Spring is all about fresh beginnings, and what better way to welcome the season than with a home refresh that feels like stepping into a fairytale? This year, the charm of cottagecore is merging beautifully with the dreamy hues of pastelcore, creating an aesthetic that’s soft, nostalgic, and utterly enchanting.
Imagine the warmth of a cosy countryside cottage infused with the delicate tones of a Parisian patisserie.
Soft pinks, butter yellows, powder blues, and mint greens blending harmoniously with rustic wooden textures, vintage florals, and delicate lace.
This trend is all about romantic escapism, a perfect antidote to modern-day stresses.
A Palette Straight Out of a Storybook
The foundation of this trend lies in its colour palette. Pastelcore brings soft, airy hues that feel like a gentle spring morning, while cottagecore introduces earthy undertones to keep everything balanced and inviting.
For walls, consider a wash of blush pink, lavender, or duck-egg blue to create a serene backdrop. If an all-pastel room feels too much, an accent wall in soft sage or a delicate floral wallpaper can work wonders.
A light-toned wooden floor, such as whitewashed oak or a pale honey-toned timber, enhances the airy feel of pastel shades while adding warmth and authenticity. For a more vintage-inspired look, consider parquet flooring with a subtle white or grey wash.
Furniture, too, can play with pastel tones. Think powder blue dressers, mint green kitchen cabinets, or a buttercup yellow armchair nestled in a cosy corner. To keep the look from becoming overly sweet, contrast pastels with natural wood, rattan, or vintage ironwork.
Vintage Charm with a Pastel Twist
Cottagecore is rooted in nostalgia, with a love for antique and vintage-inspired furniture. Marrying it with pastelcore means embracing timeworn pieces but giving them a fresh, whimsical spin.
A distressed wooden dining table paired with pastel-painted chairs creates a delightful contrast. A Victorian-style bed frame in a soft lilac hue feels both elegant and playful. And don’t overlook the beauty of upcycling! An old sideboard painted in a dreamy pastel tone instantly becomes a statement piece.
Decorative details like scalloped edges, carved furniture, and vintage florals all contribute to the dreamy aesthetic. The goal is to create a space that feels like it belongs in a romantic novel.
Soft, Dreamy Textiles
Textiles play a huge role in bringing this look to life. Think delicate lace curtains letting in dappled spring sunlight, embroidered cushions in soft pastel hues, and floral patchwork quilts draped over an antique iron bed frame.
Layering different textures is key. Mix knitted throws with linen bedding, or velvet cushions with sheer muslin drapes. Soft, billowy fabrics create a relaxed, airy atmosphere, perfect for a spring-inspired sanctuary.
Floral and gingham patterns are staples of cottagecore, and when paired with pastel shades, they add a nostalgic sweetness to any space. Whether it’s a pale-yellow gingham tablecloth or a dusty rose floral duvet set, these prints bring a touch of old-world charm.
Whimsical Décor & Sentimental Touches
No cottagecore-inspired home is complete without carefully curated décor that tells a story. Hand-painted ceramics, vintage teacups, and delicate glass vases filled with freshly picked flowers all add character and warmth.
A pastel-painted bookshelf stacked with old books, candles, and trinkets collected over time creates a lived-in feel. Botanical prints, framed embroidery, and dainty wall sconces all contribute to the fairytale-like atmosphere.
Personal touches make all the difference. Think handwritten notes pinned to a corkboard, family heirlooms displayed on a dresser, or even a pastel-hued typewriter perched on a desk for a nostalgic touch.
Embracing Nature
Cottagecore thrives on nature, and with spring in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to invite the outdoors inside. Fresh flowers in soft pastel tones can bring a refreshing burst of colour in.
Potted herbs like lavender, thyme, and rosemary not only add greenery but also fill the space with a delicate fragrance. A vintage-style watering can be placed casually by the door adds a charming, lived-in touch.
For those who love DIY, press flowers between glass frames for a stunning wall display, or hang dried flower bouquets from wooden beams. There’s something magical about surrounding a home with nature’s softest hues.
A Home That Feels Like Spring All Year
This trend is more than just a visual delight; it’s about crafting a home that evokes comfort, nostalgia, and a touch of magic. Whether embracing it fully or adding subtle touches here and there, it’s a beautiful way to bring the spirit of spring indoors and keep it alive all year round.
So, pour a cup of tea, fluff those pastel cushions, and let the magic of this dreamy trend take over.