Trend alert: Cottagecore Escape to the

TREND ALERT… Cottagecore

Escape to the countr yside with this new craze, which embraces the simplicity of nature and nostalgic comfor ts

As more of us are choosing the steadiness of the countryside over fast-paced city living, the cottagecore trend is highly appealing to those looking for a sense of escapism from the stresses of the world. It draws on the nostalgia of our grandparents’ vintage furnishings and the cosiness of chocolate-box abodes so you can achieve the look and feel of a slower pace of living in your home.

This trend’s style is certainly not one for minimalists – it’s eclectic and busy when it comes to accessories. To get the look, blend glamorous furnishings and textures like gold trims and velvet with antique-style, ditsy-floral print treasures in the form of ornaments, tableware, lampshades, throws and rugs. Proudly display vintage ornaments on a sideboard in your living room and make an exhibition of your patterned plates and crockery by placing them on open shelving in your kitchen. In terms of colour, the palette is equally diverse. Mix natural, neutral tones with rich jewel and brooding shades, then add in pastel colours to balance out the scheme.

Lighting is also an important part of this trend, as it’s all about creating a cosy and comforting feel. Do away with minimalist spotlights and plain fixtures and make a feature of the lighting with fringed, patterned lampshades and warm copper drawing room wall lights.

Another essential element of this theme is nature, so bring in plenty of natural wood finishes with benches, stools and surfaces, as well as dried or fresh flowers in just as beautiful vases. A reading nook facing a window so you can lap up the natural light is a must-have for this aesthetic, too. Choose a deep, comfy armchair and add a cosy throw and cushion with a lamp on a small side table next to it, then cocoon yourself with your favourite houseplants and dog-eared books.

Harrington

armchair, £899, Modish Living

Sienna cushion cover

in Duck Egg Blue,

£7.99, Homescapes

Blend plush and comforting textures with jewel, neutral and pastel tones to keep balance, harmony and cosiness in the bedroom.

Silhouette king bed in Saga Mustard, £599; Show wood bedside in Nougat, £249; Ikat cushion in Saffron, £15; Arrayan viridian table shade, £35; Robyn bottle glass lamp base, £95; Velvet pouffe in Mustard, £65; Pagoda wallpaper in Blue, £40 per roll; Wool throw in Rosa, £80, all John Lewis & Partners

Adeline bar pendant brushed copper and

glass, £192, där lighting