Cottagecore rose in popularity during a time when sustainable style and eco-friendly habits were becoming more of a priority with fashion consumers. There was a desire to run away from the modern world and get lost in an enchanted forest.
It's a whimsical aesthetic inspired by nature, simple living, and the rural charm of quaint cottages surrounded by rolling meadows and blooming gardens. Cottagecore encourages us to embrace a slower, more intentional approach to life but also dressing.
The cottagecore style is all about wearing cosy clothes with loose-fitting trousers, flowy dresses, knitted cardigans, and nature-inspired jewellery all being staples of the aesthetic. The colour palette is traditional neutrals paired with floral, paisley, and gingham patterns.
If you want to try out the cottagecore aesthetic but don't want to buy an entirely new wardrobe; chances are you probably already own key elements of cottagecore outfits in your wardrobe. This is how to create a cottagecore capsule wardrobe using the clothes you already own.
What is the dress code for cottagecore?
Cottagecore fashion draws inspiration from 18th and 19th-century rural aesthetics. It's a style that portrays a romanticized ideal of rural living, emphasising a simpler life with a deep connection to nature.
The cottagecore dress code has a whimsical style that combines natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool with long, flowing dresses, floral print skirts, and gingham patterns. Details such as high necklines, lace trims, and full skirts give cottagecore outfits a nostalgic charm.
What are the staples of cottagecore?
Cottagecore wardrobe staples include lace-trimmed blouses, off the shoulder tops, and balloon sleeves pair with oversized knits, apron dresses, and maxi skirts. Check, plaid, and gingham patterns feature heavily along with embroidery and bows.
Vintage accessories such as straw hats, lace gloves, pearl necklaces, and cameo brooches; along with lace-up boots, Mary Janes, and ballet flats are all cottagecore outfit essentials. The colour palette is natural with earthy tones like greens, oranges, and reds being the most popular choice.
How do you make an outfit look cottagecore?
Cottagecore is a simple style making it easy to create an outfit that encapsulates the cottagecore aesthetic. Start with basics made from natural fabrics, opting for a long, flowy dress or full skirt with a floral print or gingham pattern in natural colours. Try incorporating a high-neck blouse with lace details or cable knit jumper to give the outfit some vintage charm.
Layers and texture play a crucial role in cottagecore outfits. Cardigans, shawls, and embroidered pieces help enhance an outfit, as do vintage accessories such as hats, gloves, and jewellery. Add a pair of comfortable shoes, like lace-up boots or Mary Janes to complement the outfit and to create a cohesive look.
A Cottagecore Capsule Wardrobe
This is an example of a cottagecore capsule wardrobe put together using clothes from my current wardrobe. This capsule is intended as outfit inspiration with a cottagecore aesthetic, and serves as a guide for creating a capsule wardrobe using what you already own.
Cottagecore Outfit Ideas
How to Create a Cottagecore Capsule Wardrobe
Focus On Basics
Before buying anything new, go through your existing wardrobe to see if you already have some of the most common cottagecore wardrobe basics. Look for flowy dresses, lace-trimmed blouses or embroidered shirts, and full skirts or high-waisted trousers. These items form the foundation of a cottagecore capsule and you probably already have them in your wardrobe!
Use Earthy Colours
The cottagecore style favours a neutral colour palette inspired by nature, including earthy tones like sage green, muted browns, soft creams, and delicate florals. Sticking to a well-defined range of shades will result in a cohesive wardrobe with outfits that match the cottagecore aesthetic. Add interest using floral prints and gingham patterns with items that feature lace accents, embroidered details, and puff sleeves.
Embrace Layering
Layering is key when creating a versatile cottagecore capsule wardrobe suited for all seasons. Breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen, are essential for comfort and ease of wear. While lightweight yet cosy knits, such as oversized cardigans and sweaters, are useful for layering over dresses, shirts, and tops. For some vintage charm, waistcoats, shawls, and capes provide an extra layer of warmth to outfits.
Incorporate Accessories
No cottagecore outfit is complete without a few accessories. Nature-inspired jewellery featuring leaves, flowers, or animals is the perfect choice for adding a touch of whimsical nostalgia to a look. Complete the outfit with a wide-brimmed hat or beret with a bow and classic footwear in neutral colours.
Curate With Intention
The most important part of building a cottagecore capsule wardrobe is to curate with intention, focusing on quality over quantity. Selecting items that can be easily mixed and matched will ensure the versatility and longevity of outfits. Authentic cottagecore outfits mix the old with the new using vintage pieces that have a nostalgic charm. So don't be afraid of incorporating the items you already own with thrifted additions.