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  3. 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed
  • 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed 4
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10 Best Cottagecore Dresses 2023 | UK Wardrobe Concierge Reviewed

Cottagecore fashion is on the rise in the UK with cute, vintage-style dresses becoming the wardrobe staple of the summer! There's no better outfit for wandering around an English country garden and picking daisies than a floaty dress made from lightweight linen or breathable cotton – you'll feel comfy and look incredibly chic. 


With so many beautiful designs available from both new and familiar brands, it's easy to be overwhelmed by cottagecore fashion. To help you select a dress that matches your aesthetic, we've put together a stunning selection including long-sleeved floral mini dresses, classic white gowns with a shirred waist and pretty pastel pieces for plus-sized girls. We'll also show you where to buy them online! 

Last updated 14/07/2023
Melissa Melles
Expert
Wardrobe Concierge
Melissa Melles

Melissa Melles is a Wardrobe Concierge based in Manchester, helping both women and men find their style and have confidence in what they wear by organising their wardrobes. With 10 years industry experience, Melissa's clients trust her expert opinion when it comes to style advice. Her experience spans from TV, music and editorial styling, to working in Paris showrooms, to personal shopping in luxury department stores and more.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Advice From Wardrobe Concierge Melissa Melles

With Specialist Advice From Wardrobe Concierge Melissa Melles

Melissa Melles is a Wardrobe Concierge based in Manchester, helping both women and men find their style and have confidence in what they wear by organising their wardrobes. With 10 years of industry experience, Melissa's clients trust her expert opinion when it comes to style advice. Her experience spans from TV, music and editorial styling, to working in Paris showrooms, to personal shopping in luxury department stores and more.


Find out more about Melissa via her Instagram or head over to her website where you can see all the expert consultation services she offers - from simply organising your wardrobe space to sourcing those hard to find 'New Season' pieces!

How to Choose a Cottagecore Dress in the UK - Buying Guide

Ready to immerse yourself in the world of cottagecore fashion? Let us guide you through the ins and outs of shopping for a new dress, from the skirt length and neckline style to the materials that they're typically made from. 

① Mini, Midi or Maxi? Decide on the Length That You Feel Most Comfortable In

Mini, Midi or Maxi? Decide on the Length That You Feel Most Comfortable In

Firstly, you'll need to decide which length you'd like your dress to be. Mini dresses are fun and flirty as they sit right at the middle of your thighs – perfect for showing off your legs on a summer stroll! This length may not be suitable for practical cottagecore activities like gardening or foraging, though.


Midi dresses, which come down to just below your knees, provide a bit more coverage for your legs and bum but still reveal a bit of skin. Since they aren't too restrictive, they're ideal for long walks or shopping for plants.


Long, flowy maxi dresses are particularly popular amongst lovers of cottagecore fashion, as they're a more modest option. This length not only flatters almost every figure but also protects you from the sun, so it's a great option for a picnic with pals or an afternoon of reading in the garden.

Melissa Melles
Wardrobe ConciergeMelissa Melles

Choosing the right length of Cottagecore dress for you will largely depend on your style, if you tend to wear short dresses and like to get your legs out then a mini will likely be your go-to. If you prefer a more modest look then the midi or maxi will probably be the one for you. A maxi will look great with flat sandals and is perfect for picnicking when you're laying down or crossing your legs on the grass.

② Select a Material That's Durable and Breathable

Select a Material That's Durable and Breathable
Most cottagecore dresses are made from natural materials. Cotton is a popular choice because it's an airy, breathable fabric that's durable and absorbent. Lyocell, which is made from cellulose, is also sweat-wicking and antibacterial – this makes it ideal for sunny days. Plus it's incredibly soft, so it feels lovely against your skin. 

Another natural material that's often used is linen, which is derived from flax fibres. It draws heat away from the body, so it'll keep you cool during summer. As it's about 30% stronger than cotton, a garment made from this fabric will stay in great condition too, even after hundreds of washes!


Some dresses on our list are made from polyester, which is a synthetic material. Brands tend to use polyester because it's wrinkle-resistant and inexpensive to produce. Unfortunately, it's much less breathable than natural fabrics, but we think its durability makes up for this flaw.

Melissa Melles
Wardrobe ConciergeMelissa Melles

When selecting your fabrics it's always really important now to consider the environment. It's good to buy pieces that will last in your wardrobe, but if you are buying synthetic try to look out for recycled synthetics. A lot of high street stores are now trying to be more sustainable and it's actually becoming a lot easier to buy sustainably and affordably too. Even recycled natural fabrics are easily sourced from the high street. So you can be stylish and sustainable!

③ Opt for a Neckline That Suits Your Shape

Opt for a Neckline That Suits Your Shape

When it comes to cottagecore fashion, a classic square neckline is undoubtedly the most popular option. This type of neckline shows off the collarbone and elongates the neck, revealing some skin but not too much.


If you have a larger bust though, we recommend a rectangular or round neckline, as these will complement your chest better and you won't feel too exposed. They're less common but we've found a few lovely options that we'll share in our ranking later on.

Melissa Melles
Wardrobe ConciergeMelissa Melles

Choosing the neckline can be tricky, I find that if you have a larger bust it's definitely wise to go for something with a softer rounder neckline. But it can depend on the dress, the higher the neckline usually the bigger your bust appears so it's definitely worth trying different styles to see which you feel most confident and comfortable in.

④ Dresses With a Floral Print, Gingham Pattern or Delicate Embroidery Look Extra Chic

Dresses With a Floral Print, Gingham Pattern or Delicate Embroidery Look Extra Chic

There are plenty of gorgeous garments out there that are beautiful because of their simplicity – a chic white dress is timeless, after all. If you fancy amping up the style factor though, a pattern or print is a great way to go


All-over floral prints will appeal to nature lovers, while a dress with a gingham pattern will suit a picnic perfectly. Both add extra charm and colour and give a traditional-style dress a modern vibe, so you'll look sassy rather than stuffy!


For even more pizzazz, choose a dress with delicate embroidery or a romantic broderie anglaise design. The latter, which incorporates features of embroidery, cutwork and lace, was extremely popular in the 19th century but has made a real comeback in recent years thanks to its understated elegance.

Melissa Melles
Wardrobe ConciergeMelissa Melles

By going for a printed dress doesn't always have to mean bold and strong. If you're more self-conscious of your figure and want to be a little more subtle, you may think you should avoid prints, however, these can mask any trouble areas and draw attention away from any lumps and bumps


Prints are really fun on such a simple style dress so it's good to have pieces like this in your wardrobe that you know make you look and feel amazing but with little effort to get ready.

⑤ Check the Care Instructions, as Some Garments May Need to Be Washed by Hand

Check the Care Instructions, as Some Garments May Need to Be Washed by Hand

Lastly, it's important to check the care instructions, so you know how to look after your new dress properly. Nowadays, the majority of clothing can be popped straight into the washing machine with your other laundry. 


However, some garments that are made from delicate fabrics or that have intricate embroidery may need to be washed by hand. Similarly, not all dresses will be suitable for the tumble dryer, so it's always worth reading the label before laundry day. To make things easier, we've listed this information in the specification tables below each review.

Melissa Melles
Wardrobe ConciergeMelissa Melles

Definitely always check garment care labels when buying pieces, if something is dry clean only - think how often you will wear it and how much it's going to cost you in the long run to upkeep the cleaning. If a garment is a handwash only, don't be put off, there are so many affordable handwash detergents and it's super quick and easy to do. Plus you don't have to wait for a whole load to do the washing!

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Top 10 Best Cottagecore Dresses in the UK

Now you know what to look out for when shopping for a cottagecore dress, it's time to check out our recommendations. Whatever your personal style and body shape, there'll be something suitable for you in our top 10 list!
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Baukjen

Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White

Baukjen  Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White 1枚目

Ethically Made, High-Quality and Universally Flattering

2

hush

Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black

hush Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black 1枚目

Goth Girl Summer Vibes

3

ASOS DESIGN

Textured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White

ASOS DESIGN Textured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White 1枚目

Elaborate Embroidery That's Bang on Trend

4

Forever New

Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio

Forever New  Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio 1枚目

A Beautifully Tailored Garment in a Soft Green Shade

5

New Look

Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral

New Look  Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral 1枚目

Fantastically Floral and Frilly

6

Urban Bliss

Shirred Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Pale Pink

Urban Bliss  Shirred Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Pale Pink 1枚目

Stylish and Practical, Yet Incredibly Affordable

7

Neon Rose

Plus Mini Smock Dress With Collar in Pastel Gingham

Neon Rose  Plus Mini Smock Dress With Collar in Pastel Gingham 1枚目

A Pretty Pastel Option for Plus-Sized Ladies

8

Levi's

Bailey Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, Una Plaid Safari

Levi's  Bailey Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, Una Plaid Safari 1枚目

Classic, Chic, and Comfy

9

Lola May

Broderie Anglais Mini Dress in Sage Green

Lola May  Broderie Anglais Mini Dress in Sage Green 1枚目

Short and Sweet, With a Delicate Design

10

& Other Stories

Organic Cotton Tiered Volume Maxi Dress in Brown

& Other Stories  Organic Cotton Tiered Volume Maxi Dress in Brown 1枚目

A Flowy Maxi Dress for Mori Girls

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No.1

Baukjen Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White

Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White Image 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£159.00

Ethically Made, High-Quality and Universally Flattering

This mid-length option is the quintessential cottagecore dress – it's airy, romantic and timeless. The crisp white shade will suit every skin tone, while the subtly tailored silhouette is universally flattering. We particularly love the embroidered leaf pattern, which makes this simple cotton dress far from boring.


Best of all, Baukjen is a London-based brand with a focus on sustainable style, so this dress is ethically made from natural fibres using a carbon net-neutral manufacturing process. A high-quality, eco-friendly garment that will last you for many years to come!

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No.2

hushPuff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black

Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black Image 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£75.00

Goth Girl Summer Vibes

Who said cottagecore has to be strictly pastels? If you're a fan of the folksy aesthetic but prefer a darker colour palette, this dress is for you! The empire waistline and square neckline are super flattering, while the three-quarter length sleeves and floaty skirt ensure freedom of movement.


Best of all, the lightweight blend of cotton and elastane makes this a breezy option for wandering around gardens with friends or sitting in the sunshine. Goths can enjoy a hot girl summer too!

No.3

ASOS DESIGNTextured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White

Textured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White Image 1
Source:asos.com
Textured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£55.00

Elaborate Embroidery That's Bang on Trend

Looking cute while feeling comfy – isn't that what we all want? With this sleeveless midi dress by ASOS DESIGN, you'll feel physically cool and you'll be bang on trend too. The shirred stretch top, tie cami straps and ruffled hem make this dreamy dress a great pick for lazy summer days.

Since this stunning piece has all-over floral embroidery, it's hand wash only and we recommend taking extra care when hanging it out to dry. We'd say it's well worth the effort for such a gorgeous-looking dress though!
No.4

Forever New Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio

Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio Image 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£36.00

A Beautifully Tailored Garment in a Soft Green Shade

This striking mini dress by Forever New features a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, a chic square neckline and romantically tailored mini sleeves. It's somehow floaty and structured all at once, and the soft green shade will complement a range of skin tones.


The breathable blend of linen and vicose will keep you cool during the warm weather. We love the delicate string-tie front too – it's the little details that count when it comes to cottagecore fashion!

No.5

New Look Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral

Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral Image 1
Source:asos.com
Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£25.99

Fantastically Floral and Frilly

This playful puff-sleeved dress by New Look is ideal for a picnic in the park with friends or a romantic outing. The classic all-over floral print is charming, while the frilly cuffs and bow fastenings on the back keep things youthful.

Although it's technically a mini dress, this option isn't too short so you can roam around freely in it without worrying about flashing what's underneath. The cool, lightweight fabric also makes it a joy to wear whatever the weather.

No.6

Urban Bliss Shirred Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Pale Pink

Shirred Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Pale Pink Image 1
Source:asos.com
Shirred Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Pale Pink Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£10.50

Stylish and Practical, Yet Incredibly Affordable

Designed in Manchester, this gorgeous pale pink dress by Urban Bliss is a cottagecore wardrobe staple. The shirred stretch bodice and square neckline are incredibly flattering for your chest and waist, while the mid-length puff sleeves will keep your upper arms out of the sun.


Sadly, this dress runs slightly large, so you may need to size down to get the perfect fit. It's also made from polyester so won't be suitable for super hot summer days. Considering the amazingly low price though, we can't complain too much! 

No.7

Neon Rose Plus Mini Smock Dress With Collar in Pastel Gingham

Plus Mini Smock Dress With Collar in Pastel Gingham Image 1
Source:asos.com
Plus Mini Smock Dress With Collar in Pastel Gingham Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£30.00

A Pretty Pastel Option for Plus-Sized Ladies

How lovely is this lilac gingham smock dress? The frilly Peter Pan collar, puff sleeves and partial button placket along the front give this design by Neon Rose serious cute credentials! Plus, the puckered seersucker fabric makes it feel fab against your skin.

Gals who are on the tall side may find this mini dress to be a little too short, so you may want to wear some shorts or a pair of leggings underneath for modesty. If you're a petite plus-sized lady though, it'll work wonderfully.

No.8

Levi's Bailey Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, Una Plaid Safari

Bailey Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, Una Plaid Safari Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Bailey Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, Una Plaid Safari Image 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£95.00

Classic, Chic, and Comfy

With a soft brown colour palette and traditional gingham print, this midi dress is simple yet elegant. The voluminous bell sleeves give your arms a bit of breathing space, while the nipped-in waist will really show off your figure.


Although this garment is mostly made from cotton, it also includes elastane for a bit of stretch, making it perfect for wearing whilst strolling around the garden. The only downside is the fact that it's so expensive, but we'd say this is understandable when you consider that Levi's is a designer brand!

No.9

Lola May Broderie Anglais Mini Dress in Sage Green

 Broderie Anglais Mini Dress in Sage Green Image 1
Source:asos.com
 Broderie Anglais Mini Dress in Sage Green Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£25.00

Short and Sweet, With a Delicate Design

This stunning sage green mini dress from Lola May features puff sleeves with elasticated cuffs, a ruffle-edge hem and a zip back for easy fastening. The delicate broderie anglaise embroidery adds extra depth to the simple design, which is short and sweet.


Unfortunately, as this dress is made from 100% polyester, it's not as breathable as the cotton garments on our list. It's also only available in smaller sizes which is a real shame. Still, at under £30, it's a very affordable piece.

No.10

& Other Stories Organic Cotton Tiered Volume Maxi Dress in Brown

Organic Cotton Tiered Volume Maxi Dress in Brown Image 1
Source:asos.com
Organic Cotton Tiered Volume Maxi Dress in Brown Image 2
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£85.00

A Flowy Maxi Dress for Mori Girls

If you're a fan of mori girl fashion, an aesthetic based on the neutral tones of the forest, you'll love this flowy offering from & Other Stories. It's made from 100% organic cotton so will keep you cool all day, regardless of whether you're out frolicking in the woods or resting indoors with a cup of tea.

We love the fact that this maxi dress has subtle side pockets where you can stash your keys and purse. However, while some will appreciate its relaxed fit, others may find the lack of structure around the chest and stomach areas unflattering. 

Cottagecore Styling Tips from Wardrobe Concierge Melissa Melles

Cottagecore Styling Tips from Wardrobe Concierge Melissa Melles

"When it comes to Cottagecore dresses, I like to style them with a chunky sandal or a pair of clogs, keeping it super cute and summery for your picnics and seaside walks."

More Cottagecore Essentials for Your Wardrobe

More Cottagecore Essentials for Your Wardrobe

Now that you've got your dress sorted, how about a few more key cottagecore pieces? You can't go wrong with a sun hat for summer days or a cosy cardie to keep warm on autumn evenings. And don't forget the bouquet of dried flowers!

Summary

That's all from us – we hope you've enjoyed learning more about cottagecore fashion and that you're ready to pick out a dreamy new dress. Pop on Taylor Swift's Folklore album, pour yourself a cup of herbal tea and start shopping!


Author: Nicola McClements

Top 5 Cottagecore Dresses

No. 1: Baukjen | Evangeline Broderie Anglaise Dress, Pure White

No. 2: hush | Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, Black

No. 3: ASOS DESIGN | Textured Shirred Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery in White

No. 4: Forever New | Imogen Linen Mini Dress, Soft Pistachio

No. 5: New Look | Tie Back Shirred Smock Dress in White Floral

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