Kramer’s quirky fashion choices provide an unexpected world of interior design inspiration.
Seinfeld, the ‘90s sitcom set in New York City, brought pure ridiculousness à la Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David to millions of viewers throughout nine hilarious seasons. Following the misadventures of Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer was (and still is, thanks to streaming services) an escape from our daily lives. Now, the show’s legacy has proven itself impactful in other ways. And, perhaps unexpectedly, Jerry’s lovingly eccentric neighbor Kramer is largely to thank.
So, Who Is Kramer?
The Atlantic deemed this summer “the summer of Kramercore,” noting that young people in New York and beyond seemed to be picking up style tips from the guy next door. And it’s not the first time his style has taken off—in 1994, while the show was still airing, costume designer Charlaine Simmons told The New York Times that “everybody wants to dress like him.” In fact, the show had difficulties sourcing new clothes—many of which were originally found in vintage stores—for the character because of the audience’s high demand for Kramer-esque threads.
Consisting of colorful, patterned button-downs, slightly-too-short trousers, and disheveled hairdos, Kramer’s look is casual and cool. The look is easily thrifted, doesn’t rely too much on the perfect fit, and is versatile enough to fit anyone’s style—Kramer was only ever interested in being himself.
And while we love the Kramercore style trend that’s taken off, it turns out the sitcom character’s look can teach us a lot about interior design. Full of exciting patterns, vintage finds, and classic color schemes, a Kramer-inspired refresh might just be what your home needs for the new year.
Related: How to Channel Your Favorite ‘Gilmore Girls’ Locations for Fall Decorating
How to Incorporate Kramercore at Home
Many of Kramer’s intuitive fashion choices can easily be translated into an interior decor style that you’ll love (and one that will stand the test of time). Get ready to channel the character’s whimsical spirit, and don’t leave any thrifted finds behind—a touch of the nostalgic ‘90s look will work in any room of the house.
Play with Plaid (and Other Fun Patterns)
If there’s one thing Kramer loves, it’s a good patterned shirt. From plaid to stripes to lobsters, Kramer's shirts brought a sense of playful style every time he burst through the door. Not concerned with blending in, Kramer embraced patterns like no other and your home can too.
The classic plaid pattern is easy to integrate, especially in the kitchen. Opt for a timeless black-and-white checkered floor, or pick out fabric with the iconic pattern for your dining chairs or kitchen curtains. Beyond the kitchen, throw pillows and cozy blankets with plaid patterns exude homey energy, and will have you feeling like you’re right at home in Seinfeld’s New York City apartment.
Beyond plaid, go for patterns you love but have been too timid to try—there’s no need to hold back when it comes to Kramercore. Deck out a room in patterned wallpaper, make a piece of furniture a bold statement with colorful upholstery, and mix and match patterns to your heart’s content. As long as you balance the color scheme and pick your places, you can achieve Kramer’s fun-loving fashion sense.
Fill Walls with What You Love
Although we only get a glimpse of Kramer’s apartment during the series, it’s clear that his decor—and his clothes—are based on his preferences (and his preferences alone). Full of character and charm, Kramer chooses what he loves and runs with it—and you should do the same with your interior design.
Reminiscent of the museum gift shop decor trend, Kramer’s style should inspire you to deck the walls with artwork you adore, display items you’ve collected over the years—perhaps during travels—and pick furniture you like, no matter how off-trend it might be. When it comes to your home, you don’t need to decorate to please anyone else—as long as your family is comfortable, Kramer would approve.
Stick to the Basics and Stay Practical
Kramer sticks to fashion basics, despite using bold patterns and colors. Normally consisting of some combination of slacks and a button-up, his outfits allow him to stick to what he knows while experimenting with different color combinations. Take this approach to your home decor for a long-lasting, trend-proof design style that you can change as needed.
Go timeless by setting the tone with neutral colors, wooden furniture, and easy-to-complement pops of bright colors. This allows you to add seasonal decor when you please—or give the room an easy refresh when you need a design reset. You’ll develop your home’s unmistakable look, plus let it evolve and change over time.
Bring in the Vintage
Most of Kramer’s wardrobe in the early seasons of Seinfeld was thrifted and has a vintage look that so many crave these days. Bring this mindset into your home by sourcing classic vintage furniture and accessories from your local thrift store or your own family’s collection.
Display old family photos and trinkets you haven’t found a place for, and spotlight where you come from through your interior design. From vintage advertisements or postcards pinned to the wall to grandma’s quilt draped over the living room sofa, adding a secondhand touch will help your home connect to the past.
Related: How to Find the Best Vintage Home Decor, According to a Pro
Style Like It’s Summer, All Year Around
Kramer brings a breezy, casual coolness (alongside his intense energy) that’s reminiscent of summer. Whether it’s the bright button-ups or the too-short slacks, the result is warm-weather-ready. It doesn’t matter if you live in sunny California or the blustery Midwest, you can bring summer into your decor any time of year. Look for bright, uplifting colors, choose lighter shades of wood, and incorporate greenery into your home.