Legal Information: Soffio Vintage is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Welcome to this exploration of four aesthetics in the “core” family. This article will focus on the Grandmacore, a nostalgic aesthetic sweeps the world, as we try to escape our modern life with some simplicity and vintage charm.
Table of Contents:
In this series, we will explore four distinct aesthetics that have either originated or influenced by the Cottagecore. While each of these “cores” possesses unique elements and focuses on different aspects of rural, rustic, or nostalgic living, they all share a foundational ethos and aesthetic rooted in Cottagecore. In this way, in my opinion, we can look at them as sub-genres to the cottagecore.
These subgenres embody the central ideas of escapism, a slower pace of life, a return to nature, and love of crafts. Since they all originated from Cottagecore, it is useful to keep its primary guidelines and aesthetic principles in mind. We will also come across similar hobbies, fashion or décor, as sometimes the influences merge as well. This is the first part of the series, all about the Grandmacore.
Navigation links:
What is Grandmacore?

When memories and aesthetic meet
Grandmacore is a nostalgic aesthetic that centers around vintage, comforting items reminiscent of a grandmother’s home. As part of the core family, grandmacore was born from the yearning to escape our hectic life and escape to what we perceive as simple and warm, in order to bring a sense of coziness and sentimental value into modern living.
Origin: The term “Grandmacore” started gaining popularity in the early 2020s. Grandmacore embodies values such as wisdom, altruism, and expertise, with a focus on traditional, vintage styles and the sentimental charm of past decades.
The aesthetic rose in popularity primarily through social media platforms like instgram and of course the endless well of creativity Pinterest, where users shared visuals and ideas that resonated with its comforting, nostalgic themes. This movement reflects a collective desire for a slower pace of life and a return to simpler times, offering a sense of coziness and sentimental value in contrast to our fast paced world.
How to Immerse in the Aesthetic
Main Characteristics: The appreciation of “grandma aesthetics,” blending vintage and retro elements. It draws inspiration from the sentimentality of past decades, emphasizing handmade craftsmanship and simpler times.

Decor:
- Vintage furniture: Pieces like a wooden rocking chair, ornate wooden side tables, and vintage vanities. Look for items with character and history.
- Floral patterns and lace: Upholstery, curtains, and bedding featuring soft, delicate floral prints or lace.
- Crochet and knitted accessories: Handmade throws, doilies, and cushions adorning couches and chairs.
- Antique collectibles: Vintage clocks, decorative plates, teapots, porcelain figurines, and heirloom trinkets displayed on shelves and in cabinets.
- Repurposed and handmade décor: Upcycled vintage items, hand-painted wooden signs, floral wreaths, and framed cross-stitch art.
- Old-world wallpapers: Vintage-inspired wallpapers with delicate floral patterns or classic motifs to create a nostalgic backdrop.
- Wooden furniture with carvings: Intricately carved wooden dressers, bed frames, and chests of drawers.
- Quilts: Handmade quilts draped over beds, sofas, or used as wall hangings.
- China cabinets: China cabinets Displaying collections of antique dishes, glassware, and knick-knacks.
- Embroidered linens: Tablecloths, napkins, and pillows with detailed embroidery.
- Family photos: Framed black-and-white or sepia-toned photographs of family members displayed on walls or shelves.
- Porcelain lamps: Antique lamps with floral-patterned shades or lace coverings.
- Bookshelves: Filled with well-loved classics, cookbooks, and family photo albums.
- Vintage kitchenware: Retro teacups, old-fashioned glass jars, and floral-patterned plates displayed on open shelves or in glass-front cabinets.
- Soft lighting: Warm, ambient lighting using vintage lamps, lanterns, and candle holders.
- Garden-inspired elements: Potted plants, dried flowers, and herb bundles placed throughout the home.
Fashion: Cozy jumpers, Hand-knitted cardigans, Old dresses, Aprons, Long skirts, Slippers, Older jewelry like brooches, Faded bathrobes, Long cotton or flannel nightgowns
Fragrance notes:
- Vanilla: A warm, comforting aroma often associated with baking and cozy kitchens.
- Rose: A classic floral fragrance that evokes the scent of grandma’s favorite garden flowers.
- Cedarwood: An earthy, woody scent that brings to mind antique furniture and wooden chests.
- Chamomile: A gentle, calming fragrance that recalls a cup of herbal tea before bedtime.
- Cinnamon: A spicy, warm scent often associated with baked goods and festive treats.
Main Color Palette:

From left to right:
- Cream – #EDDEBE
- Golden Brown – #A67E50
- Dusty Rose – #A15A50
- Olive Green – #545E36
- Light Taupe – #D6CBBB
Hobbies: Knitting, Crocheting, Quilting, Sewing, Baking, Doing puzzles, Cooking, Gift-giving for loved ones, Watching daytime TV, Listening to the radio or records, Gardening, Floral arranging, Walking with friends, Going to bed early.
Cultural References:
- “Murder, She Wrote” (TV show)
- “The Golden Girls” (TV show)
- “Steel Magnolias” (Film)
- “Knives Out” (Film)
- Agatha Christie novels and Cozy mysteries
- Game shows
Final Thoughts

Grandmacore offers a wholesome aesthetic that reflects the fruits of a lifetime of hard work and experience. It embodies a sense of contentment and calm that comes from years of living simply and valuing the small things. This aesthetic is a reminder to appreciate the wisdom and tranquility that come with age, and to find joy in the comfort of familiar, nostalgic elements. Embracing Grandmacore means embracing a slower pace of life and the beauty of simplicity.
Pin it for later:
