Cath Kidston is cool now?! I got a preview of the brand’s trendy new homeware look at Next

Growing up, most of us proudly owned something by Cath Kidston - whether that’s a lunch bag, a bed linen set or a backpack. But the brand’s signature style of ditsy florals hasn’t necessarily aged so well into adulthood and you could say Cath Kidston has since fallen out of favour. But I previewed the new Cath Kidston homeware range at Next’s new autumn/winter press show it was nothing short of a revelation.

We at the Ideal Home office, myself included, did not expect to be lusting after Cath Kidston homeware anytime soon, if ever. And yet, to our surprise, that’s exactly what’s happening right now as the brand’s range perfectly blends current home decor trends with the company’s signature kitsch designs.

Next bought Cath Kidston last year, saving the brand from going into administration. And that’s why the new (and improved) Cath Kidston homeware range is available to shop exclusively at Next.

How is the new Cath Kidston homeware range different from what we’re used to

The ongoing cottagecore and traditional home trend was a hint that Cath Kidston and the brand’s ditsy florals were becoming en-vogue again.

But what is really hitting the spot this time around is the way that the brand pairs those classic cottagecore motifs with equally as pretty but more modern and on-trend finishes like contrasting scalloped trims, striped frilled cushions and stripes in general. It blends ‘the brand's iconic floral heritage prints with a whimsical design aesthetic for a modern era,’ Next says.

It’s a more pared-back take on the fun Cath Kidston which is exactly what our adult selves are after apparently.

What to look forward to from Cath Kidston

The two real stars of the collection are the made-to-order sofas which can also be purchased as love seats/armchairs – it’s the cushiony, pillow-like Mallow and Edged, named after the flounce-like edges similar to Oxford pillowcases. It looks especially stunning in the colourways with contrasting edges.

As these living room seating ideas are made-to-order, they can also be covered in any one of the 15 different fabrics and patterns on offer.

Lighting is another strong category of the new collection with everything from table lamps to pendants and even floor lamps impressing the whole team and hitting several lighting trends of the moment. And the same goes for the soft furnishings of the range – I’m especially loving the already mentioned striped cushions and the floral scalloped rug.

Our top picks

It’s safe to say that I’m a Cath Kidston convert! What about you – has this new range changed your mind about the brand imbued with childhood nostalgia?