Castlecore and the Rise of Fantasy-Driven Fashion

Before you dive in, this piece is part of our broader series on escapism in fashion. If you haven’t already, read our introductory report here for context on the cultural undercurrents driving this shift.

In an era defined by relentless digital acceleration and hyper-productivity, fashion has become a gateway to escape. As people seek comfort, new aesthetic and cultural movements have emerged, each offering different ways to step away from the demands of modern life, whether through immersive activities or emotional detachment. These trends reflect a collective desire for something beyond the present.

This series will explore how different “core” aesthetics fit into this cultural shift, examining their roots, their impact on fashion, and how they resonate with consumers today.

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A New Era of Romanticism: Castlecore

Aesthetics like Cottagecore offer a pastoral retreat into nature, while the rise of solo hobbies like baking and crochet, the resurgence of alternative spirituality, and nostalgia-driven subcultures all point to a deeper need for personal sanctuaries. Whether through clothing, lifestyle or creative pursuits, individuals are crafting their own worlds, blending history, fantasy, and emotion into something that resonates with them and transcends time.

Blending historical influences with modern fantasy aesthetics, Castlecore has emerged as one of 2025’s most captivating trends. First identified in Pinterest’s trend predictions, Castlecore reflects the collective longing for escapism and nostalgia that extends beyond fashion and into broader cultural shifts.

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Why Castlecore is Thriving

Unlike Cottagecore’s pastoral simplicity or Dark Academia’s intellectual introspection, Castlecore indulges in grandeur, evoking the elegance and drama of medieval nobility. Its resurgence is fuelled not only by a longing for history but also by the growing popularity of fantasy-driven entertainment, such as House of the Dragon, Bridgerton, Nosferatu, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.

The growing influence of BookTok has further cemented Castlecore with romantasy novels, books that blend fantasy with love stories, that have dominated viral reading lists. Hashtags like #BookTok, #FantasyRomance, and #Romantasy connect readers to a growing literary subculture on TikTok and Instagram that mirrors the rise of Castlecore in fashion. Just as readers escape into worlds of medieval courts, forbidden romances, and enchanted castles, fashion enthusiasts are embracing historical silhouettes, corsetry, and regal embellishments as a way to embody that same fantasy in real life.

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Castlecore’s Key Trend Signals

The shift in Castlecore as an aesthetic is reflected in the changing popularity of key design elements.

Once a staple of Cottagecore and early Castlecore, puff sleeves have seen a steady decline, with a -13.3% annual growth rate over the past year. While puff sleeves still appear in some designs, their decline highlights the shift towards a stronger, more structured style.

Unlike the softness of puff sleeves, corsets (+6.10%) embody strength and refinement, reinforcing Castlecore’s regal armour-like elegance. Their enduring appeal among consumers aligns with the broader resurgence of the hourglass silhouette, a key trend highlighted in our SS25 Womenswear: Copenhagen Fashion Week report, where designers embraced structured waistlines and sculptural tailoring.

Corsets have historically spiked in popularity each October, likely driven by their association with Halloween costumes. However, the continued rise of Castlecore suggests they may no longer be confined to seasonal dressing, instead becoming a year-round staple.

Meanwhile, the steady growth rate of silk dresses (+9.0%) and empire-waist lines (+14.79%) highlights an ongoing fascination with opulence and aristocratic silhouettes, signalling a transition away from Cottagecore’s soft aesthetic to Castlecore’s more regal and dramatic appeal.

The growing popularity of structured elements such as pointed heels (+14.60%), suggests a movement toward refined, sculptural footwear reminiscent of medieval armour, reinforcing Castlecore’s balance of strength and elegance.

Another key indicator of Castlecore’s evolution is the rise of mock chainmail elements, seen in sequins, metallic finishes and mesh, which blur the line between ethereal elegance and armour. With mesh fabric (+12.23%) expected to experience a steady growth, this shift signals a commercial trend cycle rather than a passing fad.

Together, these elements point to a more sophisticated, fairytale-inspired aesthetic that merges medieval and baroque influences with modern styling.

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High Fashion’s Medieval Moments

Luxury fashion is increasingly turning to history as a source of stability and fantasy, embracing details such as corsetry, chainmail fabrics, and ethereal floor-length silhouettes. Designers like McQueen, Rabanne, ELIE SAAB, and Dilara Findikoglu transform historical fantasy into wearable escapism.

Independent designers like Simone Rocha, Selkie and SANDY LIANG have also played a crucial role in defining and leading Castlecore, incorporating fairytale-like silhouettes and delicate embroidery that weave history into modern couture. Denzil Patrick’s latest collection, A Knight’s Commute, reimagines menswear with chainmail-like textures and utilitarian details.

AW25 menswear is leaning into military influences, with belted coats (+45.93%), structured tailoring (18.13%), and armour-like layering (+17.84%) reinforcing themes of strength and protection, balancing romanticism with a sense of readiness for battle.

Meanwhile, brands like Loewe are playing on Castlecore's theme with irreverent, fun campaigns – like their SS25 pre-collection campaign, Dancers, Divers, and Duelling Knights, featuring Leo Woodall among medieval knights in shining armour (literally).

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Castlecore in the Mainstream Media

Red carpet and celebrity influence is also playing a major role in bringing Castlecore into the mainstream.

Chappell Roan’s knight-inspired stage looks, Nicola Coughlan’s ultra-romantic gowns, and Lisa from BLACKPINK’s regal styling have all contributed to the aesthetic’s growing influence. Most notably, Zendaya’s recent Dune: Part Two premiere look blended medieval and futuristic elements.

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Castlecore in Everyday Fashion

While luxury brands are leading with elaborate, regal designs, mass-market retailers are translating the aesthetic into more wearable silhouettes. Brands like Reformation and Free People are incorporating puff sleeves, empire waist dresses, corsets, and square necklines (+5.40%). Rich textures such as velvet (+2.26%), lace (+10.14%), brocade (+15.82%), and chainmail mesh (+21.98%) are appearing in mainstream collections, bringing Castlecore's drama into everyday dressing.

Accessories and footwear also reflect the trend’s evolution, with chain belts (22.84%), religious jewellery (+23.85%), and metallic mesh shoes (+21.98%). Silky headscarves (+32.48%) contrast structured elements, adding a romantic touch, while buckle-detailed Mary Janes (+25.63%) and crocheted gloves (-0.85%) subtly nod to medieval influences.

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What’s Next for Castlecore?

Castlecore is evolving beyond its delicate, ultra-feminine origins into a grittier, armour-inspired aesthetic. While traditional Castlecore focused on flowing silks and intricate embroidery, the rise of mesh and structured tailoring introduces an element of strength, similar to medieval warriors' protective layering.

This shift reflects the broader fashion movement that merges historical fantasy with modern sensibilities, balancing romance with power. As Castlecore evolves, it transforms the castle-dwelling maiden into something more formidable: a figure of both regality and readiness for battle, embodying a new era of fantasy-driven fashion.