Lately, there’s a home décor trend that’s challenging the “everything in its place” mantra. A new aesthetic, the messy girl aesthetic, is gaining popularity and it’s all about embracing the relaxed, unkept, and lived-in look. It’s a refreshing departure from the perfectly styled homes we’re used to seeing on Pinterest and Instagram.
This article will guide you through ten key elements of the messy girl aesthetic. It’s not just about leaving your clothes on the floor or dishes in the sink. The trend is about creating a space that feels authentic, comfortable and personal. We’ll show you how to master this look with tips on furniture selection, color schemes, and décor choices.
Vintage Furniture
The messy girl aesthetic is all about creating a cozy, lived-in atmosphere, and nothing does that better than vintage furniture. Look out for pieces with a history and a story to tell. A worn-out leather couch, an antique coffee table or a retro lamp can add an instant charm and character to your space. Remember, the goal is not perfection but authenticity.
Shop at thrift stores, flea markets or online platforms like Etsy for unique vintage finds. Don’t worry about matching everything perfectly. The mismatched look is part of the charm of this aesthetic. Mix and match different styles and periods for a truly eclectic look.
When it comes to colors, the messy girl aesthetic leans towards muted, earthy tones. Think beiges, browns, greys, and pastels. These colors create a warm, inviting atmosphere and make your space look lived-in. A muted color palette also allows for more flexibility when it comes to mixing and matching different furniture and decor pieces.
To incorporate this color scheme into your home, consider painting your walls in a soft neutral shade. For furniture and décor, opt for items in similar tones. You can also add a pop of color with a vintage rug or throw pillows.
Clutter is Welcome
In the world of the messy girl aesthetic, clutter is not a bad word. It’s all about displaying your personal belongings and collections in a way that looks curated rather than chaotic. This could mean leaving your favourite books on the coffee table, hanging your hats on the wall, or displaying your jewelry on a vintage tray.
This trend encourages you to surround yourself with items that you love and that tell your story. So, don’t be afraid to leave your things out in the open. Just remember, there’s a fine line between a charming mess and chaos, so try to keep a balance.
Layered Textiles
Layering different textiles is a key element of the messy girl aesthetic. Think fluffy rugs, velvet pillows, cozy blankets, and vintage curtains. These items add texture and depth to your space, making it feel cozy and lived-in. Plus, they are perfect for adding a touch of luxury and comfort to your home.
When layering textiles, don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns, colors, and textures. A Moroccan rug can look great with a velvet sofa, and a vintage linen tablecloth can add a charming touch to a modern dining table.
Open Shelving
Open shelving is another key element of the messy girl aesthetic. These shelves give you a chance to display your favorite items and collections, adding a personal touch to your home. Whether it’s your favorite books, vintage dishware, or a collection of potted plants, open shelves let you show off your personality and style.
When styling your open shelves, remember to keep it balanced and cohesive. Stick to a certain color scheme, group similar items together, and don’t overcrowd the shelves. Also, remember to leave some space for the eye to rest.
Lots of Plants
Plants are a must-have for the messy girl aesthetic. They add life, color, and texture to your space, making it feel more inviting and lived-in. Plus, they can improve the air quality in your home, making it a healthier place to live.
When choosing plants, consider the light and humidity levels in your home. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, require a lot of light and little water, while others, like ferns and pothos, prefer a more humid environment. Also, remember to choose pots that match your decor.
Maximalism
While minimalism has been a popular trend in recent years, the messy girl aesthetic is all about maximalism. This trend encourages you to fill your home with items that you love, regardless of whether they match or not. It’s all about creating a space that reflects your personality and taste.
To embrace maximalism, start by displaying your favorite items and collections. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns, colors, and styles. Also, remember that more is more in this aesthetic, so don’t be afraid to fill your space with items that make you happy.
Eclectic Decor
The messy girl aesthetic is all about embracing the eclectic. This means mixing and matching different styles, periods, and cultures to create a unique and personal look. From vintage furniture and boho textiles to modern art and industrial lighting, this aesthetic is all about mixing things up.
To achieve this look, start by choosing a few key pieces that you love, regardless of their style or period. Then, add in other items that complement them, even if they are from a different style or period. The key is to create a cohesive look that reflects your personal taste and style.
Personal Touches
Personal touches are a big part of the messy girl aesthetic. This could be anything from family photos and travel souvenirs to your favorite books and artwork. These items not only add personality to your space, but they also make it feel more lived-in and authentic.
When adding personal touches to your space, remember to keep it balanced and cohesive. Display your items in a way that looks curated rather than chaotic, and stick to a certain color scheme or theme to keep everything looking cohesive.
Embracing Imperfections
Finally, the messy girl aesthetic is all about embracing imperfections. Whether it’s a chipped mug, a worn-out rug, or a wall with peeling paint, these imperfections add character and authenticity to your space. They tell a story and make your home feel more lived-in and real.
Instead of trying to hide or fix these imperfections, embrace them. Let them be a part of your home’s character and charm. After all, a home is meant to be lived in, not just looked at.
