By Iolee Anagnostopoulou
I’ve always admired some people’s dedication to a particular sense of style. It’s like a visual language that screams, “This is me!” without having to say a word. Aesthetics were already a thing back in the 1700s, and today, thanks to Instagram and TikTok, it’s a full-blown cultural revolution.
So, if you’re tired of being just another face in the crowd and want to find that aesthetic that screams “you,” stick around.
What The Heck Is An Aesthetic?
Your aesthetic is your visual identity. It’s how you express yourself through clothes, accessories, interior design, or even a well-curated Instagram feed. The challenge? There are more aesthetics out there than you can shake a selfie stick at. Let’s break down a few classics and popular newcomers:
Grunge
Think oversized jackets, band tees, and a rebellious attitude. It’s like you’re the lead singer of a punk rock band, minus the actual singing.
Vintage
Channel your inner fashion time traveller with pieces from different decades. Mix and match to create a look that is uniquely “retro you.”
Cottagecore
Looking for a simple, cosy, nature-inspired style? This one’s for you. Long-flowing dresses, floral prints, and earthy tones are your bread and butter.
Dark Academia Vs. Light Academia
Give out higher education vibes with turtlenecks, cardigans, and all things preppy. Add a warmer touch with tweed blazers, knee-high socks, and beige tones for the light academia aesthetic.
Indie
Thrifted treasures, monochrome ensembles, and an overall vibe that says, “I’m the main character of my own story.”
Y2K
Calling the early 2000s with vivid colours, shiny fabrics, platform shoes, and the kind of optimism that defined the turn of the millennium.
Vsco
Capture the laid-back vibe of a carefree California girl with white sneakers, oversized T-shirts, and the obligatory messy bun.
Barbiecore
Enter a pink wonderland where excess meets empowerment. Hot pink, glitz, and glamour channel the iconic hyper-feminine vibe to feel undeniably powerful.
Mermaidcore
Shimmer in sequins mimicking iridescent scales, don fabrics reminiscent of mermaid tails and embrace crocheted pieces for that tangled seaweed charm.
Romcom Core
Comfort meets feminine allure with a touch of practicality, channelling the effortlessly sexy style of classic rom-com leading ladies like Julia Roberts.
Finding Your Aesthetic
So, you’ve got the rundown on some popular aesthetics, but how do you decide which one is *yours*? Here are some steps to help you identify your genre and unleash your inner style icon:
1. Pick Your Approach
At this stage, it’s crucial to pick your approach. Are you the kind of person who discovers an aesthetic and dives in headfirst? Or do you let your interests lead you to a community and discover an aesthetic along the way?
2. Know Yourself
Knowing your preferences is like having a style compass, so ask yourself some key questions. What’s your go-to outfit? Are you a sneakers or heels person? Understated or over-the-top jewellery? Makeup or no makeup?
3. Consider Your Personality
If you’re the life of the party, maybe the emo aesthetic isn’t your scene. Let your personality guide you towards an aesthetic that feels like an extension of yourself. For those who wish to express their faith through their outfits, exploring Christian clothing can be a fulfilling way to combine personal beliefs with style. This aesthetic focuses on incorporating faith-based messages and designs into everyday wear, often featuring apparel with biblical quotes, crosses, or other religious symbols.
4. Look At Your Wardrobe
Your closet is a goldmine of inspiration. Pull out your favourite pieces and figure out why they make you happy. If you’re drowning in leather jackets and baby tees, perhaps Y2K or Indie is calling your name.
5. Get Inspired
Stalk your trendy friends, celebrities, models, or even fashion bloggers on social media. Create a gallery with images of stylistic influences that resonate with you. Identify elements that you’re drawn to and visualise your own aesthetic.
6. Create A Mood Board
You can also use those images to create a mood board. Look for a central theme or colour code connecting most images and use it to craft a visual manifesto for your style.
7. Explore, Explore, Explore
Aesthetics aren’t set in stone, nor a lifetime commitment. Try on different ones like they’re outfits. Be a skater girl this week and a Barbie girl the next. Mix and match, create your own fusion, and let your style evolve. No rule says you can’t be a grunge-skater-indie hybrid. You do you, no restrictions.
8. Think $
Fashion is fun, but don’t break the bank. If you can’t afford the aesthetic of your dreams right now, no worries. Save up and build your dream wardrobe slowly.
9. Remember, It’s Not Mandatory
Having an aesthetic is like adding a splash of colour to your life. If you’re not into it, that’s perfectly fine. Fashion isn’t a requirement; it’s a choice.
Finding your aesthetic is a journey, not a destination. So, dive into the world of visual expression, mix things up, and embrace the fabulousness that is uniquely you. After all, being iconic is an art form, darling!