One of the most exciting design trends of 2025 is the “pretty ugly” aesthetic. Despite the name, this trend isn’t about making your space intentionally ugly—it’s about embracing the unexpected and celebrating the beauty in imperfection.
While Pinterest-perfect rooms have dominated home decor in recent years, the “pretty ugly” trend encourages a shift toward curating a space that feels unique and full of character. Here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing trend, why designers love it, and how you can easily incorporate it into your home.
What Is the “Pretty Ugly” Design Trend?
The term “pretty ugly” originates from the French phrase jolie-laide, which translates to “pretty ugly.” But it doesn’t mean your home should be filled with mismatched ugly and beautiful things. Instead, the trend focuses on choosing a statement piece that feels less cohesive than the other elements around it. Think bold art pieces, quirky sculptures, or even furniture that stands out as intentionally offbeat.
Interior designer Lindsie Davis of Blueberry Jones Design explains, “When everything feels too polished or perfect, a room loses its soul. There’s something wonderfully disruptive about introducing an element that challenges convention—that ‘pretty-ugly’ piece that makes you pause and think.” Davis doesn’t see it as a passing trend, but rather a lasting design approach. “Good design should always spark conversation,” she says. “Why not dare to be bold and incorporate art that evokes emotion?”
As designer Amy Switzer notes, a “pretty ugly” accent “can feel fresh and authentic, like a little wink to say, not everything has to be perfect to be beautiful.”
How To Make Any Room Look “Pretty Ugly”
While the goal of the “pretty ugly” trend is to embrace imperfection, executing it correctly can be challenging. “It takes a good eye to make intentional mismatching feel cohesive rather than chaotic,” says Switzer. “It works best in spaces where personality and whimsy are key, like a creative studio or a kid’s playroom.” For those seeking more luxurious designs, it may feel a bit experimental, but when done right, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Switzer, a maximalist at heart, loves layering vibrant pieces that tell a story. “To me, more is more—whether it’s bold patterns, rich textures, or curated collections,” she shares. “It’s not about clutter but about creating an immersive atmosphere that reflects individuality.”
Easy Ways To Incorporate the Pretty Ugly Trend
You don’t have to pick “ugly” items; instead, look for bold, statement-making pieces. Here are some easy ways to incorporate the trend:
- Go Bold with Paint: Experiment with unexpected paint colors like bright yellow or even a rich muddy brown. Take your time, and live with color samples for a week or two before deciding.
- Add Unexpected Wallpaper: Choose wallpaper that grabs your attention or includes an accent piece that doesn’t blend perfectly with the rest of your room’s design.
- Mix and Match: Look for quirky, offbeat items at thrift stores or estate sales to find those unique pieces that can complete the look.
Take Your Time with the Look
Achieving the “pretty ugly” aesthetic isn’t something that happens overnight. It requires patience, experimentation, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Keep searching for those unexpected elements that can bring personality to your space. The key to pulling it off is creating a room that feels authentic, full of life, and uniquely yours.
