If you’ve been perusing Tiktok for the latest trends in home design, chances are you’ve come across a new style called “Whimsigothic.” Full of 1990s nostalgia, Halloween vibes, and the beloved eclecticism of maximalism, this home decor trend blends the moody tones of gothic decor with the whimsical, cottage-inspired styles that have been taking the interior design world by storm in the last couple of years.
But what is whimsigothic home design? And how can you go about incorporating this eccentric look into your home? We’ll discuss everything you need to know about this magical trend.
What is whimsigothic home decor style?
“Whimsigothic,” “whimsy goth,” and “whimsigoth” are all terms used to describe the latest style trend that has been popping up on Tiktok recently. Originating from the fashion scene where designers and influencers took inspiration from ’90s Halloween movies to create eclectic, witch-inspired looks, the whimsigothic style garnered popularity among young people interested in ’90s nostalgia.
The trend draws inspiration from ’90s movies and shows featuring witches or other supernatural storylines. Practical Magic, Charmed, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and The Craft are all examples of media that greatly influence the whimsigothic aesthetic.
@rosehavengables A cozy evening in at our home enjoying 90s music. #victorianhouse #darkandmoody #vintage #whimsygoth #darkacademia #romantic #dreamhome #darkdecor #maximilist #plants #plantsoftiktok #black #victorian #greendecor #chandelier #whimsical
One Tiktoker, @rosehavengables, shares their moody whimsigothic interior, which seamlessly pairs itself with the natural Victorian-inspired architecture. The space is dark, eclectic, and mystical, embodying this witchy-maximalist trend.
How to make your home whimsigoth
If dark color palettes, maximalist decor, elegant antiques, and celestial themes sound like the perfect fit for your space, then we have some exciting tips for inviting whimsigothic decor to your home.
And, if you aren’t ready to fully commit to this aesthetic, you might consider using it as a trendy, elegant way to adorn your home for Halloween. Since whimsigothic decor draws a lot of inspiration from classic ’90s Halloween movies and shows, it can be a wonderful aesthetic to use during the spooky season!
Still, no matter how you choose to participate in this look, these are the must-haves for pulling it off in your design.
Use moody, jewel tones
If you bring whimsigothic decor into your space, choosing moody, jewel tones in your color palette is a must! Shades like royal and navy blue, deep purples, rich evergreens, and black are perfect for this aesthetic. Take inspiration from these images gathered by @saraainseattle on TikTok. The rooms featured are filled with these lush colors as well as accents of black and gold.
While you don’t need to cover every inch of space in these hues, it can be a good idea to opt for one or two jewel tones for the wall and add black or gold accents throughout your design for the moody, regal look.
Opt for antique furniture and decor
Antique furniture like the classic wingback chair, ornate bronze or gold-painted mirrors, curio cupboards, and elegant chaise lounges are a few pieces you are likely to find in whimsigothic design. Like @_miavolk on TikTok says, Victorian-inspired art, vintage furniture, and velvet pieces can tie the look together.
Remember to choose pieces in dark wood tones like mahogany or walnut and stick with furniture items that are jewel-toned, black, or otherwise deeply colored to best suit the color palette.
@insidemymindrestoration Now realizing 90s Antique Eclectic Witch and Whimsigothic aesthetics go hand-in-hand ??? #whimsigothic #whimsigoth #historichome #oldhousetiktok #fyp #oldhouse #design #bedroomdesign #eclectic #antique #maximalism
Look to the ’90s for inspiration
Of course, one of the easiest ways to pull off a whimsigothic room design is to look to the ’90s shows and films that inspired the look. Interior designs from the Practical Magic house, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and Charmed can help you create the perfect ’90s decor and vintage-inspired, witchy setup. Tiktok user @insidemymindrestoration shares their collection of images from ’90s media featuring Whimsigothic decor like metal bed frames, dark tones, layered Moroccan rugs, plenty of house plants, and celestial themes, all with a bit of ’90s flair.
@magicalmysterythrifts ?My whimsigothic room decor? #whimsigothic #whimsigoth #witchtok #roomtourcheck #roomdecor #gothic #witchyvibes
Find eclectic celestial or “witch-inspired” pieces
The whimsigothic aesthetic can be broken down into two parts: whimsical and gothic. While we’ve covered many ways to create dark and moody color palettes or add a maximalist flair to the space, one of the staple pieces of the whimsigothic style is celestial and witch-inspired decor.
Crystals, crystal balls, candelabras, layered fabrics, sun and moon motifs, and eccentric curios are a must-have in this design scheme. @magicalmysterydesigns on TikTok shows plenty of whimsigothic decor pieces like the sun and moon drapery above the window, a celestial tapestry, and an ornate moon wall sconce that perfectly capture the witchy and mystical vibe of the whimsigothic style.
Play with texture
Another facet of whimsigothic home decor is the use of elegant textures throughout the space. Velvet is one of the most popular elements to incorporate in a whimsigothic design. Velvet furniture, draperies, blankets, and throw pillows are a great way to bring this texture into the design. Additionally, adding other textures like lace, silk, and organic materials like stone and wood can help curate a luxe yet earthy environment that feels mystical and cottage-like. We recommend layering materials and textures on one another to integrate this dark maximalist aesthetic fully.
Whimsigothic decor may have derived from fashion trends in classic 1990s witch shows and films, but it has quickly become its own unique aesthetic in home design. Appearing to be like a blend of gothic maximalism, vintage design, and cottagecore styles, this interior design trend is quickly gaining popularity. So whether you want to create a year-round look or opt for this elegant style during this Halloween season, whimsigothic is a great way to add a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic to your space.
