What is Cottagecore? 

Cottagecore has been popping up everywhere in the past year. Share to Buy reports that cottagecore was the most googled home trend in the UK in 2020, and it’s equally popular in Ireland, but what exactly is it? 

Cottagecore is a decor aesthetic that evokes an idealised view of traditional, rural living. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are looking for ways to slow down for a moment of peace and quiet, and cottagecore is the embodiment of that desire. 

It first gained traction on social media—you may have seen pictures and videos full of soft pastel colour palettes, lush florals, and kitschy details like mushroom figurines, big straw hats, and lacy tea towels on your Instagram explore page, tumblr dash, or TikTok fyp. It originally became popular with people in their teens and early twenties, but home decorating enthusiasts of all ages can embrace this charming style! 

Cottagecore is a maximalist look, filling a room with accessories, houseplants, and more, with plenty of vintage-inspired touches. It offers a nostalgic, romanticised version of traditional farmhouse styling, and it appears in clothing choices, makeup trends, and of course, home decor. 

If you love all things charming and whimsical, cottagecore could be a trend you’ll love to embrace in your home. Read on for our guide to this sweet style! 

The Hanoi range is ideal for Cottagecore styling thanks to its ivory lacquered finish and natural wood tops! 

Cottagecore colours

Cottagecore ‘celebrates a pastoral fantasy,’ author Daisy Oakley tells Homes & Gardens, and the colour palette of cottagecore styling reflects that ethos. Think muted, naturalistic hues like pale yellow and green, white and cream, and light pinks. 

For prints, opt for florals and ginghams, or whimsical patterns like farm animals or fun plants. 

Cottagecore is all about natural beauty, so wooden furniture that allows the grain of the wood to shine through with a varnished finish is perfect for this aesthetic. 

Painted finishes in light, warm colours are another great option for a different look. 

Cottagecore essentials

Cottagecore has a lot in common with grandmillenial style, an interiors aesthetic that is also about maximalism and pieces inspired by vintage nostalgia. When choosing cottagecore furnishings, picture them in a charming tea house or your grandmother’s sitting room. If they slot in perfectly, they’re probably cottagecore. 

Comfort is key, so if the tight, sculpted cushions and clean lines of mid-century modern sofas don’t catch your eye, squashy cottagecore couches with plenty of throw pillows might be just the thing. 

Simple pieces like rustic dining tables are perfect for this trend, and can be topped with an ample amount of accessories—tablecloths, candles, cloth serviettes, and more—to give them cottage-inspired vibes. Pair your table with spindly wooden chairs or a dining bench for rustic seating style.

A hutch can be a key piece of kitchen furniture, especially if you fill it with dainty ceramic plates or tea sets. And storage options with baskets made of wicker or rattan bring the homespun feel to your organisational essentials. 

Flooring is a great way to bring that farmhouse feel to your home. Wood flooring or realistic vinyl alternatives are essential—look for options that show or mimic wood details like grain and knots for a rustic, natural feel. 

As cottagecore is so focused on nature and garden-inspired style, don’t forget your outdoor space! Transitioning smoothly from indoor to outdoor decor is one of the summer’s biggest trends, so take the opportunity to create interiors that meld effortlessly with your exteriors.

An array of pieces perfectly suited for Cottagecore style: Lynton Recliner Armchair, Sabina Larder, Hanoi Extending Dining Table, Lolly White Dressing Table, Julie Lanterns, LED Flicker Candles, Sonia TV Unit, Palladian Country Champagne Mirror

Cottagecore details

There are so many ways you can incorporate this aesthetic into your home, whether you’re looking for a complete furniture overhaul or to add a few elements to your current space. 

This decor style focuses on finding moments of peace and calm in a busy world, and the perfect accessories can help to create a reading nook or relaxation space where you can hide away from all your worries and cares. Cosiness is the name of the game when it comes to cottagecore, so look for fluffy area rugs, snuggly throws, and of course a warm fireplace or stove. 

Lighting also contributes to the warm and welcome feel of cottagecore interiors. Fairy lights, flickering candles, and pendant lighting are a few favourite options, offering the soft, romantic aura that this style is known for. 

Plants are another essential element of cottagecore style. If you don’t have a green thumb, artificial flowers and plants can give you the look without the work. Curtains or linens with a floral motif can also bring this natural detail into a room. 

Since this is a maximalist decor look, think ‘more is more’, and don’t worry too much about making everything match. Choose pieces you love and go for an eclectic, whimsical look. 

Whether you’re already living rural or you’re looking to bring countryside style to a city space, cottagecore is a perfect way to add a touch of homespun charm to your home decor. Find cottagecore favourites here at Corcoran’s, and share your style with us on social media using the hashtag #mycorcorans!