Magazine
20+ Cottagecore Formal Gowns For Whenever You Need To Be Fiercely Elegant
Posted on the 24 September 2022 by Diana Trang @altcointrading_
Cottagecore formal dresses can be the perfect look for a wedding guest outfit, but not only that. The stunning dresses in this post are meant to inspire all of you who love the romantic old-time feel of the cottagecore dress aesthetic, but who are looking for a look to feel elegant and refined.
So, the cottagecore fashion aesthetic that you’ll most often see in the wild is inspired by the daywear fashion in the English countryside of 19th century. But when you are in it for formal gowns, it features rich color palettes and luxurious fabrics.
wonderlandbylilian.com: Daphne Bridgerton-inpired ball gown
The evening gowns that were in vogue in 19th century England were always long and glamorous, but depending on the decade, they could be quite revealing in the cleavage and arms.
If you’re a Patrick O’Brian fan, there’s plenty of such dresses described as worn by the character of Diana Villiers, who was a breathtakingly beautiful brunette. For the day, she would wear modest and comfortable dresses, or as comfortable as they came back then, because she was fond of horse riding and hunting. Her ball gowns however would be usually deep blue silk dresses that were quite minimalist, without too much lace or gems. The minimalist simplicity, in the case of Diana Villiers, was offset by a statement diamond jewelry on her neck or in her hair.
The daywear cottagecore aesthetic in our modern times is about romanticizing the life close to nature, but for evening wear you can go for gowns that are not adorned with floral patterns at all. Richer and more vibrant colors are allowed too, unlike for the daywear that was mostly just shades of beige and muted pastel tones.
The true princess gowns
If you want to look like you’re from out of a cottagecore fancy, choose an empire-waist ball gown in with billowing sleeves. This will give you an ethereal look that’s perfect to pair with long gloves and pearls in you hair.
1861.ca: Halide gown
Etsy: EMGownDesign
If that sort of accessorizing would make you way too overdressed, use an ornate pin in your updo and leave it at that. Your hair should always be done up for this sort of aesthetic anyway.
Etsy: AnalisaSplendid
Etsy: Goldenmyth
You won’t look too old-fashioned, unless you go for a dress that’s made to measure. If you have to work with Etsy and indie boutiques, your dress will come in a modern cut and will have far less frill than the original would have. That can be a great look for an occasion that is not set to be styled as 19th century on purpose.
etsy: AnalisaSplendid
Etsy: WoWoWoBridal
If on the other hand you do want to take it closer to the original source, do what the women did back then: Add a ribbon around the waist or lace around the neckline. That’s a quick alteration that any seamstress will be able to do.
Etsy: IsabelleMauriceShop
Etsy: CreatiVisionWeddings
The minimalist cottagecore gowns
Unless you want to go full Bridgerton, there’s plenty formal cottagecore gowns that are minimalist enough to be reused in a way that won’t come off as aesthetic fashion at all.
Matches Fashion: Alexander McQueen, Sheer panel gathered gown
Matches Fashion: Norma Kamali, Walter gown
Matches Fashion: Giambattista Valli, Off the shoulder gathered silk dress
Matches Fashion: Andrew GN, Crystal embellished dress
Don’t be afraid of colors and sparkle. The rich color palettes and luxurious fabrics of cottagecore formal dresses make them perfect for night events, where you want to make a statement. The evening gowns that were in vogue in 19th century England were always long and glamorous, it was the time to shine and forget about what’s practical.
Etsy: AngelinoBoutiqueShop, Plus size tulle gown
1861.ca: Namie gown
People love cottagecore formal dresses because they offer a feminine and refined look that is perfect for formal occasions. The cottagecore aesthetic is inspired by the daywear fashion in the English countryside of 19th century, which was known for its ditsy and cute style, but the evening look is perfect for romantics who want to feel elegant and put together.
1861.ca: Adifa gown
Etsy: wedboomstore
Cottagecore formal dresses offer a unique look for special occasions. Whether you’re going to a formal dance or a black-tie event, these dresses will make you feel like a queen. So if you’re looking for something special, cottagecore formal dresses are definitely the way to go!