Whatever Happened To Fun! Embracing My Kitsch Side

Life is too serious, but fashion doesn't have to be.

POSTED 24.08.26 08:35 BY MAE AUCKLAND

As I get older and my life becomes increasingly more serious, I’m left feeling particularly nostalgic for the carefree days of childhood. My wardrobe only reflects this, as plain linen shirts and solid-color tees slowly replace my old, garish graphic prints, and my once-prized Snoopy necklace has been replaced by a plain cross—it’s clear I’m in need of bringing some childish fun back into my dressing.

Just when did we get so serious?

I miss proudly displaying my favorite animals or cartoon characters on my clothing, or even refusing to wear certain outfits if they didn’t include enough of my favorite color (I had high standards). So, to combat this nostalgic yearning and bring some fun back into my dressing, I’m going full kitsch, unashamedly!

Although the term kitsch originated in the art world, I tend to understand its relationship to the fashion sphere as anything garish and generally perceived as being in ‘poor taste’: think cartoon motifs, animal print, pop culture references, unique silhouettes, and retro, dizzying patterns. While this may horrify any die-hard minimalist, I'm a firm believer that tacky can still equal cool. Just look to top luxury brands like Moschino or McQueen!

Cringe? No such thing!

The coolest part of kitsch or fun dressing to me is the possibility for true self-expression. I’m finding it increasingly difficult to feel any sense of uniqueness or personality in some of today’s trends, so adorning myself with gaudy symbols, retro floral prints, or flashy trompe l’oeil pieces is my favorite way to really feel like my vibrant, authentic, unapologetic self.

How I indulge in nostalgia

My favorite way to lean into kitsch is through jewelry: my collection currently boasts a Snoopy pendant charm, joined by one of Paddington Bear and another of a miniature 7UP can. Just how cute can you get?

I’m also a lover of large retro patterns, and I have a fabulous pair of flared trousers with a ’70s-style repeating flower pattern emblazoned in yellow, green, and royal blue. With garish items like this, it’s important to balance them with some plain (but still bright!) basics so as not to take away from the main showstopper. I also look to the 2000s for nostalgic, playful styles—wearing my orange vintage ‘Twister’ graphic tee at any opportunity.

Admittedly, a handbag in the shape of a basketball may not fit everyone’s wardrobe palette, but when life gets too serious, I say have some fun!

Here are my top twenty Fizzypicks for anyone looking to add a little childish frivolity to their fits.

Small bag lips | Desigual

DESIGUAL
Small Bag Lips
$119.00

Whatever Happened To Fun! Embracing My Kitsch Side

Just when did we get so serious?

Cringe? No such thing!

How I indulge in nostalgia

Unbox the freshest drops and more. Hit subscribe!