Sometimes, you see a style that’s so over the top, with so many seemingly disconnected designs, that it's a miracle everything flows together so seamlessly. Case in point: the no-holds-barred look of British pop decor. The style combines the best of today’s trending aesthetics with a healthy dose of the posh past—and like all maximalist styles, it's all about the layers.
While some maximalist aesthetics rely on curated collections and bold themes, British pop decor is an anything-goes frolic through time periods, patterns, and trends—all cobbled together to create a style that pulls inspiration from both traditional and modern designs. In other words: For British pop decor, the wilder, the better.
While this type of layering isn’t for the faint of heart (the minimalist lovers might unabashadly turn away), it is undeniably fun. And for those who have a deep love of maximalism, the appeal of an anything-goes style like this is the over-the-top design endgame.
If you're tempted to try British pop but are wondering how to strike that delicate balance between creatively curated and just plain cluttered, here's all the info you need for your journey to honing this bright and busy style.
Why British Pop Is On the Rise
British pop decor is, at its core, an evolution of many trends that have been popular over the last few years. With its mashup of looks, this style allows you to combine aesthetics like cottagecore, cluttercore, grandmillenial, and any other traditional-inspired designs you love. You have the opportunity to pick and choose your favorite parts of trending aesthetics and combine them to create a look that's completely unique to you.
And, because of the focus on layering styles and looks, you can add a few fresh British pop-inspired pieces to your current design scheme without having to do a complete overhaul or change out any of the elements you love—saving a ton of time and money.
How to Add British Pop Decor to Your Home
To achieve this look, think about a hypothetical house that's been passed down from generation to generation. Each family member has added their own contemporary pieces to the space's previous designs, creating a strata of decor that becomes richer with each passing year. Even if you're not living in a multigenerational home, British pop draws upon this idea, creating layers and levels of style inspiration—this is a trend you can slowly wade into and build up bit by bit. In fact, that might be the best way to perfect your version of British pop.
If you're looking for more specific tips, we’ve put together some do’s and don’ts for getting started with this playful pop style in your home. Remember, there are no strict rules for this trend, so think of these more as helpful hints.
Play Up the British Influence
For a more classic look, try adding elements like argyles, plaids, and even images of stately country homes. Or, take another British route, and incorporate some nods to more modern UK icons like The Beatles with vinyl covers and framed posters or prints. You could even go a little kitschy and add playful corgis or teacups. Want to go all in on this side of the trend? Combine all of the above.
Mix and Match Patterns
When mixing patterns, try to include at least three types of prints (think plaids, stripes, or florals) with a common dominant color to keep them incorporated and make clear that they're intentional. You can use these prints on everything from the walls, to furnishings, to accessories. No surface is out of bounds when creating this bold decor look—you could even do a statement ceiling.
Add Modern Elements
JACOB FOX
The mix of old and new is part of what makes this style look more contemporary, so be sure you have some playful pop art pieces or furnishings with modern lines to create balance.
Have Fun With It
Bring on the psychedelic patterns and funky shapes, and feel free to add accents that are downright weird if they call out to you. This will make your space truly your own, and the attitude is a perfect nod to the classic British dry humor.
Think Outside the Box
If you find something you love that doesn’t quite fit the British pop theme, use it anyway. You’ll never regret adding a piece you’re passionate about, and this whole look is based on a quirky sense of style—you absolutely can’t go wrong.