Rooted in both historical and modern influences, the "coquette" aesthetic combines feminine charm, playful seduction, and delicate elegance into a cohesive and intriguing style. "Coquette core" has had a subtle yet notable impact on reshaping modern expressions of femininity. But what exactly is the coquette aesthetic, and why has it become so popular? Below, we dive into the history, characteristics, and cultural impact of the coquette aesthetic.
What Is a Coquette?
The term "coquette" originally comes from the French word meaning "flirt" or "a woman who flirts lightheartedly." Historically, it describes a woman who is playful and charming. The archetype of the coquette can be found in literature, art, and history, often depicted as a character who mixes innocence with seduction.
The modern coquette aesthetic has evolved from this idea, drawing inspiration from a blend of vintage fashion, 18th-century Rococo art, and 90s/2000s “girly” styles. It reflects a love for delicate femininity, elegance, and subtle sensuality, merging romantic clothing styles with flirtatious energy.
Key Features of the Coquette Aesthetic
Style: Drawn heavily from romantic and delicate elements, a coquette’s wardrobe features soft pastel tones such as pale pink, lavender and baby blue. Lace, ruffles and satin create a dreamy feel, often accompanied by ditsy floral and vintage prints. Accessories such as ribbons and bows complete the look, embodying the signature appeal of the coquette aesthetic.
Beauty: Makeup is soft and youthful, often featuring blushed cheeks, fluttery lashes, and glossy or pink lips. Hairstyles tend to be natural, with loose waves or romantic curls being favourites.
Poise: In addition to appearance, the coquette aesthetic includes a graceful and elegant demeanour, emphasising poise and an air of mystery or coyness in one's behaviour.
Cultural Roots of the Coquette Aesthetic
The idea of the coquette can be traced back to various eras, but it gained particular prominence in the 18th century during the Rococo period, particularly in literature and art.
Moving forward in time, the coquette aesthetic also draws from the 1950s pin-up culture.The influence of old Hollywood glamour also plays a role, with icons such as Marilyn Monroe epitomising the coquette’s balance of sensuality and sweetness.
More recently, the resurgence of hyper-feminine trends has added to the modern coquette aesthetic. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have helped popularise the look, with influencers blending vintage elegance and modern girlhood to create a new, updated version of the coquette.
The Coquette in Pop Culture
In pop culture, the coquette aesthetic is not just about the aesthetic —it's also about embodying a particular energy. Certain film characters, celebrities, and influencers are often associated with coquette core due to their ability to balance innocence with seductive charm.
Lana Del Rey - Known for her melancholic, vintage-inspired music and soft, feminine style, Lana Del Rey is a major icon of the coquette aesthetic. Her dreamy, nostalgic visuals, combined with her sultry, retro persona, make her a key figure in the movement.
Brigitte Bardot - With her iconic beauty, playful appearance and carefree feminine style, Brigitte Bardot is a French film actress and model who became an international sex symbol in the 1950s and ’60s. Her flirtatious persona and magnetic allure, makes her a well-known symbol of the coquette aesthetic.
Marie Antoinette - Due to her association with extravagant gowns, delicate lace, and elaborate hairstyles, Marie Antoinette is a significant figure in coquette pop culture. Portrayed in Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette (2006), she symbolises youthful indulgence and elegance.
Where To Shop
If you're looking to embrace the coquette aesthetic, finding the right pieces is essential to capturing its hyper-feminine appeal. Whether you're drawn to vintage-inspired dresses, soft pastel tones, or delicate accessories, there are plenty of brands that offer coquette-style clothing.
LoveShackFancy -Renowned for its enchanting designs, LoveShackFancy features vintage-inspired silhouettes and intricate details, making it the perfect choice for those seeking elegant yet playful pieces.
Selkie - With a commitment to inclusivity, Selkie embraces all body types. Their pieces often feature princess-like silhouettes, tulle, puff sleeves, and dreamy pastels, ideal for making a bold, romantic statement.
For Love & Lemons - For Love & Lemons boasts lace dresses, delicate tops, and floral prints. Their garments often feature soft fabrics, ruffles, and feminine detailing.
Thrift Shops and Vintage Stores - Shopping at thrift stores and vintage boutiques is a fantastic way to find authentic, retro pieces that embody a nostalgic, feminine style. Look for floral print dresses, puff sleeves, lace details, and accessories like pearl jewellery or vintage embroidered handbags.
The coquette aesthetic is a celebration of feminine charm, and whether you're drawn to its soft, dreamy appeal or its nod to classic glamour, it offers a way to express yourself through a whimsical and timeless style.
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