“Whimsy builds distance from the pressures of the present, like vintage or nostalgia; living whimsically flies in the face of challenges by presenting an alternate, more playful reality,” says Jane Dhall. “It’s armour, if you will.”

What links these testimonies is a shared desire for small interruptions in the standardised rhythms of adult life. Whimsy becomes a technique for reopening channels to surprise and emotional immediacy, qualities that are often dulled by structure, screens and repetition.

“desire to be unserious in a serious world”.

In 2025, whimsy has increasingly blended with the soft, internet-driven forms of spirituality that are popular right now. Astrology charts, tarot pulls, and intuitive journalling sit comfortably beside pastel accessories, handmade trinkets and other gentle, nostalgic aesthetics. The result is a simple mix of playfulness and quiet metaphysics, where... See more