For anyone unfamiliar with the term, cottagecore is the culmination of clothing, interiors, and lifestyle activities inspired by living in—you guessed it—a cottage. It's a departure from the fast-paced lifestyles and trend cycles of the past and favors a more intentional approach to dressing and everyday life. The cottagecore aesthetic gives off an air of whimsical romanticism with a pinch of practicality needed for living on a farm or a plot of land in the middle of nowhere.
Cottagecore is all about embracing a simple rural lifestyle, so it's best to prioritize simplicity when it comes to the 'fits too. Nothing is easier than throwing on a chunky knit set or crochet dress to go for a walk outside. Shoes are optional, but knits are required.
Cottagecore outfits balance minimalism with Victorian-inspired details. Think pieces with corset bodices, puff sleeves, toile, and floral prints. You want to look like you walked out of a Jane Austen novel and into the present, and the best possible way to do that is in a floral dress.
Even if you're not residing in a cottage, you can channel the aesthetic for your next picnic date by opting for a few signature pieces. The perfect way to embrace this look is by pairing a top with feminine details (e.g., ruffles, bows, lace) styled with a miniskirt and dainty jewelry.
Just because the cliché cottagecore ensembles champion frilly pieces doesn't mean that's the only way you can pull off this aesthetic. Again, it's all about a return to minimal, intentional pieces with intricate details. So pairing your favorite oversize sunglasses with a classic cardigan, slides, and a great pair of linen pants is the perfect way to give the same vibe without all the frills.
If you consider yourself a maximalist rather than a minimalist, then this outfit idea will be right up your alley. Cottagecore embraces handmade things, so what better way to pay homage to craftsmanship than with a quilted statement piece? Whether you opt for just a coat or a full matching set, a quilted piece is a must-have.
It doesn't get more quintessentially cottagecore than opting for a white dress. But the key to this look lies in the details. You don't want any old white dress. Look for one with unique details like a fitted bodice, lace, eyelet, embroidery, an oversize collar, and puff sleeves. Finish off the outfit with fun accessories like a statement bucket hat or handmade jewelry to take this piece from basic to one of a kind.
It doesn't get more "prairie meets Victorian" than the corset-top trend. Honestly, this is possibly the easiest way to craft a cottagecore outfit, as all you need is this top, a pair of jeans, and some layered jewelry.
Details are the name of the game when it comes to crafting the perfect cottagecore outfit. Pairing a white blouse with denim shorts and a scarf may seem simple, but it's the handmade details (like lace appliqué, an oversize collar, and embroidery) that make this look shine.
Whether you're walking through the fields or planning a picnic in a garden in the city, the simplest way to get the cottagecore vibe is by keeping it simple. Pair some light-wash jeans with sandals and a floral-print top, and you'll be giving off effortless cute country-girl vibes.
Just because you're residing in the country doesn't mean you can't pull out the jewels. In fact, to make any minimal white dress or Peter Pan blouse pop, it's an absolute must. Opt for quirky, DIY-inspired pieces to fully commit to the handmade aesthetic.
You've made it to the end, and while you've probably now realized there are so many ways to interpret the cottagecore fashion aesthetic, the easiest way to do it is by getting back to what this movement is all about: simplicity. Throw on a pretty minidress (either with puff sleeves or other Victorian-inspired details), and you've got the perfect outfit to wear to a nearby garden or your local bodega.
