These days, it's hard to come by 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 trendy trailblazers, the app has become a home for all things "aesthetics". In 2020, Cottagecore saw a whole new light as Taylor Swift's folklore album took over the music charts. The following year, the Twee and Indie Sleaze aesthetics that once defined a different era of the internet in the 2010s resurfaced among a new audience. And, just this past year, the hot pink hues of Barbiecore, Night Luxe, and Balletcore took over runways and high school hallways alike.
The rise of the social media platform has played a part in determining which trends are worth the hype and which ones have SIMPLY been recycled and rebranded. One of the newest aesthetics on our radar is the Clean Girl Aesthetic, which puts more of an emphasis on beauty than fashion, characterized by gold jewelry, glossy lips, and slicked-back hair. The trend has amassed nearly 2 billion (yep, that's billion with a "B") views on TikTok, largely in part to tutorials on how to achieve the look.
If you're searching for a rundown on everything there is to know about the Clean Girl Aesthetic — including where to shop the trend — keep scrolling.
What is the Clean Girl Aesthetic?
Glowy skin, a pinch of blush, glossy lips, slicked-back hair, gold hoops, tote bags, and a slim pair of sunnies are some of the main components of the Clean Girl Aesthetic. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber may have been at the helm of the trend in the 2020s, but the origin of the elite claw clip, hoop earring, and glossed lip combo dates back to the 90s 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 the look has historically been a staple for Black and Latinx people. If you plan on rocking the vibe, just remember to give credit where it's due and understand the importance of its origins.
How to achieve the Clean Girl Aesthetic
Minimalism is the key to every aspect of the Clean Girl Aesthetic, from your skincare and makeup to your accessories. An essential part of achieving the vibe is putting together an effortless, glowy, and sophisticated beauty look. While your hair will likely be slicked back in a claw clip, bun, or pony, your makeup is meant to draw all focus to the suppleness of your skin. And, of course, you can't forget a glossy lip to top everything off.
Ready to channel the ultimate clean girl? Prepare to load up your TikTok camera and check out our top picks to get the Clean Girl Aesthetic below.
Shop the Clean Girl Aesthetic Essentials 🫧✨
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
Dior Lip Glow Oil
Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer and Daytime Eye Cream
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand
Honest Beauty Magic Beauty Balm
Uncommon James Attitude Hoops
Indy Sunglasses True Vintage / Indra
BDSX Large Puffer Tote Bag
Sam is an assistant news editor at Cosmo, covering all things pop culture, entertainment, and celebrity news. She previously covered those same topics along with health, lifestyle, and beauty at Seventeen. When she isn't draping her cheeks in blush, you can probably find her live-tweeting awards shows or making SwiftToks.
