Okay, so let me tell you what happened…
My niece wanted to turn her bedroom into something magical—like stepping into a peaceful countryside cottage from a storybook. And you know what? We did just that. It was part thrifting adventure, part DIY fun, and a whole lot of “wait, this looks so cute here!”
If you’ve ever dreamed of giving your room that soft, vintage, nature-inspired vibe—cottagecore is where it’s at. Think cozy textures, dried flowers, antique furniture, and a warm sense of nostalgia that hugs you the moment you step in.
So here’s a look at what we did—and how you can create your own little cottagecore haven without needing a mansion or a massive budget.
1. Start With the Bed – The Heart of the Whole Room
Let’s be real: the bed is always the main character in a bedroom story.
We picked a simple canopy bed and wrapped leafy vines around the top like a little forest canopy. I swear, it instantly transformed the space. For bedding, we went with linen (because it’s got that worn-in, timeless feel), added a soft paisley throw at the foot, and topped it off with a mix of throw pillows. Bonus points for floral patterns, but really, anything cozy and layered works.
Pro tip: Don’t overthink the colors—neutrals like creams and soft greys feel calming and rustic.
2. Vintage Finds = Instant Charm
Here’s the trick: raid your grandma’s attic (with permission, obviously). Or hit up thrift shops and estate sales. That’s how we found an old bureau stuffed in a closet—and suddenly, it became the perfect nightstand.
On the other side of the bed? We repurposed a vintage bookcase from her old playroom. Stuffed it with her favorite reads, and voilà! Instant cozy vibes.
What to look for:
- Weathered wood furniture
- Wicker chairs or side tables
- Anything with ornate handles or carvings
3. Reading Nooks That Whisper “Stay Awhile”
Now, my niece lucked out with a dormer window—that little alcove practically begged for a hanging chair. Add a soft rug underneath and some string lights? It’s like a fairytale.
But we didn’t stop there.
We set up a second reading nook with a vintage armchair (courtesy of a local flea market) and a wicker drum table. It’s her go-to spot for tea and Tolkien.
No dormer? Just find a cozy corner, add a lamp, and pile on pillows. Instant book-lover’s nook.
4. Let Accessories Tell the Story
Here’s where cottagecore really starts to sing—those little details that make the space feel lived-in and loved.
We added:
- A few dried lavender bundles in mason jars (smells amazing)
- Glass bottles with twine, some filled with feathers, some left empty—mystery is part of the charm
- Brass candleholders and beeswax candles for that warm, glowy look
- Stacked old books with trinkets on top (we found a jar of buttons that looked straight out of 1923)
And the showstopper? A vintage typewriter sitting on top of the armoire. Honestly, I gasped when we found it—it felt like we were curating the room of a 19th-century writer.
5. Wall Decor That Feels Like a Whispered Memory
You don’t need fancy art for a cottagecore wall. You need meaningful art.
We created a gallery wall using:
- Pressed flowers and leaves
- Butterfly prints
- A few soft watercolor paintings
- Her own drawings (which made it so personal)
She also has guitars and a ukulele hanging on the wall. It’s not just cute—it’s smart storage, too.
Pro tip: Use poster tack or washi tape instead of nails if you like to switch things up often. My niece changes her art like most people change playlists.
6. Plants (Even If You Forget to Water Them)
I’m not gonna pretend we’re great plant parents. So we mixed faux plants with real ones. Honestly? You can’t even tell the difference unless you touch them.
We tucked in greenery wherever we could—on top of shelves, by the window, even hanging in little glass jars. It gives everything that lived-in, earth-connected feeling.
7. Rugs That Ground the Room
Rugs are like the hug that pulls the whole room together. We put a soft sheepskin-style rug under the hanging chair to anchor it, and now that corner feels like a storybook.
If you’ve got hardwood or tile, don’t be afraid to go big with the rug. Something textured, warm, and soft underfoot makes all the difference.
8. Fairy Lights: The Final Sprinkle of Magic
You know how in movies they always have that soft glow in the background that makes everything feel peaceful? That’s what fairy lights do.
We wrapped some around the top of her armoire and tucked a few inside glass jars. When the lights are on at night… it’s pure enchantment.
Final Thoughts: Build Your Own Cottagecore Story
The best part about cottagecore is there’s no rigid rulebook. It’s not about perfection—it’s about emotion. About creating a space that makes you feel safe, inspired, and like you’re living in your own quiet little novel.
For us, my niece’s room ended up feeling like something out of a Jane Austen-meets-nature-core dream. And you know what? That’s our version of cottagecore.
You might go more floral. Or more dark academia. Or more botanical. That’s the beauty of it—you get to make your own chapter.
So light a candle, open a window, and let your room tell its story.
Need ideas or want to share your own style? Drop a comment. I’d love to hear what your dream cottagecore space looks like!
Happy decorating, friend 🌿