How to Incorporate the 'Whimsigoth' Aesthetic Into Your Decor

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Credit: Radanasta/Shutterstock

Rooted in the Bohemian and Gothic design movements of the 1970s, "whimsigoth" interior design is a bold style you can find in '90s films like Practical Magic. As '90s design gains a renewed popularity, whimsigoth aesthetic is making a comeback with its edgier take on the floral and nature-inspired elements of grandmillennial style. Whimsigoth is about choosing the dark, mysterious details that strum on your romantic Victorian heartstrings, with heavy drapes and saturated color. With all that darkness, it’s important not to skimp on the whimsy, to even out the intense color palette.

Choose velvety textiles

Whimsigoth is all about plush, luxurious materials, like velvet and other deep-pile materials. Soft lines and a romantic feel are what you’re after, so opulent-feeling materials should take center stage. Velvet upholstered furniture is one option for adding some whimsigoth style to your space, but you can also choose accent pillows or drapes to add some velvety texture to a room.

Use jewel tones

Darker jewel tones will help keep your decor firmly in the whimsigoth camp. Adding a large area rug in a jewel-tone pattern can help, but smaller accents like a round mirror or an ottoman can also bring a jewel-toned color palette in. The important thing to keep in mind isn’t so much a completely matching set, but a color family that can be pulled together.

Stack patterns

Add complementary patterns that can work together. Bring in some peel-and-stick wallpaper, not just for walls, but as a shelf liner, or on an old cabinet’s doors with a darker jewel-tone pattern. You can also add a patterned throw blanket or a table runner to layer in some pattern.

Add some lace

Incorporating lace details into your decor can help to achieve maximum whimsigoth. Doilies are an obvious choice, but lace curtains or a room divider can also add a lacy accent. Whimisgoth is a maximalist style, so feel free to go a little overboard on this one. Adding lace accents to lighting, table settings, and window dressing are all ways to inject a Victorian feel into your home.

Keep your lighting soft

Lighting is key to creating your cozy space. A curvy, Victorian-style lamp with a soft white bulb can help you create the right ambiance. You can also choose a sconce with a rounded base or a stained glass floor lamp. Old-style chandeliers are also a great whimsigoth lighting option.

Embrace celestial motifs

Celestial symbols are central to whimsigoth style. While you don’t need to go over the top with star and moon motifs, you can add some celestial patterns and shapes to your overall design. Try a a star lamp or a phases of the moon clock.

Don’t forget the whimsy

Adding your own touch to your whimsigoth space will make it feel more like home. If there are particular elements of Gothic design that you particularly like, add them in. Corvids, moths, floral motifs, cats, and owls all fit within these theme. Think mystical, nature-inspired, and Victorian for inspiration in adding your own touches.