Castlecore explained
Castlecore is a dreamy aesthetic inspired by life in a romanticised medieval or fairy tale castle. Think stone walls covered in ivy, candlelit halls, tapestries, vintage gowns, roaring fireplaces, and an overall atmosphere of enchantment and elegance. It blends historical charm with a love for fantasy and escapism—perfect for those who long for simpler times filled with storybook beauty.
Popular with fans of cottagecore and dark academia, Castlecore often shows up in home décor (gothic mirrors, wrought iron accents, velvet fabrics), fashion (flowing dresses, corsets, puffed sleeves), and even lifestyle choices like reading by candlelight or hosting medieval-style feasts.
Whether you’re redecorating a room or just daydreaming of turreted towers and secret passageways, Castlecore invites you to live like royalty—with a touch of whimsy.
How to Get the Castlecore Look
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a fairy tale castle—or at least making your home feel like one—Castlecore is the aesthetic for you. Romantic, moody, and steeped in old-world charm, this style brings medieval elegance into modern life. Here’s how to embrace the Castlecore look:
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1. Start with Earthy, Regal Tones
Deep greens, soft greys, burgundy, gold, and rich browns are the colors of enchanted forests and ancient stone halls. Use them in your textiles, walls, and accessories to set the mood.
This ‘Castlecore Medieval Folklore Throw Blanket’ is just the thing to create the atmosphere.
2. Add Old-World Textures
Layer velvet pillows and cushions, heavy drapes, lace table runners, and wool throws. Mix materials like wrought iron, aged wood, brass, and stone to evoke that medieval castle feeling.
These handmade pillow covers are perfect for the look, and with a choice of 58 colors, you won’t get bored!
Large tapestrys would look great, but they tend to be expensive, (and could take a long time to make yourself!) – so these tapestry print curtains are ideal.
3. Decorate with Vintage and Antique Finds
Think: candleholders, ornate mirrors, gilded frames, oil paintings, books with worn spines, and tapestry-inspired wall art. You don’t need to spend a fortune—thrift shops and online marketplaces are goldmines!
If you’ve read any of my other posts, you may have probably realized I love cats! So I had to include this picture of a Medieval Knight with a cat – which you can find here as a print.
Don’t forget to check out Ebay – there are new finds every day, like these Gothic wall sconces candleholders.
4. Create a Magical Glow
Soft lighting is key. Use candles, fairy lights, or warm-hued lamps to create a gentle, inviting atmosphere—like a scene from a historical romance novel.
I do like this mediveal knight candle!
5. Bring in Nature
Castlecore has a strong link to the outdoors. Add trailing ivy, dried flowers, or foraged branches to vases. Nature should feel like it’s just outside your window (or climbing through it!).
This is actually a digital download – so you can make your own paper ivy, it looks really good.
6. Infuse Personal Storybook Magic
Include items that feel meaningful or mythical—like pressed flowers, hand-written notes, family heirlooms, or small curios. This aesthetic thrives on nostalgia and wonder.
These earrings are really cute – give your ears the castlecore look!
Printable castlecore pages.
Whether you live in a flat or a country cottage, you can channel Castlecore in small, intentional ways—one flickering candle and vintage book at a time.
You could even take the Castlecore aesthetic out and about with you with this phone cover.
