Of late we’ve been seeing more and more images on the ‘gram that remind us of characters like Strawberry Shortcake or scenes from an Enid Blyton story book. Think pastel colours, a fairytale-esque illustrations and paintings, and a sense of childlike nostalgia thrown into the mix.
The trend doesn’t quite have a name, but our two cents is that it emerged from the cottagecore movement − an aesthetic centred around idyllic, countryside living. Cottagecore has been around for some time, but blew up during the pandemic with vast populations isolated at home and desiring ‘simpler living’ with a touch of whimsy.
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While this new aesthetic isn’t quite as rural-focused, it still offers an escape to a new world. Looking to get on board? We’ve rounded up some buys that will fit right into this design wonderland.
These handpainted dishes by homeware label Les-Ottomans seem to have stepped out of the pages of an Enid Blyton tale.
Go down the rabbit hole with this Alice in Wonderland-themed cake plate from Decordinary, a Singapore-based store featuring quirky decor and furniture. It’s bound to turn heads at your upcoming Yuletide gathering.
It seems like masks aren’t going out of style (or necessity) anytime soon, so might as well choose one that stands out such as this granny-inspired design by local Etsy store Peachier Studios. The masks come in four patterns and include a hand-printed pouch, carbon filter paper and filter pocket for covering foundation stains.
We’re especially digging this whimsical Cinderella-esque chandelier design which is inspired by the 20th century Venetian glass fruit and vegetable trend.
Homegrown ceramics brand Luzerne’s Lancaster Garden collection has the perfect items for an afternoon tea set-up. Just what you’d need for days when you want to be transported to a quaint English garden party.
Nothing screams whimsy quite like this piece of furniture from from Circu, a furniture site based in Portugal. Most of their furniture is designed with kids in mind, but we’re pretty sure the child in you will love this comfy seat inspired by the iconic fairy Tinker Bell.
Add some kooky style chops to your dressing with this mono earring.
Mirror mirror on the wall, who’s the quirkiest of them all? The answer has got to be this curvy mirror by Gustaf Westman, a rising Swedish designer known for his playful and contemporary aesthetic. Mirrors come in both mini and full-length sizes, with six pastel shades to choose from.
Queen of Americana chic Tory Burch puts us in an optimistic mood with this vibrant wallpaper-inspired print. An instant pick-me-up.
A fan of all things cottagecore? These vintage flower and mushroom posters from online shop For You Aesthetics should be right up your alley. They’re even educational too, with labels of the various shrooms and flowers.
With its smooth wooden dome dotted with colourful resin beads, this Loewe ring reminds us of the toadstool motif frequently found in illustrated children’s books.
This set of nesting dolls, inspired by the childhood favourite Goldilocks and the Three Bears, may be made for children aged three years and above but they are quirky tchotchkes will look splendid on the shelf display of any grown-up’s room.
Doesn’t the illustration on the vessel of this jasmine-scented candle by Valencia-based brand La Montana call to mind the paintings found in those books starring Peter and Jane?
We absolutely adore lifestyle brand Anthropologie’s home section, with its treasure trove of collectible items. Our top pick has to be this adorable pig-shaped salt & pepper shaker set – seasoning our meals never looked quite this cute.