The cottagecore aesthetic is more than a trend — it's a way of living that celebrates slowness, beauty, and the art of homemaking. Here's how to bring that warmth into your kitchen.
Natural Materials
Start by swapping out plastic and synthetic items for natural alternatives. Wooden cutting boards, ceramic bowls, linen dish towels, and woven baskets instantly warm up a space. These materials age beautifully and develop character over time.
Fresh Herbs & Florals
Nothing says cottagecore quite like a windowsill lined with fresh herbs or a jar of wildflowers on the counter. Rosemary, thyme, and lavender are beautiful and functional. Snip them straight into your cooking.
Open Shelving
If you have the space, consider replacing a cabinet or two with open shelving. Display your prettiest dishes, your collection of vintage cookbooks, and of course, your hand-painted Elisabeth Jane recipe box.
Warm Lighting
Swap harsh overhead lights for warm, soft lighting. A pendant light with a warm bulb, a few candles, or even string lights can completely change the atmosphere of a kitchen.
Handmade Touches
The heart of cottagecore is the handmade. A hand-painted recipe box, a hand-thrown mug, a hand-embroidered tea towel — these small touches tell a story and make your kitchen feel uniquely yours.
Slow Down
The most important cottagecore kitchen essential isn't something you buy — it's a mindset. Take your time. Enjoy the process of cooking. Put on music. Pour yourself a cup of tea while dinner simmers. Your kitchen is meant to be lived in, not rushed through.