Looking for a new fashion trend to get into? Try the ‘coquette aesthetic’

The 'coquette aesthetic' look gives major garden tea-party vibes. Photo: Instagram/Pomelo

Generation Z’s newest favourite trend, “coquette aesthetic”, is currently taking over social media.

The “coquette aesthetic” is friendly and lighthearted with individual style to the forefront.

But are you up to speed about what “coquette aesthetic” is all about and how you can join in the fun?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word coquette is defined as a “flirtatious woman” or a “woman who flirts”. In actuality, the “coquette aesthetic” has historical roots. It draws inspiration from timeless Parisian elegance and the Victorian era.

Apart from Victorian era clothing, the movement is also inspired by the Japanese Lolita aesthetic and subculture, which rose to popularity in the 1990s and 2000s.

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Shows like Bridgerton, Lana Del Rey’s recent music, thrifting and vintage buying are also becoming more and more popular as Gen Z continues to prioritise sustainability and seek out distinctive items for their wardrobes.

Imagine gorgeous ensembles with lace and ruffles, knee high socks, bows, pearl necklaces and everything that screams feminine, girly and romantic.

Celebrities like Madison Beer, Olivia Rodrigo and BlackPink’s Jennie Kim have taken their own twist on “coquette aesthetic” fashion as well.

In addition, you’ll see folks sporting fuzzy hats, cotton camisoles, shrug cardigans, knit sets, and miniskirts in neutral colours like pink or cream.

If you would like to change up your style and join in the trend of “coquette aesthetic”, here are some key clothing items and accessories that will help you create the picture perfect look.

You’re on the correct track if the ensemble features delicate, soft elements and adorable accents.

Olivia Rodrigo sports the full trend with a laced dress, block heels and pearl jewellery. Photo: Instagram/Olivia

Key clothing items

Pieces to add into your wardrobe are lace trimmed tops, gingham dresses, ruffled skirts, lace or sheer stockings, and floral dresses.

For a youthful look, go for dresses with lace, frills, and bows; designs like gingham and flowers will appeal to this style immediately.

The mainstay of your colour scheme should be pastel hues, white, cream, and lots of pink.

A lace trimmed top is both classic and feminine. It has a vintage charm and can be paired with a skirt or even a pair of jeans.

Bishop sleeves, balloon sleeves, or puff sleeves are also very feminine but gives a vintage spin on dresses or tops.

Read more: It will be a colourful year, as fashion embraces pretty shades and bright hues

The right accessories

For accessories you can add hair bows, pretty clips, knee length socks, pearl jewellery and block heels.

Choose dainty bracelets, earrings, and necklaces to go with your ensembles.

A delicate headband, hair clip, or bow can add the final touch to the look.

Bows are a staple for accessories, sometimes even just the bow can turn the whole look around towards a “coquette aesthetic” direction.

Jewellery such as pearl necklaces and earrings are highly recommended to pull the whole look together.

The youthful and feminine theme should also be reflected in footwear and this trend has led to a comeback in favour of the timeless ballet flats which goes well with different kinds of clothing.

Mary Janes, block heels and other vintage-inspired shoes also match with the ultrafeminine outfits and ruffled socks frequently associated with this style.

Finally, when choosing a bag, it’s best to carry a classic vintage bag in a soft colour that will tie in your whole fit.

The “coquette aesthetic” is something that can easily be added into your every day fit just by adding one or two pieces to elevate your whole look. In this way, anyone can follow the “coquette aesthetic” movement.