How To Style The Coquette-Core Trend
Powder pinks, puff sleeves and cute minis—elements of the coquette aesthetic are balanced with wardrobe staples for the ultimate in modern, feminine style.
Welcome to the golden era of coquette-core, where being hyperfeminine and dressing in the girliest of styles rules supreme. For inspiration, look to Kirsten Dunst’s Marie Antoinette and Leighton Meester’s Blair Waldorf, but updated by the likes of Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber as they get snapped running errands and grabbing coffee. The vibe is romantic yet rebellious. On the runways, designers Sandy Liang, Simone Rocha and Cecilie Bahnsen send visions of feminine delight floating down the runway. Models were decked out in a multitude of bows, puffy sleeves, frilled frocks, and dreamy sheers. While these elements make you want to saunter around like royalty, stay grounded in sensible footwear. Pair these looks with loafers—opt for sheer socks for a touch of delicacy—easy sandals or sneakers. The key to nailing this style is knowing that a little frou frou goes a long way. Make the words of Cyndi Lauper your mantra: “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!”
Related Article: 8 Things To Know About Sandy Liang, The Fashion Designer Having A Moment
The Mini
Top, & Other Stories. Vest, Ralph Lauren. Skirt, Miu Miu. Bag, Valentino Garavani.
The ultimate signifier of youth, playful, and a touch of flirty-fun—mini skirts are back and in varying silhouettes. Opt for one with a bit (or a whole lot) of flounce for that sensuous yet innocent vibe; especially when styled with a more conservative top for that perfect balance.
Lace top; top (worn underneath), & Other Stories. Skorts, Valentino. Bag, Prada. Loafers, Hermès. Socks, stylist’s own
Clockwise, from top left: Skirt, about $1,077, Alaïa. Skirt, $3,440, Valentino. Skirt, $2,300, CELINE. Skirt, about $2,269, Lanvin at Net-a-Porter. Skirt, $5,000, Miu Miu.
The Bow Accent
Remember when Simone Rocha had red ribbons on the undersides of her models’ eyes at her fall/winter 2023 show, and everyone was obsessed? Well, that effect is everywhere now, and Gen Z in particular are in love with ribbons of all sorts. Here’s a tip: take the classy route and stick to a statement piece in your ensemble.
T-shirt, Miu Miu. Skirt, Bernadette at Net-a-Porter. Mules, Prada. Earring, Givenchy. Ring, CELINE. White t-shirt (worn underneath), stylist’s own.
Top, Dries Van Noten. Boot, $2,815, Alexander McQueen. Earrings, $1,385, Balenciaga. Barrette, $650, Jennifer Behr. Bag, $5,150, Gucci. Coat, $8,000, Valentino.
The Dreamy Dress
Frothy fabrics and layered tulles drift in the wind with every step, evoking a fairy tale. Wear yours with sneakers and denim for day, and switch things up for night with satin pumps and a luxurious clutch. These dreamy frocks are more versatile than you think.
Dress, Prada. Jacket, Loro Piana. Sneakers, Hermès. Socks, stylist’s own.
Dress, about $1,144, Sandy Liang. Dress, $1,190, Noir Kei Ninomiya at Club21. Dress, about $4,550, Molly Goddard. Dress, $2,025, Cecilie Bahnsen at Farfetch. Dress, $2,891, Simone Rocha at Farfetch.
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The Puff Sleeve
Feminine yet fun, dip your toe into the trend with a poufy-sleeved top. From clean and timeless to romantic and sexy, style yours with everyday denims and chunky sandals for a subtle take, or go all out and wear your puff-sleeved tops with an equally voluminous skirt.
Top, Cult Gaia at Net-a-Porter. Jeans, Givenchy. Sandals, Hermès.
Clockwise, from top left: Top, about $357, Ganni. Top, $3,795, Stella McCartney. Top, Oscar de la Renta. Top, $448, Margherita MACCAPANI at Farfetch. Top, about $4,943, Gabriela Hearst at Net-a-Porter
Related Article: 11 Ways To Pull Off The “Jeans And A Nice Top” Trend
Photography: Joel Low
Stylist: Gracia Phang
Model: Jiaxing/ Mannequin
Makeup: Manisa Tan using NARS
Hair: Yuhi Kim using DunGüd Singapore and Woorailoora
Stylist’s Assistant: Larissa Wong