Modern magic: How to embrace 2025’s Surreal Soirees trend

In 2025, design trends are taking an unexpected, whimsical turn with the rise of Surreal Soirees. According to Pinterest’s 2025 predictions, we’re about to see more curvy candlesticks and gravity-defying centrepieces. This modern surrealist aesthetic isn’t just for the avant-garde, it’s for anyone keen to keeping things beautifully bizarre at their gatherings.

If you’re ready to embrace this artistic and imaginative trend, you might be wondering how to integrate it into your home without making things look too “out there”. The key? Finding the right room, the right balance, and having fun with the whimsical elements that make Surreal Soirees shine.

What is the Surreal Soirees trend?

Think of a dinner party scene where the familiar mingles with the unexpected: melting shapes, quirky objects, playful designs, and a touch of dreamlike curiosity. Surreal Soirees are all about blending reality with fantasy. Elements that seem slightly off-kilter, but are irresistibly charming define this style. The vibe is quirky yet elegant; sophisticated but fun.

Picture a tablescape with candlesticks that twist like they’re made of liquid, floral arrangements that seem to defy gravity, and glassware that looks like it belongs in an art gallery. It’s an aesthetic that invites guests to take a second look and sparks conversation.

The perfect stage for Surreal Soirees: The dining room

If you’re looking to embrace this trend in your home, the dining room is the ideal place to start. Why? Because Surreal Soirees revolve around gatherings, shared meals, and conversations. The dining table naturally lends itself to dramatic, eye-catching décor that’s equal parts functional and fantastical.

Your dining room can easily be transformed into a surrealist wonderland with a few key pieces and design choices, Unlike more permanent changes in living rooms or bedrooms, tablescapes can be swapped out for different occasions; allowing you to experiment with this aesthetic whenever the mood strikes.

Key elements to achieving this look

Curvy Candlesticks: Straight lines are out; fluid, organic shapes are in. Curvy, twisty candlesticks in bright or metallic colours add instant intrigue to your table. They look like they’re caught mid-melt, adding a sense of motion and whimsy.
Fantastical Flowers: Think beyond the typical flower arrangements. Use blooms in unexpected colours, combine oversized and miniature flowers, or arrange them in a way that seems to defy gravity. Custom floral design is a great way to make it extra special. You can collaborate with a florist to create something unique, using bold colors, funky shapes, or even painted flowers. Look for vases that are irregularly shaped or appear to be “dripping” or leaning to enhance the surrealist feel.
Gravity-Defying Centrepieces: Consider sculptures, levitating objects, or stacked tableware that looks like it’s on the verge of toppling (but is perfectly stable). You want centrepieces that make your guests do a double-take; this is a key part of the trend. The goal, after all, is to create a sense of playful suspension and surprise.
Dreamlike Tableware: Swap out classic plates and glasses for designs that play with perspective, pattern, and shape. Plates that look like they’re melting, glassware with exaggerated stems, or cutlery with unexpected twists can all contribute to the theme.
Unexpected Colour Combos: Surrealism often leans on bold, contrasting colours. Pair pastels with rich jewel tones, or use monochrome with a splash of something vibrant. Think electric blues, fiery oranges, and soft pinks all coexisting harmoniously.

Tips for keeping it balanced

While the Surreal Soirees trend is all about being playful, there’s a fine line between stylish whimsy and chaotic clutter.

Choose a Focal Point: Focus your surreal elements on the dining table. Let the centrepiece or candlesticks take centre stage, keeping the surrounding décor simpler.
Consider the Floors: Your flooring choice can ground the surrealist décor, preventing it from feeling too chaotic. Consider classic luxury wood flooring or sleek neutral tiles to create a stable foundation.
Stick to a Limited Colour Palette: While surrealism embraces bold colours, sticking to 2-3 key colours can help you maintain a cohesive look.
Mix with Classic Elements: Balance surrealist pieces with more traditional dining elements like classic glassware or neutral table linens to avoid overwhelming the space.

Beyond the dining room

If you love this trend, you can always extend it beyond the dining room. Incorporating surrealist elements into other areas of your home.

Living Room Magic: Introduce seating with exaggerated curves or furniture that looks like it’s melting. Sofas with undulating shapes or coffee tables with distorted legs are great conversation starters, especially when grounded by a sleek hard wood floor.
Bathroom Whimsy: Choose mirrors with wavy frames or unexpected shapes that make guests do a double-take. Install shelves that appear to defy gravity or float without visible supports.
Outdoor Surrealism: Add quirky sculptures that play with form and balance. Oversized mushrooms, curvy arches, or abstract shapes can give your garden a surreal touch. Create pathways that seem to “melt” or flow like a liquid for an extra dose of whimsy.

Welcome to wonderland

2025’s Surreal Soirees trend is your chance to have fun, break a few design “rules”, and turn your dining room into a space that’s full of wonder and delight. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to add some unexpected joy to your everyday meals, surrealist décor is a delightful way to keep things beautifully unreal. After all, who says reality can’t be a little more magical?