Joy Decorating Is the New Trend Taking the Design World By Storm

As the weather warms and people spend more time outdoors, bright colors and bold patterns have taken center stage in our wardrobes... and our homes.

"I think everyone can relate to the growing pile of gray sweatpants they have accumulated over the past year," Eilyn Jimenez, designer, creative director, and founder of Sire Design tells MyDomaine. "With the weather warming and more opportunities to enjoy activities, people are expressing this release through 'joy dressing.'"

Joy dressing is just what it sounds like: wearing clothes that spark happiness. Think rainbow-colored separates, plenty of pastels, and risk-taking patterns, or the complete opposite of the neutral capsule closet that has dominated fashion for years.

"People are now gravitating towards eccentric clothing because this is one of their first opportunities in over a year to creatively express themselves through visual representation," Jimenez explains. "Interior design and fashion have always been close friends when it comes to what is 'in,' so I see bright and joyful clothing translating into our homes through accent décor pieces and paint trends."

If joy dressing is the style du jour for fashion, joy decorating is the latest trend for interiors. Characterized by bold color, fun prints, and a touch of maximalism, joy decorating is a way to add some happiness and a sense of joie de vivre to your space.

"As an interior designer, I understand how outward appearances can be a deeply rewarding form of creative expression," Jimenez explains. "There is a sense of hope that things are beginning to return to normal. This optimistic outlook on the future has manifested itself into bright and bold physical statements."

Even if you're a fan of simple, more minimalist interiors, there's still a way to try out this trend.

"While neutral and minimalistic-inspired spaces are always my go-to, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with new accessories," Jimenez explains. "Add in pops of colors with new throw pillows or get adventurous and paint an accent wall. I would also recommend staying away from mass-produced items in favor of vintage shopping. You never know what one-of-a-kind items you will find!"

Cultivating a unique home is an important part of nailing the trend. Focus on what brings joy to you, and the rest will follow. Jimenez recommends experimenting with accessories first.

"Swapping out a blanket or adding a bold vase are easy ways to dip your toe into the trend without committing too much time or money," Jimenez says. "If you fall in love with bright accents, take it a step further and paint or wallpaper a room!"

Though we're always a fan of adding bold accents, Jimenez says it's best to keep more expensive items like sofas or sectionals on the neutral side if you're testing out this trend.

"That being said, I suggest keeping large furniture neutral," Jimenez explains. "It’s best to keep these large ticket items minimal and add interest through pillows and accessories so that you do not find yourself wanting to repurchase them."