botanical prints, embroidery, and an appreciation of the old mixed with the new: It’s all part of grandmillennial style, a look tastemaker Melissa Smrekar cleverly distills to “needlepoint, but make it cheeky.” Grandmillennial style is all about bringing back “what our grandmothers loved … but with an introspective humor about it all,” Smrekar says. The playful trend of bringing back decorative elements is another. The monogram.

Monograms are a perfect way to add a touch of personalization to your decor—they’re often used in decor on throw blankets, pillows, yard decorations, and more—and they seem more popular now than ever. But how do you make a modern monogram in a world where family members don’t always share a surname? What can you do to make monograms feel contemporary and modern, rather than outdated?

We talked to experts to get their ideas for designing a decorative monogram that speaks to today’s lifestyle.

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Why Monograms are In Trend Now

Monograms, a classic motif, have never been out of fashion. But, like everything else, their popularity waxes. Right now, they’re having a strong resurgence—along with many other trends, including grandmillennial style—that reference time-honored looks. These days we’re all craving a little bit more stability in our lives, so we’re creating it in our homes by returning to classic designs and familiar motifs.

In addition to falling within current design trends, Smrekar thinks there’s another reason for the recent resurgence of the monogram.

“I attribute the resurgence of monograms to the modern awareness of a ‘personal brand,’” Smrekar says. “What could be more central to a personal brand than one’s name? Gone are the days of monogram options being limited to ‘Do you want that in block or script?’ With limitless personalization options, a modern monogram showcases [your] personality and shows your brand to the world.”

Perhaps that combination of the very modern idea of personal branding and a renewed appreciation for heritage designs is why the monogram is striking a chord right now—it’s the perfect distillation of the old-meets-new grandmillennial or even old money aesthetics.

Modern Monograms Tips

Traditionally, a couple would use the first letter of their last name as a standalone monogram on home goods and stationary, but that doesn’t always work for modern families. Women are more likely to choose to keep their names after marriage or to create a hyphenated surname. Today’s households come in many configurations, so sometimes, that simple single letter just doesn’t fit the situation.

A one-size-fits all approach to monogramming is no longer an option. So how can you make a monogram? Pam Haney, owner of Invitations, Etc., says monograms are “an ever-changing world” because society is changing. She also has many ideas for making a modern monogram that feels unique to you.

When hyphenating a name or creating a dual last name monogram, Haney assures us people have quite a few options. The two last initials can be used side-by-side or stacked together, which is particularly useful for couples with two last names.

A popular option for those with double surnames is to have the first initials of each lastname with a bullet or bar between them to signify that hyphenation has occurred. “Another trend which is more contemporary is two first name initials stacked one on top of the other with the larger last name initials to the right,” Haney says, adding that this is another elegant solution for households with hyphenated last names, too.

You can make the monogram more casual by using the letters of your names instead. These options are great for making a first impression. welcome matsYou can also include a wreath or engraved on a doorknocker for anyone who comes to your home.

You don’t have to stick with your initials. Smrekar encourages people think outside of the box when it comes to monograms.

“I find it particularly charming to monogram things with a nickname,” she says. “[Like] a stocking featuring my childhood nickname ‘Wiss’ or a tote that said ‘Midge,’ the name my godson calls me. Nicknames are intimate, and embroidering a nickname feels personal and special.” We also love the idea of a pair of towels or pillowcases with nicknames for a sweet touch (and an excellent idea for a wedding or anniversary present!).

Your options for monograms are almost limitless stylistically. Regarding what’s trending, Haney says vintage styling is very popular lately. However, there are more creative options.

“Electric neon colors, symbols from your personal heraldry, and raised monograms with variegated threads stand out as three of my favorite trends in modern monograms,” Smrekar says. “Madison in Dallas does it best!” So really, anything goes! You can make your mark with the modern monogram.

Perhaps the best advice for making this personalization yours is this thought from Haney: “Many customers call with etiquette questions, and I usually tell them what the ‘rules’ of etiquette are, but they were created by people like you and me … I feel like we should be conscious of those rules, but they need to work for our time.”

With that do-what-suits-you approach in mind, go forth and monogram—whichever application or styling you choose, you’ll love your upgraded twist on the classic monogram for years to come.

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