Cottagecore – what are the characteristics of the style inspired by nature?

Woman in white maxi dress perfectly in cottagecore style

Cottagecore – what is this style about?

In the intense world of fashion with new trends appearing every season, in the cottage core style, people search for some kind of respite and safe haven. Romanticising the idyllic lifestyle of the English countryside, celebrating minimalism, the closeness of nature became timeless and transcends the changing trends every season, which is eagerly captured on social media. The cottagecore style class calls for a return to a slower lifestyle and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Cottagecore literally means a cottager. It isn’t just a trend in fashion, but a bigger idea, which calls for nature and an idyllic lifestyle. Initially appearing in interior design in 2018, the style peaked in popularity during the pandemic period, when closeness to nature and adding cosiness and warmth to the environment became particularly important.

The style is also visible in the lifestyle. Posing around nature, growing your own vegetables and fruits - it’s all the essence of an idyllic country life, which is celebrated by cottagecore.

Woman in a charming Italian street wearing a pink floral dress

What are the characteristic features of the cottagecore style in fashion? It's inspired by a traditional rural clothing style and handicrafts. When it comes to clothes, these are simple cuts, subtle patterns and natural colour palette. The cottagecore is dominated by loose cuts, which don’t restrict mobility. The idea is to make the whole styling airy. A-line long dresses, loose shorts and oversize shirts are the elements, which you will find in the wardrobe of any fan of this style. Fabrics from which the clothes are made are also very important. Cottage style loves natural and high quality materials such as linen in summer and wool in winter. This style is for aware consumers, who value sustainable development, comfort and naturality.

Woman sitting on a sheaf of hay in a white cottagecore style dress

What wardrobe elements in the cottagecore style should be included in your wardrobe?

In summer, cottagecore outfits must include:

lightweight, airy dresses and skirts,
linen shirts,
Bermuda shorts,
straw hats,
floral patterns and laces,
openwork cardigans,
baskets,
sandals and sliders on flat soles.

Woman in white short dress with embroidered pattern

In winter opt for:

woolen tracksuits,
warm cardigans,
woolen coat,
A-line midi skirts,
knit fabric vests,
sweaters with retro collars,
wellingtons with thick socks.

Woman in grey Dale of Norway patterned jumper

How to create a cottagecore styling? See the S’portofino guide.

We’ve created a few outfits inspired by the idyllic country life with a modern twist. They will serve you well on a garden party, weekend trip to the countryside, or even a calm weekend in the city. Finally, who said that you can’t introduce some idyllic country style to the streets of big cities?

The idyllic charm of a white dress in the cottagecore style

White cotton dress is an ideal piece to create a styling in the spirit of cottagecore. Natural breathable fabric, embroideries and dropped shoulder seams represent the vision of an idyllic countryside. Pair the styling with a weaved bag by Dragon Diffusion and a straw hat by an Italian Catarzi 1910 brand, which is famous for the best quality and precise manufacturing. Opt for flat sliders by the Italian De Siena brand in neutral colours. On rainy days you can put on trendy beige wellingtons by Moon Boot.

This look is just perfect for a walk in a garden, on a weekend getaway and summer party. It’s romantic, comfortable and natural - just like the most beautiful version of the cottagecore style.

Woman in white dress with open shoulders

Maxi linen dress with an openwork embroidery - an ideal styling for a garden party

Maxi linen dresses are the essence of the cottagecore style. They’re incredibly romantic and add a charming vibe. Imagine a warm afternoon when the sun rays softly fall on the grass, and the scent of peonies blooming in the garden fills the air.

In this scenery the linen maxi dress with an airy cut and subtle openwork embroideries by the Farm Rio brand plays the main part in the styling. Its natural structure ensures breathability, the lightweight flowing material beautifully moves with every step. Delicate decorations – refined embroideries around the neckline and sleeves - add charm and craftsmanship look .

Canvas espadrilles or gladiator sandals on a flat sole, straw hat with a wide brim and a wicker basket instead of bag will complete this styling. Also opt for minimalistic jewellery - e.g. pearls or small earrings in the shape of flowers. Braids or loose hair waving in the wind completes the romantic mood at a garden party.

Woman in blue cottagecore style maxi dress

Linen shirt - comfortable and casual

A white shirt with a relaxed fit is the perfect base for creating a cottagecore look. The Greek brand Kori offers a wide range of shirts made from high-quality materials, including linen. The brand's shirts impress with subtle embroideries, delicate embellishments and natural colours that perfectly capture the romantic, rustic character of cottagecore. If you love monochrome styling, choose loose trousers in the same shade and made of the same fabric to go with your white shirt. This will create a cohesive look perfect for idyllic moments out of town. Don't forget comfortable summer shoes, such as those from the Italian brand Missoni, which is famous for its colourful, distinctive designs. Their original patterns and lightweight form perfectly break up the subdued base of the style, adding a little artistic flair.

Woman in white oversize shirt and wide-leg trousers

Cottagecore - summary

Cottagecore style is inspired by the tranquillity of country life, harmony with nature and the romance of bygone eras, which conquers not only idyllic destinations. It will work equally well in the urban jungle, adding a touch of softness and an idyllic air.

It's a style that loves everything light, airy and natural, so stock up on airy maxi dresses with intricate embroidery and flowers, linen shirts and plaid hats in summer, and woollen jumpers, knitted waistcoats, woollen coats and jumpers with retro collars in autumn and winter. Equip yourself with these wardrobe pieces and immerse yourself in the aesthetics of slow life.