The Cottagecore trend feels like a blip in the timeline of home decor. It was starting to take hold, and then I feel like Warm Transitional took the industry by storm. Cottagecore is a trend that romanticizes rural life and a return to nature, while infusing a whimsical, nostalgic charm. I’m still obsessed with this aesthetic, and if you’re looking to incorporate this delightful aesthetic into your home, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to start is by styling your shelves. Here’s how to create a cozy, storybook vibe that feels both enchanting and inviting.
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Start With a Neutral Base
The essence of cottagecore lies in its simplicity and natural beauty. Begin by painting your shelves in soft, neutral tones like cream, beige, or pale pastels. These colors serve as a perfect backdrop for the whimsical elements you’ll add, allowing them to shine without overwhelming the space.
Alternatively, use what you have already. If you aren’t a huge DIY-er, leave the shelves as they are and start thrifting for some beautiful neutral bound books. Take the dust jackets off as you shop, and find books that pique your interest. You never know what gem you may find!
Add Vintage & Antique Finds
Scour flea markets, thrift stores, and your grandmother’s attic for antique books, delicate teacups, and charming trinkets. Display these treasures with pride, letting their history and character tell a story on your shelves. The more worn and weathered, the better—imperfections add to the charm.
A Touch of Nature
Bringing the outdoors in is key to achieving a cottagecore look. Adorn your shelves with potted plants, dried flowers, and foraged finds like pinecones or feathers. If you’re feeling crafty, try pressing flowers and framing them as unique, botanical artwork. The natural elements will add a fresh, earthy feel to your shelves, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Showcase Your Handcrafted Items
Cottagecore celebrates the beauty of handmade and artisanal goods. Display handmade pottery, embroidery finishes, and woven baskets to add texture and warmth to your shelves. These items not only look beautiful but also embody the cottagecore ethos of simplicity and craftsmanship.
One of my biggest goals with the renovation of my house is to make it feel like me, while still feeling like a designer worked on the home. If you’re a DIY’er or crafter in any capacity, here is your opportunity to infuse a bit of your personality into your home styling. Get as weird as you want, put up the Disney decor, video game collectibles, or anything else that will feel like you.
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