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Writer's pictureVanesa Eleonor Vale Mendoza

Cottagecore vs Goblincore: A Beginner's Guide

Updated: Jan 11

If you are interested in exploring different aesthetics and lifestyles that are inspired by nature, you may have come across the terms Cottagecore and Goblincore. These two movements have been gaining popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Tumblr, and have attracted many followers who share their passion for the simple and the whimsical. But what exactly are Cottagecore and Goblincore, and how do they differ from each other? In this blog, we will give you a brief introduction to these two aesthetics, their origins, their features, and how you can incorporate them into your own life.


enchanted garden


What is Cottagecore?


Cottagecore is an aesthetic that romanticizes rural life and the simplicity of living in a cottage or farmhouse. It is a nostalgic and dreamy style that celebrates the beauty of nature, the tranquility of the countryside, and the traditional ways of life. Cottagecore enthusiasts often incorporate elements such as vintage clothing, floral patterns, and rustic decor into their daily lives. They also enjoy activities such as baking, gardening, knitting, and reading.


The term "Cottagecore" was coined on social media platforms such as Tumblr and TikTok and has since gained popularity worldwide. It is seen as a response to the fast-paced and technology-driven modern world, offering a sense of comfort, peace, and connection to nature. Cottagecore is also associated with values such as sustainability, authenticity, and community.



What is Goblincore?


  • Goblincore is a subculture that embraces the darker and weirder side of nature and the beauty of imperfection. It is a celebration of the unconventional, the strange, and the ugly. Goblincore enthusiasts often find beauty in things that are typically considered repulsive, such as mushrooms, insects, and decaying matter. They also collect and display items such as rocks, bones, shells, and feathers.


  • Goblincore is characterized by a DIY aesthetic, with many enthusiasts creating their own clothing and accessories from natural materials. It is also associated with a sense of mischief and playfulness, with goblins being seen as mischievous and unpredictable creatures. The term "goblincore" emerged on social media in 2019 and has since gained a dedicated following. It is seen as a rejection of mainstream beauty standards and a celebration of individuality and self-expression.





How to Compare Cottagecore and Goblincore


Cottagecore and goblincore are both aesthetic and cultural movements that have their own unique characteristics. While both have ties to nature and the simple joys of life, they differ in many aspects, such as:


Color palette: Cottagecore features soft and dreamy pastel colors, such as pink, yellow, white, and light green. It also uses floral and plaid patterns to create a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Goblincore, on the other hand, uses earthy tones and unconventional textures, such as brown, green, gray, and black. It also incorporates moss, dirt, and metal to create a wild and edgy look.


Fashion: Cottagecore fashion is inspired by vintage and historical styles, such as Victorian, Edwardian, and Regency. It often involves wearing flowy dresses, skirts, and blouses, decorated with lace, ruffles, and embroidery. It also includes accessories such as hats, scarves, and baskets. Goblincore fashion is inspired by fantasy and folklore, such as goblins, fairies, and witches. It often involves wearing layers of mismatched and worn-out clothing, such as sweaters, hoodies, and jackets, embellished with patches, pins, and buttons. It also includes accessories such as boots, gloves, and bags.


Hobbies: Cottagecore hobbies are related to domestic and artistic activities, such as baking, gardening, knitting, and reading. They often involve creating and enjoying homemade and handmade products, such as bread, jam, candles, and quilts. Goblincore hobbies are related to outdoor and adventurous activities, such as hiking, camping, foraging, and exploring. They often involve collecting and displaying natural and unusual items, such as rocks, bones, shells, and feathers.


Feature

Cottagecore

Goblincore

Overall vibe

Whimsical, romantic, nostalgic

Earthy, whimsical, macabre

Focus on nature

Lush, idyllic landscapes

Damp forests, decaying logs, fungi

Dwellings

Quaint cottages, farmhouses

Burrows, treehouses, cozy nooks

Activities

Baking, gardening, crafting

Foraging, collecting, DIY projects

Color palette

Pastels, muted tones, earthy colors

Greens, browns, grays, occasional pops of bright colors

Aesthetics

Floral patterns, gingham, lace

Moss, mushrooms, wood, found objects



How to Incorporate Cottagecore and Goblincore into Your Life?


If you are interested in adopting either cottagecore or goblincore, or even both, into your life, here are some tips and ideas on how to do so:


Decorate your space: You can transform your space into a cottagecore or goblincore paradise by adding some elements that reflect your aesthetic. For cottagecore, you can use floral wallpaper, lace curtains, vintage furniture, and fresh flowers. For goblincore, you can use mossy rugs, wooden crates, metal shelves, and dried plants.


Dress up: You can express your personality and style by dressing up in outfits that match your aesthetic. For cottagecore, you can wear pastel-colored dresses, skirts, and blouses, with lace, ruffles, and embroidery. You can also accessorize with hats, scarves, and baskets. For goblincore, you can wear dark-colored sweaters, hoodies, and jackets, with patches, pins, and buttons. You can also accessorize with boots, gloves, and bags.


Have fun: You can enjoy your hobbies and interests that are related to your aesthetic. For cottagecore, you can bake, garden, knit, and read. You can also invite your friends over for tea parties, picnics, and craft sessions. For goblincore, you can hike, camp, forage, and explore. You can also join online communities and forums where you can share your findings, stories, and tips.





Which one is right for you?


There's no right or wrong way to do cottagecore or goblincore. Embrace the aspects that you love and make it your own.


If you're drawn to the romantic charm of a simpler life in the countryside, cottagecore might be your perfect aesthetic. If you prefer a more earthy and whimsical vibe, with a touch of the macabre, then goblincore might be more your speed. Ultimately, the best way to choose is to explore both aesthetics and see which one speaks to you the most.


There are many great resources online to learn more about these aesthetics, such as Pinterest boards, Instagram accounts, and blogs.


Don't be afraid to get creative and mix and match elements of Cottagecore and Goblincore to create your own unique style.



Conclusion

Cottagecore and goblincore are two aesthetics that can help you find joy and fulfillment in life, and offer you a refreshing and inspiring perspective on nature and yourself. By learning more about these two movements, you can discover new ways to express your creativity, individuality, and values. I hope this guide has helped you understand the differences between cottagecore and goblincore! I invite you to try out some of the tips and ideas we shared.



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