I have been using GW for over 15 years and framed backsplashes have always been popular. What falls out of favor is the tile used in the backsplash and the frame.

I am lazy so I would consider cleaning issues but if you don't cook often or use a cleaning person then I wouldn't worry about it. Both patterns are nice. It will really depend on your preferences, your space and the amount and color of the veining in your tile. Do you want the framing to be a subtle accent or really stand out?

edited to add - Post this on the kitchen forum too.

There's no right or wrong with this one - just go with whatever pattern you prefer. I love herringbone and I would like to do that on my whole backsplash one day! I am also a fan of simple, so I wouldn't do a framed portion, but if you like it, go for it.

Personally, I like the herringbone design done with the same size subway tile, as in your last photo. To my eye, that creates a pleasing complementary design without being overly busy. As to whether it's going to date a kitchen, I think that if you like it you should do it. Most everything is going to be dated at some point, so we should enjoy what we like in the here and now and not let possible future trends worry us. :-)

I like the last picture best because it's less jarring to the eye. It's simple and clean. I think they're all nice though.

I, too, prefer the herringbone just for the interest.

I tend to think the frames are more of a classic look as opposed to a trendy one but usually prefer when they are kept simple and not busy with a less is more approach. If I had to choose between the two options you've mentioned, I would go with a basket weave. Another option would be diamonds as pictured below which I think is pretty too. I don't usually care for the busier decor tiles but love the second picture and thought I'd share. I love how it really works in this space.

We did a framed backsplash behind our range when we custom built 5 years ago. I certainly don't consider it dated. It suits our kitchen, and frankly with our 10' ceilings to area behind the range certainly needed some interest. We didn't use marble tile bc we used marble counters on our perimeter, but I think the framed herringbone backsplash would look good with marble tile, too.

I like the play on pattern when doing a framed area. The key to success in my opinion is to keep the material the same type and color. Then, you can play with shapes inside of that choice. It keeps the backsplash mostly neutral, regardless what color or material you select.

Looking at the pictures above, I like all of them. The only one that I don't really like is the floral, framed example. It has a different colored pattern and design from the rest of the background. For me, it illustrates that I like to keep it simple.

Because of the lighting limitations, porch over only window, I selected the old reliable glossy, white subway tile. But, I did select a beveled tile. I hoped that the bevel relief would be an expression of texture. I like how it turned out and it served my purpose in reflecting light in an interesting manner.