The sweet escape

AN EXPLORATION OF THE COTTAGECORE AESTHETIC AND ITS COMMUNITY

By Jade Christensen, Marketing and Social Media Director Photographed by Jessica Tenenbaum, Staff Photographer Modeled by Ruth Steinhouse In recent months, the cottagecore lifestyle and fashion aesthetic has reemerged, and in a time like this, there is no questioning why. With coronavirus cases soaring and the end of the pandemic far from near, the days in quarantine can feel mundane and dull. In an attempt to find peace in a time of crisis, individuals have turned to the idyllic fantasy of the cottagecore lifestyle.

Cottagecore’s origins date back to the early twentieth century due to its subservient nature and prairie-like location.1 The aesthetic also includes pastimes like baking, sewing and gardening— activities traditionally associated with women’s domestic duties. However, its current connotation is anything but that.

Many modern-day cottagecore enthusiasts are from the queer community because of the aesthetic’s modernized, non-binary perspective. The LGBTQ+ community faces constant oversexualization within the media and were drawn to cottagecore as an outlet to freedom from a judgmental society. Cottagecore serves as a space in which the queer community can express their identity without explanation or judgement.2

1 “Cottagecore Clothing, Soft Aesthetic,” Vintage Dancer, accessed August 11, 2020. 2 Sarah Woolley, “Cottagecore Is the

The sweet escape

This simplistic aesthetic translates over to its clothing style. cottagecore pieces are flowy and fairy-like, allowing the wearer to not be restricted by their clothing. Popular patterns include florals and gingham, and many pieces embody fairytale-like fantasies. Since many cottagecore pieces are long, intricate dresses, most wearers accessorize with their hair in braids and wicker baskets or bags. Cottagecore tops include lace, ruffles, and beautiful collars which can be layered with long sleeve undergarments and paired with long, flowy skirts.

Cottagecore’s simple nature also explains why the aesthetic has become wildly popular in 2020. Given the current state of the world, it’s no wonder individuals are turning to cottagecore for some peace of mind and a sense of escapism. The lifestyle focuses on finding beauty in everyday activities. Individuals also claim that cottagecore is a type of selfcare due to its self-loving aura. The traditional activities and hobbies that are associated with the aesthetic can be soothing and overall, beneficial to one’s mental health. However, the cottagecore aesthetic is not everyone’s fantasy. The trend has received online backlash because of the way it can encourage complacency.3 Some critics argue that the escapist nature of cottagecore can signify ignorance, lacking recognition of our harsh reality. Cottagecore fanatics have been criticized for ignoring the current political landscape, especially that of the Black Lives Matter movement.

The tranquility and simplicity the cottagecore lifestyle emits is something that will stick with individuals through the rest of the pandemic. Even the clothing style brings a sense of peace. Although cottagecore seems harmless to fantasize about, it is important to not let the aesthetic delude the current reality. While escapism may be necessary for the healing of some marginalized groups, it can also be detrimental to the message of action for other marginalized groups. As long as individuals continue to actively practice antiracism and fight for a better reality for all, the appreciation of the aesthetic is here to stay.■

Pastoral Fantasy Aesthetic Taking over TikTok,” I, February 12, 2020. 3 Tanya Gold and Matthew Goodwin, “The Wicked Truth about Cottage Core,” UnHerd, May 4, 2020.