If there’s one word that’s being thrown around a lot this year it’s ‘whimsical’. We can’t get enough of it. Whether we try to add whimsy to our daily routine or decorate our homes with whimsical decorations, ‘whimsymaxxing’ is emerging as the biggest trend of 2026. But what is it really? And how can we apply it to our interior?
The largest and longest running Home decorating trends Always focus on the human. Many of the people we see in the inner world hinge on the idea of ’nostalgia’ and surprisingly, fandom is no different.
Light and playful, whimsy is defined as: ‘unusual, funny and pleasant ideas or qualities,’ Cambridge Dictionary. But here’s how interior designers say it translates into the home.
What is Whimsymaxxing?
Adding -maxxing to words to form verbs is a 2026 trend. It’s basically internet slang for optimizing a specific area of your life. I’ve seen health influencers talk about Fibremaxxing, which essentially focuses on eating enough fiber, and of course Lookmaxxing is the manosphere ideal that has been mainstreamed and sees men ‘optimizing’ their physical appearance.
By this definition, whimsymaxing is the practice of making your life feel more whimsical. If you think your home is quirky enough, Whimsymaxxing is here to make your interiors feel a little more magical and playful.
(Image credit: Future plc/Simon Whitmore)
‘In a world where true creativity can sometimes feel threatened, whimsical interior design means that the designer has taken full control of the creative process to create their own unique, imaginative world. To me, ‘whimsymaxxing’ is simply filling your home with what you love. Interior designer and winner of BBC’s Interior Design Masters says, Leah Gould.
Whimsymaxxing is about choosing things that bring joy to our lives. Whether it’s by your favorite Paint colorScent or trinket. It’s a growing trend that’s gaining momentum online as well.
(Image credit: Future plc/James French)
The rise of ‘whimsymaxxing’ reflects a growing desire to bring more joy into everyday life. As people move away from fully curated interiors, they’re embracing nostalgia and playful design in ways that feel more personal,’ explains Etsy Trend expert, Diana Isom Johnson.
‘We’re seeing that change reflected in what people are looking for on Etsy too, with searches for whimsical jewelry up 84%, beginner needlepoint kits up 175% and polka dot phone cases up 835% as shoppers look for moments of joy in everything from their accessories to their homes. More than anything, it’s about giving yourself permission to decorate more freely and simply because you love them.’
How to use Whimsymaxxing at home
‘Whimsical isn’t a formula or a Pinterest board you can copy; It’s a feeling you create by surrounding yourself with joyful things. It’s that silly trinket you found that always makes you smile, or that art print from a little shop overseas that you probably didn’t need but absolutely wanted. You make a home whimsical by choosing things that evoke a memory or spark happiness,’ says Lia.
(Image credit: Future plc/ Douglas Gibb)
Given that the definition of whimsymaxxing is somewhat vague, there is no clear instruction manual for adding more whimsy to your home. First think about things that make you happy.
Then see how you can adopt it in your home. For example, if your favorite color is sunshine yellow, choose a darker yellow lamp (like this one). Edison Ross Bobbin Lamp) or a Sun-shaped rug (£349, Rugable) There is an easy way to put an instant smile on your face.
(Image credit: Future plc/David Giles)
‘While many people think of exotic interiors as spontaneous, dusty or a little bleak, today’s interpretation is more considered. It’s about playful intentionality. Carefully layering pieces that evoke joy and nostalgia while being stylish and contemporary,’ says Natalie EvansFounder and CEO of a home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.
Mixing patterned soft furnishings, pleated lampshades and vintage-inspired accessories with modern bases is the perfect way to embrace the look without feeling dated. The main thing is moderation. Instead of turning your home into a complete time capsule, introduce a few carefully selected statement pieces that capture the essence of the trend without overwhelming the space.
‘The whimsical life is not about chaos or chaos. It’s about creating interiors that feel playful, imaginative and delightfully unexpected while remaining beautifully curated.
Whimsical editing
Here are some of my favorite ‘whimsical’ homewares I’ve seen online recently.
Housing x Sanderson and the National Trust
Habitat x Sanderson and National Trust Stripe Tablecloth
Sanderson’s traditionally British designs look effortlessly whimsical to me. I love the dramatic frill and bold green of this tablecloth.
Dunelm
Check out the Ruffle Easy Fit Lamp Shade
I recently saw this lampshade at Dunelm’s recent press show and fell in love at first sight – it’s so much fun!
Next
Lia Gold x Next Red Tomato Vase
To me, Leah Gold’s collaboration with Next seems very strange. This tomato vase is both fun and unique.
Smart Garden Blue Leaf Extra Large Outdoor Rug, (l)240cm X (w)180cm
Why not choose a statement rug in your favorite color or print? I love the cheerful blue of this one, which can be used indoors and outdoors.
Rocket St. George
Beautiful bird cupboard/drawer handle
Subtle details like door knobs and cupboard handles are a fabulous way to add whimsy. As I love a good Consider garden wildlifeThis bird-themed handle is perfect for me.
M&S
All over glass table lamp
I have been lusting after this stunning lamp ever since it was launched. Each piece is hand blown, creating a unique piece of yours.
I think there’s something magical about choosing joy wherever we can, and it’s easy to see how whimsymaxxing can contribute to a happy home. Start small, and soon your passion for tunes will grow.
