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My Cider Closet for Cute Cottagecore/Academia Girlies

Purple Star emoji 34 items
For a majority of my life I could categorize myself as someone midsize-plus size, curvy, what-have-you, which has made shopping for clothes difficult at times. This was especially apparent when I lived abroad and so many boutiques were explicitly sel...
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Dresses, One-Pieces and Statement Items

When I think academia, I think of houndstooth, plaid, coats, moody. Cottagecore is floral, light, and whimsical. I think it's possible to combine elements from both! But first, you need staple pieces.

 
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Nothing says academia like a floor-length houndstooth coat. I'm in need of more coats, living in New England tbh. It's thick with side pockets and a belt, great for colder months and meaning business. Plus!! Flash shipping and all straight sizes in s...
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I believe large buttons are a cute touch and a great blend of cottagecore or academia. Pair this gown with a belt, coat, or wear it on its own for a prime bookstore date outfit.
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This plus-size gown is offered in sizes 0-4XL (all sizes) with flash shipping in color Carbon. It's a great staple dress that can be dressed up or down in a variety of ways; come autumn, this would look super cute with leggings and a long-sleeve tee.
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I have this gown and just checked that it's 60% off now in my size, bc of course it is lmao. There's a ruched gathering in the back that helps your torso fit perfect, and a liner with the skirt. It's a simple elegant wear just for the floral accents ...
Floral Dress Summer Vacation Dresses corset Woven Square Neck Floral Shirred Midi Dress For Daily Casual Picnic
 
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On my wishlist (I have a black button-up overall similar to this), perfect blend for academia-cottagecore styles. Houndstooth is peak academic followed by the comfort and ease from belt loops and pockets!! Also flash shipping (arrives quicker) on all...
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You can wear this dress as is – I have a similar maxi skirt – but for a chic academic look, pair it with a flowy blouse or turtleneck. Layering makes for great composition and can draw the eye upward.
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Blouses, Shirts and Tops

Blouses are the easiest way to catch the eye and combine or start an outfit aesthetic, because there's not only a large variety of design but also, I notice some similarity of use within sheer, lacy or ruffled tops because of their vintage associatio...

 
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Sheer white ruffled blouses are incredible accessory tops; you can choose to wear something underneath to keep it opaque OR, my suggestion, use the shirt for its stand-out collar and cuffs by layering it underneath a sweater. I've owned several of th...
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I'm actually so deadass by saying you should channel your inner Velma Dinkley with this. Oversized sweaters are sooo fun for me even if I have a wider frame, I do not care. It's 60% off rn for $17 with all sizes which is kinda rare to find. Not compl...
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If you want to wear blouses on their own, this one is fitted in the back and accentuates any figure with hourglass shaping. Pair it with a pleated skirt, form-fitting plaid skirt, or nude pleated pants!!
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Shannon Kindred profile picture
I'm so enthralled by this outfit! When I think of blending cottagecore-academia, it's sweaters. It's ruffles, lace details. This sweater is perfect for that. It is meant for high-waisted bottoms; I love the high neck with it. Pair with a cami underne...
Knit Fabric Knit Stand Collar Ruffle Hollow Out Long Sleeve Top For Daily Casual
 
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I'm in a verdant green era, haha. Crop sweaters are fun because they look chic under or over dresses, can be worn with high or low waisted bottoms, or become a cute pop of color in an otherwise neutral palette. As we head into autumn, this sweater is...
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Skirts, Pants, Bottoms

I think bottoms, especially pants, tend to be an overlooked aspect of an outfit because of their general neutrality. That being said, I think it's not only possible for bottoms to be a statement piece, but I like these unique ones that allow for an e...

 
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A corduroy maxi skirt that comes with a belt, great for making a statement! I left it on my wishlist too long so my size isn't there… RIP. but it is currently 60% off and still in small/medium!
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Normally I'm not one to wear mini-skirts, but this one was cute enough for me to get, and exactly what I wanted for a school-look. I pair it with fleece-lined tights!
Wool-like fabrics Wool-look Houndstooth Mid Rise A-line Pleated Mini Skirt For Daily Casual
 
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This is so comfy and cozy I swear!! Breathable pants exist. Furthermore, I am of the mind that bottoms should have just as much whimsy or versatility in its design as tops do. Wear a plain tee with it and make your bottoms a cottagecore statement.
Woven Mid Rise Check Drawstring Lettuce Trim Trousers For Daily Casual
 
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Hear me out: You can totally wear this skort by itself (shorts underneath) and would be super cute with an oversized sweater. BUT. I have been using these lacy skirts underneath my actual skirt for volume and detail peaking underneath. You know, like...
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My silly thing is that I'm not a huge fan of wearing pants. I think it's because women's sizes are all over the place. But oddly enough, I think my favorite thing about Cider are their jeans. Not only do I like the unique jean designs (scalloped edge...
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Who says academia can't have color? Plaid skirts are a vibe in any shade. This has been in my wishlist forever until buying it recently (sale lol) and I have no regrets.
Woven High Rise Gingham Pleated Mini Skirt For School

Whimsical Jewelry

I own almost all of the jewelry in this particular collection and found that they're often one of the things most complimented on. But if you don't have a lot of aesthetic pieces you want to have, starting small with inexpensive statement jewelry tha...

Peruse what's currently here, or if it's your first time browsing, have 20% off + Free Shipping on me when you download the app! USE REFER CODE: 8K2UAO7Z5U1RC

 
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I have this bracelet, and it's great quality! It has a lobster clasp, but my hands are small enough to slide it on, lol. There's a similar matching necklace to this, too!
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This necklace is matches a bracelet that I own, and is of similar quality and price-point! They would look great as whimsy accessories pieces or as a set staple.
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This necklace I own is lighter than it looks as an inexpensive piece (under $6), and it's unique in that the clasp is a purposeful design element in the front. I've gotten plenty of compliments with this necklace, even from students when I was teachi...
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I have these earcuffs; they're one size and easy to put on. They wont come off on their own, I swear. Just look at them!
Butterfly Shaped Rhinestone Decor Ear Wrap For Date Music Festival/Live House Party/Clubbing Exhibition Coffee Shop Holiday
 
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I own this choker, and it's a great piece for an elegant touch, or to drive attention. It holds up quite nicely, and is adjustable.
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Nifty Accessories

Don't overlook accessory items! They can either aid to making a cohesive outfit or be the item that sets you apart with basic wear. I can't think of the last time I saw lace trimmed socks in person these days. If you think these items matches your ae...

 
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I am personally of the mind that you shouldn't spend more than a few dollars on socks – especially considering how often someone will realistically see them – however, this three-pack still falls into my rule. With their cute trim, this is a perfect ...
Cotton 3 PAIRS LACE TRIM ANKLE SOCKS SET For Daily Casual
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This is an adjustable waist belt that's been living in my wishlist foreverrr. Currently available in both black and brown, I think it's perfect for a dark academic charm, or as a simple accessory to emphasize your whole outfit.
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Similarly, these are a three-pack, but with variety! Consider pairing with flats or mary janes, or incorporating into a cottagecore-academic outfit. The black ones, as well, would be great for more gothic styles.
Cotton 3 PAIRS LACE TRIM CREW SOCKS For Daily Casual
 
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I have these in Coffee :) ankle warmers can be a nice, practical addition to your outfits in place of boots or a simple finishing touch. These are one size, but they fit my wide calves too!
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Sorry, this is something I'd seen and immediately fell in love with!! This bag is big and has a zipper closure on the inside. Look at her!!
Woven Canvas FLORAL JACQUARD TOTE BAG
 
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If you're like me with larger calves, these thicker legwarmers might be a better fit! Also one-size, and in a variety of colors, including a similar Coffee shade!
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Cannot Live Without

I made this section for the items that elevate a person's style in a practical way, not just things that wouldn't fit another category. At the end of the day, which I do mention in other lists, I value items that are useful and multi-functional beyon...

 
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These are clips to cinch the waist belt on your bottoms! I own a few of these designs. They're great if you've either slimmed down, or you like high-rise bottoms like I do, which may leave gaps in the back. Just pin them in, and you've brought new li...
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This backpack is both cute and functional with multiple external pockets, and an internal zipper. It's large enough to carry books or tablets, but still a practical size that can be used outside classroom settings!
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Similar to a waist cincher for bottoms, these are clips for your tees. If you're large-chested like I am, some of our tops can make us appear more boxy than intended, and I prefer a tighter fit. These clip right into your back to cinch the waist and ...
2 PCS FAUX PEARL KNOT SWEATER CLIP For Daily Casual
 
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I have the three-piece version of this in black. The shorts are really flattering for any athletic or leisurely purpose :) And it's all cotton, too!
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Fleece-lined tights/Thermal leggings have become a staple in my household. Not only do I save on tights (because I am incapable of not ripping them I guess) but they're great in colder climates. You emulate the look of semi-sheer tights while keeping...
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These silicone bras are in four shades to blend seamlessly into your skin and clothes. I have the lightest one; they're an inexpensive way to look great in the tops that require it; or avoid being sweaty on a hot day. They survive several uses, and p...
Cider | Fashion Starts With A Feeling