So, you watched “Barbie” back in 2023, and you haven’t stopped thinking about the hot pink and fun decorations in the Dreamhouse. Meet cutecore! This hyper-feminine aesthetic is heavily inspired by Barbie and Polly Pocket dolls. Bring out your inner child with bright colors, novelty shapes, and maximalist décor!
Think Pink
Any Barbie-inspired aesthetic must start with pink! Any shade will do, but the more you use, the better.
Pink should be the base color throughout your apartment rather than a pop of color. Add curtains, seating, and tables in various shades to drench your home in pink. If your rental doesn’t allow you to paint the neutral-tone walls, don’t fret! There are plenty of ways to jazz up your walls without pulling out the paint. A gallery wall with pink picture frames and wall art is a great way to add more personality…and pink.
Add More Color
If you think your space is colorful enough, think again.
While pink should be the primary color, throw in some other colors, too! Candy colors and pastels go well with any shade of pink and reinforce the dollhouse look. Add multicolor blankets, throw pillows, and table lamps to make your home cozy and cute. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns! Cutecore is all about having fun.
Incorporate Novelty Shapes
Decorating in maximalist aesthetics like cutecore often seems like you have to abandon functionality, but finding the right pieces is crucial. Instead of traditional household staples, look for colorful options in fun shapes.
Colorful rounded sofas are a rising trend in 2025 and can add a quirky element to your living room while inviting your guests to make themselves at home. Dishware and coasters in shapes like hearts, buttons, or flowers can add another layer of cuteness while still being functional.
Show Off Your Trinkets
Fill your shelves and side tables with colorful trinkets. Whether you collect knickknacks from vacations, thrift stores, or boutiques, put them all on display! Extra points if your trinkets are fun and colorful. If you find your old dolls in boxes of storage, show them off!
While this may sound like clutter, cutecore is controlled chaos. Group your trinkets in clusters around your home to help it look more intentional without completely abandoning whimsy.
Use Fun Lighting
With the right lighting, you can pull it all together and make your apartment into a cutecore haven. Place quirky, mismatched lamps throughout your home to add mood lighting and reinforce the playfulness aspect. Pull out that colorful set of tapered candles and abstract candle holders to add a level of sophistication.
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to decorating in the cutecore aesthetic. Have fun with colors and shapes to turn your apartment into the Dreamhouse you’ve always wanted!
