It’s time to talk about cores, and I don’t mean your abs. Instead, we’re talking about the aesthetic “cores” popping up all over social media. For a while, all anyone could talk about was “cottagecore,” then came Barbiecore, coastal grandmomcore, dopamine core—the list goes on. All of those hyper-specific interior design trends that promise to help you “find your vibe” are fun to scroll through, but it can easily start to feel like you have to transform your home every time a new style goes viral. But that’s not the case.
You don’t have to commit to any one core to have a beautiful, intentional home. Instead, you can create a mix that makes your home just that—yours. Here’s how.
Start small
The name of the game is swappable details. Because the best way to dabble in a trend without drowning in it is to incorporate small, thoughtful elements that are interchangeable. Think accessories like accent pillows, art prints, throws, and candles. These are all low-stakes entry points into any design style that can easily move around, get stored, or be replaced when your taste shifts.
Keep larger investments timeless
The major elements of your home design should not be determined by a social media trend, as they’re not something you can easily replace when you’re tired of them. That’s why you should opt for neutral, classic forms for items such as sofas, rugs, or major light fixtures. Think of them as the jeans in your wardrobe. You’ll wear them often and for years, so they should go with everything.
Mix and match trends
Design “cores” are meant to inspire, not define. Mixing them can make your space feel more like you. For instance, pair dopamine decor’s bright colors with the nostalgic touches of cottagecore. Or soften a sleek, modern space with some organic shapes and cozy textures borrowed from coastal styles. The best interiors are the ones that feel layered.
Leave room for your home to evolve
The beauty of decorating is that it’s not a one-and-done project. What you love this year might not be what you love next year, and that’s okay. If you treat trends like experiments rather than permanent commitments, you’ll have the freedom to refresh your space whenever inspiration strikes, says an interior decorator in Las Vegas. The goal isn’t to have a “perfectly themed” space, it’s to have a space that feels like home. That’s usually a blend of styles, memories, and personality.
Find Your Underlying Style DNA
Before you try fitting your home into one aesthetic, ask yourself the following:
- What colors make me feel most at home?
- Do I gravitate toward clean lines or cozy clutter?
- Do I want my space to feel calm or energetic?
So the next time you see a new “core” trending, take it as an invitation to play, rather than a mandate to redecorate. Pull the pieces that make you smile, leave the rest behind, and trust that your personal style will always be the most timeless one of all.
