Nostalgic girlhood has finally taken over and we simply can't get enough of it. Ignited by fashion's obsession with pastoral farmlands and springtime picnics, cottage-core has finally found a worthy predecessor. Enter coquette-core: The ultra-feminine aesthetic characterised by an abundance of pink ribbons, oversized bows and all-things whimsical.
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Amidst a male-dominated society and a hyperawareness of the socio-political issues surrounding us, our personal style has also become a reflection of the perspectives we hold and the respites we yearn for. Consciously or subconsciously, we've collectively turn inwards in search of solace—harking back to a simpler time in our youth, devoid of "adulting" stresses and the omnipresence of social issues. Having awakened an innate desire to reclaim our femininity, both acclaimed and emerging designers like Simone Rocha, Sandy Liang and Yuhan Wang have channelled this compelling desire into fashion design—creating the contemporary blueprint of coquette-core. In this whimsical interplay of lace and tulle, bows and ribbons, one thing is for certain: Girlhood isn't a fleeting trend—it's a revolution.
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The Ballet Flat
If pearl necklaces, ruffled gowns and delicate pastels are already a sartorial mainstay for you, ballet flats are the proverbial cherry on top. An underrated favourite amongst the fashion-forward, the sensible yet stylish ballerinas have came a long way. Beyond its classic pink facades, a plethora of innovative designs now dominate the runways. Below, browse through some of the most emblematic ballerinas from the spring/summer 24 collections.
The Quintessential Ballerina
The classics of all classics. Crafted in a lambskin-grosgrain blend and finished with a contrasting cap toe, the Chanel Ballet Flat exudes feminine charm with a miniature bow on top.
The 'Ribbons are Forever' Ballerina
Beyond its dainty appearance, Dior's D-Joy Ballet Flat is a spellbinding take on the classic ballet slipper. Embellished with a graceful bow and a white CD pearl, the pièce de résistance of the ballet flat are its removable grosgrain straps that elegantly wrap around the ankles.
The Metallic Ballerina
The Minimalistic Ballerina
For the fuss-free, no-frills type of gal. Made of Italian silk blend satin and finished with black elastic straps, Sandy Liang's Criss Cross Pointe is the versatile ballerina that goes with anything, literally.
The Unconventional Ballerina
Crafted in Karung leather (snakeskin), these scrunched Fendi Filo ballerinas are anything but ordinary. A metallic golden ankle strap adds a refined touch.
The Goth Ballerina
Serving up edgy grunge is Miu Miu's Leather Ballerinas. An eclectic juxtaposition of the romantic ballerina and punk-esque buckles with metal inlets—these ballet flats make a radical statement wherever you go.