Rococo fashion style is back, and it’s bringing all the drama (minus the breathing restrictions).
The Rococo period in history is known for its extravagant art and architecture. Marie Antoinette is a great example of Rococo’s characteristic opulence, intricate details, and whimsy. Rococo is making a more subtle comeback in modern fashion.
Characteristics of Rococo Fashion Style
Colors
Modern rococo style fashion will keep the elegant and soft color palette we saw in the 18th century.
- Pastels – soft pinks, mint greens, powder blues, and lilacs.
- Neutrals – cream, ivory, and champagne her a sophisticated base.
- Metallics – gold and silver for accents or embroidery.
- Floral tones – colors inspired by nature: rose blush, daisy yellow, and sage green.
- Modern contracts – add bold hues like crimson or midnight blue for a fresh, dramatic flair.
Print
Rococo prints look fancy and romantic, like things from rich people’s homes in the 1700s.
- Bird and Nature Designs: Pictures of birds, butterflies, and vines, like in old paintings.
- Flower Designs: Pretty flowers like roses, peonies, or daisies.
- Fancy Repeating Patterns: Ornate designs that look like old, woven fabrics.
- Countryside Scenes: Pictures of country life, often in one color.
- Swirly Designs: Fancy, curved lines like you’d see in old buildings.
Fabrics
Prints are often paired with soft, flowing fabrics to keep the graceful and luxurious aesthetic. Common choices include:
- Silk
- Satin
- Tulle
- Velvet
- Lace
- Organza
- Chiffon
Silhouettes
You won’t have to wear those old, uncomfortable dresses from the 1700s! We’ve taken the pretty shapes from that time and made them comfy for today.
- Simple fitted tops with wider skirts, like A-line dresses.
- Dresses that are tight under the bust to make you look taller.
- Frills and flowy fabric that look like the fancy Rococo style.
- Tops that cinch at the waist, like a corset, or have a little flare (peplum).
- Big, puffy sleeves like balloon or bell sleeves.
These modern clothes look like the fancy Rococo style, but are easy to wear and look up-to-date.
Common Details Found in Modern Rococo Fashion
Modern rococo style fashion has fancy little details that make them look special:
- Fancy Stitches: Pretty flower or swirly patterns sewn on the clothes.
- Lots of Frills: Ruffles and frills going down sleeves, around the neck, or on the skirts.
- Lace: Lace added to collars, sleeves, or over other fabrics.
- Sparkles and Pearls: Beads and pearls that make the clothes shine.
- Gold and Silver: Shiny gold or silver threads, buttons, or designs.
- Big, Fancy Add-ons: Things like puffy sleeves, peplums, or flowy sashes.
- Corset Looks: Clothes that look like old-fashioned corsets, but are comfy and stylish.
Trademark Items in Rococo Fashion Style
- Corset-style tops
- Pannier-Inspired Skirts: full, dramatic skirts
- Embroidered jacket: tailored with intricate floral on metallic embellishment
- Elaborate hair accessories, headbands and combs
- Statement fans
- Pearl jewelry
- Dainty gloves
- Ruffled blouses
- Bows & ribbons
- Platformed heeled shoe
Moodboard
Building Your Rococo Capsule Wardrobe
Basic Instructions
A capsule wardrobe is like a mini closet filled with your favorite clothes that all go together. It’s about having fewer pieces but more outfits, making getting dressed a breeze! Go to Capsule Wardrobe, for my in-depth guide on creating your own capsule wardrobe.
Items
Rococo Sample Outfits
