Cottagecore Christmas

Last year Cottagecore became the ultimate wholesome aesthetic to help us through lockdown, and since then its popularity has remained sky high with many of us seeking some cosy escapism from real life. 

If you are not familiar with the concept of Cottagecore, check out my previous blog post here

To sum up, Cottagecore is a dreamy visual rooted in whimsical wonder, rural country life, simplistic traditions and a general feeling of calming comfort. 

This winter I am looking to use the theme of Cottagecore within my Christmas décor and here I list 5 keys ways this can be done:

A TOUCH OF NATURE

One of the fundamental parts of Cottagecore is a ‘return to nature’ with an appreciation of the outdoors and a lifestyle of exploring, walks in woods, foraging and picnics. One way to include this is to incorporate nature within your Christmas decorations. Select a real Christmas tree this year and place foliage wreaths around your home. 

Hand pick smaller décor items that embrace the outdoors, such as these painted natural pinecones from Etsy which look pleasant and homely placed in a display bowl.  Allowing the ‘outdoors’ to be inside means that you welcome warmth and the rustic joy of nature in your interior. 

COSY COLOURS

Classic Cottagecore colours include soothing naturalistic tones, such as cream, brown, forest green and rusty orange and red. These vintage inspired hues boost the feelings of comfort and there is no better time than at Christmas to have an aura of ease and relaxation. Include these romantic tones within your textures and fabrics whether a pillow, throw, rug, curtain or even wall art.

Cottagecore Activities This Christmas

  • Handwritten Letters to Family
  • Baking Seasonal Recipes
  • Arts & Crafts Decoration Projects
  • Knit Comfy Socks
  • Make a Christmas Bucket List
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SENSORY EXPERIENCE

One of the best ways to successfully create a cosy hideaway ambience during the festive season is to focus on the smell of Christmas. Including scented candles and natural decorations such as oranges, cloves, nuts and cinnamon will ensure your home is perfumed to feel snug and inviting. 

These handmade potpourri jars are filled with orange and lime peels, cinnamon and natural pinecones along with zesty scents of essential oils that give off an aroma that satisfy their name ‘Coorie Warmth’. Place them in a small bowl or shallow plate as the perfect addition to table styling at Christmas. 

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DINING TABLE DÉCOR

A staple within Christmas décor is often the dining table, and although Christmas is a season of abundance, I prefer a simpler table décor focused on raw textures and aromatic candles. A Cottagecore Christmas adopts the revival of tradition and nostalgia, including charming patterns such as floral, plaid or gingham. When included in your table runners or napkins, these patterns will enhance that feeling of rural romanticism. 

Cottagecore Books to Read this Christmas 

  • Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Christmas at the Island Hotel by Jenny Colgan
  • Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
  • Letters From Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
  • The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan

LAYER TEXTURES

The crucial component to Cottagecore has to be ‘cosiness’ often achieved by curling up on a comfortable chair in front of a crackling fire. Layering lots of textures will truly make you feel warmth and contentment this Christmas. Whether you add a cosy cushion or chunky knit to your living room and bedroom, make sure your space is one that invites you to snuggle up with cheer this winter. One idea could be to place your gifts in baskets under your tree adding a relaxed countryside feel to your classic Christmas décor.

Texture can also be an addition to your wall art through fabric hangings or classic door wreaths, seen here with these natural inspired pampas macramé wreaths. Rather than placing it outside on your front door as tradition dictates, why not place a wreath within your home where it is pleasing and welcoming and you can enjoy it every day.