From William Shakespeare, to Walt Disney, to Barbie, there is something about fairies that is undeniably enchanting. Believed to originate in ancient Persian mythology, fairies, fae, and fair folk have appeared in mythology and legends spanning millennia. Sometimes mischievous, sometimes good-natured, but always stylish, these little sprites have inspired a new generation through TikTok’s fairycore trend. A more fantastical cousin of cottagecore, this aesthetic blends costume and runway for a completely whimsical aesthetic.
Fairycore Aesthetic
At the intersection of the natural world and the fantasy one, there you’ll find fairycore. Berry picking and gardening is done wearing puffy tulle skirts and structured corsets, accessorized with flower crowns and glittery makeup. Inspired by storybook depictions of fairies, fairycore silhouettes are loose and billowing, often made from unexpected blends of fabrics, such as a chiffon with a chunky sweater knit. Textures are achieved by ruffling, pleating, and gathering yards of fabric. A connection to nature, plants, and animals is emphasized, with many garments upcycled or made zero-waste in order to minimize the damage to the environment.
Key Influences
Many fashion designers have taken a page from the many fairytales and folk legends of fairies. Perhaps most famously, Alexander McQueen’s F/W 2006 Collection, “The Widows of Culloden,” could be seen as a precursor for the combination of fantasy and reality seen in fairycore. The models seemed to blend between magical creature and human, with fabrics and headdresses made from mixing feathers and tulle, deer antlers and ripped lace. In 2022, this aesthetic takes on a sweet, escapist twist. Designers such as Rodarte and Susan Fang create ruffly dresses packed with texture, whereas Collina Strada fuses environmentalism with an other-worldly aesthetic.
Fairycore Color Story
Say it with me now: pastel, pastel, pastels! Fairycore aesthetics are all about embracing the lighter shades of the spectrum. Popular colors include pink, blue, and green, with neutrals most often appearing in light beige and ivory shades. For a darker twist on this aesthetic, stick to blacks and bold reds.
Fabrics and Materials Used
If we had to pick a number one fabric for the fairycore aesthetic, tulle would be at the top of the list. It’s easily manipulated, so perfect for puff-sleeve blouses and dresses, and easily stacked on top of itself for an ombre effect. Other fabrics used are embroidered & eyelet cottons, cozy sweater knits, and silk organza. To top off your look, try lace trims and glass buttons.
Free Pattern Suggestions
Channeling your inner fairy has never been easier, thanks to Mood’s selection of free patterns! Make tulle-overlay evening and cocktail dresses, puff-sleeved blouses, and frothy skirts.
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Ideal for Tulle
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Puff Sleeves
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Sweet Sundresses
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Mood DIYs
Are you looking to make any fairycore-inspired garments for your next gardening party or enchanted teatime? Let us know in the comments down below!
