Do you long for a simpler and more peaceful way of living? Do you find yourself daydreaming of cozy cottages, lush gardens, and homemade pies? Do you love the charm and nostalgia of vintage fashion?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you might be a fan of cottagecore. Cottagecore is a popular aesthetic that celebrates the beauty and romance of rural life, nature, and history. It’s a style that evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and harmony with the environment.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to dress cottagecore, from the basics to the details. You’ll discover the different subgenres, the essential elements of its fashion, and how to create outfits that suit your personality and occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cottagecore enthusiast or a curious beginner, this guide will help you embrace the rustic elegance of it.

Understanding the Cottagecore Aesthetic

Before we dive into the specifics of how to dress cottagecore, let’s first understand what cottagecore is and where it comes from.

Introduction to Cottagecore

Cottagecore is an aesthetic that draws inspiration from rural life, nature, and vintage aesthetics. It’s a way of expressing a longing for a simpler and more idyllic lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of modern society. Cottagecore is often associated with activities such as gardening, baking, sewing, reading, and picnicking.

The essence of cottagecore is to appreciate the beauty and joy of the ordinary and the mundane. It’s about finding happiness in the small things, like the smell of fresh flowers, the taste of homemade jam, or the feel of soft linen. It’s also about embracing imperfections and flaws, such as wrinkles, stains, and patches, as part of the charm and character of it.

Historical Influences and the Resurgence of Interest in the Style

Cottagecore is not a new phenomenon. It has roots in various historical and cultural movements, such as the Romanticism of the 18th and 19th centuries, the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the hippie and folk cultures of the 1960s and 1970s. These movements all shared a common theme of rejecting industrialization and urbanization, and celebrating nature, art, and craftsmanship.

Cottagecore has also been influenced by various literary and artistic works, such as the novels of Jane Austen, the paintings of Claude Monet, and the films of Studio Ghibli. These works often depict idyllic and pastoral scenes of rural life, with an emphasis on romance, nostalgia, and escapism.

Cottagecore has gained a resurgence of interest in recent years, especially among young people, thanks to the popularity of social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. These platforms allow users to share their cottagecore-inspired photos, videos, and stories, and to connect with other like-minded people. Cottagecore has also been seen as a coping mechanism for the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it offers a sense of comfort, security, and hope.

Exploring Cottagecore Subgenres

This is not a monolithic aesthetic. It has many variations and subgenres, each with its own distinctive features and preferences. Here are some of the most common and popular subgenres of cottagecore, and how to dress accordingly.

Countrycore: The Rustic Cousin

Countrycore is a subgenre of cottagecore that focuses on the practical and functional aspects of rural life. It’s a style that embraces the rugged and rough textures of the countryside, such as denim, leather, and wool. Countrycore is often influenced by the American West, the British countryside, and the Australian outback.

To dress countrycore, you’ll need some key pieces, such as:

• Denim: Denim is a staple of countrycore, as it’s durable, versatile, and easy to style. You can wear denim jeans, jackets, shirts, or skirts, in various washes and cuts. For a more vintage look, opt for high-waisted, straight-leg, or flared jeans, and pair them with a belt and boots.
• Plaid: Plaid is another classic pattern of countrycore, as it adds some color and contrast to your outfit. You can wear plaid shirts, dresses, skirts, or scarves, in various colors and sizes. For a more cozy and casual look, layer a plaid shirt over a t-shirt or a sweater, and roll up the sleeves.
• Work boots: Work boots are a must-have for countrycore, as they’re practical, comfortable, and stylish. You can wear work boots in various colors and materials, such as brown leather, black suede, or beige canvas. For a more feminine and chic look, choose work boots with a low heel, a lace-up detail, or a buckle accent.

Dark Cottagecore: The Mystical Twist

Dark cottagecore is a subgenre of cottagecore that embraces a moody and mysterious color palette, with a touch of romance and drama. It’s a style that draws inspiration from Gothic literature, Victorian fashion, and witchcraft. Dark cottagecore is often associated with the autumn and winter seasons, as well as the night time.

To dress dark cottagecore, you’ll need some distinct elements, such as:

• Lace: Lace is a key element of this aesthetic, as it adds some texture and elegance to your outfit. You can wear lace dresses, tops, skirts, or gloves, in various colors and styles. For a more edgy and modern look, opt for lace pieces with a sheer or mesh overlay, and pair them with leather or velvet accessories.
• Victorian-inspired accessories: Victorian-inspired accessories are another way to add some flair and sophistication to your dark cottagecore outfit. You can wear accessories such as chokers, brooches, earrings, or rings, in various shapes and designs. For a more authentic and vintage look, choose accessories with pearls, crystals, or cameo motifs.
• Darker florals: Darker florals are a perfect pattern for dark cottagecore, as they create a contrast between the dark and the light, the feminine and the masculine, and the delicate and the bold. You can wear darker florals on dresses, skirts, blouses, or jackets, in various sizes and styles. For a more whimsical and playful look, mix and match different floral prints, and layer them with solid colors.

Pink Cottagecore: Femininity in Full Bloom

Pink cottagecore is a subgenre of cottagecore that incorporates soft pinks and delicate patterns into the aesthetic. It’s a style that celebrates the sweetness and innocence of femininity, with a hint of nostalgia and romance. Pink cottage core is often influenced by the French countryside, the Rococo era, and the shabby chic style.

To dress pink cottage core, you’ll need some outfit inspirations, such as:

• Blushing tones: Blushing tones are a great way to add some warmth and softness to your pink cottage core outfit. You can wear blushing tones on dresses, skirts, sweaters, or cardigans, in various shades and fabrics. For a more refined and elegant look, opt for blushing tones in silk, satin, or lace, and pair them with pearls or gold jewelry.
• Floral accents: Floral accents are another way to enhance your pink cottage core outfit, as they add some charm and freshness to your look. You can wear floral accents on headbands, hats, scarves, or bags, in various colors and sizes. For a more cute and quirky look, choose floral accents with a 3D effect, such as embroidery, applique, or crochet.
• Ruffles and frills: Ruffles and frills are a must-have for pink cottage core, as they create some movement and volume to your outfit. You can wear ruffles and frills on dresses, skirts, blouses, or sleeves, in various lengths and styles. For a more fun and flirty look, opt for ruffles and frills in tulle, organza, or chiffon, and pair them with ribbons or bows.

Fairycore: Enchanted Forest Feel

Fairycore is a subgenre of cottagecore that incorporates ethereal and magical elements into the aesthetic. It’s a style that draws inspiration from fairy tales, folklore, and fantasy. Fairycore is often associated with the spring and summer seasons, as well as the daytime.

To dress fairycore, you’ll need some ethereal elements, such as:

• Gossamer fabrics: Gossamer fabrics are a key element of fairycore, as they create a light and airy feel to your outfit. You can wear gossamer fabrics on dresses, skirts, tops, or shawls, in various colors and patterns. For a more dreamy and romantic look, opt for gossamer fabrics with a sheer or translucent effect, and pair them with lace or embroidery.
• Whimsical accessories: Whimsical accessories are another way to add some sparkle and magic to your fairycore outfit. You can wear whimsical accessories such as tiaras, earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, in various shapes and designs. For a more authentic and enchanting look, choose whimsical accessories with stars, moons, flowers, or butterflies motifs.
• Natural motifs: Natural motifs are a perfect way to complement your fairycore outfit, as they reflect your connection and appreciation for nature. You can wear natural motifs on dresses, skirts, tops, or jackets, in various colors and styles. For a more creative and adventurous look, mix and match different natural motifs, such as leaves, vines, mushrooms, or berries.

The Essential Guide to Creating Cottagecore Outfits

Now that you have a better idea of the different subgenres of cottagecore, let’s move on to the core elements of cottagecore fashion. These are the basic components that make up any cottagecore outfit, regardless of your personal style or preference. By mastering these elements, you’ll be able to create a variety of cottagecore outfits that suit your mood and occasion.

Core Elements of Cottagecore Fashion

Natural Fabrics and Materials

One of the most important elements of cottage core fashion is to choose natural fabrics and materials for your clothing and accessories. Natural fabrics and materials are those that are derived from plants or animals, such as linen, cotton, wool, silk, leather, or wood. These fabrics and materials are preferred for cottage core because they are more authentic, sustainable, and comfortable than synthetic ones. They also have a unique texture and quality that adds to the rustic and vintage feel of cottage core.

Some of the benefits of choosing natural fabrics and materials for cottagecore are:

• They are breathable and regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
• They are durable and long-lasting, meaning you can wear them for years and even pass them down to future generations.
• They are biodegradable and eco-friendly, meaning they don’t harm the environment or produce waste.
• They are versatile and easy to style, meaning you can mix and match them with different colors and patterns.

Some of the drawbacks of choosing natural fabrics and materials for cottage core are:

• They are more expensive and harder to find than synthetic ones, meaning you might have to invest more money and time in finding them.
• They are more prone to wrinkles, stains, and damage, meaning you might have to take more care and maintenance in washing and storing them.
• They are more sensitive to heat, moisture, and sunlight, meaning you might have to avoid exposing them to harsh conditions.

Color Palette

Another essential element is to choose a color palette that reflects the aesthetic. The color palette of cottage core is typically composed of earthy and pastel shades, such as beige, brown, green, yellow, pink, and blue. These colors are inspired by the natural elements of the countryside, such as the soil, the grass, the flowers, and the sky. These colors are also soothing and calming, creating a sense of harmony and serenity.

Some of the benefits of choosing an earthy and pastel color palette for cottagecore are:

• They are flattering and complementary to most skin tones, hair colors, and eye colors, meaning you can wear them with confidence and ease.
• They are timeless and classic, meaning you can wear them for any season and occasion, and they won’t go out of style.
• They are subtle and elegant, meaning you can wear them for a sophisticated and refined look, without being too flashy or loud.

Some of the drawbacks of choosing an earthy and pastel color palette for cottage core are:

• They are more common and less distinctive than other colors, meaning you might have to add some contrast or interest to your outfit with patterns or accessories.
• They are more prone to fading and discoloration, meaning you might have to wash and store them carefully to preserve their quality and appearance.
• They are more susceptible to dirt and stains, meaning you might have to clean and spot-treat them more often.

Key Clothing Pieces

The final core element of cottagecore fashion is to choose some key clothing pieces that embody the aesthetic. These are the clothing pieces that define and shape your outfit, and that you can build upon with other elements. These clothing pieces are usually inspired by vintage and historical fashion, with an emphasis on feminine silhouettes, natural fabrics, and enchanting details.

Some of the key clothing pieces for cottage core are:

• Dresses: Dresses are the quintessential clothing piece for cottagecore, as they create a graceful and romantic look. You can choose dresses in various styles, such as midi, maxi, wrap, or shirt dresses, and in various fabrics, such as linen, cotton, or silk. You can also look for dresses with cottagecore details, such as floral prints, lace trims, ruffles, or buttons.
• Skirts: Skirts are another staple clothing piece for cottagecore, as they create a versatile and charming look. You can choose skirts in various lengths, such as mini, midi, or maxi skirts, and in various shapes, such as A-line, pleated, or circle skirts. You can also look for skirts with cottagecore details, such as plaid patterns, embroidery, or pockets.
• Knitwear: Knitwear is a must-have clothing piece for cottagecore, especially for the colder seasons, as they create a cozy and comfortable look. You can choose knitwear in various types, such as sweaters, cardigans, or vests, and in various fabrics, such as wool, cotton, or cashmere. You can also look for knitwear with cottagecore details, such as cable knit, fair isle, or floral motifs.
• Aprons: Aprons are a unique and fun clothing piece for cottagecore, as they create a whimsical and nostalgic look. You can choose aprons in various styles, such as bib, waist, or pinafore aprons, and in various fabrics, such as linen, cotton, or denim. You can also look for aprons with cottagecore details, such as floral prints, lace trims, or pockets.

Accessorizing the Cottagecore Way

Once you have the core elements of cottagecore fashion, you can further enhance your outfit with some accessories. Accessories are the finishing touches that add some personality and flair to your look. They can also help you customize your outfit to suit your subgenre, occasion, or mood.

Some of the accessories for cottagecore are:

• Headwear: Headwear is a great way to add some interest and dimension to your cottagecore outfit, especially if you have a simple or plain hairstyle. You can choose headwear in various types, such as hats, headbands, or hair clips, and in various materials, such as straw, fabric, or metal. You can also look for headwear with cottagecore details, such as floral crowns, straw hats, or ribbon bows.
• Jewelry: Jewelry is another way to add some sparkle and elegance to your cottagecore outfit, especially if you have a plain or neutral color palette. You can choose jewelry in various types, such as earrings, necklaces, or rings, and in various materials, such as gold, silver, or wood. You can also look for jewelry with cottage core details, such as antique-style pieces, handmade crafts, or natural motifs.
• Footwear: Footwear is an essential part of your cottagecore outfit, as it can make or break your look. You can choose footwear in various types, such as boots, flats, or heels, and in various materials, such as leather, suede, or canvas. You can also look for footwear with cottage core details, such as durable yet charming selections, such as boots and ballet flats.

Dressing Cottagecore for Every Body

Cottagecore is an inclusive and diverse aesthetic, that can be worn by anyone, regardless of their body shape, size, or age. Cottagecore is not about conforming to a certain standard of beauty, but about expressing your individuality and creativity. Cottagecore is also about feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin, and celebrating your natural beauty.

Plus Size Cottagecore

If you’re a plus size cottagecore lover, you might face some challenges in finding clothing and accessories that fit you well and flatter your curves. However, don’t let that stop you from embracing the aesthetic and having fun with it. Here are some tips for dressing cottagecore as a plus size person:

• Look for clothing pieces that are made of natural and breathable fabrics, such as linen, cotton, or wool. These fabrics will keep you cool and comfortable, and won’t cling to your body or cause irritation.
• Look for clothing pieces that have some stretch or elasticity, such as knitwear, jersey, or denim. These fabrics will adapt to your body shape and size, and won’t restrict your movement or cause discomfort.
• Look for clothing pieces that have a flattering and comfortable fit, such as wrap dresses, A-line skirts, or cardigans. These clothing pieces will accentuate your waist and bust, and balance out your hips and thighs.
• Look for clothing pieces that have some details or patterns, such as floral prints, lace trims, or embroidery. These details will add some interest and charm to your outfit, and draw attention to your best features.
• Look for accessories that are proportional and harmonious with your outfit, such as statement earrings, chunky necklaces, or wide belts. These accessories will enhance your look and create a focal point, without overwhelming or distracting from your outfit.

Delving into Specific Cottagecore Dress Styles

One of the most popular and iconic clothing pieces for cottagecore is the dress. Dresses are versatile and easy to style, and can create a variety of looks, from casual to formal, from simple to elaborate. Dresses are also a great way to express your subgenre, occasion, or mood, as they come in different styles, fabrics, and details.

Cottagecore Aesthetic Dresses

Cottagecore aesthetic dresses are the general term for dresses that follow the cottage core aesthetic, regardless of their specific style or subgenre. These dresses usually have some common features, such as:

• They are made of natural and breathable fabrics, such as linen, cotton, or silk.
• They have a feminine and romantic silhouette, such as a fitted bodice and a flared skirt.
• They have some enchanting details, such as floral prints, lace trims, ruffles, or buttons.

Cottagecore aesthetic dresses can be worn for everyday wear or for special occasions, depending on how you style them. For example, you can wear a simple floral dress with a straw hat and sandals for a casual and cute look, or you can wear a lace dress with a pearl necklace and heels for a formal and elegant look.

Some of the benefits of wearing these dresses are:

• They are comfortable and easy to wear, as they don’t require much fuss or adjustment.
• They are flattering and versatile, as they suit most body shapes and sizes, and can be paired with different accessories and layers.
• They are timeless and classic, as they never go out of fashion and can be worn for any season and occasion.

Some of the drawbacks of wearing cottagecore aesthetic dresses are:

• They are more expensive and harder to find than other dresses, as they are often made of high-quality and rare fabrics and materials.
• They are more prone to wrinkles, stains, and damage, as they are often made of delicate and sensitive fabrics and materials.
• They are more restrictive and impractical, as they might limit your movement or activity, or require special care and maintenance.

Corset Cottagecore Dress

A corset cottagecore dress is a specific type of cottagecore aesthetic dress that incorporates a corset or a corset-like feature into the design. A corset is a garment that is worn around the torso to shape and support the body, creating a slim and curvy silhouette. A corset-like feature is a detail that mimics the appearance or function of a corset, such as a lace-up front, a boned bodice, or a cinched waist.

A corset cottagecore dress is often inspired by historical and Victorian fashion, as corsets were a common and fashionable garment in those eras. A corset cottagecore dress can create a dramatic and sophisticated look, with a touch of nostalgia and romance.

Some of the benefits of wearing a corset cottagecore dress are:

• They are stylish and unique, as they add some flair and interest to your outfit.
• They are flattering and supportive, as they enhance your figure and posture, and accentuate your waist and bust.
• They are customizable and adaptable, as they can be adjusted and modified to suit your preference and comfort.

Some of the drawbacks of wearing a corset cottagecore dress are:

• They are uncomfortable and restrictive, as they might squeeze your body or cause breathing difficulties.
• They are complicated and difficult to wear, as they might require assistance or expertise to put on or take off.
• They are impractical and inconvenient, as they might interfere with your movement or activity, or require special care and maintenance.

Cottage Style Outfit Ideas for Varied Occasions

Cottagecore is not only a fashion aesthetic, but also a lifestyle aesthetic. It’s a way of living that embraces the simple and peaceful aspects of rural life, such as gardening, baking, sewing, reading, and picnicking. Therefore, when dressing cottage core, you might want to consider the occasion and the activity that you’re planning to do, and choose an outfit that matches the theme and the mood.

Here are some cottage style outfit ideas for varied occasions:

• Daily wear: For your everyday wear, you might want to choose an outfit that is practical and comfortable, but also cute and charming. You can wear a plaid shirt dress with a denim jacket and boots for a countrycore look, or a floral wrap dress with a cardigan and flats for a pink cottagecore look. You can also accessorize with a straw hat, a floral scarf, or a basket bag for some extra cottagecore vibes.
• Picnic: For a picnic, you might want to choose an outfit that is light and airy, but also cozy and romantic. You can wear a gossamer dress with a lace shawl and sandals for a fairycore look, or a dark floral dress with a leather jacket and boots for a dark cottagecore look. You can also accessorize with a floral crown, a choker, or a book for some extra cottagecore vibes.
• Tea party: For a tea party, you might want to choose an outfit that is elegant and refined, but also sweet and whimsical. You can wear a lace dress with a pearl necklace and heels for a pink cottagecore look, or a corset dress with a brooch and gloves for a dark cottagecore look. You can also accessorize with a hat, a ring, or a teacup for some extra cottagecore vibes.

Personalizing Your Cottagecore Experience

Cottagecore is a personal and creative aesthetic, that can be interpreted and expressed in different ways. There is no right or wrong way to dress cottagecore, as long as you have fun and enjoy it. You can also personalize your cottagecore experience by tailoring it to your individual tastes, preferences, and values.

Here are some tips for personalizing your cottagecore experience:

• Experiment with different subgenres, colors, patterns, and details, and find the ones that suit your personality and mood.
• Mix and match different clothing pieces, accessories, and layers, and create your own unique and original outfits.
• Make your own clothing and accessories, or customize and alter existing ones, and add your own personal touch and flair.
• Shop for clothing and accessories from local, ethical, and sustainable sources, or thrift and recycle old ones, and support the cottagecore ethos of conscientious consumption and environmental awareness.

Last Words

Cottagecore is more than just a fashion trend. It’s a way of expressing your love and appreciation for the simple and beautiful things in life. It’s a way of finding joy and peace in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. It’s a way of celebrating your individuality and creativity, while also connecting with nature and history.

By dressing cottagecore, you’re not only creating a stunning and charming look, but also a meaningful and fulfilling experience. You’re not only wearing clothes, but also telling a story. You’re not only following an aesthetic, but also living a lifestyle.

We hope this guide has inspired and helped you to dress cottagecore, and to embrace the rustic elegance of the aesthetic. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, a casual or a passionate fan, we hope you have fun and enjoy dressing cottagecore.

Thank you for reading, and happy dressing! 😊