When thinking of fall aesthetics, there’s one that we’ve always been drawn to, but until recently, didn’t have a word to describe it. Puff-sleeved dresses, chunky cardigans, lace-up boots—all of it combined makes for a dreamy, romantic style that’s made for fall, and this year, cottagecore is here and bigger than ever.
While it embodies feminine, rural living (and was magnified by Taylor Swift’s release of Folklore last year), cottagecore is more than a visual aesthetic; it romanticizes rural, country living and gives a nod to escapism in the meantime. Days filled surrounded by nature, baking homemade desserts, walking through the woods—all of it lends a hand to the world’s fascination with cottagecore.
As we’re looking forward to the cozy days of fall, filled with pumpkin-scented candles and the dreaminess that comes with those first, crisp days, we’re turning to cottagecore to be a guiding light for all of our fall outfits. Ready to dive in yourself? Look no further.
How to nail it
Cottagecore is filled with moody tones, flowing silhouettes, and effortless layering. Dresses can be layered with chunky knits and paired with boots, and floral prints and puff sleeves remind us that summer is just in the rearview mirror.
To make the look your own, think about layering patterns with textures, like a floral dress with a chunky sweater. Incorporate peasant silhouettes, florals, and moody, fall tones into your wardrobe, and mix and match them to achieve an uncomplicated, nature-esque aesthetic. Don’t know where to start? Here are five cottagecore-inspired outfits to try this fall.
dress / cardigan / cardigan / bag / ring / boots
Romantic, whimsical dresses are central to cottagecore fashion, and layering a chunky, textured cardigan over top enhances it even more. Top it off with Western boots, and you have a look that nails the aesthetic.
overalls / floral top / bag / ring / shoes
Transitional days aren’t ever easy to style outfits for, but this look is absolutely made for early fall days. Putting a piece that has light, busy florals underneath a pair of overalls is effortless in the best way.
top / jeans / belt / bag / boots
Cottagecore isn’t just for lounging around, and this look proves it. The key? Pairing a top with a combination of dark florals and a romantic silhouette with western details in accessories.
sweater / hat / skirt / boots / socks
Cable-knit sweaters have been having a moment ever since Chris Evans’s glorious moment in Knives Out, and this look provides an argument for layering one over a maximalist skirt. Combined with leather boots and chunky boot socks underneath and a wool hat, it’s an October Day’s dream.
sweater / skirt / necklace / bag / boots
Not into a midi skirt with pattern? Opt for a tiered, neutral one, and combine it with a chunky turtleneck and brown accessories. The result is a dreamy palette for fall, and it’ll keep you feeling cozy and comfortable whenever you wear it.
