The coquette aesthetic, or coquette core, is a trend that is the last vestige of docile flirtation in the flurry of different aesthetic cores that have emerged. This trend, which arrived in 2020, is defined by the French word “coquette”, which refers to a woman who tries to gain attention and admiration without sincere affection. Despite some questioning its relevance, the coquette core is still alive and thriving, offering a space for flirtation, tenderness, and expression in a world where other cores can feel more binary and character-like. The allure of this aesthetic lies in its perverse seduction, as women can display power through a campy version of femininity that combines Lil Bo Peep naivety with Marie Antoinette girlishness.
The coquette core trend involves elements like silk ballet flats, bows, and inspiration from Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita. It allows women to infuse their outfits with hints of flirtation and playfulness, embracing a style that is fun and whimsical. From furiously cooling themselves with a fan to braiding hair into pigtails and adding ruffles, embracing the coquette aesthetic can be a way to express femininity and power through fashion. The look may include bows, bobby socks, and vanities filled with powders and mirrors, all set against a soundtrack of Lana Del Rey. While some may see the coquette aesthetic as promoting a male gaze, it ultimately depends on how it is interpreted and embraced by the individual.
The coquette core stands out in a sea of other aesthetic cores, such as office siren, fairy core, and cottage core. As trends come and go, the coquette core continues to offer a unique space for women to embrace their femininity and express themselves through clothing and style. While some may question its relevancy in today’s world, others see the coquette core as a refreshing departure from more straightforward and binary trends. The allure of the coquette aesthetic lies in its ability to offer a sense of freedom and playfulness, allowing women to embrace their power and sensuality in a uniquely feminine way.
Despite some believing that the coquette core may have fallen out of favor, there is still a sense of oomph and allure to this trend. The core is not just about surface-level aesthetics but also about embracing feelings, flirtation, and tenderness. By tapping into the coquette aesthetic, women can explore different facets of femininity and power, wielding sentiments through clothing and accessories to create a unique and captivating presence. In a world where fashion trends can sometimes feel limiting or character-like, the coquette core provides a space for individual expression and empowerment through style.
As the coquette core continues to ebb and flow in popularity, its allure and appeal remain strong for many women. Embracing this trend allows individuals to play with different elements of flirtation, tenderness, and power, creating a style that is both fun and empowering. By combining elements of classic femininity with a touch of camp and playfulness, the coquette aesthetic offers a fresh and unique take on fashion and self-expression. Ultimately, the coquette core is about more than just clothing – it is a way for women to embrace their femininity and sensuality in a way that feels authentic and empowering.
