Lately, you might have observed a rising trend in beauty and fashion characterized by an abundance of pink, a plethora of feminine accessories like bows and pearls, and an overall ultra-feminine vibe. Coquette makeup, with its romantic and flirtatious undertones, perfectly embodies this trend.
“This look is trending right now because it is an evolved, softer version of the hot pink Barbiecore trend that took the world by storm not too long ago,” says celebrity makeup artist Bryan Cantor. He says you can also think of it as an “amplified version of the stunning makeup we see on the ingenues of Bridgerton—like Daphne Bridgerton” along with a modern-day Marie Antoinette and The Buccaneers.
We’ve got a complete guide to this sweet style below—scroll down and let’s dive in!
WHAT IS COQUETTE MAKEUP?
In a lacy, pearl-adorned nutshell, coquette makeup is a decidedly flirty look that revolves around a monochromatic palette of soft pinks. It features doll-like eyes enhanced with wispy lashes and eyeliner. According to Cantor, coquette makeup is also defined by “oversaturated cheeks, blurred lips, and coordinating eyeshadow.”
“Coquette makeup is perfect for the colder seasons to add color back into the skin,” notes Charlie Riddle, head makeup artist for Stila Cosmetics. “Aside from giving a softer romantic look, it also brings a youthful and more awake appearance to the makeup.”
He points out that this trend also reflects the increased experimentation with blush we’re seeing. It’s a chance to experiment with new colors and application techniques.
HOW TO DO COQUETTE MAKEUP
FLAWLESS, YOUTHFUL COMPLEXION
“You want a softer and more natural base for this,” says Riddle. “I would recommend using a serum foundation or illuminating tinted moisturizer or even just using a concealer in areas you need coverage.”
Try using Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint or ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 for a flawless base. For a dewy, youthful appearance, start with a good moisturizer and primer. Apply concealer sparingly, only where necessary.
MONOCHROMATIC PINK COLOR STORY
There’s one color you’ll reach for repeatedly for coquette makeup: pink. This includes saturated flushed cheeks in a strawberry or rosy hue, soft pink lips, and even pink eyeshadow. Riddle says, “I love to sweep in the blush over the eyelids and brow bone to really complete this look.”
For a dewy effect, consider a cream or liquid blush, like MILK Makeup’s Lip + Cheek Stick. “They’re perfect for creating a coordinating monochromatic look for this trend. Try the shades Rally, Werk or Dash for a perfect pink,” Cantor says.
GLOWY HIGHLIGHT
While pink tones are central to coquette makeup, adding a touch of highlighter can elevate your look. For an extra dose of that youthful charm, choose a highlighter with pearly or pink undertones. Cantor’s favorite is Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect Highlighter in Pillow Talk Glow, which he describes as “the perfect pink highlighter to accent your cheeks.”
SOFT-FOCUS LIPS
Sharply defined lips are the antithesis of coquette makeup. Instead, lean on sheer tones and keep the lines soft. “Create your perfect soft-focus lip for this trend with Charlotte Tilbury’s Hyaluronic Happiness Lipstick in the shades Crystal Happikiss, Pillow Talk, or Enchanting Kiss,” Cantor says. “If you prefer a gloss, try Lip Gloss from Anastasia Beverly Hills in the shades Cotton Candy or Soft Pink to complete your coquette makeup look.”
For a “bitten” lip effect, consider using a lip stain. e.l.f. Cosmetics Glossy Lip Stain or Peripera Ink the Velvet Lip Tint are great choices.
WISPY LASHES
Riddle says that “lashes—and adding indivisible lashes particularly in the middle of the lash for an eye-opening effect—” Defined lashes are a key feature of coquette makeup. For a more natural look, try falsies that attach underneath the lash line. Two excellent options are Kiss imPRESS Press-On Falsies Eyelash Clusters and Lashify Amplify Black Gossamer Lash Collection.
CONCLUSION
The coquette makeup look, a trend that celebrates hyper femininity, has been captivating the beauty world. By embracing soft tones, delicate details, and a touch of playfulness, you can effortlessly achieve this charming aesthetic. Remember, confidence is the key to pulling off any look. So, embrace your inner coquette, experiment with different techniques, and have fun with the process!
