How To Dress More Romantic & Feminine
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Romantic style isn’t about running through a meadow in a flowing gown—though if that’s on your bucket list, I fully support it. It’s more like adding a little extra softness and charm to your everyday wardrobe, the kind that makes you feel like life should always come with a slow-motion filter.
Let’s clear something up: romantic style doesn’t mean you have to dress like you’re starring in a Jane Austen adaptation (unless that’s your vibe, then grab that bonnet!). It’s not just frills and lace—it’s about those dreamy, effortless touches that make an outfit feel special. Think flowy skirts, floral prints, and details that say, “I woke up looking this chic,” even if you didn’t.
If you’ve ever wanted your clothes to feel like a love letter to yourself, romantic style is where it’s at. So, whether you’re new to this or just looking to add a little romance to your wardrobe, keep reading—I promise it’s not all pink hearts and ruffles.
You're absolutely right—let’s punch it up and make it more engaging. Here’s a revised take:
What Does Romantic Style Mean?
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Romantic style isn’t about hearts and roses on every sleeve (unless you’re into that). It’s about dressing like you just stepped out of a love story—but make it modern. Picture soft, flowy skirts that catch the breeze, delicate lace details, and dreamy florals that whisper, yes, I twirl in my living room sometimes.
Now, before you start imagining corsets and Shakespearean gowns, let’s clear the air. Romantic style isn’t a costume, and it’s definitely not about looking like you’re auditioning for Bridgerton. It’s about blending that soft, feminine vibe with everyday wear—like pairing a flowy blouse with high-waisted jeans or adding a hint of lace to an otherwise simple outfit.
And let’s squash the confusion while we’re here: romantic style isn’t the same as the romantic Kibbe body type. The Kibbe system is about your body’s natural structure, while romantic style is a mood—a feeling. So, whether you’re curvy, petite, tall, or somewhere in between, you can totally own it. Romantic style is for anyone who wants their wardrobe to feel like the sartorial version of a rom-com montage.
What Defines Romantic Style
Soft, flowy fabrics like chiffon and lace.
Feminine silhouettes with wrap dresses and A-line skirts.
Floral prints, delicate patterns, and pastel colors.
Dainty details like ruffles, bows, or scalloped edges.
Subtle accessories—think pearls and gold necklaces.
What Romantic Style Is Not
Skin-tight dresses that feel more club than countryside.
Loud neon prints—save those for a different occasion.
Oversized hoodies or baggy jeans.
Chunky accessories that overpower the look.
Anything that feels stiff, sharp, or overly structured.
Romantic Style vs. Cottagecore: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse romantic style with cottagecore—they both lean into soft, feminine vibes and a touch of whimsy. But while they share some overlapping qualities, they’re distinct in key ways. Let’s break it down:
Romantic Style
Romantic style is all about drama, elegance, and a hint of fantasy. Think flowy fabrics, delicate details like lace and bows, and an overall polished aesthetic. It’s less about practicality and more about feeling like the main character in your own love story. Romantic style often leans toward outfits that could fit right into a ball at a Jane Austen manor or a garden tea party.
Cottagecore Style
Cottagecore is like romantic style’s practical, outdoorsy cousin. It’s rooted in the idea of an idealized countryside life—think picnics, baking bread, and wearing breezy clothes you’d be comfortable gardening in. While romantic style leans toward fantasy and polish, cottagecore embraces comfort and simplicity. The aesthetic feels earthy and nostalgic, with outfits inspired by vintage prairie dresses and cozy knits.
Romantic Wardrobe Essentials
Flowy Dresses
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Think maxi or midi dresses with soft fabrics like chiffon or silk. Bonus points for floral prints or pastel shades.
A-Line Skirts
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Feminine and flattering, these skirts create a dreamy silhouette. Choose lace or lightweight cotton for that extra romantic vibe.
Blouses with Details
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Ruffles, lace trims, or puff sleeves—romantic tops are all about the little touches that make you feel special.
Cardigans and Wrap Sweaters
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Perfect for layering, these add softness and warmth to any outfit. Go for muted tones or delicate knits.
Soft, Feminine Colors
Shades like blush pink, lavender, cream, and baby blue are staples of the romantic style palette.
Dainty Accessories
Think pearl earrings, delicate gold necklaces, or a floral hair clip. These small touches elevate any look.
Pointed Flats and Low Heels
Shoes that are elegant yet practical, like ballet flats or kitten heels, are must-haves for the romantic wardrobe.
A Classic Trench Coat
A lightweight, belted trench is the perfect outerwear for romantic style—polished but not overpowering.
Romantic Style Icons Who Nail the Look
Taylor Swift
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If anyone could write a love song for romantic style, it’s Taylor Swift. From her dreamy red carpet gowns to her love for floral prints and vintage-inspired pieces, she perfectly captures the essence of soft, romantic dressing. Think flowy maxi dresses, dainty lace, and pastel color palettes. Taylor’s style reminds us that romantic fashion is about storytelling—every outfit feels like a scene from a fairytale.
Zoe Saldana
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Zoe Saldana brings elegance and modernity to romantic style, proving that you don’t have to go full-on frilly to embrace this aesthetic. She often leans into flowy dresses, soft fabrics, and feminine silhouettes that still feel sophisticated and wearable. Whether she’s rocking a ruffled gown or a chic blouse with subtle romantic details, Zoe shows how to keep the vibe polished yet effortlessly charming.
Ariana Grande
Image Credit: Frazer Harrison
Ariana Grande has always had a flair for the dramatic, but her recent role in Wicked has brought a fresh romantic energy to her style. Think princess-worthy dresses, bows, and soft pastel tones. Ariana’s take on romantic style is playful and fun, blending youthful charm with an ethereal edge. She’s all about embracing the fantasy while keeping it approachable.
Disclaimer: This blog post was originally published on January 17, 2023, and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness on January 18,2025.
