As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, the cosy, nostalgic world of cottagecore becomes even more inviting. This aesthetic, which draws heavily from the charm of rural living, natural elements, and a simpler time, pairs perfectly with the rich and warm hues of autumn.
Embrace Nature’s Colour Palette
Autumn is synonymous with warm, earthy tones. To bring the season into your home, consider incorporating shades of burnt orange, deep reds, golden yellows, and rich browns into your décor. These colors can be added through textiles like throw blankets, pillows, and rugs. Consider layering different fabrics like wool, flannel, and cotton for added warmth and texture. Vintage or handmade quilts in autumnal colours can also add an extra touch of cosiness and charm.
Decorate with Natural Elements
Cottagecore is all about embracing nature, and what better way to do so than by bringing the outdoors in? Decorating with natural elements is a must. Think dried flowers, acorns, pinecones, and branches. Create centerpieces with dried hydrangeas, wheat stalks, and pumpkins. Display seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and gourds in wooden bowls on your kitchen table or countertops. These simple touches not only add to the aesthetic but also infuse your space with the comforting presence of the harvest season.
Add Autumnal Scents
Scents play a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere. To evoke the essence of autumn, incorporate candles or diffusers with fragrances like cinnamon, clove, vanilla, and apple cider.
Consider simmering a pot of spices, oranges, and apples on the stove for a natural and welcoming aroma. For a more traditional cottagecore approach, dry your own orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to create a fragrant potpourri.
Cosy Up with Textiles
Autumn is the season for cosiness, and nothing says cosy like soft, warm textiles. Layer your furniture with knitted throws, chunky blankets, and plush cushions. Use materials like wool, flannel, and faux fur to add warmth and texture to your space. For a more rustic, cottagecore vibe, choose handmade or vintage textiles that carry a sense of history and charm. Don’t forget to add a cozy autumnal rug over a dark wood floor in autumnal tones, which will enhance the warmth of your space.
Use Vintage and Antique Pieces
Cottagecore celebrates the past, so adding vintage or antique items to your autumn décor is a perfect fit. Look for furniture made from old and distressed wood, such as a rustic dining table or a vintage rocking chair. These pieces not only add character to your space but also enhance the feeling of nostalgia that is central to the cottage-core aesthetic. Antique mirrors, brass candlesticks, and vintage picture frames can also contribute to the warm, lived-in feel that autumn brings.
Include Seasonal Art
Switch out your usual artwork for pieces that reflect the season. Autumn landscapes, botanical prints featuring fall foliage, or illustrations of woodland animals can bring the beauty of the season indoors. If you enjoy crafting, consider creating your own seasonal art – pressed leaves, for example, make for simple yet beautiful wall hangings. Another idea is to frame old botanical prints or pages from vintage books that display autumnal themes.
Use Soft, Warm Lighting
As the days grow shorter, lighting becomes even more important in creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Go for soft, warm lighting that mimics the glow of autumn sunlight. String lights, candles, and lanterns are all excellent choices for adding a soft, ambient glow to your space. If you have a fireplace, now is the time to make it a focal point – nothing says autumn like a roaring fire. If not, you can create a similar effect with clusters of candles or a faux fireplace.
Celebrate the Harvest
Autumn is traditionally a time of harvest, and incorporating this theme into your home can add both visual appeal and a sense of abundance.
Display jars of preserves, dried herbs, and baskets of fresh produce in your kitchen or dining area. These not only add to the cottagecore aesthetic but also celebrate the bounty of the season. If you enjoy baking, keep a pie or loaf of bread on display for an authentic, homey touch.
Seasonal Shifts
Incorporating autumn into your cottagecore interior is about celebrating the beauty of the season and embracing the cosy, nostalgic vibe that defines the aesthetic. By using natural elements, warm colours, soft lighting, and vintage pieces, you can create a space that feels both inviting and reflective of the changing season. Whether you’re curling up with a good book or hosting a harvest dinner, your autumn-inspired cottagecore home will be the perfect backdrop for making memories this fall.