Cottagecore aesthetic: ideas to bring the look into your home decor

Born out of a desire to disconnect from our digital world and return to the simpler days of the past, cottagecore is an aesthetic trend that's easy to recreate in your home.

The cottagecore aesthetic has been around for a few years, but its appeal has continued to endure, which isn't surprising given it's all about re-establishing a wholesome connection to nature, with nods to sustainability and eco-living. A timeless philosophy if ever we've heard one.

Increasingly, we are looking to escape modern-day stresses and find calm in simpler things, whether that's the natural world or traditional skills like baking, pottery and foraging. Cottagecore decor is all about embracing an analogue lifestyle inspired by the simplicity of times past - you might be surprised as we're the digital team, but we can definitely get behind this idea!

Read on to shop our top cottagecore finds for under £25, all from our favourite high street brands. And, don't miss our guide to cluttercore, cottagecore's maximalist little sister...

Five fab cottagecore accessories for under £25

Pressed Floral White Oxford Pillowcase, £8

• Buy now from Dunelm (£8)

Clemence Juice Glass, £8

• Buy now from Anthropologie (£8)

Marsh Botanical Boudoir cushion, £22

• Buy now from Dunelm (£22)

Doesn't quite fit in with your scheme? Check out the other cushion designs in the National History Museum collection at Dunelm.

Dagny Floral Ceramic Frame, £14 - £18

• Buy now from Anthropologie (£14-£18)

Vintage Rocking Chair

Nothing says Cottagecore quite like a traditional wooden rocking chair. We've found lots of second hand rocking chairs for around £25 on eBay. And while you're on the site, check out the selection of dressers and cabinets - you'll be suprised what you can find for £25. Happy bargain hunting!

Cottagecore wallpaper

Wallpapers are more of an investment, but neutral, floral designs can effortlessly enhance the rustic ambiance of a cottagecore themed room. These wallpapers usually come in soft, muted tones of beige, cream, or grey, with delicate floral patterns that evoke a sense of natural beauty and tranquillity. They can be paired with light-coloured wooden furniture, vintage decor pieces, and a few plants to bring the outdoors inside and create a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

Floral wallpaper was all the rage in Edwardian houses, which used a similar aesthetic to cottagecore, one that cherished, light, pattern and cosiness.

Before you start, take a look at how to wallpaper like an expert.

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FAQs

What is the cottagecore aesthetic?

To put it briefly, cottagecore decor is basically maximalism taken back in time and with a vintage twist. Country decor has always been popular, but cottagecore encourages you to embrace character and even clutter to achieve a truly authentic homely feel.

So, imagine a traditional English cottage, complete with thatched roof, roaring fireplace and country kitchen, and then layer it up with rugs, throws, pottery, books - everything that makes you feel cosy!

How do I create a cottagecore home?

Cottagecore is all about natural imperfections, so the good news is there’s no need to splurge on brand new pieces of furniture. Prioritise characterful pieces that may show a little wear and tear but have a story to tell.

Your first port of call should be your local charity shops, vintage stores and antique dealers (or your granny’s house). The aim is to create a warm and welcoming home that sparks conversation and creativity.

To achieve the ultimate cottagecore aesthetic, clutter is your best friend. You can comfortably reject throwaway culture, because in this trend everything has its place. Whether it’s a dresser brimming with vintage china or a bedroom overgrown with houseplants, clutter is the new minimalism.

Why is the handmade look important for cottagecore?

Handmade touches are a hallmark of the look. Take up crocheting and make a colourful throw or create your own wall hanging using natural materials like cotton and yarn. Why not make a bespoke piece of personalised initial wall art?

As we know, a bit of comfy clutter is key to cottagecore, so go wild with gallery walls that incorporate hand-painted prints, vintage China plates and macramé wall hangings.

How do I introduce natural touches into my cottagecore scheme?

As well as floral prints, a few living, breathing botanical beauties will add that natural touch. Trailing vine adds an ethereal and romantic touch to the aesthetic or for a more disorderly take on the look, gather together an array of potted plants of varying sizes and heights.

If you really want to stay true to the values of cottagecore, why not forage for some wild flowers yourself and display them in vintage vases?

If you're not green-fingered, there are plenty of faux options on the market that'll still help to create the natural haven you're aiming for. Try this decorative vines set or this Yucca tree artificial plant.

Avoid modern materials and instead seek those that would have been around centuries ago. Wooden furniture and surfaces also promise to remain robust for years to come with the appropriate care. For a vintage feel in your kitchen, opt for reclaimed wood worktops. The rustic material is supposed to look slightly distressed - handy if there are meddling kids around!

Create cosy, cottagecore-inspired, nooks

Even if you've done all of the above, it wouldn't be cottagecore unless it was cosy. Whether you're reading a book, getting crafty or simply taking an afternoon nap, carving out comfy nooks is the way to go. Start with an armchair or sofa, then layer up the patterned cushions, and drape with a patchwork quilt (handmade is preferable) and you've got yourself a cosy corner you'll never want to leave. An upcycled bookcase brimming with well-thumbed classics never goes amiss too!

More ideas to get the cottagecore look

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Feeling inspired? Check out our other decor latest trends, covering everything from the neon aesthetic to Japandi style.