The coquette aesthetic is sweeping through social media platforms, particularly on TikTok, amassing over 1.3 billion views and establishing itself as a highly sought-after fashion trend. This style trend exudes an air of romanticism and playfulness, encapsulating the spirit of Gen Z with its flirtatious, soft, hyper-feminine appeal.
Origins and Characteristics
The coquette aesthetic draws inspiration from various sources, notably the Victorian Regency era. Key visual elements include:
- Dainty dresses and dreamy silhouettes.
- Abundant use of pastel colors, especially pink.
- Whimsical staples like milkmaid tops, baby doll dresses, tights, and ruffles.
Stylist Marisa Ledford notes that the coquette aesthetic reflects a contemporary take on a historical and romantic style, referencing the clothing of the Victorian Regency era with a modern twist.
Historical Context and Modern Resurgence
Coquette fashion has historical roots dating back to Marie Antoinette and saw a resurgence in the early 2010s. In that era, coquette fashion was often associated with girly bedrooms, Lana Del Rey GIFs, and romantic poetry found on Tumblr blogs. Over time, this trend faded, but thanks to platforms like TikTok and Pinterest, it's experiencing a revival alongside other similar trends such as cottagecore, Regencycore, and "quiet luxury."
Influences Behind the Resurgence:
- Pop culture influences like shows such as Succession and Bridgerton.
- The rise of thrifting and vintage shopping among Gen Z.
- Japanese lolita subculture, with its Victorian- and Rococo-inspired fashion.
Challenges and Criticisms
While the coquette aesthetic gains popularity, it has faced criticisms, such as:
- Glorifying darker elements of past time periods.
- Lack of inclusivity in body diversity and representation of creators of color.
Examples in Pop Culture
The coquette aesthetic has made its mark in various realms of pop culture, with Netflix's Bridgerton being a prime example. The show creatively blends period fashion with modern-day trends, contributing to the aesthetic's resurgence.
Embracing the Trend
For those looking to adopt the coquette aesthetic, consider incorporating elements like bows, lace, frills, pearls, and pastel colors into your wardrobe. Soft, romantic touches through accessories like ribbons and delicate jewelry can add a playful yet elegant feel to your outfits.
Celebrity Icons
Several celebrities have embraced the coquette aesthetic:
- Lana Del Rey: Known for her vintage-inspired style, she's a prominent figure associated with this trend.
- Lily-Rose Depp: Her French-girl fashion, featuring soft silhouettes and pink tones, aligns well with the aesthetic.
- Lil Nas X: The rapper has sported Bridgerton-inspired outfits, showcasing the trend's versatility.
- Sydney Sweeney: With a mix of Old Hollywood glam and modern flair, she epitomizes the coquette charm.
- Zendaya: Her appearances in coquette-inspired looks, like her blush pink Valentino gown, highlight the elegance of the style.
As fashion trends continue to evolve, the coquette aesthetic remains a captivating blend of historical charm and contemporary sensibility, capturing the imagination of fashion enthusiasts and influencers alike.