5 ways to get the cottagecore look for less

annie sloan living room chalk paint in svenska blue with floral decoupage, antoinette linen union sofa cover
Add cottagecore charm to your home on a budget Annie Sloan

Want to escape to the country without leaving home? The quaint, rural and much-loved interior trend, cottagecore, can be embraced by all. Even for those of us accustomed to the daily hustle and bustle of city life, our homes can still offer the perfect place to create a rural retreat.

Whimiscal, cosy, and homely, cottagecore interiors romanticise the charm of countryside living with a soft, delicate colour palette inspired by nature. Throw in patterned textiles (like intricate florals) and vintage accessories for the traditional cottagecore aesthetic, or modernise it through bolder shades and botanical accents.

Want to get the look? Here's how to tap into the cottagecore trend for less with five inexpensive decorating ideas.

1. DIY CHIC

'An easy way to make a room look more "cottagecore" is to incorporate handmade or DIY elements into the room,' says Tobie Lewis, paint and interiors expert at V&CO. 'There’s something so romantic and personal about displaying a piece of artwork or artistry in your home that has been 100 per cent created by yourself or a family member. Try incorporating paintings, embroidery or wall hangings which showcase your creative side as well as making your space completely individual and unique.'

embroidery hoop
Rachel Whiting / Country Living

2. REUSE AND RELOVE

You know the saying – one person’s trash is another’s treasure. ‘Whether it’s wicker baskets or Laura Ashley curtains from the 1980s, this look is easy to find secondhand,’ says Hannah Rouch, trends expert at Gumtree.

3. BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

'Houseplants can evoke a sense of the countryside indoors,’ adds Hannah. And the best thing is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Alternatively, add potted plants, wildflower arrangements or fresh garden flowers to bring the outside in.

table with a white tablecloth and a bowl of cut flowers floral wallpaperin full bloomevoking the charm of a classic still life, an abundant bouquet of white and blush pink blooms sings out against a dark background
Tim Young / House Beautiful

4. FLORAL FLOURISH

Sticking with the flower theme, you could always introduce a statement wall with floral wallpaper, or a floral-patterned throw or bedding with your favourite blooms. It'll create a comforting and cosy feel to your space, providing a distinct alternative to hectic lives.

nightstand beside a bed with a decorative lamp and flowers set against floral wallpaper
Avalon-3-drawer chest and ruffle bed linen in Olive, Trove by Studio Duggan Trove by Studio Duggan

5. GROW A HERB GARDEN

Fill a decorative display of secondhand pots and jars with fresh herbs – they'll grow quickly and provide the perfect garnish while adding flavour to meals. Embrace the cottagecore theme with fresh lemon verbena or lavender to flavour a homegrown cup of tea, or pick varieties like rosemary and mint to complement wholesome cooking.

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