Everyday Romanticism: Finding Beauty in the Ordinary

Over the years, I’ve struggled to describe my aesthetic as a knitter, designer, photographer, and person. My knits feature tons of lace and bobbles and delicate texture, but has to be sturdy enough for actual use. And then, it clicked: it’s everyday romanticism.

This phrase describes that sweet spot where the things I love all tend to live: the place where things are beautiful and soft but also useful. I thought I’d take some time to explain it a little more and talk about how to incorporate it into your own life.

What is Everyday Romanticism?

When I think about everyday romanticism, I think of it as including three prongs. The first, and most important, is honoring your own need for beauty. The second is embracing the beautiful in the everyday, recognizing that the small moments of life have their own charm, too. The third is finding ways to intentionally incorporate more beauty into your life.

One of the things I love most about everyday romanticism is how it will look different in different lives. The form will depend on what the person loves, what their lifestyle needs might be, and how they move through the world. The one common thread is that each person will make room in their life for things that are beautiful and that speak to them.

To bring your own dose of everyday romanticism into your world, start with what you think is beautiful. Do you like soft pastels? Neutrals? Dark, moody colors? Is there a period in history or a place in the world that you feel a deep connection to? Are there themes in literature, music, or philosophy that resonate deep down in the core of your self?

Next, look for opportunities to incorporate that beauty in your life. This can be when you need to replace something, so you're not starting from scratch. Look for places that suit your budget, like Etsy or eBay. You do not need to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on antiques to make your space feel beautiful. Give yourself time, and enjoy the journey.

Learn more about how to incorporate everyday romanticism into your life on my blog. Plus, find helpful tips and tricks to improve your knitting, patterns, tutorials, and more.