As someone who spends a large part of her life on the internet, I happen to consider myself well versed in the world of aesthetics. To some, the ever-changing aesthetics may seem like silly fads on social media, but to others like me, they're fascinating. While we commonly see specific fashion items grow in popularity (e.g., platforms, balaclavas, etc.), a trending aesthetic opens the door to a whole lifestyle—sometimes as a way to mimic a life you may not have 100% access to currently. And some aesthetic revivals, like the return of indie twee, are changing the narrative.
It's not just a social media trend. It's a fun way to use clothes and accessories as a way to tell a story. You may live in the middle of the suburbs but can channel the French-girl aesthetic as if you had a flight into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport the next morning. The worst thing I did in high school was get detention for being 10 minutes late, but I would love to channel my inner Maddy Perez from Euphoria.
Whether you want to tie yourself to a specific aesthetic (many who aren't versed in styling find this easier to help them get dressed and still look put-together) or dabble in many depending on your mood, the world is your oyster. While there are a plethora of aesthetics on the internet, I pinpointed the few that are most popular today and will continue to gain traction in 2022. Keep scrolling to get your digital download.
First led by celebrities like Taylor Swift, Alexa Chung, and Zooey Deschanel, the indie twee aesthetic is making a comeback. As someone who never dabbled in the trend the first time around (I was too busy trying to be grunge), I do want to add an oversize collar or cropped cardigan into my wardrobe.
When Y2K and maximalism were at their peak of popularity, influencers like Matilda Djerf were a breath of fresh air for many. I've seen multiple users talk about how Djerf and the aesthetic she brought to the table made them more confident in their dressing because they were curating a wardrobe with timeless pieces they could style without much thinking. After chasing trends that weren't for them, they realized a more minimal palette is what works for them. While I do love a maximal piece and a pop of color, I still find myself channeling this aesthetic on a daily basis.
We mentioned the "ballerina" look gaining traction in early 2021, and it's only gotten bigger. If you need evidence, Zara collaborated with the New York City Ballet, and many of the pieces quickly sold out. While many have never gone on pointe in their life, that isn't stopping them from adding ballet flats, shrugs, tulle, and bodysuits into their closets.
While the Tumblr aesthetic may not be exactly the same as it was in 2014 (no trend ever is), large elements of the angsty-teenager look are making a hard comeback in the sartorial world. All-leather looks, miniskirts, and steep platforms are just some of the trends that have started to make up the modern version of the "Tumblr girl." Gen Z celebrities such as Olivia Rodrigo are channeling the look, and brands such as Dion Lee, Coach, and Monse are making a case for the aesthetic in their recent runway collections.
Whenever I see videos or posts centering around those getting engaged, the princesscore aesthetic is often the theme of their wedding Pinterest board. Think pearls, lace, pastel colors, and gown-like silhouettes. Brands like Selkie are leading the trend—creating very romantic and ethereal dresses that are often people's picks for engagement looks. Bridgerton's second season is about to make its way to Netflix, so I predict many will be channeling their inner royal in the near future.
Season one of Euphoria had costumes that made everyone want to mimic Alexa Demie's and Hunter Schafer's TV style, but Heidi Bivens truly changed the game of costume design with her looks for season two. From Maddy's "revenge" dress after her (hopefully final) breakup with Nate to a closet full of designer gems loaned from Aralda Vintage, the costumes this season were more vibrant, forward, and playful.
