Your Ultimate Guide on the Coquette Aesthetic

ast Updated on May 21, 2024 by TPS Blog Admin

The coquette aesthetic is currently experiencing a major revival. In a cultural moment where femininity is being redefined and celebrated in a plethora of ways, coquette fashion’s offer is that of a playful, whimsical yet empowered expression of femininity. Rooted in vintage inspiration and romanticism, the coquette aesthetic embraces delicate details, whimsical flourishes, and a sense of nostalgia for bygone eras.

Hyperfemininity is the core of the coquette aesthetic, drawing its inspiration from Victorian era styles, the 1950s and Rococo fashion. It empowers strong women to recognize their femininity, delicacy and innocence, dispelling the misconception that female empowerment requires adopting masculine characteristics. Coquette embodies an opposing stand to current styles inspired by masculine cuts and aesthetics, including tomboy fashion, power suits and oversized, unisex attire.

In hindsight, coquette is the reversal of the post-French Revolution movement, when women’s fashion underwent a significant make-under – or simplification, a return to basics and utility. The opulent and ornate styles associated with the pre-revolutionary aristocracy were rejected on the basis of symbolizing excess and a more practical and understated aesthetic emerged. Coquette style celebrates the beauty and allure of intricate details, playful embellishments, and romantic silhouettes, offering a delightful contrast to the minimalist trends that emerged after the French Revolution and throughout the last 2 centuries.

FAQ

What Is the Coquette Aesthetic?

The Coquette Aesthetic is a style that evokes a playful, charming and feminine attitude through clothes and décor, featuring a plethora of dainty and romantic elements including ruffles, lace, pearls, pastel colors, bows and ribbons. It conveys a vibe of traditional femininity with independence mixed in – or, in other terms, it’s a mix of girlcore with a touch of Old French charm.

What Do Coquette Women Wear?

Women who adhere to the coquette aesthetic wear clothes and accessories that exude allure and femininity, including dresses and skirts in A-line or fit and flare styles, pastel colors, vintage pieces, lace, romantic accessories, classic jewelry like pearl necklaces and bracelets, ribbons, silk, heart prints, dainty florals, chiffon and bows, heels, classic and ornate types of earrings, white jewels and pink gemstones, Mary-Janes or ballet flats and dainty handbags. All these are worn with a confident, playful demeanor and attitude. 

When Did Coquette Style Start?

The term “coquette” originates from France, where, during the 17th century, it described women who acted playfully and endearingly in order to gain admiration. However, the concept of coquette fashion gained popularity during the Marie Antoinette (1755 – 1793) era, during which flirtatious and playful elements were incorporated into clothing and accessories. During the Rococo years of the 18th century, elements such as frills, ruffles, pastels and intricate, ornate jewelry pieces were at peak popularity. In the late 2010s, coquette aesthetic started to find its way back into fashion.

Why Is Coquette Trending?

The current popularity and appeal of coquette style is the fact that it offers a playful and empowered expression of femininity. It facilitates women to enhance their traditionally feminine traits, but on their own terms, reclaiming them as sources of self-expression.

What Other Fashion Aesthetics Are Similar to Coquette?

One of the closest aesthetics to coquette style is Dollette, defining an aesthetic that is centered around hyperfeminine fashion and visuals, including florals, soft shades, babydoll dresses, lace and bows, all infused with fantasy historical fashion. Balletcore combines the elegance and grace of classical ballet with contemporary fashion, featuring delicate tutus, soft pastel colors, and ethereal silhouettes. The Girlcore aesthetic is also closely related to coquette in the sense that it shares its favoritism towards expressing femininity through all things charming and whimsical.