In 2025, whimsy and nostalgia are coming to life in homes with the “Dolled Up” trend. Inspired by dollhouse aesthetics, this trend, predicted by Pinterest, embraces a playful and charming approach to decor. It celebrates cutecore style, pastel palettes, quirky accessories, and a touch of retro flair that makes your home feel like a delightful miniature world.

But how do you embrace this fanciful aesthetic without going overboard? Which rooms are suited for this enchanting trend?

What is the “Dolled Up” Trend?

The Dolled Up trend is a celebration of whimsy, playfulness, and nostalgia. Think of the vibrant, pastel colours of dollhouses and the quirky charm of miniature decor. Pinterest anticipates a surge in interest for this cutecore style, from doll-like makeup to home interiors that feel like they’ve sprung from a childhood dream.

This isn’t about recreating a child’s playroom, though. Instead, it’s a refined, sophisticated take on charm and cuteness. It blends feminine touches with modern practicality, creating spaces that feel both enchanting and stylish.

The Living Room: A Whimsical Welcome

The living room is the perfect place to start with the Dolled Up trend. Since this space is central to your home, adding playful touches here can set the tone for the rest of your decor.

• Colour Palette: Go for a mix of pastels like soft pinks, powder blues, lavender, and mint green. These colours create a cheerful yet soothing atmosphere.
• Flooring: Light wood flooring or pastel-toned laminate can enhance the airy, whimsical feel. Consider adding a plush, pastel area rug to anchor the space.
• Furniture: Consider vintage-inspired furniture with curved lines and delicate details. A plush pink or teal velvet sofa, a scalloped-edge coffee table, or a dainty armchair can bring in that dollhouse charm.
• Accessories: Add cute and quirky touches like floral-patterned throw pillows, ceramic figurines, or retro lamps with playful shades. A fun, oversized mirror with a pastel frame can be both practical and whimsical.

The Bedroom: A Dreamy Escape

Bedrooms are all about personal comfort, making them ideal for the Dolled Up aesthetic. Here’s how to achieve a dreamy, dollhouse-inspired bedroom:

• Bedding: Go for soft, pastel bed linens, perhaps with frilly edges or floral patterns—layer with textured throws and delicate lace pillows to enhance the charm.
• Furniture: A vintage-style vanity with a pastel finish, a canopy bed, or a nightstand with scalloped detailing will instantly give the room a whimsical feel.
• Decor: Consider small touches like framed vintage prints, decorative pastel boxes, or a dainty chandelier to complete the look.
• Flooring: Soft, plush carpets in pastel hues or light-toned engineered wood flooring can create a cozy yet whimsical foundation for your bedroom.

The Bathroom: Petite Perfection

Bathrooms are perfect for the Dolled Up trend because their smaller size allows you to experiment without overwhelming the space.

• Tiles and Fixtures: Consider pastel-hued tiles, such as soft pink or mint green, or go for a vintage-inspired wallpaper. Pair with brass or gold fixtures for a retro-meets-modern vibe.
• Flooring: Choose patterned tiles in pastel shades or luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) with a subtle, whimsical pattern to bring character to the space.
• Accessories: Cute soap dishes, dainty hand towels with embroidered details, or a pastel shower curtain can add just the right touch of whimsy.

The Kitchen: Playful and Functional

You can bring the Dolled Up trend into your kitchen without sacrificing functionality. It’s all about the details.

• Cabinets: Soft pastel cabinets, like blush pink or sky blue, can make a significant impact. If you’re not ready to commit to full-colour cabinets, try pastel accessories like mixing bowls, utensils, or even a retro toaster.
• Backsplash and Tiles: A pastel-tiled backsplash or cute, floral-patterned tiles can add a dollhouse charm without overwhelming the space.
• Flooring: Consider pastel checkerboard tiles, light wood floors, or even patterned LVT to infuse charm without compromising durability.
• Decor: Open shelving with pastel dishes, whimsical knobs on your cabinets, or playful kitchen towels can help tie everything together.

Which Room is Ideal for This Trend?

If you’re wondering where to start, the bedroom or bathroom is ideal. These spaces lend themselves naturally to more personal, whimsical touches without the pressure of decorating a larger, more visible space like the living room.
Bedrooms allow you to fully embrace this aesthetic with playful linens, delicate furniture, and pastel walls. Bathrooms, on the other hand, are the perfect small canvas for experimenting with tiles, wallpaper, and charming accessories.

Tips for Embracing the Dolled-Up Trend

• Balance is Key: Keep your base neutral if you’re hesitant about too much colour. Whites and creams can balance out pastels.
• Mix Old and New: Pair vintage finds with modern pieces to avoid looking too theme-heavy.
• Details Matter: The Dolled Up trend thrives on small details. Focus on cute accessories, unique textures, and playful patterns to bring the look together.

Whimsical Homes

In 2025, the Dolled Up trend invites you to look at life through a playful, nostalgic lens. Whether you’re transforming your whole home or just adding whimsical touches, this trend is a charming way to make your space feel uniquely delightful. So go ahead – explore the possibilities of this trend and enjoy the process of making your home one-of-a-kind.

Published by Nicholas A.