Whimsigoth is the latest decorating style making waves in the design world, and for good reason. Packed with layered textiles, warm colors, and a sense of collected style, it’s the perfect way to create visually appealing and unique interiors.
When it comes to interior design trends this year, living styles are the epitome of good design. And as this new style emerges, combining the softness and layered elements of whimsical decor with the moody drama of Gothic interior design, it’s clear that this is the aesthetic that’s here to stay in 2025 and beyond.
If whimsical style sounds like your thing, ask an expert to discover the core elements of your design aesthetic and show you some inspiring spaces that nail the trend.
What are capricious trends?
(Image credit: Katie Charlotte / Isabel Ladd Interiors)
Eclectic and cozy are two words that perfectly describe the quirky style. Although not as dark as Gothic, it features moody tones and has a softer feel that gives it a more comfortable and homey charm.
“Gothic decor tends to be more serious and somber, often featuring hard surfaces and cold tones. Whimsical decor, on the other hand, brings a sense of enchantment and joy, giving the aesthetic a warmer, more playful feel. It has a certain twist that infuses the Gothic atmosphere with a childlike sense of wonder, which is very appealing to the younger generation and those who are not afraid to embrace their inner child. “I think so,” says Aino Heinasuo, head of design at Redeco.
The timeliness of this trend is no coincidence. This time of year reminds many of us how much we love dark details in our homes. “People who like Halloween and dark aesthetics are interested in whimsical decor because it allows them to find balance and maintain the design year-round,” Aino added.
What are the main design features of a whimsical interior?
(Image credit: Kristin Karch / rad Interiors)
Whimsigoth style includes several different aesthetics, so it’s important to take the right elements from each and blend them seamlessly. “We combine rich dark colors like purple and black with bright jewel colors like peacock green and turquoise, and lots of gold as accents. It’s dark and moody, but also sexy and inviting,” says Paint. says Annie Sloan, color expert and creator of Chalk Paint.
To create an authentic design, not only colors, but also furniture, fabrics and textures are very important. The furniture is sturdy and wood is used extensively. While recycled items and vintage finds are often used, the textiles and upholstery should have a touch of luxury.
“When it comes to furniture, look for ornate pieces with intricate carvings, upholstered in luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk. This look is complemented by antique chandeliers and rugs, dark oil paintings, quirky trinkets, A pile of old books would be perfect,” adds Annie.
How you combine and style each item is just as important as the design itself. Remember that whimsical style is layered and cozy, and each element of the interior adds to the overall look, such as how the fabric is introduced and how it is combined with wall decor.
“This style frequently incorporates intricate patterns such as damask, paisley, and floral prints, combined with luxurious textures such as velvet, lace, and brocade. The result is a sense of softness and elegance. It is harmonious and adds a mystical and dreamlike atmosphere,” explains Aino.
5 examples of whimsical interiors
Wondering how to bring all the elements of a whimsical trend together to create a cohesive room? These five examples embody this eclectic and cozy design style.
1. Whimsical living room with wood details and collected pieces
(Image credit: Annie Sloan House, photographed by Jesse Wilde)
Our approach to whimsical style starts with the bones of the room. If you’re using an older property with complex details already installed, you’re a winner. But even without period details, decorative details can be introduced through furniture, cabinetry, and even wallpaper and textiles.
“I love a whimsical aesthetic, combining the dark mystery of Gothic with the whimsical romance of fairy tales and folklore, two trends that I fully embrace,” says Annie. The home pictured above truly captures the essence of the aesthetic.
“I’ve heard the whimsical term “moody maximalism,” and I think that really describes my home. I love the Victorian look. It’s dramatic and gorgeous, and the opposite of minimalism. I am a collector and love dark painted furniture with gold accents,” she explains.
2. Bedroom decorated in luxurious and whimsical colors
(Image credit: Matthew Williamson/Damien Russell)
Choosing the right color will instantly introduce the luxurious coziness that is synonymous with whimsical style. Try combining rich, moody tones with bright shades. In this bedroom, the dark color of the walls is beautifully combined with the red and yellow textiles of the bed.
“Whimsigoth has a very maximalist approach and lots of fun pops of color in vibrant hues like magenta, burnt orange, sage green, and rich blue. Apply these colors to your walls to create an entire room. ,” says Aino.
Deep, rich hues set a dramatic backdrop, while vibrant pastels are perfect as accents or wall accents. Overall, the whimsical décor features a rich and diverse color scheme across all elements, including paint, wallpaper, textiles, and accessories. ”
3. A side table full of quirky decorations
(Image credit: Annie Sloan House, photographed by Rachel Smith)
As with any interior design style, decorative pieces are the finishing touches that tie everything together. But with Whimsigoth, it’s another opportunity to layer and decorate with vintage pieces.
“Incorporate decorative elements throughout the space to enhance the magical atmosphere, such as crystals, wall art, unusual sculptures, and natural elements such as dried flowers and branches,” says Aino.
This side table shows how well-chosen decorative pieces can bring a plan to life, including statues that incorporate gothic elements, floral patterns, and whimsical ceramics. Here you will also have the opportunity to showcase celestial pieces, bohemian motifs and nature-inspired designs.
Table lamps are both functional and aesthetic. This kind of design gives the interior a moody, vintage feel and is perfect for quirky interiors.
grandfather tree wall art
Wall art is a must, and this design perfectly embraces the dark tones of Gothic decor and the natural focus of whimsical style.
Celestial Greek Bust Pot
Get inspired by Annie’s interiors with this heavenly bust pot. I like the fact that you can add plants as well, rather than just decorative statues.
4. Formal lounge with layered furniture and decor
(Image credit: James McDonald)
Collected and layered designs are at the heart of the whimsical trend. From the stacked rugs to the different fabrics on the furniture to the dramatic hanging wall decor, the mix of old and new, big and small, adds to the beauty.
“Unlike traditional Gothic decor, which often focuses on uniform antique or classic items, whimsical style combines eclectic and vintage items to create a unique and whimsical style. In the quirky space, the furniture ranges from vintage to bohemian, often featuring wood carvings, intricate details, and contributing to the room’s unique and appealing character. Expect to find pieces with plush and comfortable cushions,” says Aino.
In this space, examples of layering can be seen around every corner. Wallpaper, tapestries, and artwork are layered on the walls, and the furniture is layered with a variety of white patterns and textures to create a cozy, collective feel. It’s a lively space that doesn’t feel oppressive, and each item has a story.
5. Living room with luxurious fabrics
(Image courtesy of Soho Home)
When it comes to textiles, think luxurious and luxurious. Heavier fabrics have a charm of their own, while delicate fabrics add decorative details and a layered look. “Ideal for whimsical decor, fabrics evoke hints of luxury, comfort, and fantasy. They often feature rich textures, from delicate to luxurious, such as velvet, lace, and silk. ” says Aino.
“Adding thick velvet curtains in deep, rich colors creates a dramatic effect. Layering lace curtains under thick drapes also adds a soft, dreamy touch. For cushions Mix and match fabrics in different shapes and sizes, including silk, velvet, and lace, to enhance the quirky, eclectic feel. And add a deep velvet sofa in a striking shade to complement the space. Sometimes.”
Velvet gives a very luxurious feel, but think about how to balance this thick fabric so the room doesn’t feel overwhelming. In this living room, a velvet sofa is combined with more organic materials through the rug and wooden elements through the panels and table.
This chair combines luxurious upholstery elements (Hello Velvet) with dark wood details typical of the whimsical style.
If you want to add a quirky touch to your existing sofa, this red velvet cushion is perfect for you. The delicate pattern also matches vintage style.
Trova washed velvet curtains
Velvet curtains not only look good, but also keep you warm. This design comes in four sizes and is available in eight beautiful colors.
Whimsigoth is a trend that’s here to stay, combining the best of several aesthetics that are considered timeless for a variety of reasons. Whether you want to embrace luxurious textiles, cozy style, or a collected aesthetic, there are plenty of design tips to take away from this transformative trend.
