from Cottagecore to Grunge: 8 spring fashion looks you’ll love

Spring is slowly awakening. As I wander through the still-drowsy mountains of North Carolina, I catch glimpses of new life peeking through. The occasional flash of minty green leaves and the sweet scent of blooming flowers spark a renewed sense of energy and wonder for the season ahead. The sun’s warm embrace on my skin and the gentle rustle of the breeze make me feel alive. It’s a magical time when everything seems to awaken – including fashion!

As creativity starts to blossom, it’s important to approach your wardrobe with a gentle touch, a focus on playful expression, and just a sprinkle of fairy dust. One of my favorite ways to play with fashion is experimenting with silhouettes, such as pairing loose, flowy pieces with tighter ones in complementary yet contrasting colors. For instance, a billowing oversized button-up tucked into a pair of high-waisted shorts creates a stylish and effortless look that’s perfect for adventuring through the park.

Modishly strolling through the park isn’t the only fashion tidbit on our agenda today, though. I’m thrilled to showcase 8 outfit mood boards that I’ve lovingly crafted myself. Each board captures a unique aesthetic, from dreamy cottagecore looks to edgy grunge vibes. I’ve included all the elements that have been captivating me lately: fluttering butterflies, radiant sunflowers, earthy tones, pops of mustard yellow, olive greens, and, of course my long-time favorite, dusky pinks.

So, let’s dive in together and uncover the perfect outfit that will infuse your wardrobe with a fresh dose of spring enchantment!

(ps: lemme know your favorite look in the comments below, or on social media!! i’d love to know!)

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over the garden wall

Over the Garden Wall is a whimsical cottagecore-inspired mood board capturing the essence of a nectar-drunk butterfly dancing on the wind. If you want to add playful and enchanting pieces to your wardrobe, this outfit is perfect for you.

Imagine yourself sipping sweet tea in a sun-drenched garden, lost in a romantic fantasy novel, or strolling towards a quirky coffee shop to meet an admirer for a first date. This ensemble has an undertone of bashful flirtation, making it perfect for wandering over the garden wall and into the woods, where magic awaits.

At the heart of this outfit is a soft pastel peachy sundress with subtle butterfly prints, perfect for breezy spring days. Layer it with a chunky creamy cardigan to keep you cozy on chillier mornings. Pair it with a soft brown corduroy newsboy cap and t-strap buckle-up leather shoes for an added touch of adventure.

No whimsical outfit is complete without a touch of magic. The simple canvas bag with a fairy design completes the enchanting aesthetic. Dress up this look with minimal gold jewelry, like a layered butterfly necklace or simple heart earrings.

For makeup, try a soft look with rosy flushed cheeks and a glossy, sheer peach lipstick. To add your own je ne sais quoi to this Venusian look, consider messy braids, gentle curls, or a neat shoulder-length bob with curtain bangs.

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beyond the rain

Beyond the Rain is a look designed for the enigmatic black cats among us — those who possess a wealth of knowledge and an insatiable curiosity for the mysteries of the world. With an alluring and intimidating aura, they draw others in with their smarts and leave them wanting more. Whether you’re reading tarot or adding new entries to your mushroom journal, you’re sure to turn heads and make a statement in this outfit.

Featuring a pair of high-waisted blue denim shorts paired with a brown leather belt, this look is equal parts practical and stylish. Layer an oversized green button-up over a classic black tank top for a laid-back feminine vibe. Experiment with tucking in one side of the shirt for a playful touch of quirkiness, or leaving it loose for a bit of intrigue. The pièce de résistance? Bold and deep blood-red Doc Marten boots, adding an edgy pop of color to the look.

To accentuate this ensemble, choose jewelry pieces that blend the minimalist and gothic styles, such as delicate silver moon dangly earrings, raw gemstone rings, and a textured multi-layered necklace. For makeup, go for a bold red lip paired with sharp winged eyeliner to add a striking edge. When it comes to hair, consider messy waves or a sleek high ponytail with a black scrunchie. 

To complete the Beyond the Rain look, consider adding a versatile denim jacket or an oversized blazer in a neutral tone. These outerwear options add a layer of sophistication while maintaining the casual feel of the outfit. Additionally, a black backpack or crossbody bag will provide the necessary space for your everyday essentials, without detracting from the overall aesthetic. With these finishing touches, the enigmatic black cat is ready to take on the world, one mystery at a time.

BONUS NOTE: this look was designed after my lovely friend Panthera, who also runs a blog over at FeralwoodFarm.

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antique latte

Antique Latte is a mod-inspired look that brings together vintage and antique elements to create a unique dark academia aesthetic with a twist. The outfit features warm browns, creams, and tans, along with rich leathers and steampunk details, offering a timeless sophistication that stands out from the crowd.

I imagine the wearer of this outfit strutting into a library with a latte in one hand and a worn leather journal in the other, ready to stun at the local poetry reading. Perhaps their next stop is art browsing at a museum with a fellow poetry enthusiast they just met. Like a honeybee collecting nectar, they radiate a sweet grace while gathering experiences, knowledge, and relationships to create a life rich with meaning and purpose.

At the center of our honeybee’s outfit is a canvas A-line miniskirt with a beautiful brown floral print that’s both feminine and edgy. Paired with a brown lace crop top with billowy oversized sleeves, this outfit exudes confidence and class. The lace detailing on the top adds a touch of sensuality while the crop top style keeps the look youthful and fun.

To complete the ensemble, brown leather pointed toe lace-up flats add a touch of vintage flair, while also keeping the outfit grounded in practicality. The round leather purse with a steampunk style clock on the front is the perfect accessory to complement the antique vibes of this outfit, and provides just the right amount of quirkiness.

You can contrast the steampunk elements with a sweet softness in the hairstyle: consider a messy bun or half-up/half-down style with loose waves. A 60’s inspired mod makeup look, such as Twiggy’s iconic style, with a dramatic eye and a soft brown lip, will add a touch of eccentricity.

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angel of the moon

Step into a dreamy world with the Angel of the Moon ensemble, designed for those who want to feel weightless and lost in a romantic paradise. Evoking the dreamy pastel hues of the sky and the ethereal beauty of angels, it’s the perfect attire for a whimsical picnic or a moonlit stroll where the magic of the night beckons.

The multi-layered high-low skirt is the star of the show, adorned with a subtle unicorn print that tickles the imagination and transports you to a world of fantasy. Paired with a delicate baby pink crop top and lace/pearl strappy sandals, this outfit exudes an angelic aesthetic that merges Paris Hilton’s glamour with Lana Del Rey’s moody introspection, transforming the wearer into a graceful dove floating on a cloud. A powder blue crossbody purse adds a playful and practical touch to the ensemble, completing the ethereal look.

To enhance the angelic aura of the ensemble, you can adorn your fingers with dainty silver jewelry, such as a rose quartz heart-shaped ring or anything featuring a moonstone. A minimal butterfly jewel necklace can add a delicate sparkle at the throat, attracting attention and stirring the senses. 

For the final touch, create a soft, dewy makeup look with a pink glossy lip and a subtle hint of iridescent blue eyeshadow, evoking the serene beauty of a dove’s feathers. As for your hair, consider a classic messy moon bun look with long pieces pulled out to frame the face and add a dose of manicured messiness.

With the Angel of the Moon ensemble, you’ll be a vision of grace and beauty, ready to explore your own La La Land.

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sunflower soul

Channeling our inner flower child is the enchanting Sunflower Soul ensemble! Perfect for outdoor meetups like music festivals or just indulging your hippie spirit, this outfit exudes carefree charm and effortless chic.

The centerpiece of this ensemble is a funky, eye-catching pair of patchwork hippie harem pants, richly imbued with the warm earth tones of the 70s. Their dynamic and expressive character is beautifully offset by a gorgeous green crochet halter top, which adds texture and balance to the look.

Don’t be afraid to go bold when accessorizing with golden bangles and a wood-carved necklace, infusing the outfit with a hint of bohemian allure. John Lennon sunglasses are a must-have, as well as a charming floral embroidered brown bucket hat, both of which will shield your eyes from the sun’s rays and lend a playful touch to the overall look.

When it comes to carrying your essentials, a round leather crossbody bag with tassels provides both practicality and whimsical flair.

To complete the look, embrace the sunflower theme with a soft, nude smoky eye punctuated by pops of bold yellow and fiery orange. And why not try pigtail braids with a playful, messy fringe or any laid-back hairstyle that captures the effortless spirit of this ensemble? The choice is yours, flower child!

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marshmallow daydreams

Next up is the Marshmallow Daydreams ensemble! This outfit is perfect for those who want to embrace all things kawaii and channel the feeling of being a kid again. It’s a great look for a TikTok fashionista’s night in of stylish content creation, a cute afternoon milkshake date, or maybe a trip to an arcade or theme park!

This entire piece was designed around the blue jean dress… I knew the moment I laid eyes on it that I had to create something with it.  Adorned with playful pink bows, and white lace trim, this dress brings plenty of girly charm to the outfit, and is completed perfectly with a pastel plaid baby tee underneath. 

The soft pink bear-themed backpack is perfect for carrying your Nintendo Switch, emotional support plushie and other essentials, whether you’re headed to an anime convention or just running errands. And all that walking will be easy in a pair of chunky-heeled white sandals that give you just the right amount of height and a splash of glamour. 

Add a quirky, playful touch to the outfit with a pair of circle glasses decorated with pink flowers and hanging chains. For a dose of uwu anime flare, wear lollipop earrings, a Vivienne Westwood necklace, and keep a Tamagotchi in your pocket.

The hairstyle should be playful and fun! Embrace your inner child with pigtails adorned with pink bows or a messy bun with a cute scrunchie. Moon Prism MAKE-UP: keep it simple with pink blush, glossy lips, fluttery eyelashes and a touch of shimmer on the eyelids.

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dandelion dimples

Get ready to embrace your inner explorer with the carefree vibes of Dandelion Dimples! This outfit is perfect for those who are ready to hit the trails, discover new creatures, and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s also great for a casual day out with friends or a trip to a farmer’s market.

The main focus of the outfit is the goldenrod yellow cropped tank top paired with oversized corduroy high-waisted shorts. These pieces come together to create a fun, relaxed look that’s perfect for an adventurous day outside. Add in the black and yellow flannel shirt for warmth and style, and you’re good to go!

To complete the “Dandelion Dimples” look, accessories are key. The embroidered yellow chucks are perfect for walking around and exploring, while the leather messenger bag is great for carrying essentials like sunscreen, a hydro flask, and snacks. A round crown wide-brim hat will protect your face from the sun and add a touch of vintage style. For some extra flair, add a 90s-style black choker, a statement piece ring featuring a frog or pressed flowers in resin, and a funky charm bracelet to capture a mischievous and playful vibe

When it comes to makeup, keep it simple and natural. Opt for a light foundation, like BB cream, a touch of blush, and a simple lip balm or subtle lip gloss. For your hair, keep it loose and carefree with beachy waves or braids. This look is all about being fun, relaxed, and sprightly.

You’ll feel like a cautiously playful fox, ready to discover all that nature has to offer while looking effortlessly cool. So grab your camera, binoculars, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the hidden mysteries of nature!

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fairy garden frolic

And finally, Fairy Garden Frolic is a whimsical outfit that captures the essence of cottagecore with its flowy silhouettes and delicate details. This ensemble is perfect for dreamers who are enchanted by the magic of fairies, and love to spend their days lost in thought while still keeping up with the simple practicalities of life such as tending to your garden.

Featuring a comfy brown Frida skirt, you’ll feel ready to spin in circles giggling up at the sky. A boho crop top continues the flowy theme of the skirt, with billowing sleeves ending in frills for a dreamy touch. Completing the outfit are leather strappy ballet-style thong sandals, a woven wicker purse with lace and white flowers, and a sweet floppy sun hat. Styling your hair in a stylishly messy braided updo will complete the perfect “princess in the woods” vibe.

For jewelry, I recommend a simple golden locket necklace, a wicker picnic basket, and a golden fairy ring to enhance the enchanted vibes. Keep your makeup natural and glowy with shimmery nude eyeshadow, tinted lip balm, and flushed pink cheeks.

With the “Fairy Garden Frolic” outfit, you’ll feel like you’re in a whimsical fairytale, surrounded by the beauty of nature with a magical plot twist waiting for you just around the riverbend. So, grab your berry basket and get ready to frolic through the meadows, carefully craft some homemade bread, or enjoy a picnic with friends.

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and that's it!

thank you so much for checking out my very first wishful fashion haul!  I don’t have the ability to buy myself a new wardrobe this season, so I had a lot of fun window shopping and dreaming up fantasy outfits that I would get if I had the means to do so :’)  I hope these outfits inspire you to add a lil pep in your step as you create your own whimsy and fun this Spring!  

I’d love to know your favorite outfit here, let me know in the comments below or on social media!  Who knows, maybe I’ll be back in the summer for a new seasonal collection of looks 👀