There’s something about a distinct, specific aesthetic that just does it for us, and what’s come out of the creative world of fashion does not disappoint. So many unique aesthetics have become both popular and widely available–from clothes to accessories to beauty looks and more.
That said, it feels like there’s a new trending look every other day (thank you TikTok), which can be a little hard to keep up with. So we’re taking a moment to break down 2024’s fashion aesthetics, listing the ones we loved, the ones we wish we had tried, and the ones we plan to try next year! Scroll on for the most popular core aesthetics to know next time you’re planning an outfit (or just because)!
Balletcore
The ballerina aesthetic is feminine, sweet, and soft–sort of the romantic version of the Barbiecore trend. Ballerina fashion–or balletcore, as it’s been dubbed, is very much a fantasy vibe, and should include lots of tulle, sweetheart necklines, and of course ribbons! Soft makeup-inspired colors like blush, beige and other neutrals are cornerstones of this dancer aesthetic. One of our favorite ways to add a little ballerina to your everyday look is with accessories like a pair of lace-up blush satin pumps, ballet flats, or a hair bow.
Indie Sleaze
If you’re a rebel without a care and love the effortless vibes of the early late 2010s, the indie sleaze aesthetic is your look. Indie sleaze takes a non-conformist approach to style, combining modern streetwear with vintage edge. Think distressed denim, graphic t-shirts, and oversized jackets layered with fishnet stockings or mesh tops for a grungy yet playful vibe. Accessories like chunky boots, layered jewelry, and statement belts add to the rebellious, cool aesthetic of indie sleaze.
Coquette Aesthetic
The coquette aesthetic is characterized by flirtatiousness, charm, and femininity with a hint of innocence and elegant allure. It often involves delicate and romantic clothing pieces such as lace dresses, lots of ruffles, and floral prints.
Accessories like bows, pearls, and kitten heels are commonly used to enhance the playful, flirtatious nature of the coquette aesthetic. Think sweet and sophisticated with a hint of sexy and you’re all the way there!
Mob Wife Aesthetic
If you were dazzled by Ginger’s glamorous gowns in Casino or if Carmela Soprano is #goals, the mob wife aesthetic is for you. It’s loud, sexy, and features fur coats, big pieces of statement jewelry and perfectly-styled hair and makeup. This style oozes confidence and power–there’s no such thing as too much with this in-your-face aesthetic.
To dress like a mob wife, lean into animal prints, embossed leather, and gold– everywhere. Luxe fabrics like satin, leather, and faux fur, as well as embellishments like sequins and funky trim, are perfect for this look.
Quiet Luxury
Stealth Wealth, or Quiet Luxury, is a simple, elegant aesthetic that exudes luxury without obvious markers. You won’t find any big logos or trending shapes here; instead, Stealth Wealth leans into classic, tailored silhouettes. Neutral shades reign supreme, and cashmere and other luxe fabrics are commonly used. Blazers and other outerwear are commonly seen as a top layer to create extra depth and dimension to the outfits.
To dress in this style, look for minimalist designs and timeless, sophisticated pieces. The ultimate goal is a refined, sophisticated look inspired by Succession, the Olsen twins, and Gwyneth Paltrow’s courtroom outfits. The emphasis is on subtle luxury, where the quality and craftsmanship speak for themselves.
Coastal Cowgirl
The love child of Coastal Grandmother and Westerncore, Coastal Cowgirl is inspired by the free-spirited lifestyle of the American West and a laid-back coastal vibe. Think cowgirl boots, denim and chambray shirts, flowy sundresses, and wide-brimmed hats.
The Coastal Cowgirl color palette often incorporates earth tones, denim blues, and pops of vibrant accent colors. This aesthetic captures the essence of adventure, freedom, and a connection to nature and embraces a sense of individuality.
Tomato Girl
Yes, you read that right. While it sounds kind of funny, the Tomato Girl summer aesthetic is not actually about growing produce–it’s more about the location and old-world culture that juicy, fresh tomatoes represent. Think Mediterranean seaside villages, linen dresses, tile mosaics, espadrilles, woven market totes, and an overall decidedly retro vibe.
Basically, if you’re not sipping an Aperol Spritz or eating gelato while wearing oversized sunglasses and a hair scarf, you’re doing Tomato Girl wrong. Ruffles, fruit prints, gingham, and of course, red are all key elements of this European summer aesthetic.
Baddie
You are *that* girl. The baddie aesthetic is all about confidence, and it doesn’t hurt if you know how to put together an effortlessly sexy outfit, too.
Baddie fashion is tight, a little revealing, a little sporty (think wide leg pants and lounge-style sets), and definitely accessorized. The baddie bag always matches the outfit, and you’ll never catch her without a hot shoe.
Barbiecore
Never underestimate the power of the most iconic doll in history! There’s only one rule when it comes to Barbiecore fashion: it must be pink–and preferably hot pink.
If you can imagine the iconic Barbie wearing your outfit, you’re definitely doing it right. Barbiecore is glitzy, glamorous, excessive, and hyper-feminine; combined, this popular aesthetic feels super powerful and empowering.
Coastal Grandmother
The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic is honestly so perfect for fall since it combines chic, natural fabrics with comfortable design. Refined yet simple and cozy, this fashion trend is one of our favorites for work outfits, weekend brunch, and relaxing vacations where we want to feel like we’re wearing sweatpants–without actually wearing sweatpants.
Mermaidcore
Whether you were a mermaid lover as a kid, or you’re just trying to live your H2O: Just Add Water fantasy this year, the Mermaidcore aesthetic is the grownup way to play dress-up for summer! Wear sequins and shiny fabrics to mimic gorgeous iridescent scales and mermaid tails.
This look doesn’t have to feel costumey, either. To get the Mermaidcore vibe, toss on crochet pieces that feel like tangled seaweed, choose silhouettes with plisse pleating to create movement, or opt for metallic oceanic hues. The idea is to nod to the sirens of the sea without giving cosplay.
Vintage Aesthetic
What’s old is new, and what’s out is in again! The vintage aesthetic embraces styles from previous decades, and celebrates nostalgia, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. This aesthetic values authenticity and individuality, encouraging you to express your personal style while honoring the past.
To rock the vintage look, find foundation pieces and accessories inspired by your favorite eras. Repros of classic pieces abound, and thrifting is a great way to bring this look to life.
Cottagecore
Cottagecore fashion is whimsical and rustic, inspired by fairytales and rural life. Heavy on earth tones, soft colors, natural hues, and organic patterns, Cottagecore should feel both practical and romantic.
This fashion aesthetic is like something you could wear in the garden whether you’re gathering vegetables or sipping tea with friends. Think ditsy floral prints, smocked details, flowy skirts, and puff sleeves.
Fairycore
If Cottagecore isn’t ethereal enough for you, Fairycore might be your perfect aesthetic. Think flowing skirts, earthy woodland colors, and hints of shimmer and embellishment. Fairycore is all about little touches of magic and creating a dreamy atmosphere through your clothing and accessories.
Fairycore outfits often include touches of the strange and unusual mixed with nature. Soft, flowing fabrics like lace, tulle, and chiffon are favored, often in pastel colors such as pale pinks, blues, greens, and lavenders. The aesthetic incorporates elements like floral patterns, ribbons, bows, and delicate embroidery. Layering, ruffles, and voluminous silhouettes add to the romantic and enchanting vibe. You can go all-out with accessories like flower crowns and even wings, as well as sparkling statement jewelry.
Gothcore
If Wednesday Addams is your style icon, you already understand the essence of Gothcore. Black is of course the color of choice, so you’ll mostly be making fabric, silhouette, and detail choices. Details that might traditionally feel soft—like lace—feel powerful and mysterious in all-black and translate perfectly to the hot goth look.
Romcom Core
If you grew up watching romantic comedies and crushing on leading ladies like Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston (or Garner!), or Kate Hudson, you’ll instantly recognize Y2K-era romcom core. The vibe is comfortable, feminine, and effortlessly sexy, all with a touch of practicality that makes this aesthetic feel oh-so relatable.
Westerncore
Do you ever find yourself dreaming of dancing through fields of flowers, or living a Little House on the Prarie style life? Westerncore toes the line between cowgirl aesthetic and Cottagecore—feeling simultaneously practical and whimsical.
Floral prints, long skirts, and boots are a hallmark of this trend, as is love accessorizing with boots, wide-brimmed hats, and simple leather accessories. And of course, denim is a Westerncore staple.
Dark Academia vs. Light Academia
Dark Academia
The academia fashion trend is heavily influenced by vintage fashion within the academic subculture, specifically worn by college students, professors, and so-called “intellectuals” in classic literature and media. Often inspired by European fashion aesthetics, academia fashion is closely related to preppy fashion.
Light Academia
Dark and light academia are subgenres of the larger academia umbrella. Dark academia takes inspiration from darker, more somber sources, for example, the poetry of Poe. Light academia is quite literally lighter, using more classic academic themes like sweaters, beige and tan tones, and leathers.
Grunge
Whether you have been feeling nostalgic for the ’90s, or you were born in the ’90s and didn’t truly get to enjoy 90s fashion, it’s time to live your grunge fantasy! Grunge fashion is loose, gritty, and androgenous–designed to create a straight silhouette that de-emphasizes curves.
Sometimes compared to skater or punk fashion, grunge clothing often includes distressed or raw edge details–rugged denim and plaid are a must! For extra effect, add a knit beanie or chunky combat boots.
Normcore
Normcore fashion is all about getting back to basics. This fashion aesthetic rejects abundance and pretense and embraces practicality and simplicity.
Norm core is down-to-earth, feels blue-collar, and is in many ways a way of dressing as a statement of solidarity with regular, average, working-class people. It’s unisex, consisting of staples like button up tops, jeans, sneakers, baseball caps, and tees. Some people dress in normcore fashion ironically, while others use it as a form of self-expression. Either way, we love the vibes.
Pearlcore
Pearlcore is exactly what it sounds like: an aesthetic heavily inspired by pearls! From pearl embellishments and accessories to full pearl purses, there is never too much pearl if you’re trying to achieve full Pearlcore.
Soft Girl
Soft girl fashion is cute, feminine, sweet, and well…soft! Think living-doll, pastels, and 90s-inspired crop tops, skirts and dresses, and you’ve come pretty close to soft girl vibes. The soft girl aesthetic is inspired somewhat by social media and popular soft girl icons like Ariana Grande.
Y2K
Y2K fashion is sometimes described as retro-futurism, pulling inspiration from vintage styles with a modern edge. A Y2K wardrobe should include shiny fabrics, metallics, denim clothing (not just jeans) ruched details, and more. Chunky platform shoes, shield sunglasses, crop tops, cargos, shoulder bags, cowl necklines, tube tops and dresses are all key Y2K outfit essentials!
Which is your favorite look from this fashion aesthetics list? Tell us in the comments or show us your “core” style on Instagram or TikTok @lulus using #lovelulus––and shop the latest from What’s New!
This post was originally published in 2022 and has been updated with new content.
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what about, like, ALL THE OTHER ONES