The coquette style is a celebration of nuanced femininity—one that needs no loud declarations to make its presence felt. It finds its power in a nostalgia for bygone eras, in exquisite details, and in the art of subtle self-celebration.
What is it about this aesthetic that captivates us? It is the promise of a return to romanticism, but in a more conscious, almost intellectual iteration. Unlike simple romanticism, the coquette aesthetic is a carefully curated play on associations, where innocence meets deliberate flirtation, and every detail—from a pearl hairpin to a velvet ribbon tied at the wrist—tells its own story.
Join us on a journey through the world of this unique aesthetic. Together, let's uncover its secrets, its history, and the ways to infuse its luxurious charm into your own wardrobe, creating a look that is both timeless and strikingly contemporary.
Before the coquette aesthetic dominated social media feeds, its roots ran much deeper, drawing from the rich history of fashion and culture. The name itself, derived from French, means a "flirt"—a woman who charms her surroundings with grace and subtlety. The style harks back to 18th-century France, with its penchant for pastels and lace, as well as to the Victorian era.
However, the modern interpretation of coquette is far more than a historical reenactment. It echoes the retro styles of the 1950s and 60s, the cinematic aesthetic of Sofia Coppola, and shares a close kinship with related micro-trends like "balletcore," with its tulles and ballet flats, and "royalcore," which draws from aristocratic elegance.
The sudden renaissance of the coquette aesthetic is no accident. In uncertain times, it offers a form of escapism—a retreat into a world of dreams, beauty, and nostalgia. It is a quiet rebellion against stark minimalism and the pervasive culture of haste. Choosing a lace blouse over a simple t-shirt becomes a conscious decision to celebrate detail, delicacy, and craftsmanship. This is a new wave of femininity that finds strength not in armor, but in subtlety, proving that romanticism can be a form of power.
The coquette aesthetic is one where every detail matters. Its power lies in a collection of carefully chosen elements. The heart of the wardrobe is silhouettes that gently accentuate the figure: A-line dresses, flared skirts, and fitted corset tops. The color palette is delicate—powder pink, baby blue, pistachio, and lavender—while floral prints and fine polka dots reign supreme.
In the realm of luxury, however, the quality of materials is paramount. A silk satin dress drapes the body entirely differently than its polyester counterpart. Lace is not merely a pattern; it is exquisite Chantilly or rich guipure. Pearls, an essential element of coquette jewelry, should be freshwater, with a natural luster. It is these details that define the sophisticated character of the look.
Creating a luxury wardrobe in the coquette style is built on a few key pieces. The true essence is the romantic dress, perhaps from the master of this aesthetic, Giambattista Valli, or one of the ethereal creations from Zimmermann. Skirts are also essential—from tulle minis to satin midis.
Accessories are the finishing touch: delicate jewelry, satin ribbons in the hair, and small, structured handbags, like the classic shoulder bag models from Saint Laurent, which are a perfect example of why iconic handbags are timeless.
The ideal footwear includes classic ballet flats and Mary Janes, and a complete guide on what shoes to wear with a dress can help resolve any styling doubts.
To avoid an overly juvenile impression, the contemporary coquette masterfully plays with contrast. It is the art of merging opposites that lends sophistication and a high-fashion edge to any ensemble.
The contemporary coquette aesthetic is being defined on the runways of the most visionary designers. Simone Rocha is a master of dark romanticism, blending pearls and tulle with heavier fabrics. Miu Miu offers an ironic, intellectually witty play on the "good girl" image. Meanwhile, Erdem enchants with its botanical prints and historical elegance.
The coquette style is a conscious aesthetic choice and a celebration of femininity in its most luxurious form. Its versatility lies in its adaptability, its ability to be mixed with other trends, and to express oneself through subtle details. We encourage you to experiment, to discover its richness, and to find your own unique interpretation of this deeply romantic movement. Allow yourself a touch of coquetry and envelop yourself in a world of lace, pearls, and timeless grace.