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SZA made a memorable appearance at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards on Thursday night. The event celebrates the contributions of exceptional songwriters across genres. For SZA, the night was a significant milestone in her music career as she was honored with the prestigious Contemporary Icon Award. In true SZA fashion, the “Snooze” singer turned heads in a “coquette girl” outfit covered in ruffles and pearls.

SZA’s flirty ‘coquette girl’ aesthetic

SZA stands with Kevin Bacon, Nile Rodgers, and Michael Bacon before the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction
Kevin Bacon, Nile Rodgers, SZA and Michael Bacon at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala | L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame

SZA’s outfit for the evening was as captivating as her performance. She graced the awards show in a white Bridgerton-esque mini dress. The pale blue number featured a white lacy halter top and corseted bodice. A vintage-style cameo brooch was pinned to the bust, and curtain-style lace covered the dress’s tiered hemline. The soft pastel hues complemented the “Saturn” singer’s complexion beautifully.

Singer SZA and Nile Rodgers speak onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala
SZA and Nile Rodgers onstage at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala on June 13, 2024 | Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame

SZA styled her dress with a pearl collar necklace and sheer thigh-high stockings with white satin bows. She added a light blue ruffly handbag to the ensemble. The 34-year-old demonstrated the perfect “coquette girl aesthetic.”

What is the ‘coquette girl’ aesthetic?

The look features a charming and playful style combined with elements of vintage femininity and whimsy. The coquette style involves ruffled and lacy dresses and skirts and lingerie-inspired corsets and slip dresses. The style’s feminine details include puffed sleeves, bows, and Peter Pan collars.

Wearing a ruffled dress, SZA speaks onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala
SZA speaks onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala | Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame

Other features of the “coquette girl aesthetic” include soft, voluminous curls and hair accessories like bows, ribbons, and barrettes. The look’s natural makeup focuses on rosy cheeks and fluttery eyelashes. SZA gave us just that. The “Kill Bill” singer’s hair was styled in voluminous waves. Her makeup highlighted her radiant skin — a perfect blend of ethereal and modern, much like her music.

Wear a blue and red jacket, SZA performs during the 2024 Dreamville Music Festival
SZA at the 2024 Dreamville Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina | Astrida Valigorsky/WireImage

Throughout the Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards, SZA was a focal point of admiration, reports Variety. Receiving the Contemporary Icon Award served as a testament to her ability to shape the musical landscape with her voice and songwriting.

Wearing a black and white ruffled dress, SZA arrives to her sunglass collab launch with Quay at Soho House
SZA shows off another “coquette girl aesthetic” look in 2024 | Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

When SZA took the stage to accept her award, she delivered an acceptance speech that was both heartfelt and inspiring. The “All the Stars” singer began by expressing her profound gratitude to the Songwriters Hall of Fame for the honor. She spoke candidly about her journey in the music industry.

Wearing a black and white ruffled dress, SZA arrives to her sunglass collab launch with Quay at Soho House
SZA arrives to her sunglass collab launch with Quay on May 16, 2024 in LA | Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Image
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The St. Louis native reflected on the challenges she faced and the importance of authenticity in her work. She dedicated her award to all aspiring songwriters, emphasizing the power of perseverance and staying true to one’s artistic vision. “This award is not just for me. It’s for every songwriter out there who’s ever felt unheard or underestimated. Your words matter, and your stories deserve to be told.”