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The latest “core” to try.
It’s time to explore the most recent “aesthetic” that’s sweeping across our screens: the “Garden Girl” aesthetic. Yes, we know what you’re thinking: “Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.” But this trend offers a refreshing twist on the quintessential spring motifs. Rooted in the “cores” of summers past, like “cottagecore” and “coastal grandmother,” the Garden Girl aesthetic grows from a pandemic-inspired craving for a “soft life” and a deeper connection with nature.
Picture a palette of soft pastels, breezy linens, ruffled fabrics. The air is filled with the scent of lilacs and fresh earth. The aesthetic is more than just floral dresses; it’s about embracing a lifestyle. Garden Girls are not just admirers of beauty; they are creators of it, who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty—literally, the garden girls are gardening. This connection to the earth is mirrored in their fashion choices—practical yet charming gardening gloves, silk scarves to tie their hair back, breezy dresses in whimsical patterns, and baskets perfect for a harvest of fresh vegetables or a picnic in the meadow.
Shopping Like a Garden Girl
Something to consider when embracing the latest “core,” “aesthetic,” or “trend,” is the importance of conscious consumption. How can we partake in these trends sustainably? To explore this question, we turned to Amy Abrams, the Co-Founder of Shop Extraordinary Enterprises, which includes The Manhattan Vintage Show, Regeneration, and Artists and Fleas. Amy’s expertise in vintage fashion makes her a perfect guide for adopting the Garden Girl aesthetic in an environmentally friendly way.
“The Garden Girl aesthetic is the perfect opportunity to explore vintage shopping in a local, tangible way,” says Amy. “Hit up your neighborhood vintage boutiques where you can peruse the sun-worn fabrics and see the pastel hues in natural light. Look for cotton and linen dresses that carry the softness of an English garden with their florals and gingham checks. Take your time to carefully search through the racks for the real gems; often the most authentic pieces are hiding just out of plain sight. For those unique accessories like basket bags, local antique shops and flea markets are often goldmines. And of course, a giant vintage straw hat—with a flower—may be the perfect touch.”
By choosing vintage, not only do we preserve the uniqueness of our style, but we also minimize our environmental impact, making each choice a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. This approach not only aligns with the Garden Girl’s love for nature but also her commitment to protecting it.
Get the Look
Now that we've explored the essence of the Garden Girl aesthetic, let's dive into the specific pieces that can translate to a garden party look. From airy dresses to botanic accessories, we'll break down the key elements to help you curate your ideal Garden Girl ensemble.
Airy Dresses
“To live your best Garden Girl life, linen is your go-to,” says Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson. “It’s super breathable, adds an effortless touch of elegance, and feels light as a feather. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, aprons, bedding, or table linens, linen’s versatility has got you covered.”
In pretty pastels and whimsical prints, these garments are perfect for embracing the Garden Girl aesthetic. The choice of natural fabrics ensures breathability during warm spring and summer days. Look for dresses adorned with delicate details such as lace trims, ruffles, and floral embroidery that add a touch of romance and whimsy. These dresses are ideal for a variety of settings, from casual backyard gatherings to more formal garden tea parties, embodying a style that is both earthy and feminine.
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Basket Bags
Basket bags are quintessential for any garden party. Inspired by our green-thumbed girls, baskets are typically used to carry fresh blooms. So, with that in mind, this accessory is a stylish nod to the trend. For the garden party, opt for a smaller basket bag, one that can hold the essentials without being cumbersome. Available in an array of styles, from tightly woven rattan to rustic, loosely braided straw, each bag can be uniquely adorned with floral scarves or vintage brooches to enhance its charm. Beyond just flower carrying, these basket bags are ideal for toting picnic essentials or simply serving as a beautiful, functional accessory that complements the soft, earthy fabrics of your outfit.
Gloves
Just like the basket bag, gloves within the Garden Girl aesthetic draw inspiration from their practical counterparts—gardening gloves. Swap out typical sturdy materials for more delicate, dressy options such as lace, embroidered cotton, or silk. Perfect for a garden party, they can be paired beautifully with ruffled dresses and wide-brimmed straw hats.
Botanic Accessories
The Garden Girl aesthetic thrives on whimsy, and botanical accessories are a great way to embody this spirit. Don't hesitate to embrace the full range of possibilities: from wearing a vibrant floral crown to incorporating delicate jewelry with leaf and flower motifs. Consider using real flowers in your look, whether tucked into your hair, adorning a lapel, or even woven into a bracelet. Prints and motifs featuring botanical elements can also be integrated into scarves, belts, or handbags, further emphasizing your connection to the garden.
Silk Scarves
A printed silk scarf is an amazing, versatile accessory to achieve the Garden Girl look. Wrap one around your basket bag for a chic touch or tie it in your hair as a headscarf or bow. You can also loop it around your neck for a classic, elegant look or use it as a belt to cinch a flowing dress. The possibilities are endless.
How to Refine the Search
Now that we’ve established a few key Garden Girl items that are a must-have for any garden party, we sought further insights from Abrams on how to refine the search to find vintage pieces that align with this trend. "To truly channel the Garden Girl vibe, prioritize finding prints that tell a story, she says. "Keep your eyes peeled for classic florals reminiscent of an old cottage garden or bold blooms that echo the '60s and '70s flower power. If you’re drawn to patterns, consider stripes like seersucker or even a Madras plaid print.
Always check the tags for natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk to ensure they feel appropriate for a garden affair. When searching for basket bags, look for those made from sisal or straw but ensure they feature a tight weave for durability. The key is finding pieces that speak to you—then you'll know they're the right addition to your vintage, Garden Girl wardrobe.”
The Takeaway
As the world speeds up, the Garden Girl aesthetic invites us to slow down. A reminder of the joy found in simplicity and the natural rhythm of life. This spring, as you step outside, consider adopting the Garden Girl way—immerse yourself in all things whimsical, draw inspiration from nature, and integrate elements of this serene style into your wardrobe.