Cottagecore: Romanticizing Simple Living in a Modern World
If you’ve ever dreamed of spending your days baking fresh bread, tending to a garden full of wildflowers, and reading in a sunny window seat with a cup of tea, then you’ve probably fallen under the spell of cottagecore. Cottagecore is more than just a design or fashion trend—it’s a celebration of slow, simple living and a romanticized vision of rural life. It’s about embracing nature, coziness, and self-sufficiency, whether you live in the countryside or a small city apartment. In this post, we’ll explore what cottagecore is, dive into its history, share home décor ideas, offer fashion inspiration, and look at examples from film and TV that bring this dreamy aesthetic to life.
What Is Cottagecore?
Cottagecore is an aesthetic that romanticizes the countryside lifestyle, emphasizing harmony with nature, comfort, and nostalgia. It blends rustic charm with vintage elegance, often featuring soft colors, natural materials, and timeless patterns like florals and gingham.
Hallmarks of Cottagecore:
Natural colors: Soft greens, warm creams, muted blues, gentle pinks, and earthy browns.
Textures: Linen, cotton, lace, and wood.
Themes: Gardening, baking, crafting, and pastoral living.
Decor motifs: Wildflowers, vintage teacups, botanical prints, and sunlit spaces.
It’s an aesthetic that’s as much about a feeling as a look—peaceful, romantic, and slow-paced.
The History of Cottagecore
While the term cottagecore rose to popularity in the late 2010s—and especially exploded on TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest during the 2020 lockdowns—its roots go back much further. It draws inspiration from:
19th-century English pastoral paintings romanticizing country life.
Romanticism in literature, celebrating nature, simplicity, and beauty in the ordinary.
Back-to-the-land movements of the 1960s and 1970s, which emphasized sustainability and self-sufficiency.
During the pandemic, cottagecore became a form of escapism—a way to imagine a life far removed from screens, deadlines, and constant noise. Social media users began sharing photos of rustic kitchens, flower-filled meadows, and cozy reading nooks, creating an online haven for anyone craving a slower pace. Today, cottagecore continues to thrive as both a style and a lifestyle choice—blending nostalgia with intentional living.
Cottagecore Home Décor Ideas
Transforming your space into a cottagecore haven means filling it with warmth, nature, and vintage charm.
1. Color Palette
Opt for soft, earthy, and nature-inspired tones: sage green, dusty rose, cream, butter yellow, robin’s egg blue, and warm beige.
2. Furniture
Antique or thrifted wooden tables and chairs.
Open shelving with neatly stacked dishes and glass jars.
Wicker baskets for storage and charm.
3. Textiles
Linen tablecloths and curtains.
Crocheted throws and handmade quilts.
Gingham and floral patterns for cushions and bedding.
4. Decor Accents
Mason jars filled with dried herbs or flowers.
Botanical prints in mismatched frames.
Candles in vintage holders.
A teapot always ready for brewing.
5. Nature Indoors
Houseplants, freshly picked flowers, and even herbs in windowsill planters add life and authenticity to a cottagecore space.
Cottagecore Fashion & Styling Ideas
Cottagecore fashion is all about comfort, romance, and a touch of nostalgia.
1. Tops & Dresses
Flowing midi and maxi dresses in floral prints.
Puff-sleeve blouses with lace or ruffle details.
Simple cotton or linen tops in soft colors.
2. Bottoms
A-line skirts in gingham or solid earth tones.
Wide-leg linen trousers for a relaxed look.
3. Outerwear
Chunky knit cardigans.
Lightweight shawls and wraps.
4. Footwear
Simple leather sandals.
Mary Janes or ballet flats.
Lace-up boots for cooler months.
5. Accessories
Straw hats or wide-brimmed sun hats.
Woven tote bags or baskets.
Delicate gold or silver jewelry.
6. Hair & Makeup
Hair is typically loose and natural, often with braids or soft waves. Makeup is minimal—think rosy cheeks, a touch of mascara, and natural lip tints.
Cottagecore in Film & TV
Cottagecore has long been a visual presence in media, even before the term existed. Here are some notable examples:
Pride and Prejudice (2005) – Rolling fields, tea in sunlit parlors, and soft gowns.
Little Women (2019) – Vintage dresses, cozy interiors, and a focus on family and home.
Anne of Green Gables (1985 & 2017) – The pastoral landscapes and homey interiors are pure cottagecore inspiration.
The Secret Garden (1993 & 2020) – Lush gardens, floral dresses, and timeless countryside beauty.
Call the Midwife (2012–) – Vintage charm and 1950s rural England aesthetics.
Why People Love Cottagecore
Cottagecore appeals to those seeking simplicity, nostalgia, and a slower pace. It offers a visual and lifestyle alternative to fast fashion, high-tech minimalism, and constant connectivity. It’s not about living without modern conveniences—it’s about making room for beauty, creativity, and connection with nature in your everyday life.
Tips to Start Your Cottagecore Journey
Start small—Add fresh flowers to your table, switch to linen napkins, or bake bread from scratch.
Thrift & repurpose—Vintage pieces and handmade items feel authentic and unique.
Bring nature inside—Even a few potted herbs can make your space feel more connected to the outdoors.
Dress the part—Try a flowy dress, straw hat, or knit cardigan to capture the mood.
Live intentionally—Enjoy slow mornings, nature walks, and handmade crafts.