Aging myself here, but back in the day, fashion aesthetics were pretty straightforward! You had your classic goths, horse girls, emo kids, preps, and the iconic Y2K style enthusiasts. Maybe there were a few more, but nothing compared to today’s dizzying variety!
Jump to 2024, and the fashion scene has exploded, thanks in large part to Instagram and TikTok. Trends are everywhere! From the punk revival led by pop princess Olivia Rodrigo to millions of soft-girl hashtags flooding social media, there’s never been a better time to switch up your style. Whether you’re drawn to the soft, femme vibes of the coquette aesthetic or leaning into the “coastal grandmother” look straight out of a Diane Keaton film, there’s an aesthetic for everyone.
Below, we’ll revisit some timeless aesthetics and dive into 21 trendy styles. So, if you’re itching to refresh your wardrobe or simply decode the latest fashion jargon, keep reading!
Kidcore
Kidcore is all about embracing your inner child through fun colors and prints. Expect to see rainbow-themed clothing, vibrant patterns, and playful accessories that nod to beloved childhood brands like Barbie, Nickelodeon, and Beanie Babies. This aesthetic is all about carefree vibes, bold prints, and a sense of pure, whimsical joy.
Early 2000s Aesthetic
Y2K nostalgia is officially back, bringing with it baby tees, logomania, and tiny miniskirts we all loved (or hated) in the early 2000s. These pieces have been modernized with a trendy twist—think oversized hobo bags, low-rise jeans, and fitted crop tops. Perfect for recreating that edgy, retro vibe with a contemporary flair.
Skater
You don’t need to master a skateboard to nail this aesthetic. It’s centered around effortlessly cool pieces: oversized band tees, baggy jeans, cargo pants, and chunky sneakers. Complete the look with a beanie or backward cap for that laid-back, streetwise vibe, perfect for cruising through city streets.
Y2K Pop Punk
Y2K pop punk is all about edge and attitude. Picture Avril Lavigne’s iconic style—plaid skirts, corsets, chunky boots, and band tees, but updated for 2024 with a modern twist. Thanks to Olivia Rodrigo, this moody aesthetic is all about channeling teenage rebellion in the most stylish way possible.
Twee
The twee aesthetic, made popular on Tumblr in the early 2010s, features Peter Pan collars, full skirts, and vibrant tights. It’s essentially New Girl’s Jessica Day wardrobe, but with a modern upgrade: loafers replacing flats and statement collars taking center stage. Add vintage pieces to bring in a timeless, chic element.
’90s Style
The ’90s aesthetic is back in full force, dominating fashion trends everywhere. Key elements include high-waisted denim, plaid skirts, slip dresses, and strappy sandals. It’s all about layering—pair a slip dress with a bucket hat and throw on some tiny sunglasses to channel your favorite ’90s icon.
E-Girl
Borrowing from anime and internet culture, the E-girl aesthetic is bold and eclectic. Think dyed hair (often with a focus on the front sections), exaggerated eye makeup, and playful face details like heart stamps or faux freckles. Accessories such as hair clips, mesh tops, chokers, and silver jewelry complete this ultra-stylized look.
Soft Girl
The soft girl aesthetic is about embracing a romantic, pastel-colored palette. Outfits typically feature pleated skirts, florals, sweater vests, cardigans, and playful hair barrettes. To add some contrast, pair these with chunky boots or a sleek black bag. It’s the ultimate blend of sweetness with a hint of edge.
Dark Academia
Dark Academia channels the scholarly vibes of an elite East Coast university. Staples include tweed blazers, sweater vests, and pleated trousers, with color palettes of deep browns, blacks, and maroons. Add leather-bound books and oxford shoes to fully embody this rich, literary-inspired style.
Grunge
A throwback to the late ’80s and ’90s music scene, the grunge aesthetic features flannels, mesh tops, combat boots, layered chokers, and band tees. It’s the anti-fashion statement, focusing on a worn-in, edgy look. Mix plaid patterns and dark lipstick to channel this iconic, effortlessly cool vibe.
VSCO Girl
Named after the popular photo-editing app, the VSCO girl aesthetic is rooted in simplicity and comfort. Essentials include white sneakers or Birkenstocks, high-waisted shorts, oversized tees, scrunchies, and Hydroflask water bottles. Add a seashell necklace and a messy bun to embody this effortlessly chill and somewhat beachy vibe.
Cottagecore
Cottagecore is all about living your countryside fantasy. Imagine flowing prairie dresses, floral prints, and delicate eyelet fabrics. Brands like Christy Dawn and Hill House Home specialize in pieces that embody this aesthetic, allowing you to bring a sense of whimsical, garden-party elegance to your everyday wardrobe.
Art Ho
Originating on Tumblr, Art Ho is a creative movement that expresses individuality through art and fashion. Vintage outfits, often in shades of yellow, paired with nature-inspired accessories, define this look. It’s a statement on identity and self-expression, channeling a unique mix of artistic and bohemian vibes.
Baddie
The Baddie aesthetic is all about looking glam and put-together, perfectly suited for the Instagram grid. Bodycon dresses, full makeup, sleek hairstyles, and designer accessories are key components. Inspired by beauty bloggers and the Kardashian-Jenner clan, it’s about embracing your bold, confident self with a high-fashion edge.
Normcore
Normcore embraces ordinary, simple outfits with a minimalist approach. It’s about basics: plain tees, relaxed-fit jeans, and classic sneakers. Think Jerry Seinfeld’s effortless style—a rejection of the flashy in favor of comfortable, timeless pieces. The more unassuming and neutral, the better you’ve captured this laid-back aesthetic.
Coquette
Feminine, delicate, and undeniably charming, the Coquette aesthetic is for those who adore lace, bows, ruffles, and soft colors. This look is all about feeling dainty and flirty, perfect for anyone who loves to dress in a romantic, dreamy way. Pair it with rosy makeup and dainty jewelry for an enchanting vibe.
Clean Girl
Minimalist yet polished, the Clean Girl aesthetic focuses on neutral tones, sleek hairstyles, and glossy makeup. Picture sleek back buns, bodysuits, and a wardrobe filled with cream and beige basics. It’s the epitome of effortless sophistication—minimal styling with maximum impact, giving off a fresh, elevated allure.
Tomato Girl
Tomato Girl is a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic that mixes romantic silhouettes with vivid pops of red. It’s about embodying the sweetness and playfulness of a Mediterranean summer. Pair this look with a matching red lip or blush for an effortlessly chic and sun-kissed style.
Coconut Girl
The Coconut Girl aesthetic screams beachy, carefree vibes. Key pieces include swimsuits, light crochet layers, seashell jewelry, and flowy summer dresses. This trend is perfect for those who dream of tropical getaways and endless summer days. Bonus points if you accessorize with a coconut drink in hand!
Coastal Grandmother
If Diane Keaton’s beachy Hamptons look speaks to you, then this is your vibe. The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic revolves around earth-tone knits, nautical stripes, breezy fabrics, and lots of white or cream. It captures that laid-back, Cape Cod charm with a refined and sophisticated edge.
Light Academia
Light Academia takes the same prep-school inspiration but with a softer, more romantic approach. Outfits in whites, creams, and beiges create a dreamy, sophisticated aesthetic. Pair a light trench coat with a cozy sweater and loafers to capture the essence of this elegant, airy vibe.
FAQs
1. How does the Grunge aesthetic differ from the Soft Girl aesthetic?
Grunge leans into dark, edgy elements like flannels, combat boots, and layered chokers, whereas Soft Girl embraces pastel colors, florals, and playful accessories for a more delicate and romantic look.
2. What are the key pieces to achieve a Normcore outfit?
For a Normcore look, stick to the basics: plain tees, relaxed-fit jeans, classic sneakers, and minimal accessories. The focus is on simplicity and comfort, avoiding any trends that feel overly flashy.
3. How can I mix and match different aesthetics?
Experiment by blending contrasting styles. Pair a soft girl cardigan with grunge-inspired chunky boots, or incorporate coquette lace details into a clean girl minimalist outfit. Mixing pieces lets you express your unique fashion identity!
