Aesthetics Exploration – Cottagecore

INTRODUCTION

The aesthetic I have chosen is Cottagecore [1]. This aesthetic encapsulates the essence of simple living, countryside charm, and a peaceful connection with nature [2]. This movement draws inspiration from a romanticized interpretation of western agricultural life, embracing values like gardening, sewing one’s clothes, and a rejection of modernity. Let’s explore the intricate characteristics of Cottagecore, where cottages, farm animals, and wildflowers paint a picture of peace.

HISTORY

Cottagecore as an aesthetic movement gained prominence in the 2010s. Its roots can be traced to the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the Arts and Crafts movement [3]. This was a reform of design and decoration in Britain, its emphasis on handmade goods and a return to nature which laid the groundwork of its inspiration. This aesthetic flourished in response to the fast-paced modern world, wanting a return to simpler times. Inspired by Impressionism, Cottagecore embraces the beauty of the countryside, capturing the essence of a former era through its palette of green, brown, yellow, and cream/off-white. The Impressionist artistic style revolves around painting a scene or landscape to produce natural light. A very popular Impressionist artist that fits in this category is Claude Monet. As pictured above, is the work known as “Women with a Parasol – Madame Monet and Her Son” [4] this painting fits within the peaceful and natural vibe of Cottagecore. The piece also incorporates beautiful shades of blue, white, green and yellow.

NATURE

The Cottagecore aesthetic plays a pivotal role in the embrace of nature [5]. Gardening becomes a therapeutic practice, and the imagery of wildflowers blooming alongside cottages paints a picturesque scene. The movement encourages individuals to immerse themselves in the simplicity of rural life, fostering a deep connection with the natural world and promoting a sympathetic coexistence. These type of botanical accents influence the popularity of potted plants, fresh flowers, and herb gardens that bring nature indoors. 

CLOTHING/SEWING

At the heart of Cottagecore lies a celebration of femininity and the art of sewing. The aesthetic encourages individuals to create their own clothes, going back to a time when craftsmanship and personal expression were important. Flowy dresses decorated with floral prints bring a sense of nostalgia, mirroring the fashion sensibilities of the past [6]. In fashion, it has inspired a return to vintage and handmade clothing, with flowy dresses, floral prints, and modest attire gaining popularity. Additionally, Cottagecore has influenced marketing and branding, with companies incorporating the aesthetic into their products and imagery. 

MODERN TIMES

Cottagecore seamlessly integrates into the modern era, finding its place in the digital landscape. Social media platforms serve as virtual meadows where Cottagecore enthusiasts share their gardening efforts, handmade creations, and snapshots of their countryside-inspired lifestyles. Brands, influenced by the movement’s rejection of stereotypical ideals, incorporate rustic charm into their products, paying respect to the simplicity that Cottagecore advocates. This movement gained momentum through social media platforms. Influencers, content creators, and users on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Tumblr have played a significant role in popularizing and shaping the aesthetic [7]. Social media platforms have seen an increase of Cottagecore content, creating virtual communities where supporters share their experiences and creations, further maintaining the influence of the aesthetic.

In conclusion, Cottagecore is more than an aesthetic; it’s a nostalgic journey that encourages a return to simple living and an appreciation for the beauty of nature [8]. The emphasis on simple living, connection with nature, and rejection of modern complexities has resonated with individuals seeking a slower and more intentional lifestyle. With its roots in the 2010s and inspired by a romanticized interpretation of western agricultural life, Cottagecore weaves together the threads of gardening, sewing, and a rejection of modernity to create a tapestry that celebrates the timeless appeal of a former era.

SOURCES

[1] What Is Cottagecore? A Closer Look at the Dreamy Aesthetic Taking Over the

Internet,  https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-

ideas/a35982590/what-is-cottagecore-aesthetic/. Accessed 24 Jan. 2024.

[2] Higgins, Courtney Jay. “A Beginner’s Guide to Cottagecore.” The Good Trade,

29 Nov. 2023, www.thegoodtrade.com/features/what-is-cottagecore/#:~:text=

in%20the%20countryside.%E2%80%9D-,Cottagecore%20is%20an%20aesthetic%20

that%20celebrates%20simple%20living%2C%20particularly%20in,and%20sewing%

20your%20own%20clothes.

[3] Arts and Crafts Movement.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 21 Jan. 2024,

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arts_and_Crafts_movement#:~:text=The%20Arts%20and%

20Crafts%20movement%20emerged%20from%20the%20attempt%20to,with%20

machinery%20and%20factory%20production.

[4] Claude Monet, Woman with a Parasol – Madame Monet and Her Son, National

Gallery of Art, 1875. Accessed 24, Jan. 2024.

[5] Faeriegardens. “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme.” Tumblr, 26 July 2023,

faeriegardens.tumblr.com/post/723953002502832128. 

[6] Writer, LuxeBabe. “Embracing Your Journey Back to God.” Thedailydivine, 26

Mar. 2023, thedailydivine.com/2023/03/26/embracing-your-journey-back-to-

god/. 

[7] Bridget Anastasia Wesson, https://www.youtube.com/channel/

UCxQ9Hq2icBrTTPnY7idKc3w, Accessed 24 Jan. 2024.

[8] Wiki, Contributors to Aesthetics. “Cottagecore.” Aesthetics Wiki, Fandom, Inc.,

aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Cottagecore. Accessed 24 Jan. 2024.

[9] Cottagefaeries. “𝔪𝔬𝔰𝔰 𝔤𝔦𝔯𝔩.” Tumblr, 29 June 2021,

cottagefaeries.tumblr.com/post/655362632213250048. Accessed 24, Jan. 2024.