Ahead of the curve: Why we're loving wavy mirrors

From rounded boucle couches to puffy furniture, curves are in vogue. The trend is a playful contrast to the rigidity of harsh lines and sharp edges.

Interestingly, the curved piece that has received the most attention in interior circles and on social media is the statement wavy mirror. It’s got all the sleekness of modern design, softened by a curvy twist.

“All trends have their time to shine. Right now, we’re seeing so much love for curves in interiors, I think it will definitely be around for a while,” says Tahnee Carroll, the stylist behind the creative agency Citizens of Style.

And they certainly have been around for a while. The trend came to the fore in the ’70s with Italian designer Ettore Sottsass’ statement Ultrafragola mirror. While today’s wavy mirrors range from more organic, rock-pool or puddle-like shapes to structured, cut-out waves, the original is a floor-length mirror with a cascading wavy frame that lights up in pink after its namesake, “ultra strawberry” in Italian.

Sottsass was nothing if not ahead of the curve. The mirror continues to make waves today, bringing a touch of neon fun and cool-factor to the homes of It-girls and interior buffs alike, all for a cool $22,000.

For those less inclined to spend their time and money seeking out the elusive Ultrafragola, DIY enthusiast and author, Geneva Vanderzeil offers a more budget-friendly way to get the look.

Her #mirrormirrormade series on Instagram documents her DIY wavy mirror creations born out of trips to Bunnings and some expertly placed cardboard, plaster, and sandpaper.

“I’m all about experimenting with DIY when it comes to mirrors in the home; there are just so many things you can do with it. I’ve cut my own mirror into organic shapes before, but you can also use clay or plaster over the top of a regular mirror to create that same feeling,” Vanderzeil says

“A wavy or curvy mirror is the perfect addition when you like to create visual interest in a space, whilst also keeping it minimalist and cosy feeling.”

Wavy mirrors have definitely been of visual interest on social media, where the trend has gone beyond interiors, to being a quintessential accessory to any self-respecting fashion influencer’s outfit pictures. But mirror-selfies aside, is the wavy mirror trend just one for Millennials or Gen-Z audiences?

Carroll doesn’t think so. “Definitely not. I think all generations are embracing the curvy trend in their homes at the moment. After the past couple of years, we can all appreciate a bit of fun at home.”

“It’s a super-fun way to inject personality into a space,” she adds.

“I think anyone can experiment with organic shapes in their space; it’s useful to start off small and see how you like it,” Vanderzeil agrees.

How to style wavy mirrors in your home

Stay neutral

The addition of a wavy mirror doesn’t have to change the entire vibe of your decorating scheme.

“I like to let a wavy mirror speak for itself in a space, with neutral styling and pops of warm tones,” says Vanderzeil.

“It also pairs well with more traditional design styles,” she adds.

Don’t overdo it

As with any statement piece, balance is key.

“When incorporating curvy mirrors remember, less is more. Don’t overdo the curves in your space. A couple of curvy features within a structured space help to create a sense of balance and movement,” says Carroll.

Start in the bathroom

If in doubt, start in the room where mirrors take centre stage – the bathroom.

“Most bathrooms are very lineal, so by adding a wavy or curved mirror, you create a focal point, balancing the straight lines of the tiles with the curves of the mirror allows it to become the hero within the space,” says Carroll.