Let’s be real—trying to keep up with all the viral fashion trends can feel like whiplash. One second it’s all about the “Clean Girl” look, and the next thing you know, everyone’s dressing like they’re in a 90s mafia movie or a fairy cottage in the woods. 😵💫 So… what’s the deal with all these style cores flooding your feed?
If you’ve ever scrolled past “coquette core” or “dark academia” and thought, Wait, is that a cult or an outfit?—you’re in the right place.
This guide will break down the buzziest style cores of the moment, explain what they actually mean (with zero gatekeeping), and help you figure out which ones vibe with your personal aesthetic. Ready? Let’s decode the chaos together.
What Even Is a “Style Core”?
Alright, let’s get this out of the way: “core” is just a trendy suffix. It’s basically the fashion world’s way of saying “vibe” or “aesthetic.” Think of it as a shortcut to describe a whole mood, not just an outfit.
For example:
Cottagecore = You romanticize picking wildflowers and baking pies in a linen dress.
Baddiecore = You live for snatched contour, bodycon dresses, and unapologetic confidence.
It’s more than clothes—it’s a lifestyle. A style core isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about the world you’re pretending to live in. (Don’t lie—you’ve imagined your life as a period drama at least once.)
1. Clean Girl Aesthetic
Let’s start with the queen of TikTok trends.
What It Is:
Minimal makeup, slicked-back buns, glowy skin, and neutral tones. Think Hailey Bieber walking out of a $600 facial.
Signature Pieces:
Gold hoop earrings
White tank tops or ribbed sets
Oversized button-downs
No-makeup makeup (aka, makeup that took you 45 mins 🙃)
Why It’s Viral:
Because looking “effortless” is always in… even if it requires a lot of effort. Go figure.
FYI: The “Clean Girl” isn’t just about appearance—it’s about giving off that “I drink lemon water and journal every morning” energy.
2. Coquette Core
Warning: May cause an increase in lace purchases.
What It Is:
Hyper-feminine, romantic, and a little vintage. Imagine Lana Del Rey meets Marie Antoinette with a dash of Tumblr 2014.
Signature Pieces:
Satin bows and ribbon chokers
Baby pink and soft pastels
Lingerie-inspired tops
Heart-shaped blush and fluttery lashes
Vibe check: It’s giving innocent but secretly chaotic.
3. Cottagecore
You don’t need to live on a farm to dress like you bake sourdough from scratch.
What It Is:
A nostalgic, dreamy aesthetic that romanticizes rural living. Basically, escapism—but make it fashion.
Signature Pieces:
Flowing maxi dresses
Aprons (yes, actual aprons)
Straw hats and woven baskets
Embroidered cardigans and vintage florals
Hot take: If you’ve ever wanted to ghost your boss and move to the countryside, this one’s probably for you.
4. Old Money Aesthetic
Ah yes, the style of people who definitely summer in the Hamptons.
What It Is:
Timeless, neutral, and painfully luxurious-looking—without screaming logos. It’s all about quiet wealth (even if your bank account disagrees).
Signature Pieces:
Cream cashmere sweaters
Polo shirts, loafers, and tailored trousers
Pearl accessories
Silk scarves and structured handbags
IMO: This one’s less about fashion and more about pretending you have a trust fund and generational wealth (without actually having it 😅).
5. Dark Academia
Ever wanted to look like a mysterious bookworm who reads poetry by candlelight? Same.
What It Is:
A moody, intellectual vibe inspired by old libraries, classic literature, and The Secret History aesthetic.
Signature Pieces:
Tweed blazers and plaid skirts
Turtlenecks in brown, forest green, or burgundy
Oxfords and brogues
Round glasses and satchels
Pro tip: Coffee stains on a worn copy of “Wuthering Heights” = bonus points.
6. Y2K Core
Not gonna lie, this one makes millennials feel ancient.
What It Is:
A full-blown nostalgia trip to the early 2000s: rhinestones, flip phones, and dangerously low-rise jeans.
Signature Pieces:
Baby tees with sparkly text
Juicy Couture tracksuits (you know the ones)
Butterfly clips and tiny sunglasses
Mini skirts and platform sneakers
Ever wondered why your little cousin looks like she walked out of a Lizzie McGuire episode? Blame Y2K.
7. Baddie Core
Confidence? Check. Contour? Check. Entire outfit from Fashion Nova? Also check.
What It Is:
Bold, body-hugging, and all about main-character energy.
Signature Pieces:
Skin-tight dresses and crop tops
Bold lashes and snatched makeup
Chunky sneakers or heels
Oversized puffer jackets or statement pieces
It screams: “I’m THAT girl,” and honestly, we support it.
8. Grunge Fairycore (Yes, it’s a thing)
Can’t decide between sweet and spooky? This chaotic hybrid has you covered.
What It Is:
Fairycore’s whimsical softness meets grunge’s edge. Picture glitter tears, mesh layers, and combat boots… in a forest.
Signature Pieces:
Tulle skirts + leather jackets
Winged eyeliner with shimmer
Chunky boots with dainty socks
Ethereal accessories like crystals or chains
Sounds weird? It is. But in a cool way.
9. Mob Wife Aesthetic
Leopard print, fur coats, and big energy. You don’t ask for permission—you own the room.
What It Is:
Inspired by 80s and 90s mob wives (think The Sopranos or Casino), this aesthetic screams luxury and danger.
Signature Pieces:
Faux fur coats
Gold everything
Animal prints
Dramatic lipstick and acrylic nails
Real talk: If you love drama (fashion-wise… or otherwise), this aesthetic will make you feel untouchable.
10. Minimalist Core
Because sometimes, less really is more.
What It Is:
Stripped-down, ultra-simple looks that focus on quality over quantity. It’s basically anti-trend—ironically, very on-trend.
Signature Pieces:
Neutral basics (white, beige, black)
Structured silhouettes
No visible logos
High-quality fabrics like linen or silk
FYI: This is a great fallback style when your brain is fried but you still want to look chic.
So… Which Style Core Are You?
Here’s the fun part—you don’t have to pick just one. Seriously, why limit yourself? You can rock Clean Girl on Monday, Cottagecore on Tuesday, and full Baddie on Friday night. Fashion is supposed to be fun, not a cage.
Quick recap:
Love all things pink and frilly? Coquette Core’s your girl.
Want to channel Sofia Richie on vacation? Old Money has entered the chat.
Craving fantasy escapism with a touch of rebellion? Grunge Fairycore is calling your name.
Final Thoughts: Be Your Own Style Core 💅
Fashion isn’t about following every trend—it’s about stealing the bits you love and making them yours. Use these viral style cores as inspo, not gospel. Mix and match, experiment, mess up, then serve a lewk that feels so you.
And if anyone asks what your style is? Just say “I’m the main character, duh.”
Stay stylish, stay weird, and remember: your vibe is valid—whatever “core” it falls under. 😉
P.S. What’s your current fashion obsession? Got a favorite core or one you think is totally overhyped? Drop it in the comments (or, ya know, yell it into the fashion void). I’m all ears. 👂✨