In the market for a fresh new rug (ughhh that new rug smell 😍) and not sure where to start? I rent my apartment, and I am forever looking for ways I can switch up my space that won't upset my landlord. So, I like to make use of the sheer number of rugs I own to do this (don't even ask how many as I've lost count at this point). Whether that's switching my living room rug with my bedroom rug, or buying a totally new on-trend rug that I've spotted in an influencer's home, I'm a little obsessed. I mean who cares about paying bills or putting gas in the car when I can cover up my ugly rental carpet and add a little somethin’ somethin’ to my small-but-perfectly-formed apartment?
I'm guessing you've landed here because your home is modern (or maybe it's mid-century modern or a little Scandi modern mix) — either way, if you’re bored of scrolling through everyone else’s HomeTok and want to stay ahead of the curve yourself, the modern rugs I've found will definitely fit the vibe check this year.
This is a super easy (and not to mention actually affordable) way to spruce a space that you keep looking at because you think it's in desperate need of a refresh. In fact, I think that modern rugs are going to be a big flooring trend for 2023. I can’t decide which one is my favorite... although the mustard zebra print is definitely up there. Take a look.
9 on-trend modern rugs to spend your money on this year
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Cute and monochrome
Made from: Cotton, polyester
Size: 2’ x 3’ / 3’ x 5’ / 5’ x 7’ / 6’ x 9’ / 8’ x 10’
Colors: Black and ivory / honey / blue / mocha / citron sage / cedar
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few weeks, you’ll know that checkered rugs are pretty much everywhere right now. The best part? I don’t see it going away anytime soon. But that’s not the only reason I love this Vans-esque black-and-white checkerboard rug. Its shag pile will feel dreamy underfoot, it’s got a fringed trim (and who doesn’t love a fringed trim?), it’s made from recycled material, AND it comes in various different colors. It would look perfect in a cute and cozy living room setup.
For abstract lovers
Made from: Polyester
Size: 2' 6" x 6' / 3' x 5'
Colors: Cream, blue, brown, yellow
Boring and plain rug? Nope, don’t know her. If you want to elevate your home with a modern rug this year, it’s time to go abstract! This Target rug is a super cheap option for those on a budget and would look great either on its own or underneath your coffee table. But if you hate to clean like me, you’ll be happy to know that this low-pile rug is perfect for high-traffic areas like a living room or bedroom, and is totally stain-resistant. Result.
Quintessentially quirky
Made from: Cotton, polyester
Size: 5' x 7'
Colors: Yellow, orange, brown, lilac, blue
One of my favorite rug trends for 2023 has to be the irregular shape rug. Sure, rectangular rugs are cool… but a trio of ovular shapes? That’s even cooler. This UO rug is made from 100% recycled cotton and polyester, and the bright patterns will add a whole new dimension to a room that needs to pack a punch. Just remember to use a rug pad underneath to provide a firm base for this quirky li'l number.
Neutral but modern
Made from: Wool, cotton
Size: 2’5” x 4’5”
Colors: White, ivory, black
Sure, bold block colors are in this year — but that doesn’t mean that neutral colors are out! This black and white rug is a wool and cotton blend and it's perfect for all the vanilla girls out there, with the cracked motif bringing what could be a relatively ordinary rug into the extraordinary realm. Plus, its varied pile length will turn any cold room into a cozy den — serving as the perfect accessory to a room of any shape, size, or style. All you need now is a heck load of candles.
A pocketful of sunshine
Made from: Polypropylene
Size: 3'11" x 5'7" / 5'3" x 7'
Colors: Multi
This is the year of colorful decor — and I am totally here for it. After all, the world is pretty gloomy right now. That's why I’m turning my house into a sanctuary of bright, bold colors in 2023 and I’ve already bought this rainbow sunrise rug for my living room. This stylish design proves that a traditional shag rug can be transformed into something modern and fashion-forward, but you don’t have to worry about any shag shedding here. This rug has been designed to be non-shedding and is extremely durable in high-traffic areas.
Striped and stylish
Made from: Polypropylene
Size: 5'3" x 7'3"
Colors: Mustard, cream
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your living room or want to add a cute li'l rug to your tiny dining room, this wild rug could be just what you’re after. Just look at it! Although animal print is coming back in a big way in 2023, this year is also about throwing out the rulebook. So, why not subvert everything you thought you knew about animal print and mix things up a bit This mustard zebra print is striking and stylish, and its three-inch pile height will feel soft and cozy underfoot.
Faux all day every day
Made from: Polyester, Acrylic
Size: 7'5" x 5'8"
Colors: Black, Cream, Gold
This Target rug is so cute, and if you haven’t already, this is proof you can ditch those animal-derived materials successfully. It’s easier than ever to create a more eco-friendly home. If you prefer fake leather and fur, a faux cowhide rug is a smart choice. Made from polyester and acrylic, this modern rug looks real but comes with all of the perks of faux fabric. In fact, Target recommends shaking this rug to clean it, rather than vacuuming it.
Indoor and outdoor
Made from: Wool
Size: 2'3" × 4' / 2'6" × 6' / 2'6" × 7'6" / 3' × 5' / 5 x 7’ 6" / 7'10" × 10'
Colors: Multi
Florals for spring? Groundbreaking! But in all seriousness (and despite what Miranda Priestly has to say) I believe that florals will never go out of style. And this bold and tropical modern rug is ticking all of my boxes. Not only is this rug available in various sizes, but it’s also been designed as an indoor/outdoor rug. Yep, in a world where everything is getting more and more expensive, having the ability to transform the outside space of your rental is a major bonus.
A bohemian beauty
Made from: Polyester
Size: 2’ x 2’11” / 5’3” x 7’3” / 7’10” x 10’2”
Colors: Black, Ivory
If you’re looking for a modern rug that will literally go with anything, then just call me your fairy rugmother! This monochrome bohemian/farmhouse rug is perfect for any room and offers a high pile for that extra comfort and coziness. But one of the best things about this rug is that it’s been designed with the idea of layering in mind. You could layer it with another rug or even layer it on top of your carpet according to icon Shea McGee’s top tip.
What kind of rugs are in style now?
You’ll be happy to know that modern and contemporary rugs will reign supreme in 2023, but you don’t need to worry too much about getting it exactly right. A whole range of rugs is in style right now, from vintage-inspired rugs to color block designs. Here’s what to look out for:
Natural Rugs: Natural fibers such as jute and sisal are becoming more and more common, offering you the chance to add neutral staples to your home. These rugs work on their own as a durable option for high-traffic areas, but they also work as a neat little underlay for other layered rugs.
Unusual Shapes: Unusual-shaped rugs are making their mark already, and I’m here for it. Rectangular, square, and round rugs will never go out of style, but more and more design enthusiasts are playing around with their shapes and having more fun with their rugs. From cutouts to scalloped edges, unique rugs will be everywhere soon.
Experimental Colors: Neutral colors have had their chance to shine, and the latest new modern rugs on the market are really packing a punchier palette. Designers are focusing on color-blocking big and bold colors and allowing the rug to become a true focal point in a room rather than just an afterthought.
Shag Piles: Once popular during the groovy 1970s, the shag pile has found its way back into the modern rug world. Homeowners are choosing to opt for a longer and cozier pile length for their rugs, adding a luxurious and soft accent to any room in the home.
Up next: 6 expensive-looking rugs you'd never believe are from Wayfair