With the growing popularity of Lana Del Rey‘s music on TikTok came the discovery, or rather, the rise of the Coquette aesthetic. This style, characterized by the use of bows, ruffles, lace, pearls, and other accessories paired with adorned dresses, cardigans, and pastel-toned skirts, is shining brightly on social media, often closely associated with the songs of the American singer, particularly from her Lizzy Grant era.
The songs from her debut album – and some that were never officially released – titled “Lana Del Ray A.K.A Lizzy Grant,” have gained prominence on the video-sharing app, becoming one of the main reasons for the style’s fame. In these songs, Lana brings a hyperfeminine and doll-like vibe that inspires girls to put together corresponding looks. Heart-shaped sunglasses, cherries, and strawberries are recurring themes that transition from her compositions to clothing choices.
In addition to Lana Del Rey, movies like “Marie Antoinette” and “The Virgin Suicides” (both directed by Sofia Coppola), and series like “Bridgerton,” influence the selection of pieces to create these looks. Even “Barbie” (directed by Margot Robbie/Greta Gerwing) has contributed to the surge of this style by simply encouraging women to be as they desire, creating room for the reappreciation of “girly girls” and styles that reflect femininity. These styles, once considered frivolous and unnecessary, were almost labeled as “anti-feminist.” Generally rooted in French origin, this style resurrects small details from many women’s childhoods and emphasizes delicacy and tenderness in clothing choices.
While primarily referencing her early career, Lana continues to produce music that still echoes the Coquette archetype. In her more recent albums like “Norman Fucking Rockwell!,” “Ultraviolence,” and “Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd,” there are numerous songs that embody the rhythm and lyrical essence of this style, such as “Cinnamon Girl,” “Brooklyn Baby,” and “Let The Light In.”
