Cottagecore: Top Tips to Embracing It In Your Life

You may have noticed the term bouncing around on social media. It is often found with beautiful images of gypsophila-filled jars, gorgeous wicker baskets abundant with freshly picked fruit, or sensational floral-dress adorned ladies carrying great bouquets of peonies. Cottagecore is the aesthetic taking over Instagram. It is the photogenic representation of all that is natural and beautiful. It embraces the idea of a simple, rural life. The use of the word 'cottage' in the term transports you to a world of rustic charm.

In terms of home décor it is the idea of using natural materials in the home, creating a farmhouse-style atmosphere, and embracing a romantic style inspired by nature. In the garden it encourages home grown fruit and vegetables, traditional cottage-garden borders full of bountiful flowering plants, and pretty courtyards containing natural stone pottery. Cottagecore even stretches to fashion; think natural materials, floral designs, romantic details and flowing fabrics. The trend has kicked off for those wanting to embrace a sustainable and mindful lifestyle. It focuses on the handmade; home baking, home crafts and home growing being important exercises in mindfulness and craftmanship.

Here are 7 Top Tips to help you embrace Cottagecore:

1. Add fresh flowers or potted plants to your rooms, using rustic vases, pots or jars. Think traditional blooms such as roses, peonies, stocks and lavender. These elements not only add a touch of freshness but also contribute to a relaxed and organic feel.

2. Grow your own herbs. Whether indoors or outdoors, herbs are both useful and often beautiful to look at. You can create a fabulous stock in a wooden outdoor trough or consider vintage-style pots on a windowsill.

3. Choose a hobby you can get your teeth into. Often focusing on making something yourself or focusing strongly on a project can be a great way to clear the mind. Hobbies such as gardening, sewing, drawing or baking not only result in beautiful products but also can be very meditative and let you embrace a simpler way of life, switching off from our busy jobs and constant string of mental tasks.

4. 

   Select decorative pieces for your home which represent a sense of age. Materials with patina such as brass, distressed wooden frames, antique glass or heirloom pieces create a sense of vintage timelessness. To enhance the cottage vibe, consider incorporating rustic elements such as reclaimed wood, wicker baskets, and vintage pieces.

5. Redesign and upcycling are the perfect accompaniments to Cottagecore. Consider re-upholstering dining or feature chairs with floral or whimsical fabrics. Furniture can often be transformed using distressed paint styles. Embrace fresh hues in your room colour palettes such as pastels, muted or dusty tones.

6. Shop vintage. Markets, antique stores, and even charity shops can be treasure troves for finding unique items that add character and warmth to your space. It is also a positive exercise in intentional shopping and mindfulness, to focus on re-using, buying 2nd hand, and recycling.

7. Textiles play a crucial role in creating a cosy atmosphere. Soft, plush throws, embroidered cushions, and flowy curtains can instantly make a room feel more inviting and comfortable. Choose fabrics with floral prints, gingham patterns, or delicate lace to enhance the cottage aesthetic.

By following these simple DIY home decor tips, you can easily transform your home and garden into a cosy Cottagecore retreat where you can unwind, relax, and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Remember, the key is to focus on creating a space that reflects warmth and comfort whilst living a lifestyle that values nature, the homemade, and a simpler life. It is about embracing form and function, decorating with intention and thoughtfulness, and living with care.