This trending aesthetic mixes gothic and ethereal elements.
But one dark and moody style stands out as especially magical.
An alreadypopular emerging stylein 2022, the aesthetic was predicted to be big in 2023.
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“This is the goth-aissance,” says Jankowski.
Get the details on this moody style and how to get the eclectic look.
Havenly
What Is Whimsigoth Style?
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I see whimsigoth asgrandmillennial stylesdarker, edgier, more magical cousin, saysHeather Goerzen, Havenly design editor.
If grandmillennial is a Jane Austen novel, then whimsigoth isPractical Magic.
The key to whimsigoth style is not going full goth.
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The whimsy is essential, says Groezen.
Its more otherworldly and ethereal than it is creepy and sinister.
Celestialelements like moons and starsare often used to add that lighthearted character.
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Retro Roots and a Return to Color
Whimsigoths rise came as fashion and entertainment from the1990sregained popularity.
Like Goerzens nod toPractical Magic, we cant help but recallCharmedandBuffy the Vampire Slayerwhen discussing whimsigoths feel.
But its not just part of a fleeting retro revamp.
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Whimsigoth is a response to broadly popular home design trends, too.
Its part of the movement away from light, uncluttered interiors.
Theres a desire for spaces to feel immersive, intimate, and above all, distinctive.
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Both Bentrup and Goerzen align whimsigoth looks with eclectic style, giving it some serious design flexibility.
Or go romantic with florals and lace, or lean intodark academiawith plenty of books and leather.
The style can even lean contemporary.
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Jankowski describes hisliving roomas a combination of gothic minimalism complemented by something whimsical.
Start with a dark, moody base, then incorporate dashes of softness and whimsy.
Just remember that whimsigoth needs contrast for the nostalgia-tinted look to feel fresh and now.
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Here are some ideas from the pros about how to nail the look in your home.
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1.
Dark, Saturated Colors
White walls, be gone!
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Sorry, Scandi style and other minimalist decor styles; walls need color for this style to succeed.
Set the scene with a slate-black paint ornature-inspired moody sage, suggests Goerzen.
Alternatively, try adark patterned wallpaper, whether a Victorian damask or a geometric Art Deco print.
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Be sure to incorporatedeep huesthrough furniture, rugs, and other textiles.
Mixed Textures
Velvetsand hardwoods quickly come to mind for a gothic quality.
Combine avintage-style sofaor chair in a luxe velvet along withtables in a dark wood finish, recommends Bentrup.
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3.
Celestial Elements
Here lies the intersection of gothic and whimsy: celestial shapes and patterns.
Look for whimsicalwallcoveringsor art with a celestial pattern, says Bentrup.
Or turn to more dimensional decor, like a moon-shaped table lamp.
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4.
Gothic Accents
Feeling the gothic elements?
Even in a more minimalist setting, ornate accents bring home the whimsigoth sense.
Lots of Layers
To best achieve the look,layer materials and textures, says Bentrup.
Hang a sheer drape with a solid curtain panel, or add rugs over hard or carpeted floors.
Stack items like books on surfaces for depth.
And dont forget the real deal, too.
Better Homes & Gardens / Helen Norman
7.
Dramatic Art
Art is a great way to embrace the trend and provide color inspiration for a room.
Take cues from creepy classics likeCaravaggios MedusaorMaria van Oosterwijcks Vanitas-Still Life.
Or try something more modern.
Check outJanet Hill Studiofor many intriguing portraits that enhance the look.
Magic-Inspired Artifacts
Theres a bit of magic at the core of whimsigoth.
Better Homes & Gardens / Anthony Masterson
9.
A Sense of History
Weave in lots of vintage pieces, fromfurniture to decorelements, says Goerzen.
The goal is for there to be a sense of history throughout your space.
Look for items like well-loved suitcases, iron bedframes, and plenty of shelving to display your whimsigoth collectibles.
