If there's anyone who personifies maximalism it's Dita Von Teese, and it's no surprise that the glamorous performer brings just as much theater to her home decor as she does to the stage. Her bold and dramatic living room is no exception, packed with color, print, and curiosities.
We've seen the maximalist decor trend come and go over the years, but if you're craving something more characterful and bold, as an antidote to minimalist schemes, it's a surefire way to inject plenty of personality into your home and be as bold as you dare. Below, interior designers weigh in on how to make the look work for you, whilst I've selected some buys inspired by Dita Von Teese's living room from a floral loveseat (Wayfair) to an ostrich feather ceiling light (Light in the Box).
Shop Dita Von Teese's Theatrical Living Room Look
Bring in bold and dramatic prints through your upholstery and add throw pillows in prints of different scales, as well as varying textures, such as satin with velvet, to embrace the maximalist look.
Dita Von Teese's theatrical window valances bring a really whimsical – almost fairytale-like aesthetic to her living room. These sculptural shaped valances in soft coral, from Target create a similar effect.
Dita Von Teese chooses green as one of the key shades in her maximalist living room, and the shape and style of this piece reflects the look of her ottoman, which she uses as a coffee table with a decorative tray.
Bringing in the pink and green color combination from Dita Von Teese's living room, this rug is bold enough to have a place in her home. The floral print leans into femininity while the deep green grounds the pink.
As dramatic as Dita Von Teese herself, this bronze throw pillow adds texture, sheen and embellishment in the form of a Swarovski crystal-encrusted medallion. Pair with a deep velvet sofa for contrast.
The ostrich feathers in Dita Von Teese's living room decor are undoubtedly a nod to her flamboyant performances and this ceiling light is the perfect way to make a statement, whilst tying in with the pink palette.
'Theatrical maximalism is all about curating objects, art, and accessories that truly speak to you,' explains Tampa-based interior designer and founder of Lisa Gilmore Design. Much like Dita Von Teese's sartorial style, her decor reflects that layered look that tells a story. 'Think of designing a maximalist home like building a wardrobe: start with quality, timeless necessities in your favorite colors and patterns as your foundation, then layer in bold, one-of-a-kind designs and statement accessories that bring personality and flair,' adds Lisa.
And Dita Von Teese throws the phrase 'pink and green should never be seen' right out of the window with her vibrant living room – it's one of the unexpected color combinations that actually works. But be sure to stick to a limited palette, even with a maximalist scheme, to ensure balance.
'A cohesive palette keeps it intentional,' shares Lenny Kharitonov, CEO of furniture retailer, Emma Mason. 'Choose two or three anchor colors and repeat them across the largest items in the room, such as the sofa, rug, and curtains, then add smaller accents in related tones like pink with warmer reds or green with deeper teal.'
Texture and pattern also play a vital role when it comes to decorating with maximalism. 'Maximalism thrives on intentionality and contrast. While celebrating 'more is more,' it still requires balance. Pair bold prints, like a leopard rug, with unexpected textures such as velvet or lacquered finishes,' suggests Lisa.
And it's important to consider scale as well, advises Denver-based interior designer Laura Medicus: 'Use an oversized chandelier, invest in a large piece of art, or create a gallery wall that fills the space from floor to ceiling. Make a big gesture for maximum impact. I also love to play with the scale of upholstery prints. You can use one large print, with a stripe, and then add a smaller print for balance, for example. When patterns are all the same scale, a space can feel monotonous.'
Ultimately, a maximalist scheme like Dita Von Teese's living room is an excuse to really inject some personality into your home. However, it is still important to exercise some restraint to avoid a chaotic look. Lisa concludes: 'The goal is drama, not chaos. Features like oversized chandeliers, tassels, and fringe should feel curated rather than random. Ultimately, theatrical maximalism is about representing who you truly are. Your home should reflect your personality, passions, travels, and quirks, as daring and expressive as couture pieces.'
Love the idea of maximalism but want to try something a little more traditional? Consider the heritage maximalist trend, which brings in character through the layering of historic features, prints, and antiques.
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