Cottagecore GirlIf you haven’t heard of Dragoncore on Tumblr or Pinterest – read this to find out everything you need to know!
I’m sure you can guess the basic idea behind this aesthetic from the name, but we’re here to tell you all the nitty gritty about what Dragoncore really is and how to identify as a part of the community.
What is Dragoncore?
Dragoncore rose to popularity during the 2010s with a variety of other mythical and nature-related aesthetics such as Crowcore, Goblincore, Witchcore and Naturecore.
The aesthetic centers around mythology, adventure, hoarding objects and the large, serpent-like creatures that have largely influenced popular culture such as books and movies.
Due to its appreciation and collection of shiny objects, it is closely linked to Goblincore and Crowcore, where this is also a core component of its aesthetic. In particular, these trends will collect shiny trinkets such as jewels, gemstones and coins, but Dragoncore is slightly different where its community also collect things of sentimental value to the individual.
Where goblins would collect ugly things, and crows collect trivial things, dragons collect objects the deem “worthy” treasures.
The Values of Dragoncore
Currently, there are not a whole lot of values in this aesthetic due to its dwindling popularity, however there are specific traits and personalities that are attributed to those within the community, including:
- Wisdom
- Strength
- Materialism
- Ambition
- Intelligence
- Independence
- Freedom
- Self-care
Dragoncore Visuals
This lack of values can often be seen as a good thing, as there are not a lot of rules community members need to follow to participate, and it’s easy to connect with other aesthetics.
This aesthetic allows individuals to express themselves however they like while sticking to an overall theme – this may be why Dragoncore has become increasingly popular in marginalised groups such as therian and LGBTQIA+ communities where there is a strong theme of not applying labels or rules to gender.
Dragoncore heavily respects the balance between nature, beauty, elegance and refinement and the uglier side of nature such as dim and dark lighting, fire and messiness.
Dragon artwork and media connect these creatures to decadence, elegance and opulence – so be sure to show off your collection (whether this is a hoard of knowledge or materialistic treasures you’ve found on adventures).
Dragoncore Fashion
There are no strict rules to follow in relation to Dragoncore clothing – there is room for creativity and exploration with more than enough inspiration on Pinterest, Instagram and Tumblr.
However, there is typically two categories you can find yourself in within this trend. The first revolves around cosplay and larping while the second centers around the idea of dragons in modern society.
- Tip: both categories make use of a lot of jewelery.
Fantasy
Here are a few ways you can become a part of the fantasy Dragoncore community:
- Wear capes, fake fangs, cloaks, fake tails, wings and more.
- Use black nail polish to represent talons.
- Wear a lot of eyeliner.
- Find accessories with motifs like wings, dragons, talons, fangs, fire, etc.
- Wear almost exclusively combat boots.
Modern
Here are a few ways you can become a part of the modern Dragoncore community:
- Wear fitted, tailor-made suits with waistcoats.
- Utilise exotic and eccentric materials.
- Accessories with pocket watches, rings, wristwatches, bracelets, and earrings.
- Focus on gold, black and red/burgundy colours.
