Style Highlight: Cottagecore

June 5, 2023 - Michelle Murphy

Have you noticed a surge in pictures of fresh-baked bread, meadows brimming with wildflowers, quaint cottages, and billowy dresses dominating your Instagram feed?

You’re not alone!

This idyllic trend, known as Cottagecore, has been on a remarkable rise, capturing the essence of a simpler, more tranquil existence, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

As a design style, Cottagecore is a quaint mixture of cozy, nature, vintage, and homemade elements. Think of an old-timey countryside cottage with blooming gardens and the sound of chirping birds - charming, isn’t it?

Today’s blog is all about bringing the enchanting world of Cottagecore right into your home. We’re going to dive into the history of this aesthetic, explore its key elements, and show you how you can incorporate it into every nook and cranny of your living space.

And don’t worry, we’ll also touch on how to blend the Cottagecore room aesthetic with other styles, so you can find a balance that suits you perfectly!

Wicker basket with lavender on a white modern bed

Roots of Cottagecore

Alright, let’s start at the beginning - where did Cottagecore originate?

Well, Cottagecore doesn’t exactly have a pinpointed origin. Instead, it’s more of a feeling that’s been in the human psyche for a long time, which has been popularized in recent years. Remember all those whimsical fairy tales and countryside narratives we grew up with? From Beatrix Potter’s charming tales of Peter Rabbit to the rustic allure of novels like Anne of Green Gables and Little House on the Prairie, these stories have subconsciously crafted our idea of what a cozy, bucolic life should look like.

So, in essence, the roots of Cottagecore draw from a nostalgic perspective of Western agricultural life and lie in our collective yearning for a slower, more serene way of living.

Rustic coffee table with book and glasses

Key Elements of Cottagecore Style

Okay, now that we have the background sorted, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details of what makes Cottagecore, well… Cottagecore!

Nature & Sustainability

A key theme in Cottagecore is a deep respect and love for nature. This is reflected in an abundance of botanical elements, from indoor plants to floral prints and even the artwork.

Sustainability is another cornerstone - think repurposed furniture, second-hand finds, and handmade items.

Vintage & Handcrafted Elements

Another delightful aspect of Cottagecore is the emphasis on vintage and antique items. In a Cottagecore home, each piece tells a story. Old furniture, weathered books, chipped teacups, even your grandma’s quilt - it all adds to the charm.

Handcrafted elements also hold a special place, be it handwoven baskets, crocheted doilies, or hand-thrown pottery. These pieces not only bring a touch of uniqueness but also help cultivate a connection to the past.

Materials & Colour Scheme

Cottagecore is all about organic, natural materials. Think linen, wool, cotton, and lots of wood.

As for the colour scheme, Cottagecore is known for muted tones and lots of whites and creams, with pops of soft pastels and earthy hues.

Cozy design inspiration books and candles

Combining Cottagecore with Other Styles

Wondering if you can mix and match Cottagecore with your current interior style? Absolutely!

The beauty of Cottagecore lies in its versatility and adaptability. Whether you’re a fan of minimalism, boho-chic, or even industrial design, there are ways to introduce touches of Cottagecore into your existing décor.

Tips on Balancing Different Elements in a Cohesive Way

The key to combining Cottagecore with other styles lies in balance.

Minimalism

If you lean towards a minimalistic style, adding some botanical prints, vintage books, or antique furniture can soften the space without overwhelming it.

Industrial

For a more industrial aesthetic, introducing soft, natural fabrics and some cozy, vintage pieces can make the space feel more welcoming and homely.

Boho

Adding a vintage rocking chair, some handmade pottery, and a splash of pastel shades in your textiles can help balance the vibrancy of a boho aesthetic to create a style that’s uniquely yours.

Scandinavian

The clean lines and monochromatic colours of Scandi interiors provide a great palette for a Cottagecore fusion. Just add some floral print cushions, a vintage wooden coffee table, and a few indoor plants and voila

Eager to check out another style highlight? Get the scoop on mid century modern.

Cozy rustic workspace with laptop and coffee mug

Time to Score with Cottagecore!

Wow, what a whimsical journey through the enchanting world of Cottagecore room inspo we’ve had!

As we’ve discovered, Cottagecore is more than just a design aesthetic; it’s really a state of mind. It represents our longing for a simpler, more mindful life, closely tied to nature and the past. It’s about embracing the charm of rustic, vintage elements and creating spaces that are not just visually pleasing, but also incredibly comforting and soul-soothing.

As for the future of Cottagecore, it looks like the aesthetic is here to stay. Its increasing popularity suggests a collective desire for a slower, more authentic way of living, a trend that seems to grow stronger with each passing day.

So, here’s to creating spaces that are not just beautiful, but also filled with stories, love, and a sense of peace!

Now that you’re familiar with the charm of Cottagecore, why not bring some of that enchanting aura into your own spaces? Contact me today!

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