The right curtains can completely transform a space—adding warmth, softening harsh light, and bringing that essential cottagecore feeling of coziness and connection to nature. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cottagecore curtains and textiles for every room and budget.
What Makes Curtains Cottagecore?
Natural fabrics: Linen, cotton, muslin
Soft, muted colors: Cream, sage, dusty rose, natural beige
Romantic details: Lace trim, ruffles, tie-tops
Lived-in feel: Slightly wrinkled, textured, not perfectly pressed
Best Fabrics for Cottagecore Curtains
Linen
The gold standard. Linen curtains have beautiful texture, filter light softly, and age gracefully. They’re breathable and naturally wrinkle—which adds to their charm.
Pros: Natural, beautiful drape, timeless
Cons: Can be expensive, wrinkles easily
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms
Cotton
Soft, versatile, and more affordable than linen. Cotton curtains work well in any room.
Pros: Easy to care for, affordable
Cons: Can look less textured than linen
Best for: Any room, especially kitchens and bathrooms
Lace
Delicate and romantic. Vintage lace curtains add instant cottagecore charm. Layer them under heavier curtains or use them alone for privacy with light.
Pros: Romantic, filters light beautifully
Cons: Offers less privacy
Best for: Layering, windows facing private areas
Muslin
Lightweight cotton with a soft, gauzy texture. Budget-friendly and perfect for airy, light-filled rooms.
Pros: Affordable, light and airy
Cons: Less substantial than linen
Best for: Summer months, layering
Color Guide
Cream & Natural
The most versatile choice. Works with any decor and softens harsh light.
Sage Green
Brings nature indoors. Pairs beautifully with wood tones and cream walls.
Dusty Rose
Soft and romantic. Works in bedrooms and feminine spaces.
White
Clean and airy, but can feel too stark. Opt for off-white or cream instead.
Top Cottagecore Curtain Picks
1. IKEA AINA Linen Curtains
Price: $60/pair
Fabric: 100% linen
Why we love it: Affordable linen in natural beige. Simple, classic, and budget-friendly.
2. Target Linen Blend Curtains
Price: $35-$50/pair
Fabric: Linen blend
Why we love it: Great value, available in cream and sage.
3. West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Curtains
Price: $100-$150/panel
Fabric: Belgian linen
Why we love it: High-quality, beautiful drape, available in many colors.
4. Vintage Lace Curtains (Etsy/Thrift)
Price: $20-$80/pair
Fabric: Vintage lace or crochet
Why we love it: One-of-a-kind, authentic vintage charm.
5. DIY Drop Cloth Curtains
Price: $20-$30/pair
Fabric: Canvas drop cloth
Why we love it: Budget-friendly DIY with perfect texture.
How to Style Cottagecore Curtains
Hang Them High
Mount curtain rods close to the ceiling to make rooms feel taller.
Let Them Pool
Allow curtains to puddle slightly on the floor for a relaxed, romantic look.
Layer Textures
Combine sheer lace curtains with heavier linen drapes for depth and function.
Use Tiebacks
Natural fiber ropes, vintage ribbon, or leather straps make charming tiebacks.
Embrace Wrinkles
Linen looks better slightly wrinkled. Don’t over-iron—it’s part of the charm.
Other Cottagecore Textiles
Table Linens
Linen tablecloths, vintage tea towels, cotton napkins with embroidered details.
Throw Blankets
Chunky knit blankets, vintage quilts, linen throws in cream or sage.
Pillows
Mix linen, cotton, and vintage fabrics. Add texture with crochet or embroidery.
Rugs
Jute, wool, or vintage Persian rugs in muted tones. See our full rug guide.
DIY Cottagecore Curtains
Drop Cloth Curtains
Materials: Canvas drop cloths, curtain rod, hem tape or sewing machine
Steps: Cut to length, hem edges, add rod pocket or clips. Done!
Lace-Trimmed Curtains
Materials: Plain cotton or linen curtains, vintage lace trim, fabric glue or needle & thread
Steps: Attach lace trim along the bottom edge for instant cottagecore charm.
Tie-Top Curtains
Materials: Linen fabric, cotton ribbon or twine
Steps: Sew loops of ribbon to the top edge. Tie directly onto the rod.
Where to Buy
- Budget: IKEA, Target, Amazon, thrift stores
- Mid-range: West Elm, Pottery Barn, H&M Home
- Splurge: Etsy artisans, Anthropologie, vintage shops
- DIY: Drop cloths from hardware stores, fabric from Joann
FAQs
What color curtains are most cottagecore?
Cream, natural beige, sage green, and dusty rose. Avoid bright or saturated colors.
Should I choose linen or cotton?
Linen has more texture and drapes beautifully but costs more. Cotton is more affordable and easier to care for. Both work!
How do I care for linen curtains?
Machine wash on gentle, hang to dry or tumble dry low. Iron if desired, but slight wrinkles add charm.
Can I mix curtain styles in one room?
Yes! Layer sheer and opaque curtains, or mix linen and lace for depth and texture.
More home guides: Living Room | Bedroom | Rugs
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