If a world of playful extravagance and over-the-top blush sounds like your thing, chances are the Rococo Revival aesthetic is already on your radar. Inspired by the elegance of 18th-century France, this increasingly popular trend is all about embracing the whimsical with a fresh, contemporary twist. Think frills, curls, bows, and doll-like glam, perfect for anyone who wants to feel fancy without the full-time powdered wig. From ultra-feminine hairstyles to sweet, portrait-worthy makeup and nails, we’ve put together the ultimate guide on how to bring the Rococo Revival trend to life.
What is the Rococo Revival aesthetic?
The Rococo Revival trend reimagines the lavish elegance of 18th-century French Rococo for the modern day. It pairs soft pastels with intricate details, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and drama. From puffed sleeves and delicate bows to sugary makeup and meticulously styled hair, it’s a celebration of femininity, artistry, and theatrical flair, without ever feeling like too much. You may have first spotted the trend through artists like Chappell Roan, who have been channeling bold, Rococo-inspired fashion and beauty long before it became mainstream. And artists like Sarbina Carpenter are also embracing the ultra-feminine, doll-inspired aesthetic.
How to do Rococo Revival Makeup
1. Start with a dewy base: Prep your skin with the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Serum Tint for a lightweight, radiant finish. It evens out your complexion while keeping that fresh, glowing, your-skin-but-better look.
2. Set your skin: Apply the Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder lightly under the eyes and on the T-zone to keep your base in place without losing the glow. For a soft, lavender undertone, try the shade Ube Birthday Cake, which adds a subtle, silky blush effect.
3. Add a flush of blush: Sweep the Flower Knows Violet Strawberry Rococo Embossed Blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Focus on a soft, circular motion to create a doll-like flush that’s straight from the Rococo era.
4. Play with pastel eyeshadow: Open the Flower Knows Strawberry Cupid Makeup Palette and pick your favourite soft pinks, peaches, and taupes. Apply a light shade over the lid and use a slightly deeper tone in the crease for subtle dimension.
5. Add some shimmer: For an added whimsical touch, grab the By BEAUTY BAY Mini Charms 9 Colour Palette. Dab the shade Aurora over your lid, onto your cheekbones, and on the tip of your nose for that pinky, doll-like shine.
6. Define your lashes: Curl your lashes and coat them with Huda Beauty 1 Coat WOW! Mascara to give your lashes an instant boost of volume and drama.
Rococo Revival Makeup You’ll Need
Rococo Revival Hair
Rococo Revival hair embraces curls, volume, and details that make a statement. They range from soft, cascading waves and delicate braids to carefully sculpted updos. Hair accessories like bows, ribbons, or pearl pins are also key, instantly giving it that signature Rococo charm. To achieve the look, start with voluminous curls or waves, tease lightly at the crown for lift, and finish with carefully placed accessories to add a touch of romance.
Rococo Revival Hair Essentials You’ll Need
Rococo Revival Nails
Rococo Revival nails are like tiny works of art, with delicate, watercolor-inspired designs and dreamy pastels. They feature soft pinks, powder blues, and lilacs adorned with swirls, florals, pearls, or even miniature bow motifs for that extra dainty touch. To get the look, start with a pastel or sheer base, then layer on hand-painted accents or nail stickers for a precise, ornate finish. Seal it all with a glossy top coat to complete your Rococo manicure masterpiece.
