6-Step Guide to Crafting a Capsule Wardrobe in Cottagecore Aesthetic

Hero is a linen shirt dress cinched in waist from LINENIDstudio

The current aesthetic landscape is heavily influenced by feminine modes of self-expression. The trending aesthetics have toned down recently, as they got mixed with minimalism.

That trend is apparent not just in the new light-feminine vibe but also in the new, low-key ways of wearing cottagecore.

That particular focus on the nostalgia-driven cottagecore style has been around for ages, so it’s not surprising that the aesthetic would adapt as trends shift to stay on.

Embracing cottagecore is a way to find beauty in a more natural, rural aesthetic, but ultimately there should be no need to ditch your minimalist capsule wardrobe just to wear some Victorian frills.

So, to help you incorporate this style into your sustainable capsule wardrobe, here is a 6-step guide to infuse your closet with a cottagecore vibe.

Creating a Capsule Wardrobe with Cottagecore Style

Step 1: Narrow down specific colors.

Cottagecore is all about bringing the outdoors in. This means utilizing natural colors like shades of blue, dusty pink, dark green, soft yellow, and beige. Solid colors are great for this aesthetic or earthy tones and floral prints are top-notch for achieving a cottagecore look.

Dusty pink wrap dress from solinen

Light grey baby doll dress from LelaSilk

Regency style mini dress from LelaSilk

Teal maxi dress with buttons from LelaSilk

Step 2: Stick to lightweight fabrics.

Lightweight fabrics and materials are essential when creating a capsule wardrobe that possesses cottagecore features. Opt for fabrics such as linen, cotton, silk, and wool for bohemian garments. Similarly, don’t be afraid to add in fancy fabrics such as velvet and tulle for a delicate yet bold addition to your look.

Step 3: Add the right silhouettes (even masculine ones!)

While light-weight materials are essential for these looks, don’t be afraid to play around with silhouettes.

Feminine cottagecore silhouettes usually consist of frills, ruffles and wider skirts. Flowery patterns, frilly shirts, and slim, ankle-length formal dresses can be styled with a cottagecore vibe and double for a basic outfit too.

But if you’re like most people, you won’t be satisfied wearing just overt femininity and nothing else. So, maybe consider adding some masculine cottagecore elements like a linen shirt and a waistcoat.

Linen waistcoat from LINENIDstudio

Linen shirt and pants from LelaSilk

Step 4: Play with the outer layer.

Incorporating a more aesthetic outer layer can be you avenue for aesthetic fun as coats and other outerwear is less dictated by your workday dress code.

An old-timey cape coat into your wardrobe is one very elegant way to do this.

Step 5: Add a few vintage pieces.

Vintage shopping is not only eco-friendly but a great source of inspo for cottagecore styling. Fashionistas should not be afraid to roll up their sleeves and start searching for vintage pieces to integrate into their wardrobe.

Look for unique items such as scarves, gloves, hair pins or earrings.

Rare vintage Pegasus intaglio necklace from jewelcraftfinds

Step 6: Details.

Accessorizing is an important finishing touch for any cottagecore outfit. Lace-up sandals, pearl earrings, wooden beads, and straw hats are all perfect items for accessorizing. Furthermore, accessories in neutral colors or natural materials such as Victorian jewelry and linen scarves are ideal for achieving an authentic cottagecore look.

Victorian earrings from ShelleyCooperJewelry

In the midst of fast fashion and rapidly shifting trends, finding ways to look fashionable yet still invest in quality pieces can be a challenge. One of the ways to achieve this is to create a capsule wardrobe with a cottagecore style, and there are several celebrities who have adopted this style in their day to day fashion.

Modern icons such as Mila Kunis, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Bella Hadid are big supporters of this style. Mila Kunis has been seen wearing flowy summer and spring dresses paired with sandals or clogs. She also wears a lot of vintage tees and denim cut-offs with lace-up boots for a boho-chic look. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wears a lot of peasant blouses, maxi dresses, and lightweight jumpsuits. She pairs casual denim and flowy maxi dresses with statement jewelry. Bella Hadid is a fan of maxi dresses and corset tops, which she accessorizes with bold jewelry and colorful bags.

Celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Ashley Benson, and Vanessa Hudgens have also been embracing this style. Kylie Jenner likes to combine neutral basics with chic accessories or bold print pieces for an effortlessly cool look. Ashley Benson often wears flowy, ruffle-accented cropped tops and maxi dresses. Vanessa Hudgens is often spotted in peasant blouses and baby-doll dresses which she pairs with biker boots or sandals.

Creating a capsule wardrobe with cottagecore style is an easy way to get the celebrity look without having to shop for something new every season. This style is effortless, timeless, and is easy to pull off with basics and statement accessories. With a few key pieces, you can create stylish, flattering and versatile outfits that will last you for years to come.