Cowboycore, Castlecore and Festivalcore are taking over interiors … experts wade in on how to get the look
There’s three standout interior trends home-fashionistas are going wild for this year according to leading retailer and trend aficionados Arighi Bianchi.
From yee-haw Western inspired looks to grand medieval opulence and an elevated Boho aesthetic embracing everything festival atmosphere, all three looks are a vibe!
Lucy Mather, interiors expert at Arighi Bianchi gives the low down on this summer’s hottest home aesthetics: Castlecore, Cowboycore, and Festivalcore.
Cowboycore
Move over cottagecore – Cowboycore is riding high as western aesthetics stampede into home styling. With Beyonce’s highly anticipated tour galloping through the UK this summer, and the fashion set embracing all things country and western, this isn’t just a TikTok trend – it’s a full-blown style movement rooted in cultural relevance; and it’s entering our homes too.
Cowboycore brings rugged Americana into the home with rustic materials, distressed finishes, and Western iconography. Think vintage saddles repurposed as art, wagon wheel chandeliers, animal hide rugs, and well-worn leather sofas.
Reclaimed wood furniture and iron hardware add authenticity to the look, while the colour palette leans towards earthy brown, tan, and oranges – trending colours in interior design from the start of the year.
For a playful twist, scatter motifs of cowboy boots, cactuses, and Aztec-pattern throughout the space. Whether it’s going full rodeo or just nodding to the vibe, Cowboycore is all about grounding spaces in a warm, adventurous spirit.
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Festivalcore
Closely linked to the Cowboy aesthetic is Festivalcore, and with the Coachella music festival happening this month, home retail stores are putting festival style front and centre.
“It’s a vibrant, eclectic trend that channels the joyful energy of the UK’s iconic summer music festivals”, says Lucy. “As crowds of festival-goers head to Glastonbury, Parklife, Lost Village, and the Isle of Wight, interiors are getting the same treatment with bold colours, clashing patterns, and a carefree, bohemian aesthetic.
“Festivalcore thrives on individuality, with interior schemes boasting mix-and-match furniture, vintage finds, and colourful décor accents. Organic shapes, botanical prints, and forest and fairytale-inspired whimsical décor lend a sense of magic and escapism. From leaf-patterned wallpaper to retro furniture to strings of ethereal fairy lights, this look is all about championing creativity and celebration. Whether a festival regular or just dipping a toe into that laid-back summer energy, Festivalcore is perfect for transforming homes into a personal stage for self-expression.”
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Castlecore
The enchanting world of Castlecore, where medieval majesty meets modern glam and inspiration comes straight from the pages of a history book, is reigning supreme with Gen Z and Millennials. According to Pinterest, searches for ‘medieval core’ and ‘castle house plans’ have increased exponentially (+110% and +45% respectively), reflecting a growing fascination with Middle Ages-inspired aesthetics.
Castlecore manifests in home décor through rich, opulent detailing and darkly dramatic spaces. It’s all about channelling Gothic romance with a touch of luxury – think vaulted ceilings and exposed wooden beams paired with moody, saturated colour palettes, plush velvet seating, jewel-toned rugs, intricately embroidered curtains, and ornate wall tapestries.
Antique finds and statement pieces such as four-poster beds, decorative antlers, candelabras, wall sconces, and even ornamental swords transform everyday spaces into regal retreats. The best part is that homeowners can choose the era that resonates most, whether that’s 18th century Parisien Regency, medieval Italy, or the Tudor court of Henry VIII.
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Visit www.arighibianchi.co.uk to shop the looks.