What is Cottagecore?

May 19, 2025

If you're anything like me, you have no clue about what is trendy or poplar these days. I like what I like. And most of the time, it's not the latest or greatest of anything. When it comes to home decor or even fashion, I gravitate toward the simple classics. So when I started seeing the word "cottagecore" everywhere, I found it very interesting. Back in the day, we called it country cottage style- is cottagecore the same thing with a new name? I started asking a few of the younger, hipper people I know and I found out some interesting things. Yes, cottagecore includes many of the adorable country classic decor elements we know and love, but it also includes more than this. It could rightly be described as a movement. Or at least part of a movement, which embraces slow living and a return to traditional values and activities. 

In a world that often moves at a breakneck pace, there's a growing desire to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace a simpler way of living. Enter the charming world of cottagecore – a nostalgic aesthetic that celebrates the beauty and tranquility of the countryside.

Cottagecore is more than just a design trend; it's a lifestyle that harks back to a time when life was a little slower, a little more intentional. At its core, cottagecore is about celebrating the simple pleasures in life – the warmth of a handmade quilt, the fragrance of freshly baked bread, the gentle sway of wildflowers in the breeze.

The key elements of cottagecore are rooted in rustic, vintage inspired design. Think soft, muted color palettes, natural materials like wood and linen, and a touch of whimsy in the form of floral patterns and botanical motifs. The overall aesthetic is one of comfort, coziness, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.

When it comes to home decor, cottagecore is very popular. It revolves around floral patchwork quilts, handmade textiles, and vintage inspired accessories  to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Floral patterns- whether on curtains, bedding, or wall art, add a touch of romance and femininity. And the use of natural elements, like dried flowers or woven baskets, brings the outdoors in, offering a sense of harmony and connection.

But cottagecore isn't just about the home – it's also a fashion movement. Flowing, romantic dresses in soft, muted colors evoke a sense of timelessness, while handcrafted details and natural fabrics like linen and cotton add to the overall charm. Remember Peter Pan collars and puffed sleeves? Well they are back! Along with long Laura Ashley floral skirts and hair bows!

Beyond the decor, cottagecore is also a lifestyle choice. It's about slowing down, embracing the simple pleasures, and reconnecting with the natural world. This might mean tending to a small garden, learning traditional crafts like knitting or embroidery, or spending more time in the kitchen, baking and preserving the bounty of the seasons. A new generation is discovering the joys of simple country life. 

Ultimately, cottagecore is a celebration of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in the everyday. It's a way of life that encourages us to slow down, savor the moment, and find joy in the simple things. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of patchwork quilts or the romantic allure of floral dresses, embracing the cottagecore aesthetic can be a powerful way to create a more meaningful, intentional life.

The Key Elements of Cottagecore

At the heart of the cottagecore aesthetic are a few key elements that come together to create a warm, inviting, and nostalgic atmosphere. These include:

Rustic and Vintage Design

Cottagecore celebrates the beauty of the old and the handmade. Vintage-inspired furnishings, antique accents, and distressed wood surfaces all contribute to the overall rustic charm.

Natural and Botanical Elements

From dried flowers and potted plants to woven baskets and wooden accents, cottagecore embraces the beauty of the natural world. These elements help to create a sense of harmony and connection with the outdoors.

Soft, Romantic Color Palette

Cottagecore favors a muted, pastel-inspired color palette, with shades of soft pink, mauve, lavender, and sage green. This creates a soothing, calming atmosphere. 

Simple, Comfortable Furnishings

Cottagecore is all about creating a cozy, inviting space. Plush, overstuffed sofas, cozy armchairs, and handmade textiles like quilts and throw blankets all contribute to the overall sense of comfort and relaxation.

Embracing the Cottagecore Lifestyle

Cottagecore is more than just a design aesthetic – it's a way of life that encourages us to slow down, savor the simple pleasures, and reconnect with the natural world. This might mean:

• Tending to a small garden or potting herbs on the windowsill
• Baking homemade bread or preserving the bounty of the seasons
• Learning traditional crafts like knitting, embroidery, or quilting
• Spending more time outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature

By embracing the cottagecore lifestyle, we can create a more meaningful, intentional existence – one that is grounded in the beauty of the everyday and the timeless charm of the countryside. And that's one modern trend I will gladly embrace!

If you're looking for unique and affordable cottagecore bedding ideas, check out our Cottagecore Bedding Collection. You'll find a ton of sweet floral quilts, comforters, duvet covers and sheet sets.