In Favor of Fuzz™

There are pillars of design that will forever stand the test of time (like the bird theme or the mighty floral) and then there are the more curious trends that occasionally catch us by surprise. Here are eight unusual design motifs that are continuously popular (and may even be well on their way towards pillar-dom).

Unicorn/Narwhal

The legendary unicorn and its real-life aquatic counterpart the narwhal seem to be the exotic animals of choice. Beautiful, mysterious, and even quirky, these one-horned beasts continue to pierce our hearts through an array of mediums, from fashion to film. (dress from Mod Cloth and crochet by Nicole Foreman)

Food with Faces

We have a tendency to personify all kinds of objects, but expressive food has stuck. This trend is largely inspired by Japanese art, which often contains animistic elements. You may wonder what to do with that cutesy crocheted cupcake winking at you, but eating it just isn’t an option. (plush by My Paper Crane)

The Skull

Whether it’s the punk rock staple, Day of the Dead figure, or pirate banner, the skull has a long-standing presence in the design world. Chic versions are now available year round, showing up in a variety of materials and applications. If pretty plus edgy is your style, give the skull a go. (scarf from Miss Selfridge and Coffret de Victoire pendant by Dior)

The Mustache

A mustache can be very dashing, but not grown on your face per se. Open your mind to thoughts of necklace pendants, finger tattoos, and knee socks. I’m not sure who first raised our facial hair awareness, but I’d like to give credit to Shawnimals and their plush Moustachios. (Photos from TOYSREVIL)

Fragments of Technology

Game controllers, keyboard buttons, screen icons, and even ear buds all add up to equal our familiarity with technology. Our devices are so commonplace that it only takes a piece to recognize them—and celebrate them in style. (jacquard wall hangings by Micah Schippa)

Anatomy

That’s right—organs and body parts. Naturalistic or otherwise, human anatomy has always had its place in art. When handled well, these elements are bold, zany, and even elegant. The theme can also be taken to the microscopic level with individual cells. (Doigts and Flamenco by Calourette)

Furniture

Chairs. On your wallpaper. Covering your tote. It may seem weird at first, but unique furniture shapes do make interesting motifs and are becoming popular as such. It’s not the least bit unusual for different schools of design to inspire one another, so you’d better get used to it. (embroidered card by Stitched and pillows by Treasury)

Stumps n’ Logs

The generic wood grain texture has evolved into patterns of fat little stumps and twisted bits of driftwood. If a texture is desired, hardwood floors are put into repeat or the emphasis shifts to the tree rings or bark. Some products prefer to adopt the complete look, as with log-mimicking pillows and purses. (fabric by Dotty Logic and pillow by small stump)

You may choose to avoid the above motifs in your work due to their prominence, or you could use that same notability to create your own unique statement. Either way, you can’t deny the imagination and sheer amusement these trends have stirred across the design and shopping spheres.

Notice any other peculiar motifs on the up and up? Do tell!