How to Design a Dreamy Cottagecore Bedroom That is Full of Vintage Charm

Welcome to Newbury Home! This is your source for timeless home decor, gardening tips, and elegant living on a budget.

Learn how to perfect the cottagecore aesthetic in your bedroom with these simple tips.

how to design dreamy cottagecore bedroom that is full of vintage charm

The following content may contain affiliate links. When you click and shop the links, I receive a small commission.

The cottagecore aesthetic has been everywhere recently and it has me feeling inspired to refresh my bedroom decor. And what better time than spring to add a touch of cottagecore charm to your home? The season is all about florals, soft pastels, and light-filled spaces, which are key elements of this effortless and romantic look. Learn how to design a cottagecore bedroom that feels like a dreamy escape from the modern world with these beautiful decorating ideas.

vintage cottagecore home decor with skirted chintz chairs and floral curtains — Image Source Unknown

The cottagecore aesthetic trend

Cottagecore is more than just a design style, but also an outlook on life that embraces a slower way of living, inspired by the romance of country life. This aesthetic focuses on an appreciation for vintage character and natural beauty. That’s why floral prints, antique furniture, soft lighting, and cozy layers of natural textures are all key elements of this look. While the name “cottagecore” may be new, this aesthetic has been around for years. It has recently surged in popularity on Tiktok and Instagram as people began seeking spaces that feel warm, lived-in, and personal, while romanticizing the simple joys in life.

French cottage bedroom with gingham bedding, floral, vintage furniture, and romantic colors — Image Source: A Home to Make You Smile

Elements of a cottagecore bedroom

To achieve the perfect cottagecore bedroom, focus on these key design elements:

1. Soft, romantic color palette

Cottagecore bedrooms embrace soft, muted hues that feel inviting and timeless. Dusty rose, buttery yellow, sage green, sky blue, and creamy linen tones are all perfect options. These colors create a dreamy, romantic space that feels effortlessly styled.

aesthetic cottagecore bedroom with romantic pink walls and floral pillows — Image Source: Elle The Home Bird

2. Vintage-inspired florals

Florals are at the heart of the cottagecore aesthetic. Whether it’s wallpaper, bedding, or an antique chintz chair, these vintage-inspired patterns instantly add a touch of whimsy to a space. French cottage and English countryside styles often feature botanical prints that make the home feel like an extension of the garden in summertime. Another beautiful way to incorporate florals into your bedroom is by framing pressed flowers from your garden.

cozy cottagecore aesthetic bedroom with floral prints — Image Source: Sanderson

3. Layered textiles and cozy bedding

A dreamy bedroom should feel as inviting as it looks. Layer soft, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton to add texture and warmth. Choose fabric in colorful gingham, floral, or striped patterns. Ruffled bedding, quilted blankets, and embroidered pillowcases all contribute to the relaxed, romantic look. Don’t forget to add some patterned lamp shades and airy curtains to complete the space.

cottagecore bed with layered textiles such as upholstered headboard and ruffled pillows — Image Source: Jill House Home

4. Antique and mismatched furniture

Cottagecore isn’t about perfection. A mix of antique or vintage-style furniture, whether it’s a timeworn wooden dresser, a wrought iron bed frame, or a flea-market find with chipping paint, gives your bedroom a beautifully curated feel.

5. Soft, warm lighting

Harsh overhead lighting doesn’t suit the charming vintage vibe of a cottagecore space. Instead, use layered lighting, such as table lamps, wall sconces, or candlelight, to create a warm, inviting glow. Use for soft-white bulbs for a cozy effect.

Cottagecore bedroom with vintage brass sconces next to bed with floral headboard and gingham pillows — Image Source: Emma Ainscough

6. Personal, sentimental touches

A cottagecore bedroom should feel uniquely yours. Stack vintage books on your desk, display framed pressed flowers, or hang a cherished painting found at an antique shop. Handmade or heirloom pieces, whether it’s a quilt from a family member or a hand-sewn pillow, add to the lived-in charm.

cottagecore bedroom decor — Image Source: Everlinet

How to perfect the cottagecore aesthetic in your bedroom

Here are a few simple tips for styling this look in your bedroom:

Start your design with the walls. Choose a paint color or wallpaper design that will complement some of your existing furniture and decor if you do not want to redo your entire bedroom.
Decide where you want to incorporate floral patterns. Wallpaper is a great way to embrace this trend, but if that feels too bold, start with floral bedding, accent pillows, an upholstered headboard, a chintz chair, or curtains.
Mix old and new. If most of your bedroom decor is more of a modern style, start slowly adding a few antique or vintage-style furniture pieces.
Don’t worry about perfection. Find pieces that bring you joy, it is not essential that everything matches perfectly. Imperfection the key to nailing this aesthetic.

colorful cottagecore bedroom — Image Source: Staying In Studio

Cottagecore bedrooms are all about creating a space that feels personal, romantic, and relaxed. Whether you go full-on or just incorporate a few key elements, this style is a beautiful way to make your bedroom feel like a dreamy escape from the modern world.

I’ve linked some inexpensive cottagecore decor for you to shop. Since this is a curated style, I highly recommend frequenting your local vintage shops too! If you’ve enjoyed this post, I’ve shared similar home decor posts below the shopping section for you to read next.

If you’re interested in following along with my Victorian home renovation or garden projects, please visit my Instagram and TikTok pages.