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Hello, dear readers, thank you for being here!
In this post, I’m excited to share more about what is Cottage Academia, why I find it so magical, and how you can bring a little bit of it into your life this season. I’ll be covering the aesthetic’s fashion inspirations, activities to make the most of your autumn days, and even some film and series recommendations that are perfect for a Cottage Academia vibe.
When the temperature drops, I always find myself drawn to darker aesthetics, deep introspection and a thirst for knowledge. However, there is a key element that can't be missing: the sense of cosiness. The answer: Cottage Academia.
If you’re feeling inspired to get creative in the kitchen, be sure to check out the link to my vegan shortbread biscuits recipe—baked in the shape of tea bags and books, of course!
What Exactly is Cottage Academia?
Cottage Academia is an aesthetic that perfectly captures the essence of this time of year. It’s a style that effortlessly combines the warmth and wholesomeness of Cottagecore with the intellectual charm of Academia, resulting in something that feels both cosy and thought-provoking.
Picture a scene straight out of an old English countryside village, with quaint stone cottages, a fireplace surrounded by stacks of beloved books, cosy quilts and all the textures of vintage fashion. Now, add the charm of academia: the love for learning, appreciation for literature, journals and poetry, and the cosiness of a candle-lit library.
Cottage Academia celebrates both the comfort of a cosy life and the pursuit of knowledge, making it a perfect aesthetic for book lovers, introverts and curious minds.
For me, it’s the perfect balance. It is the fusion of these two worlds, something that feels both romantic and grounded, a feeling of being connected to nature, the comforts of home and the written word.
Fashion Inspirations: Dressing the Part
In spring and summer, I love wearing floaty dresses and floral patterns and daydreaming about wildflower meadows, but as autumn sets in, I shift towards the earthier, darker, more textured side of things.
When it comes to Cottage Academia style, think about blending the simplicity of countryside life with the charm of a classic English professor’s wardrobe. I love to incorporate layers of rich, earthy tones like browns, deep greens, and warm neutrals. Fabrics with a bit of texture, such as wool, corduroy, and tweed, are essential for that cosy, lived-in yet elegant feel.
For those who enjoy a touch of history in their fashion, English and Scottish countryside styles provide the perfect inspiration.
I take a lot of inspiration from the vintage Ralph Lauren campaigns, with rustic tweed blazers, plaid skirts, and long boots. When dressing for a Cottage Academia day, don’t forget to add a warm scarf and perhaps a beret or newsboy cap for a little extra character.
Pinterest is full of pictures and outfit ideas. You can also draw some inspiration from period pieces!
Activities to Enjoy the Cottage Academia Style
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Cottage Academia, there are so many lovely ways to spend your time that will leave you feeling cosy and content. Here are some ideas to try alone or with friends:
Create a Cottage Academia Mood Board: Make a page in your journal —or digitally on Canva—dedicated to the aesthetic. Use quotes from your favourite authors, pictures from Pinterest, stickers, pressed leaves, or cut-outs from old magazines.
Watch a Cottage Academia Film or Series: A few favourites I recommend are Anne with an E, Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, Little Women, Emily, Enola Holmes, and Becoming Jane. They capture the atmosphere beautifully and will definitely get you in the mood for Academia.
Learning a New Language: Few things bring me as much joy as diving into a new language. You don’t have to aim for fluency; sometimes, learning just a few favourite phrases or the basics is wonderfully satisfying. Personally, I’ve been learning Swedish just three minutes a day for the past 200 days! It’s amazing how even a small daily practice can build up and bring new words and ideas into your life.
Learning Something New: Choose one area each month to dive into—whether history, constellations, classic literature, or social causes. Spend some time researching, reading, or watching documentaries to broaden your understanding and spark fresh perspectives.
Create a Journal for Quotes and Facts: Dedicate a small section of your journal to collect meaningful quotes or unique facts you discover. Include a brief reflection on why each resonates with you, creating a personal library of inspiration you can revisit anytime.
Putting Together a Cottage Academia Outfit from Your Wardrobe: You don't need a full collection of tweed, tartan, or corduroy to create a Cottage Academia look. Start with what you already have: a woollen sweater tucked into trousers or a skirt instantly adds a touch of charm. Try adding a leather belt, or layer with a simple cardigan for extra warmth. A pair of lace-up boots or loafers will complete the outfit. For accessories, consider a beret or just a cosy scarf.
Going to a Charity Shop/Thrift Store to Hunt for Cottage Academia Garments or Accessories: Thrift stores are treasure troves for finding unique and affordable pieces that suit the Cottage Academia style. Look for items like vintage cardigans, plaid skirts, leather satchels, or wool coats. Even if you don't find a perfect match, be open to creative possibilities—sometimes an old blazer or scarf can be just the touch you need. You might also stumble upon some hidden gems for your book collection while you're there!
Going to a Local Park with a Thermos of Hot Tea or Coffee to Read Poetry: Take a small thermos filled with your favourite warm drink, head to a nearby park, and find a cosy spot under a tree or on a park bench. Bring along a poetry book or a short story to read, letting the crisp autumn air and rustling leaves set the mood. It's a simple yet perfect way to connect with nature and literature at the same time.
If you need some short stories, make sure to visit my Etsy shop: Indoora World Short Stories
Visiting a Second-Hand Bookstore: Nothing says Cottage Academia like getting lost in the aisles of a second-hand bookstore. The scent of old books, the cosy ambience, and the thrill of discovering a beloved classic or a forgotten treasure all contribute to the experience. Bring home a poetry collection, a Victorian novel, or an old literary journal to add to your reading list.
Making a Handmade Notebook: Create your own Cottage Academia-inspired notebook for jotting down thoughts, sketching, or practising calligraphy. It’s a lovely way to embrace the season and add a touch of creativity to your day.
Have a Candlelit Reading Session: Pick a classic book you’ve always meant to read or revisit an old favourite. Light a few candles for an extra touch of warmth, and let the soft glow accompany your reading journey.
🕯️These are my favourite candles: Mythologie Candles (USA) | Craft Society Candles (Europe) 🕯️
Bake Some Theme Treats: Try your hand at making the vegan shortbread biscuits from my latest video. Shaped like tea bags and books, they’re perfect for dunking into a hot cup of tea while you enjoy a quiet afternoon indoors.
Take a Leisurely Walk to Appreciate the Architecture: Head to the town centre or visit a nearby city to appreciate its cultural heritage. Take pictures of old facades, learn about different types of columns and styles, take notes in your journal and, of course, soak up the beauty of the yellow leaves and seasonal changes. If possible, make a quick stop at a cosy café.
Film and Series Recommendations
To further set the mood, here are some films and series that, in my opinion, embody Cottage Academia’s charming mix of cosiness and pursuit of knowledge:
Emily – This recent film beautifully captures the literary side of Cottage Academia, focusing on the life of Emily Brontë and featuring gorgeous period aesthetics. It is a sad and dark film at times due to the protagonist's tragic life, but still beautifully done.
Little Women – I loved the 1994 film, but the most recent adaptation (2019) is a visual delight and perfectly captures the spirit of pursuing art and literature with passion. For me, Jo March is the perfect representation of Cottage Academia.
Anne with an E – A timeless tale of adventure, imagination, and growing up, all wrapped up in the enchanting scenery of Prince Edward Island. What can be more perfect than Anne's curiosity, ambition and pursuit of knowledge combined with the cosiness of Green Gables? I love this adaptation because it addresses important social issues and offers more representation.
Miss Potter – This charming biographical film about Beatrix Potter, the beloved children's author of Peter Rabbit, is filled with the beauty of nature, creativity, and quiet determination. Perfect for those who appreciate a serene atmosphere and love the process of storytelling.
This Beautiful Fantastic – A modern-day fairy tale about a young woman who dreams of becoming a children’s author while living a quiet life as a librarian. Her journey is intertwined with her attempts to tame a neglected garden, leading to unexpected friendships and inspiration. It’s whimsical, magical, and perfect for lovers of books and nature.
Enola Holmes – The adventurous and witty Enola, the younger sister of Sherlock Holmes, embarks on a journey to solve mysteries while outsmarting her famous brother. The film features charming period settings, bookish elements, and a spirited young heroine with a love of reading and solving riddles.
Outlander – While it’s not strictly academic, characters like Claire and Brianna definitely represent the thirst for knowledge and curiosity. Reverend Wakefield House and scenes from the University, plus the gorgeous landscapes and traditional Scottish fashion make this series the perfect source of entertainment and inspiration.
Finding Neverland – The story of playwright J.M. Barrie and his relationship with a family that inspires him to create Peter Pan. The film beautifully captures the magic of storytelling, imagination, and the childlike wonder that brings stories to life. Its themes of creativity, fantasy, and the struggles of an artist resonate with anyone who loves the idea of escaping into literature and finding inspiration in the everyday. Plus, the period setting adds to the cosy, classic atmosphere that fits well with the Cottage Academia aesthetic.
Jane Eyre: though darker than cosier, captures the essence of Cottage Academia with its brooding landscapes, intricate period costumes, and the haunting yet heartfelt journey of self-discovery and resilience, making it a perfect film to inspire introspection and literary appreciation.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society – My second favourite movie of all time! A cosy yet thought-provoking story of books, friendship, and healing, set against the picturesque backdrop of a small British island.
I hope this post inspires you to create your own cosy Cottage Academia moments.
Join the Community
And if you’re interested in getting a little closer to the cosy world I share here, I invite you to join my Patreon community. With exclusive behind-the-scenes content, videos, seasonal card exchanges, and a private Discord group where we chat about everything from books to baking, it’s a lovely way to connect with other like-minded souls.
I recently shared an exclusive reading of Autumn Story by Jill Barklem, so if that sounds like your cup of tea, come and join us!
Thank you for your support.
With love,
Indoora