Are You Cottagecore to the Core?

Is cottagecore your thing? Not sure? Keep reading to learn about the cottagecore aesthetic and more!

You may have noticed that cottagecore has been a pretty raging theme in recent times. But, what is it exactly? What defines cottagecore?

In this post, we’ll cover the basics of cottagecore — and maybe you’ll see just why it’s gained recognition and traction.

What Is Cottagecore?

Alternative styles run wide and deep. One of them is cottagecore. You may see cottagecore referred to as farmcore or countrycore, too.

Cottagecore celebrates a simpler, more rustic way of living and emphasizes romanticized elements, harmonious vibes, and natural materials. It focuses on comfort, nostalgia, and a return to basics.

You'll see aspects of cottagecore infused into worlds of fashion and lifestyle. As such, cottagecore can be a great way to cozy up your home and wardrobe!

Maybe you can understand why people have latched onto cottagecore subculture. For many, it's sort of like a balm to the chaos and uncertainty we experience(d) during the pandemic, political strife, crazy economy, etc. And who couldn't use a dose of idyllic sunshine?!

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” — Robert Brault

Cottagecore Priorities & Values

Central to the cottagecore mindset are:

• Affinity for agrarian principles
• Rejection of mainstream modern ideals
• Femininity and softness
• Tranquility
• Simplicity
• A bit of whimsy

Some progressive cottagecore devotees are also staunchly anti-capitalist and pro-queerness. Others favor tradition and embracing European heritage.

“In a simple and a peaceful cottage with a beautiful view, you will not be dreaming about the palaces or the heaven, because you already have a perfect thing!” — Mehmet Murat ildan

Key Cottagecore Style Motifs

While this is far from an exhaustive list, it should give you the gist.

• Cottages (duh) and Tudor-style manors
• Farms and farm implements
• Barnyard animals
• Wildflowers, mushrooms, fruits
• Pies, breads, and other baked goods
• Crops and harvests
• Prairies and fields
• Gardens and berry patches
• Trees and forests
• Gingham, stripes, and paisley
• Paths and ponds
• Benches, arbors, trellises, and gazebos
• Warm lighting

“Baking is therapy.” — Paul Hollywood<

The Cottagecore Color Palette

Unsurprisingly, cottagecore leans heavily into found-in-nature hues. Think greens as in leaves, yellows and browns as in a landscape, and pastels and punches of muted vibrancy as in flowers and berries. A quick internet search for “cottagecore color palette” will provide a cornucopia of color combos to consider.

How You Can Cottagecore

OK, so this all sounds like you. But you’re feeling like you don’t have quite enough cottagecore injected into your life yet. No sweat!

Here are some ideas for adding more cottagecore to your universe.

“Life sucks a lot less when you add mountain air, a campfire, and some peace and quiet.” — Brooke Hampton

Cottagecore Fashion

Aim for more cottagecore outfits with quintessential cottagecore clothing. These items are often made of natural fibers or have homespun-esque textures. Many times they’re poofy-sleeved or have some flowy or billowy features. Bodices, corsets, lace, embroidery, ties, and other throw-back or undone details are common.

You can find everything from cottagecore dresses to cottagecore shoes in many shops. Thrift and vintage stores are a great starting place! DIYing your own cottagecore clothing and accessories is another legit option.

Feel free to mix in pieces from other style genres to create your own, unique cottagecore aesthetic outfits. For example, there are probably countless ways to cross-pollinate cottagecore with more “conventional” goth, punk, pastel goth, or witchy styles.

“I want to stand by the river in my finest dress. I want to sing, strong and hard, and stomp my feet with a hundred others so that the waters hum with our happiness. I want to dance for the renewal of the world.” — Robin Wall Kimmerer

Cottagecore Makeup, Cottagecore Hairstyles & Cottagecore Nails

You don’t have to limit your cottagecoreness to just your choice of shirt or earrings. Expand your expression of the aesthetic by incorporating the central motifs into your makeup, hair, and nails.

You might do this by using cosmetics that give you a dewy look, rocking a romantic do (tuck a flower in there somewhere?), or painting some forest critters onto your nails.

Cottagecore Décor

Even your home or workplace can get a cottagecore upgrade.

Hang some dried herbs or flowers up. Strew some straw baskets about. Candles, slipcovers, tapestries and wool rugs, shabby chic or antique furniture, old-timey portraits or paintings, doilies and table linens, wallpaper, wicker, vases and ceramic figurines…go wild!

You can be as eclectic as you want — it’s the colors, textures, patterns, and vibe of the elements that pull them together into a cohesive cottagecore environment.

"A palace cannot make you rich but a cottage in the woods can." — Mehmet Murat ildan

You Know You’re Hardcore Cottagecore When…

Cottagecore is all about being simpler and purer — in fashion, décor, and lifestyle. There are so many ways to incorporate cottagecore into your life. Whether you’re looking for cute and comfy outfits or want to add a bit of country charm to your living space, cottagecore gets the job done!