It’s a word we are all hearing these days. Whether you are seeing it on Instagram, reading about it in magazines, or your friends are all remaking their homes up in this aesthetic, this style is surging. But what is it anyway?

Cottagecore is an aesthetic and lifestyle movement that romanticizes rural living, simplicity, and a close connection to nature. It’s inspired by an idealized version of the countryside — think cozy cottages, wildflowers, handmade goods, and slow, mindful living.

It is defined by 4 core themes:

Simplicity & Slowness: Emphasis on a slower pace of life — baking bread, gardening, reading by candlelight, and enjoying quiet moments.
Nostalgia: Draws on an imagined past — often 19th- or early 20th-century rural life — free from modern chaos.
Nature Connection: Outdoor life, wildflowers, woodland walks, farm animals, and harmony with the earth.
Craftsmanship: Appreciation for handmade, vintage, and sustainable items — embroidery, pottery, quilting, and sewing.

Cottagecore is also made visually appealing in a variety of ways. We are seeing soft and muted palettes (think creams, sage greens, dusty roses, warm browns, & buttery yellows), and in specific pattern styles (florals, gingham, toile, chintz, lace, and natural textures like linen or cotton), and in décor it is showing up as vintage furniture, botanical prints, antique crockery, cozy textiles, and natural materials (wood, clay, stone).

Cottagecore is not just a style — it’s also a mindset. It celebrates contentment, sustainability, and nostalgia for a world that feels slower and more intentional. It’s a gentle rebellion against modern consumerism and technology overload, offering peace through simplicity and self-sufficiency. This is where all the thrifters are hanging out!

This pull towards a cottagecore aesthetic does not seem to be going anywhere, but rather is getting stronger! Are you feeling drawn in by this cozy homey vibe?