Shop the trend: Vintage fairground for under £25
Carnivalcore is the latest bright, colourful and cheery trend to take over the world of interior design. Find out how to get the look without spending a fortune below...
Roll up! Roll up! The carnival core trend has arrived on the interior scene, with bold stripes reminiscent of traditional circus tents, mixed with candy-cane hues, zany patterns and folklore prints all working together to add a touch of whimsy to a space – ideal for kid’s bedrooms and play spaces.
Read on for our top tips on how to take the fun from the Big Top and bring it into your own home. PLUS don’t miss our shopping ideas, where we show you how to recreate the carnivalcore look on a budget, with our amazing affordable buys, all for under £25.
GO BIG OR GO HOME
Wide-striped fabrics in candy-cane reds, blues, pinks and greens are synonymous with the trend. Don’t be afraid to juxtapose colours on more than one element of a room – more is definitely more in a circus-themed playspace. From rugs, lampshades and wallpaper to cushions, wall art and curtains featuring animals, tents, clowns and stuntmen – an eclectic look is key here – anything goes! You could even treat little ones to their very own Big Top tent or canopy, from which they can act out their very own Greatest Showman display, such as the Ikea Cirkustalt play tent, £19 (above).
TONE IT DOWN
Typically, a carnival interior is loud, bright and in your face. So, if you’re worried the theme is going to be too much, tone it down with soothing, yet playful pastel coloured paint as your main backdrop and gently introduce the carnival theme through muted circus-themed lighting, bedding, wall art and striped fabrics.
ADD PATTERNS IN PAINT
If budget won’t allow for harlequin fabric or a statement mural, consider using cost-effective paint to add stripes instead. Go bold and paint your ceiling in the distinct Big Top pattern and then extend the stripes down the walls. Or finish them off with rounded ends. Check out @thepinkdoorcottage for inspiration.
MODERNISE THE THEME
Besides stripes, diamond patterns are also strongly associated with the circus. It’s a beautiful and slightly more mature take on the theme and ideal for older children’s bedrooms. Introduce in accents through prints, furniture and cushions.
GET THE LOOK
Looking for some quick updates to recreate the look? Add colour and interest to your kids’ spaces with these affordable carnival-feel buys, all for under £25*
