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It’s all about the dainty details.
Most fashion trends come and go, but the coquette aesthetic is here to stay. The phrase “Coquette Aesthetic” has over 100 million views on TikTok and is captivating social media users and celebrities alike. Beyoncé put a cowgirl spin on the coquette look for the 2024 Grammys by sporting a satin black bowtie, while Selena Gomez recently stepped out in a romantic midi dress adorned with bows.
Like regencycore and cottagecore, the coquette aesthetic is all about a whimsical and romantic way of dressing. Characterized by dreamy silhouettes, bows, pastel colors, and lace, this hyperfeminine style is easy to recreate. Even with signature elements, you can put your own twist on this aesthetic by incorporating one or two coquette-inspired pieces into your ensemble for a look that feels playful and timeless.
Considering giving the coquette aesthetic a spin? Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite red carpet looks that embrace this style to serve as your inspiration.
Pastel Colors
When you think of the coquette aesthetic, pink is likely the first color that comes to mind. The ultra-feminine hue perfectly represents the style, and wearing any baby pink garment is a fool-proof way to try out this trend. But if pink isn’t your color, any pastel hue will look just as fantastic.
Bows
No coquette ensemble is complete without bows – and a lot of them. While we’re partial to a garment that features a large bow attached to the front for a more dramatic look, even small bow embellishments will give any outfit a coquette flair. To take the ensemble one step further, consider tying a ribbon in your hair.
An Off-the-Shoulder Mini Dress
If you’re having trouble pinning down the coquette aesthetic, simply browse any of the Barbie premiere red carpets. While there are plenty of pink ensembles to take inspiration from, we’re drawn to this black and white mini dress that Shay Mitchell wore in Los Angeles. The corset bodice, bow embellishment, and off-the-shoulder neckline effortlessly channel the coquette aesthetic for a vintage yet bold look.
A Frilly Dress
Lean into the romance of the coquette aesthetic by opting for a frilly slip dress. The subtle ruffles and lace panels on this dress are elegant, while the back cut-out and midi length give the look a sultry touch. Style the ensemble with matching kitten heels and a bow clutch to add even more coquette elements to your look.
Lace
The coquette aesthetic is all about delicate fabrics, and lace is the key to a flirty yet feminine look. Whether you opt for a lace maxi dress or a tank top with lace trimming, this fabric will look graceful in any form. Pair your lace garment with a ruffled cardigan to amplify the romantic vibes, or give it a sporty twist with chunky sneakers.
Florals
Zendaya nailed the coquette look in this blush pink Valentino gown at the 2023 SAG Awards. The rosettes along the bodice add dimension to the silhouette and perfectly juxtapose the fitted bodice for a sweet yet ultra-glam look. To achieve this coquette style for a casual outing, opt for a floral print dress or tie-front top with floral embroidery.
A Corset
If you could have worn it in the Regency era, then chances are, it suits the coquette aesthetic. A corset will give any outfit a vintage flair and looks glamorous even when you’re going for a casual vibe with jeans. For a bolder look, opt for a corset in a floral pattern or layer the garment over a white button-down shirt.
A Satin Maxi Skirt
A satin maxi skirt is a wardrobe must-have that can easily be dressed up or down. Pair it with a pointelle-knit cardigan for brunch with the girls or a lace camisole for your next date night. If you’re not one to shy away from low-rise jeans, put a sultry spin on this coquette look by slipping on a low-waisted maxi skirt with a matching corset top.
Pearl Jewelry
The easiest way to achieve the coquette aesthetic? Toss on a piece of pearl jewelry. A pearl choker, like the Vivienne Westwood one seen here on Xochitl Gomez, is both feminine and grungy for a blend of two trends. You can also wear pearl drop earrings or layer pearl necklaces for a more sophisticated take on the accessory.
An Empire Waistline
This Oscar de La Renta dress with an empire waistline gives us total Bridgerton vibes, which makes it perfect for a coquette look. An empire waistline is universally flattering and, when in gown form, will suit any formal event. To dress down the look for a casual outing, reach for a babydoll top or an empire waist dress with a mini length.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats aren’t just a major component of balletcore; they’re also the perfect finishing touch to a coquette ensemble. Whether you opt for simple black Mary-Jane flats or a mesh pair with studs, this footwear is a timeless addition to any coquette outfit. For some extra height, reach for a pair of ballet shoes with a short block heel.
A Peplum Dress
The peplum is a Y2K trend that is back and better than ever. While many peplums have a structured silhouette, the coquette aesthetic calls for a more delicate shape. A peplum dress made of sheer materials that also features ruffles or pleats makes for an elegant and whimsical look. Complete the dreamy ensemble by accessorizing with a hair bow and dainty jewelry.
Playful Prints
It’s only right to take a bit of coquette inspiration from Barbie herself. We love this polka dot mini dress that Margot Robbie wore for the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala. The combination of a pink hue with a polka dot pattern and rosettes is equal parts playful and bold. If polka dots aren’t your thing, gingham and floral prints are also great options to achieve the coquette aesthetic.