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If your social media feed is full of whimsical shelves, rooms bursting with eclectic finds, and joyfully overcrowded décor, then you’re probably familiar with cluttercore.
At its heart, cluttercore is an aesthetic that celebrates maximalism, the idea of “more is more”, and an indulgence of personal treasures.
But beneath its playful exterior, there’s a nagging question that threatens to ruin the joys of the aesthetic: is cluttercore capitalism in disguise? And can it be more than just a marketing trick?
What’s Behind Cluttercore’s Appeal?
Emerging as an expressive backlash against minimalist aesthetics, cluttercore offers a bold, lived-in alternative that feels personal and comforting.
It isn’t about being messy; rather, it’s about surrounding yourself with meaningful items that resonate with your personality.
Whether that’s vintage trinkets, cherished books, artwork, or anything else that means something to you.
The problem with cluttercore, however, lies in social media tendency to turn aesthetics into pressure-filled trends that inadvertently promote the constant need to buy, buy and buy.
Quickly transforming cluttercore from a fun trend that celebrates joy in the little things into a trend driven by overconsumption and meaningless décor.
Why Is Cluttercore Trending?
Spaces that are filled with nostalgic, charming clutter are deeply comforting, especially during global uncertainty and constantly rising economic pressure.
People are craving the warmth, familiarity, and emotional security that comes with cluttercore.
But as brands catch on to the trend, marketing strategies have been adapted to lean into the aesthetic’s popularity.
Tempting us to buy more and more, consequently turning a movement based on authenticity into another capitalist playground.
Signs Your Cluttercore is Capitalism in Action
Cluttercore isn’t automatically capitalism, but there are signs to be aware of.
For instance, if you’re choosing to buy new items specifically to match the cluttercore vibe, instead of displaying what you already own or what you genuinely love, then you’ve fallen for the marketing trick.
Same with changing your décor constantly to match what you see trending. And if you find your space feels stressful instead of cosy because you’ve filled it with trending must-haves, then you’ve likely ended up in the capitalism trap.
How to Reclaim Your Cluttercore Home?
- Prioritise Authenticity: Make your home uniquely yours by using items that are genuinely sentimental to you. Choose décor that represents your experiences, travels, or milestones over mass-produced pieces designed solely for aesthetic appeal.
- Consider Functionality: Despite its name, cluttercore shouldn’t make your space impractical. Ask yourself how each item serves your life and contributes positively to your daily routine. For example, easy-to-clean and maintain flooring like luxury vinyl tiles can make daily living simpler and stress-free. At the end of the day, if something’s adding stress instead of joy, then it might be time to reconsider it.
- Embrace Slow Decorating: This approach to décor allows your home to evolve naturally with time. Giving you the chance to acquire items organically instead of impulsively, whether through gifts, second-hand finds, or pieces collected with strong memories attached.
- Thrift and Upcycle: Cluttercore tends to go hand in hand with thrifting and upcycling. Visit charity shops and vintage fairs, repurpose older items with creativity, such as turning vintage suitcases into quirky storage. There’s no limit to the things you can find and create in a cluttercore home. Plus, this is more sustainable than buying brand-new items!
- Focus on Long-Term: Think long-term when choosing décor. Items like classic armchairs, timeless rugs, or durable engineered wood flooring can anchor your space for years to come.
Is Cluttercore Worth It?
When done consciously, yes, cluttercore is a worthwhile aesthetic for those who enjoy the idea of it. Cluttercore can be liberating as it allows your home to fully reflect your personality.
However, the key is to engage with the aesthetic mindfully, ensuring it doesn’t become a cycle of endless consumerism disguised as authenticity.
As long as you remain aware and intentional in your design, cluttercore can offer warmth, charm, and genuine comfort without fuelling capitalism’s insatiable appetite.
Authentic Cluttercore
Cluttercore is about celebrating individuality, memories, and comfort. But, it’s important to recognise where the line between authentic self-expression and excessive consumerism lies so that you don’t cross it, because that’s when cluttercore interiors lose their meaning.
Author Bio:
Sophie Marlowe is a digital content writer and outreach executive for Luxury Flooring. She specialises in crafting engaging blogs on home improvement and home decor with a focus on flooring.
Sophie writes handy how-tos, easy guides, and helpful comparisons, letting the reader be informed and inspired to take their home to the next level.