5 Ways I Style My White Eyelet Tie Robe for a Cottagecore Wardrobe

I have such a soft spot for the simple beauty of a white eyelet tie robe. When I found mine at a tiny thrift store tucked away in the hill country, it immediately reminded me of something Spell would design—romantic, dreamy, and full of effortless charm. Right then and there, I knew it was destined to become a staple in my cottagecore wardrobe. That knee-length cut, the sheer eyelet fabric, and those long sleeves—it had all the makings of a Spell look, but for a fraction of the price. It started sparking all these styling ideas in my head. I thought, Why not create those whimsical Spell-inspired outfits using what I already have or thrifted for less? It’s lightweight and breezy, and I’ve found so many ways to wear it—whether I’m lounging in the garden, packing up homemade jam for a friend, or heading out to the farmer’s market. Let me show you how I style mine to get that romantic, spellbinding look without the designer price tag.

1. Layered Over a Slip Dress or Nightgown (Indoor/Outdoor Elegance)

One of my favorite ways to wear my white eyelet robe is over a simple slip dress or nightgown. There’s something so dreamy about the combo—like stepping into a vintage painting. I’ll wear this look when I’m waking up early, watering my herbs, or just sitting on the porch with a cup of tea. The robe adds an air of romance to the slip dress, and the best part is, it feels like I’m walking around in a delicate dream.

Tip: I like to choose a slip with lace trim that peeks out from under the robe’s hem. I also adore pairing it with dainty ballet flats or my favorite house slippers. It’s an effortless elegance that’s perfect for quiet mornings.

2. With a Camisole and Bloomers (Perfect for At-Home Romanticizing)

Some days, I just want to feel feminine and romantic while I go about my homemaking tasks—whether it’s folding laundry, making my homemade sourdough bread, or trimming the flowers I just picked from the garden. For days like these, I pair my robe with a fitted camisole and some vintage bloomers or cotton bike shorts underneath. It’s practical yet still so lovely. There’s something about the flow of the robe that makes even the simplest chores feel like a whimsical experience.

Tip: I always tuck a dried lavender sachet into the robe’s pocket. The scent is so soothing and adds a touch of serenity to my everyday tasks. It’s those little details that make life feel extra special.

3. Open Over a Fitted Top and High-Waisted Skirt (Market-Ready Look)

Sometimes, I like to leave the robe untied and wear it like a duster over a fitted top and a flowy, high-waisted skirt. This is my go-to look when I’m heading out to the farmer’s market or a local thrift store. It’s the perfect mix of bohemian and vintage-inspired, and it feels like I’m living out my own little cottagecore fairytale as I wander through the market stalls. The robe adds just the right amount of softness to the outfit while letting the layers shine.

Tip: I finish the look with leather sandals and a wide-brim straw hat. Oh, and if I come across any vintage slips at the market, I scoop them up—they’re perfect to layer under my robe for that extra touch of charm.

4. As a Pool or Picnic Cover-Up (A Fairytale Feel)

On hot summer days, when the kids and I are at the creek or enjoying a spontaneous picnic under the pecan trees, my white eyelet robe is the perfect cover-up. It’s sheer enough to let the sunlight through but still gives me the coverage I need for those moments between swims or naps in the grass. I always tie it loosely at the waist, letting the robe flow behind me as I walk barefoot across the soft grass or creekside rocks.

Tip: I carry a thrifted quilt for picnics and wrap the tie in a gentle bow at the waist. It’s such a peaceful and whimsical way to spend an afternoon.

5. Belted as a Stand-Alone Dress (With the Right Layers)

If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll wear my robe as a standalone dress. Since it’s sheer, I layer a full-length nude slip underneath for a bit of modesty, and I cinch the robe at the waist with a soft ribbon or leather belt. This is the look I’ll wear when I’m out running errands or just feeling like I need to dress up a bit. It’s like putting on a fairy tale and living it in real life.

Tip: I love adding a shawl or linen jacket on cooler days. And don’t forget the brooch or vintage locket at the neckline—it’s those personal touches that truly complete the outfit.

What’s the Difference Between a Duster, Robe, and Slip Wrap Dress?

Now, if you’re wondering how the white eyelet robe fits into the bigger picture of cottagecore wardrobe staples, let me explain a few terms that might seem interchangeable but actually have distinct differences. Understanding these can help you choose which pieces to invest in for your own wardrobe.

  • Duster: A duster is usually a long, open-front garment, often with no fastenings. It’s lightweight and flowy, worn as a layering piece over other outfits like skirts, dresses, or pants. I love wearing dusters over casual outfits to create a breezy, feminine look.

  • Robe: A robe, like the one I’m styling, is often an indoor garment meant for lounging or wearing around the house. It’s usually tied at the waist and is often made from softer, more comfortable materials like cotton or linen. While robes are great for home, they can be styled outside the house for a more bohemian, relaxed look.

  • Slip Wrap Dress: A slip wrap dress is typically a full dress that mimics the shape of a slip or nightgown but is designed for outdoor wear. It often has a wrap-style closure or tie at the waist and is made from elegant fabrics like silk or satin. This is a great option if you want a more polished, but still relaxed, outfit.

My white eyelet robe has quickly become a favorite in my wardrobe because of its versatility and timeless charm. Whether I’m pairing it with a slip dress, using it as a cover-up for the creek, or dressing it up for a stroll through the market, it’s a piece that helps me feel connected to the simple joys of life.

How do you style your favorite pieces? I’d love to hear how you wear your own white robe or any other treasured finds in your cottagecore wardrobe. Don’t forget to share—I love seeing the creative ways we all bring these items to life!

With love and lace,
Brooke

Hello Gorgeous Threads


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