2023 The Year of Design “Cores”
Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the trends that shaped the aesthetic landscape of 2023; it's clear that it was the year of design "cores." This phenomenon, where distinct styles become cultural movements, influenced everything from fashion to interior design, social media, and beyond. Each "core" offered a unique blend of nostalgia, escapism, and identity, capturing the collective imagination in a post-pandemic world hungry for expression and connection. Let’s dive into the year of "cores," exploring how trends like Barbiecore and Cottagecore defined our aesthetic and cultural moments.
The Rise of "Cores"
The term "core" at the end of any design trend signifies more than just a style; it represents a subculture, a set of values, and often a nostalgic nod to simpler times or idealised realities. In 2023, these cores offered people a way to curate their environments, wardrobes, and digital spaces to align with a specific aesthetic that resonated with their personal identity or aspirations.
Barbiecore: Bright, Bold, and Beautiful
Barbiecore, inspired by the iconic doll, took the world by storm with its vibrant palette of pinks, from bubblegum to fuchsia. This trend was more than just a colour scheme; it was an embrace of femininity, fun, and a touch of irony. Influencers and celebrities donned Barbie-inspired outfits, and interior designs featured bold pink accents, signalling confidence, joy, and a playful escape from reality.
Cottagecore: A Return to Simplicity
On the other end of the spectrum, Cottagecore continued to thrive as a celebration of rural life, simplicity, and a harmonious connection with nature. This aesthetic featured pastoral themes, soft colour palettes, and an emphasis on handcrafted items, promoting a lifestyle of sustainability and peace away from the urban hustle. Cottagecore was not just about the way things looked but how they made you feel — calm, connected, and content.
Other Notable "Cores"
2023 saw a proliferation of "cores," each catering to different tastes and sensibilities:
Goblincore: Celebrating the beauty in the traditionally overlooked or mundane aspects of nature, like mushrooms, moss, and mud.
Coastal Grandmother: This chic, serene aesthetic is inspired by the lifestyle of an idealised seaside lifestyle, characterised by cosy knitwear, linen, and light, airy spaces.
Dark Academia: Focused on classic literature, academic pursuit, and gothic elements, this core embraced a moody, intellectual aesthetic.
The Impact of "Cores"
These trends did more than dictate design choices; they influenced how people saw themselves and their places in the world. Each core offered a way to navigate the complexities of modern life through the lens of aesthetic and cultural identity. They provided comfort, a sense of belonging, and a way to express individuality and collective values.
Summary
The year 2023 will be remembered as the year design "cores" dominated the cultural landscape, offering diverse and rich aesthetics that catered to various desires for escapism, identity, and nostalgia. As we look forward, it will be fascinating to see which cores endure, evolve, or make way for new trends. One thing is certain: the desire for meaningful, aesthetic-driven lifestyles is here to stay, continually reshaping our environments and the way we interact with the world.