Kitsch: Is it Cool or Crazy?

Ever received a gift so quirky that it left you both amused and puzzled? Chances are, you’ve encountered kitsch.

Remember those shiny plastic figurines your aunt gave you for Christmas? You thought they were kitsch.

Yes, we use the German word “kitsch” in English, too. It’s like that cheesy and cheap stuff you see in some places. You know, those dashboard hula dancers, glittery unicorns, inflatable palm trees, or those overly sweet pictures (think of those big-eyed puppy paintings).

Kitsch is stuff that’s trying too hard to be fancy or cute but ends up looking silly. For instance, imagine someone wearing too much glitter—it’s just too much. Yet, this exaggerated style is exactly what some people find charming. For some, kitsch offers a playful journey back to childhood memories and carefree fun, while others view it as an excessive and tasteless attempt at decoration.

So, is kitsch good or bad? Well, that’s up to you. It’s all about personal taste, isn’t it?

By the way, we can also say something is „kitschy“ (pronounced kit-shee). It’s like when something is so over-the-top that it’s almost funny.

Let’s look at some example sentences:

• The living room was decorated with kitschy items, including lava lamps, velvet paintings, and a collection of ceramic poodles.
• She adored the kitschy charm of her grandmother’s house, filled with porcelain dolls and gaudy floral wallpaper.
• The tourist shop was overflowing with kitschy souvenirs, from snow globes to miniature Eiffel Towers.
• Her collection of kitschy Christmas ornaments included glittery reindeer and a Santa Claus in a Hawaiian shirt.

Think about your home—do you have any kitschy items that make you smile or cringe?