1. Overdoing the Florals
Cottagecore is synonymous with florals, but too much of a good thing can quickly become overwhelming. An overabundance of floral patterns, especially if they’re too busy or clashing, can make a room feel cheap and cluttered.
Tip:
Instead of using multiple floral patterns, opt for one statement floral fabric and complement it with solid textures or subtle prints.
For instance, consider a floral duvet cover paired with solid linen curtains and throw pillows in a coordinating color. Or, use a patterned floral rug as a focal point and layer it with plain blankets and cushions.
2. Choosing Low-Quality Fabrics
Cheap fabrics don’t just look cheap, they feel cheap too. Thin, synthetic materials tend to wrinkle easily, fade quickly, and lack the natural texture and drape of high-quality textiles.
Tip:
Invest in fabrics like linen, cotton, wool, and silk for their durability, breathability, and timeless charm.
While these fabrics might cost a bit more upfront, they’ll last for years to come, adding value to your home décor.
3. Ignoring the Importance of Texture
Cottagecore thrives on texture. Combining different fabrics with varying levels of roughness or smoothness creates visual interest and depth. A room with only smooth, shiny surfaces can feel cold and impersonal.
Tip:
Introduce textured elements like woven blankets, chunky knit throws, or distressed wood furniture to break up the monotony and add warmth to your cottagecore space.
Think about using a fluffy sheepskin rug alongside a linen tablecloth, or a velvet cushion placed on a crocheted throw.
4. Neglecting Color Harmony
While cottagecore embraces a playful mix of colors, there’s a difference between charming eclecticism and a chaotic color scheme. Mismatched colors that clash can look cheap and disjointed, making your textiles feel random rather than intentional.
Tip:
Stick to a cohesive color palette. Choose a dominant color and build your textile choices around it, using complementary or analogous colors to create harmony.
For example, a pale blue scheme could feature pastel pinks, soft greens, and warm neutrals, all tied together by a common base color.
5. Overusing Fringe and Ruffles
Fringe and ruffles are iconic cottagecore embellishments, but too much can make a room look overly fussy and childish. Excessive ornamentation can detract from the simple elegance that defines the style.
Tip:
Use fringe and ruffles sparingly, strategically adding them as accents rather than overwhelming features. A single fringed cushion or a ruffled tablecloth can add a touch of whimsy without becoming overly excessive.
Remember, sometimes less is more when it comes to details. A single, well-placed ruffle can make a bigger statement than a dozen cluttered ones.
6. Forgetting about Scale
Choosing textiles that are too small or too large for your space can make your cottagecore look feel off-balance. Small patterns on large furniture can appear insignificant, while large patterns on small items can overwhelm the space.
Tip:
Consider the scale of your furniture and textiles. Use larger patterns for larger surfaces and smaller patterns for smaller items. This ensures a harmonious look that’s visually pleasing and balanced.
For example, a large floral print would be ideal for a statement armchair, while a delicate floral pattern might be better suited for a small throw pillow.
7. Ignoring the Power of Natural Elements
Cottagecore thrives on a connection to nature. Incorporating natural elements like wood, stone, or plants can elevate your textile choices and add a touch of authenticity.
Tip:
Add wooden picture frames, a stone fireplace mantel, or a vase of fresh flowers to complement your textiles and create a more grounded, natural feel.
Think of it as grounding your textiles with the beauty of the natural world.
8. Choosing Overly Bright Colors
While cottagecore welcomes pops of color, overly bright and saturated hues can clash with the rustic charm and create a jarring look. These vibrant colors can feel cheap and lack the depth of richer, more muted tones.
Tip:
Opt for softer, more muted colors. Think pastel hues, dusty shades, or earthy tones for a sophisticated, vintage feel that complements the cottagecore aesthetic.
For instance, a dusty rose throw pillow will feel more elegant than a bright fuchsia one, adding a touch of sophistication to your décor.
9. Failing to Consider Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in showcasing the beauty of your cottagecore textiles. Poor lighting can dull the colors, hide textures, and make your space feel drab.
Tip:
Use a combination of natural and artificial light to create a balanced, inviting atmosphere. Consider adding lamps, sconces, or even candles to enhance the ambiance and highlight your textiles.
Natural light will bring out the vibrancy of your floral patterns, while warm artificial light will accentuate the softness of your textures.
10. Skipping the Finishing Touches
Small details can make a big difference in elevating your cottagecore style. Don’t neglect the power of finishing touches to add character and personality to your textiles.
Tip:
Consider adding vintage buttons, ribbons, or embroidery to personalize your textiles. A few carefully placed embellishments can instantly elevate your look and make your textiles feel unique.
These small additions can add a touch of whimsy and make your textiles feel truly handcrafted and personal.