It is an aesthetic that seeks to bring back the romance of bygone eras through the use of vintage items, hand crafted accents, and rustic furnishings. While some people enjoy the look of Cluttercore, others find it unsightly and overwhelming.
The term ‘Cluttercore’ first came into fashion in the mid-2010s, rising in popularity as millennials began to embrace vintage, handcrafted items as part of their decor. Cluttercore looks intentionally messy and cluttered, as if everything has been collected over a lifetime of travel, collecting, and visiting antique stores. The idea behind Cluttercore is that one should show off their collections and trinkets in unique and interesting ways, even if they are mismatched. Cluttercore rooms are often overflowing with cozy textiles and knick-knacks, as well as furniture and fixtures arranged in unexpected places.
The Cluttercore trend can be seen everywhere from apartment dwellers to multi-million dollar mansions. It is a trend that appeals to those who are looking to create a sense of grandeur and history within their living space. The key elements of Cluttercore are items that tell a story, as well as a certain level of disorder. Cluttercore has been described as a ‘lived in’ look, where things appear as if they have been collected over time, not purchased all at once. It is seen as a way of showing off vintage items as well as proudly displaying personal collections.
The combination of old and new items that Cluttercore relies on is what makes it so popular. It is an effective way of creating a highly individualized living space that is unique to each inhabitant. Cluttercore also emphasizes the importance of sourcing items, rather than just buying things off the shelf. Collecting items that have a special meaning or significance adds to the charm of the space, and is a large part of what makes Cluttercore so appealing.
However, many people take issue with Cluttercore, claiming that it is too chaotic and cluttered for their tastes. While some may appreciate the ‘lived in’ look, others think it looks disordered and unwelcoming. Those opposed to this trend argue that it takes away from the cozy atmosphere of a home by being too busy and overwhelming.
In summary, Cluttercore is a trend that has become popular in the mid-2000s as a way of creating unique and individualized living spaces. This trend involves the intentional over-cluttering and maximalist styling of home decor, relying on vintage items, hand crafted accents, and rustic furnishings. While some view Cluttercore as a way of showcasing a person’s collections, others find it too chaotic and overwhelming. Regardless of opinion, it is clear that Cluttercore is here to stay, and the trend of intentional over-cluttering shows no sign of slowing down any time soon.
This article was contributed on Oct 14, 2023
