Cottagecore 101: A Guide to Embracing the Trend in Your Home
Photo by Abigail Ducote on Unsplash
Cottagecore is a buzz word we’ve all heard on social media lately. It defines a style/ lifestyle that romanticizes slow living in a rural environment.
If you’re loving cottagecore, this is for you. A style that is representative of slow living, warm summer days, opened windows, florals, and fresh baked bread, this has to be the ultimate way to embrace a carefree, cozy lifestyle.
In recent years, humans have increasingly been bombarded with technology. Yes, phone addiction is a real thing. Perhaps this is why cottagecore has been popular, as seen on social media including TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. We are craving putting down our screens and living a simpler life, one where we bake fresh loaves of sourdough and collect eggs from our backyard chickens. A lifestyle that is reminiscent of days passed, when technology wasn’t at our fingertips. At the very center of cottagecore is our homes: creating a space that is simple, not overwhelming, beautiful, and cozy.
Bringing the Outdoors In
A main theme of cottagecore life is the outdoors. Picture a warm summer day planting a garden, collecting wildflowers with sun hitting your face, or baking treats with the windows open to let in the warm breeze. A lot of cottagecore inspired interiors aim to bring the colors of the outdoors in. This is seen by incorporating colors in shades of green, yellow, and various neutrals. The below photo demonstrates this with natural green shades in the pillows and the built-in behind the sofa. Notice that plants are also used to add color and greenery. Plants are another way that cottagecore is brought into the home. Dried florals and bouquets in addition to potted indoor plants are used to emulate the outdoors.
I have also seen the use of yellow, as is the case with the kitchen below. Yellow is a cheery color that reminds us of sunshine and warm days.
Oftentimes, natural materials are used such as wood furniture, beams, and countertops. These, too, make an effort to bring the outdoors inside.
Eclectic Inspiration
Cottagecore demonstrates a collection of things that are loved and unique. That could be antique furnishings, thrifted knick knacks, or wallpaper. Floral patterned wallpaper and tiles are popular to add character and charm to the home.
The style is far from modern, rather, it is inspired by simpler times. Collecting beautiful pieces from thrift or antique stores is an excellent way to decorate in this style. Thrifted juice glasses, lemonade pitches, vases, armoires, vanities, and so on are beautiful options to add to your home.
Soft, Slow Living
Curvature is an essential element to cottagecore. The style does not incorporate harsh lines or sharp edges. Rather, there is a mix of furniture and elements that feature soft curves, and natural textures.
The style is far from stark in the sense of everything being white, clean, and crisp. Another way this idea of “soft living” is incorporated is with lighting. During the day, natural outdoor sunlight is used to its advantage. Curtains are open, windows let in the breeze. At night, lamps and soft-yellow lights warm up the home and cuts through the darkness. Candles are incorporated as well for light, picture tapered candles sitting on a table, spilling light over a home cooked meal.
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