Ok: What is cottagecore decor all about?

The most wholesome trend ever

A cottagecore style bedroom on a gingham print background
(Image credit: @nicolahuthwaite)

You want the truth? I think I’m the biggest cottagecore girlie out there. My wardrobe is filled with florals and ginghams, and my rental is fully decked out in natural shades and patterns. There’s something about the aesthetic that unlocks my inner Snow White, and I’m totally in love with it.

When I entered the world of interior writing, it was always the vibe that I was most drawn to, and I’d use it everywhere I could. Now that I actually have my own place, I love decorating with it in mind — and luckily, it’s super easy to do.

It has been around for a few years, but cottagecore is one of those timeless trends that just never seems to disappear. In fact, it was the first example of a "core" aesthetic that I saw, and now they seem to be everywhere.

If you’ve seen cottagecore around and don’t completely get what it’s all about, I’m here for you. Scroll on down for all the cottagecore info, plus some real cute decor buys.

Your cottagecore questions, answered

This style has made huge waves both in terms of fashion style and home decor, so you’ve probs seen loads on your Insta feed without even realizing it. Whether you know it or not, it’s super cozy and cute, so I just know that you’re gonna love it.

What is cottagecore?

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In short, cottagecore is a design aesthetic that embodies English and European cottages and gardens in a vintage, aesthetic way. Picture lounging on a picnic blanket in the woods, wearing a white flowy dress, and eating strawberries — that’s the vibe. It's not straight-out living in a cottage, but embracing the lifestyle and adding touches to your home as if you do.

Where did cottagecore come from?

The style of cottagecore can be traced back European fairytales and folklore, and the romantic imagery in these. In terms of the actual phrase, the term was first coined on Tumblr in 2018, and the style has continued to gain popularity on Instagram and TikTok ever since.

What is cottagecore decor? 

The color palette for cottagecore decor tends to be greens, whites, reds, and pinks, as well as other soft, natural tones. In terms of pattern and textures, think lots of wicker, gingham and lace, and nature-inspired forestcore prints. 

Get the cottagecore look with these decor buys

Ready to live your most wholesome life? I’ve rounded up six cute cottagecore-inspired buys that are perfect for adding a touch of the trend to your home.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

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Eve Smallman
Staff Writer

Hi there! I’m a staff writer at Real Homes. I've been a lifestyle journalist for over five years, previously working as an editor across regional magazines. Before this, I graduated from Nottingham Trent University a degree in journalism, along with an NCTJ gold diploma. I love running, decorating my rented Victorian home, and discovering new cheeses. 

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