Move over, dark academia and whimsigoth
The Ice Princess aesthetic is here to dazzle this winter. Defined by glittering makeup, cozy textures, and frosty tones, this shimmering trend is making waves on TikTok. While it hasn’t been studied as extensively as its autumn counterparts, the Ice Princess aesthetic is carving out its frosty niche, blending elegance with a touch of whimsy. With a cool-toned palette of icy blues, silvers, and whites, it’s a perfect look to embrace the season’s magic. But where did this trend originate, and how can you nail the look? Let’s explore, inspired by Elsa’s iconic line: Let it go.
Origins of the Ice Princess Aesthetic
Sometimes referred to as “snow princess” or “ice skating princess,” this aesthetic has been simmering online since at least 2021, with creators like TikTok’s @the_aesthetics_place_ sharing early edits. At first glance, the aesthetic might seem rooted in the “ice queen” trope—a mysterious, beautiful, and aloof character archetype, like Elsa from Frozen.
However, the Ice Princess aesthetic is less about attitude and more about visuals. It aligns with TV Tropes’ “Winter Royal Lady”—a character whose style evokes snow and winter elegance. Elsa’s signature cool-toned makeup and regal outfits serve as an inspiration, but the trend draws heavily from figure skating costumes and makeup, as well as early 2000s glam.
While there’s no set lifestyle associated with this aesthetic, some TikTok creators embrace ice skating as a fitting pastime. Disney’s 2005 film Ice Princess also influences the trend, with its glittery figure skating outfits and transformation narrative offering plenty of stylistic cues.
Makeup: Frosty Glam Meets Y2K
Ice Princess makeup is all about frosty finishes and holiday-ready glam, making it a standout look for winter festivities. The key elements include:
- Icy Eyeshadow: Channel early 2000s Britney Spears with frosty shades of silver and blue.
- Shimmering Highlighter: Apply gleaming highlighter for that lit-from-within glow.
- Glossy Lips: Opt for shiny, shimmery lip gloss for a frosted pout.
TikTok creators like @anna_annora credit Sabrina Carpenter for popularizing this wintry beauty trend, blending Y2K aesthetics with modern flair.
Fashion: Opulent Glitz and Cozy Textures
Ice Princess fashion combines the glitz of the McBling/Y2K era with cozy winter elements, creating a chic and playful look. Key pieces include:
- Faux Fur: Think fur-trimmed dresses, coats, and sweaters for a regal touch.
- Fluffy Accessories: Incorporate stoles, fur hats, cable-knit tights, and snow boots in wintery hues like white, pink, or blue.
- Luxurious Fabrics: Satin, bouclé, and other soft textures perfectly complement this aesthetic.
- Coquette Details: Bows, lace, and dainty embellishments—borrowed from the coquette aesthetic—add a feminine flair.
Examples and Inspiration
Now that you know the essentials, let your imagination sparkle. From cozy fur-lined coats to frosty makeup, the Ice Princess aesthetic offers endless opportunities to shine this winter. Whether you’re hitting an ice rink or sipping cocoa by the fire, this look ensures you reign supreme in seasonal glam.
