These days, it’s hard to find any look or style trends on TikTok that haven’t been dubbed with the “-core” suffix. Thanks to a new generation of fashion gurus and trend pioneers, the app has become the home of all things “aesthetic”. In 2020, Cottagecore saw a whole new light as Taylor Swift folklore the album topped the music charts. The following year, the Twee and Indie Sleaze aesthetic that had once defined a different era of the Internet in the 2010s resurfaced with a new audience. And just last year, the hot pink shades of Barbiecore, Night Luxe, and Balletcore took over runways and high school hallways.
The rise of the social media platform played a role in determining which trends were worth the hype and which were SIMPLY recycled and rebranded. One of the newest aesthetics on our radar is the Clean Girl Aesthetic, which places more emphasis on beauty than fashion, featuring gold jewelry, glossy lips, and sleek hair. The trend has amassed nearly 2 billion (yes, that’s billion with a “B”) views on TikTok, thanks in large part to tutorials on how to achieve the look.
If you’re looking for a roundup of everything there is to know about the Clean Girl Aesthetic—including where to shop the trend—keep scrolling.
What is the Clean Girl aesthetic?
Glowing skin, a dash of blush, glossy lips, sleek hair, gold hoops, handbags and a slim pair of sunnies are some of the staples of the Clean Girl Aesthetic. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber may have been at the helm of the trend in 2020, but the origins of the elite combination of claws, hoop earrings and glossy lips date back to the 1990s and 2000s.
The “Clean Girl” rebrand that made waves on TikTok was largely credited to white influencers and celebrities, which ultimately sparked criticism online when people noted that looks have historically been a staple for blacks and Latinas. If you plan to rock the vibe, be sure to give credit where it’s due and understand the importance of its origin.
How to achieve the Clean Girl aesthetic
Minimalism is key to every aspect of the Clean Girl aesthetic, from skincare and makeup to accessories. An essential part of achieving the atmosphere is to put together a smooth, radiant and sophisticated beautiful look. While your hair will likely be pulled back in a clip, bun or pony, your makeup is meant to focus on the suppleness of your skin. And of course you mustn’t forget the glossy lips that complete everything.
Are you ready to broadcast the perfect pure girl? Get ready to load up your TikTok camera and check out our top tips for getting the Clean Girl Aesthetic below.
Shop Clean Girl aesthetic essentials 🫧✨
Supergoop! Unprecedented sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + brightening corrector and day eye cream
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand
Honest beauty Magical beauty balm
Kiramoon Starlight Bundle
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Emi Jay Big Effing Claw Claw
Unusual James Attitude Hoops
Indy True Vintage Sunglasses / Indra
Large BDSX Puffer Bag
Editorial assistant
Sam is an editorial assistant at Seventeen covering pop culture, celebrity news, health and beauty. When she’s not blushing, you can probably find her live-tweeting award shows or making SwiftToks.