What You Need To Know About The Japanese-Inspired Dollcore Trend

 

With its whimsical and nostalgic elements, dollcore has captured the hearts of many individuals looking to dress and decorate in a way that reflects their love for doll-like aesthetics.

Dollcore, a captivating trend that encompasses enchanting dollhouses, cuddly teddy bears, and charming small tea cups, has woven its way into the vibrant world of fashion and beauty. This trend has been steadily gaining momentum, captivating the hearts of many with its spectacular results. 

The term “Dollcore” emerged in the early 2000s, while the aesthetic itself traces its roots back to the mid-20th century when dolls like Barbie and miniature houses and accessories reigned supreme. In the late 2010s, the beauty trend experienced a magnificent explosion, offering a delightful counterbalance to the seriousness of prevailing fashion trends. It became a way to cherish childhood memories while infusing fashion with whimsy and joy.

This captivating trend owes much of its allure to the rich influence of Japanese culture. Dollcore has wholeheartedly embraced the Japanese concept of “kawaii,” which translates to “cute” in English. Kawaii embodies the essence of cuteness and playfulness, and its presence can be felt not only in Japanese fashion and design but also in everyday life. The origins of the kawaii style can be traced back to postwar Japan, where there was a deep longing to cultivate a sense of childlike innocence and optimism.

Cute mascots like Hello Kitty and beloved characters like the Powerpuff Girls played a crucial role in spreading the kawaii culture. This adorable aesthetic quickly influenced the world of fashion, with renowned brands such as Sanrio and Baby and The Stars Shine Bright leading the way. Greta Gerwig’s new Barbie movie has also contributed to the popularity of the all-encompassing aesthetic with its focus on dolls.

Dollcore fashion encapsulates the whimsical essence of the kawaii aesthetic, showcasing its doll-like qualities through delicate pastel hues, intricate ruffles, and playful frills. It draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of traditional Japanese design, taking cues from the enchanting Lolita style that seamlessly blends Victorian-inspired elements like petticoats and ruffled blouses with vibrant cartoon motifs and vibrant colors. The allure of Dollcore lies in its ability to harmoniously merge the old and the new, creating a captivating fashion statement that resonates with many.

As for the impact of Dollcore on makeup, this delightful style embraces a delicate and doll-like appearance, characterized by soft, rounded contours and gentle pastel shades. Dollcore makeup often features rosy cheeks, a touch of glitter, and eyeshadows in dreamy pastel hues. Eyeliner is used sparingly or even omitted to achieve a charming and youthful effect reminiscent of a doll’s visage. This style stands in stark contrast to the mature and glamorous looks that have dominated the fashion scene in recent years.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ７７７ (@jnwluv)

To achieve a captivating Dollcore makeup look, follow these step-by-step instructions:

• Step 1:

Prep your face – Start by cleansing and moisturizing your skin. Apply a lightweight primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup, ensuring it stays flawless throughout the day.

• Step 2:

Apply foundation – Use a light coverage foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone. Blend it evenly for a subtle and youthful appearance. Conceal any imperfections or under-eye circles with a creamy concealer, gently blending with your fingertips or a sponge.

• Step 3:

Create soft, rosy cheeks – Dollcore makeup often features soft and rosy cheeks for a youthful and innocent look. Apply a delicate pink or peach blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending it outwards towards your temples with a fluffy blush brush for a natural flush of color.

• Step 4:

Enhance brightness – Apply a shimmering eyeshadow to your eyelids in neutral shades like champagne, ivory, or pale pink. Add a slightly darker hue to the crease for definition, blending gently for a subtle and ethereal effect.

• Step 5:

Accentuate the doll-like gaze – Line your upper lash line with a thin stroke of black or brown eyeliner to emphasize the doll-like look. Keep the line close to the lashes for a natural effect. Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes to create fluttery doll-like eyes. You can also use a white eye pencil to line your waterline.

• Step 6: 

Define and soften brows – Dollcore makeup features well-defined yet soft brows. Fill in any sparse areas with an eyebrow pencil or powder, using light strokes to mimic natural hair. Comb through your brows with a spoolie brush for a softer, more natural appearance.

• Step 7: 

Create doll-like lips – Opt for delicate, natural lip colors such as baby pink, coral, or peach. Use a lip balm or sheer lipstick for a moisturized and subtle finish. Add a touch of gloss to the center of your lips to achieve a pouty and youthful look that enhances the doll-like image.

To complete the Dollcore look, add the final touches with a soft and subtle highlighter. Apply the highlighter to the highest points of your face, like the cheekbones, brow bone, and the tip of your nose. Use a fan brush or a small fluffy brush to achieve a gentle glow that enhances your doll-like radiance.