Cottagecore vs. Goblincore — What's the Difference?

Cottagecore and Goblincore are both aesthetic and cultural movements. While both have ties to nature and the simple joys of life, Cottagecore evokes imagery of countryside living, pastoral settings, and old-world charm. It romanticizes traditional rural life, with an emphasis on activities like baking, gardening, and handicrafts. In contrast, Goblincore revels in the eccentric and whimsical. It has a fascination with things that may be considered 'ugly' or discarded by society, like mushrooms, pebbles, or bones.

Cottagecore often presents a dreamy, idealized version of life, one steeped in vintage fashions, picnics in lush meadows, and cottages surrounded by flowers. Goblincore, on the other hand, finds beauty in the mysterious, unappreciated, or overlooked elements of nature. It cherishes the unexpected and the forgotten, often with a touch of dark or mischievous humor.

The enthusiasts of Cottagecore might immerse themselves in activities like sewing, reading classic literature, or tending to a rose garden. Goblincore enthusiasts might be found collecting strangely-shaped rocks, enjoying the beauty of a murky swamp, or creating art from found objects.

While there's a wholesome, serene aura surrounding Cottagecore, Goblincore embodies a more raw, untamed spirit. Both movements encourage embracing one's authentic self and finding joy in the simple things, albeit in very different ways.