The Downfall of Cottagecore

Introduction

• Presenter: Juno, a local mothman
• Topic: Analysis of internet aesthetics, focusing on cottagecore
• Previous topics discussed: Kidcore, Weirdcore

Cottagecore Aesthetic Overview

• Definition: Aesthetic centered around an idealized, pastoral lifestyle.
• Key elements:
  • Summer dresses
  • Connection to nature
  • Wholesome activities (e.g., picking fruits, gardening)
• Initially popular during the summer of 2020 amidst the pandemic.
  • Escapism from a collapsing reality.

Origin of Cottagecore

• Emerged from young queer communities on platforms like Tumblr, especially among sapphic women.
• Themes:
  • Beauty in simplicity
  • Self-sufficiency
  • Comfort and safety

Fashion Elements

• Characteristics of cottagecore fashion:
  • Romantic blouses, cozy knitwear, flowing dresses
  • Natural materials (cotton, linen, silk)
  • Patterns and colors inspired by nature (floral, pastel, earthy tones)
• Notable trend: Strawberry dress popularized by Tess Holliday.

Shift in Fashion Accessibility

• Fast fashion brands like Shein, Amazon have co-opted cottagecore aesthetics.
• Original accessibility through thrift stores diminished due to reselling trends.
• Ideological conflict: Fast fashion contradicts self-sustainability ideals.

Issues Within the Community

• Beauty standards: Strict visual guidelines creating exclusion within the aesthetic.
  • Focus on a hyper-feminine and delicate ideal that is unattainable for many.
• Criticism of cottagecore as a romanticized, unrealistic portrayal of rural life.
• Actual rural lifestyles involve hard work and discomfort, unlike the idealized versions.

Critique of Homesteading

• Homesteading: A lifestyle of self-sufficiency rooted in colonialism.
• Link between cottagecore and colonialism raising ethical questions.
• Merging of cottagecore and homesteading communities led to discomfort and division.

Conclusion

• The cottagecore dream has faded due to implications of privilege and colonial history.
• While the aesthetic remains in clothing, the deeper connection and community are fractured.
• The longing for a simple, beautiful life continues, but the idealization of it is met with harsh realities.
• Final thoughts: Enjoying the aesthetic while remaining critical of its underlying issues.