How to Wear Cottagecore, Because the Whimsical Aesthetic Isn't Going Anywhere

It's not too late to try this trend.

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Updated on September 8, 2022 @ 02:21PM

Person wearing white floral print cottagecore dress with heels — Photo: Getty Images

Out of all the aesthetics Instagram made famous as of late, "cottagecore" is probably my favorite. This may or may not have something to do with the fact that I've been incorporating peasant silhouettes, soft floral patterns, and earth tones into my wardrobe since my junior year of college, when my admiration for all things Jane Austen-esque transpired into a full-fledged obsession. At the time, I didn't have the gumption to fully commit to the look; I would have stuck out like a sore thumb in the sea of designer sweatshirts, stackable rings, and metallic embellishments that 2013 brought with it. Now, however, I'm considering a serious wardrobe revamp.

Despite light academia and fairycore threatening to overthrow the trend, I'm happy to report that the whimsical, period-inspired way of dressing is still alive and kicking. The soft, ethereal aesthetic has seen a resurgence as society searches for different outlets of escapism and a slice of simplicity. Intrigued?

Here are a few ways fashion influencers on Instagram are wearing cottagecore today.

Add a Vest

Floral prairie dresses are the pinnacle of cottagecore, but if you want to add a sultry touch to the otherwise sweet and innocent look, add a vest or corset to accentuate the bodice.

Embrace Solid Earth Tones

Florals and gingham are staple prints of the cottagecore aesthetic, and even when muted, the patterns make a bold statement. To keep things neutral at the office, stick to solid earth tones, like potato brown, beige, taupe, fern, moss, burnt orange, etc.

Swap Out Dresses for Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits negate the need for body-hugging denim and uncomfortable waistbands, and there are plenty of these one-piece options under the cottagecore category.

Accessorize With Straw Handbags and Hats

No outfit is complete without the right accessory. Wicker pieces drive home the natural theme of cottagecore, so top off your look with a straw hat if you're headed outdoors, or wear a straw handbag on your arm on your commute.

Wear the Trend In a Subtle Way

Whimsical as it may be, cottagecore is very much a bold trend, which may or may not bode well with various dress codes or occasions. That being said, you can still incorporate subtle nods to the style in your daily outfits. Think tying up your hair in a pretty ribbon or bow, wearing tops with lace or embroidery detail, and, of course, pops of floral.

Puff Sleeves On Repeat

Florals aren't the only detail making a statement in cottagecore. In my opinion, puff sleeves are one of the best parts of the aesthetic, and you can find them on a large selection of pretty blouses and dresses.