Move over, clean girl aesthetic—Gen Z is embracing a more dreamy, artistic vibe inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, the 19th-century art movement known for its lush, romantic depictions of women with flowing hair, glowing skin, and melancholic allure. This trend is all about soft femininity, natural textures, and vintage romanticism, offering a refreshing contrast to today’s overly curated beauty standards.
Here’s why it’s trending and how to get the look.
What Is Pre-Raphaelite Beauty?
The Pre-Raphaelites (think: Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais) painted women with:
✔ Loose, cascading waves (often red or auburn)
✔ Porcelain, luminous skin with a subtle flush
✔ Eyes that look wistful or dreamy (soft smudged liner, feathery lashes)
✔ Lips stained in berry tones (like crushed petals)
Fast-forward to 2024, and this aesthetic is resonating with Gen Z as a rebellion against heavy contouring and Instagram face.
How to Get the Pre-Raphaelite Look
1. The Hair: Wild, Romantic Waves
Key Traits:
- Undone curls (not too polished)
- Deep side parts for drama
- Hair ribbons or floral clips for a medieval touch
How to Style: - Use a texturizing spray (Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray)
- Braid damp hair overnight for effortless waves
- Add a velvet scrunchie for a vintage vibe
2. The Skin: Lit-From-Within Glow
Key Traits:
- No heavy foundation—just spot concealing
- Dewy, slightly translucent finish
- Natural flush (like you’ve been walking in a misty forest)
Products to Use: - Glossier Futuredew for a glassy sheen
- Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Hope” (soft pink)
- Saie Glowy Super Gel for subtle highlight
3. The Eyes: Smoldering Yet Soft
Key Traits:
- Smudged brown liner (no harsh wings)
- Feathery, natural lashes
- Subtle shimmer on lids (gold or peach tones)
How to Do It: - Line eyes with MAC Eye Kohl in “Teddy” and smudge
- Use Glossier Lash Slick for defined but wispy lashes
- Dab RMS Beauty Living Luminizer on lids
4. The Lips: Berry-Stained & Slightly Bitten
Key Traits:
- Blurred edges (no sharp lip liner)
- Sheer berry or rose tones
- Just-blotted appearance
Products to Try: - Merit Signature Lipstick in “Baby”
- Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Stain
- Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in “Pink Sugar”
Why Gen Z Loves This Trend
✔ Anti-perfection – Celebrates natural textures and flaws
✔ Sustainable – Less makeup waste, more multi-use products
✔ Nostalgic – Taps into vintage and fantasy aesthetics (Bridgerton, LOTR vibes)
✔ Gender-fluid – Anyone can embrace the romantic look
Modern Twists on the Trend
- E-girl meets Pre-Raphaelite – Pair smudged liner with faux freckles
- Dark Academia version – Deeper berry lips + moody undertones
- Cottagecore crossover – Add floral hair vines and puff sleeves
Final Verdict
Pre-Raphaelite beauty is the ultimate romantic, low-maintenance trend for those who want to look ethereal without looking overdone. It’s perfect for everyday wear, weddings, or even just a moody photoshoot.
Will you try the Pre-Raphaelite look? Tag us in your romantic beauty transformations!
