TikTok has grown to be an outstanding source of inspiration for millions of people around the world when it comes to fashion, in particular, fashion aesthetics – except it’s called ‘core’ now. Everyday, thousands of videos that represent different ‘cores’ are posted, and we’re here to help you find your core/aesthetic!
From Gorpcore to even Barbiecore, there’s definitely something for EVERYONE! So let’s cut the chatter and get right into it:
1. Gorpcore
Gorpcore refers to hiking or outdoor gear worn in a consciously stylish way, and was first derived from “Good ol’ Raisins and Peanuts”, a colloquial term used by hikers. Items like utility backpacks, nylon windbreakers, water-resistant leggings, and fleece coats have all experienced a resurgence in popularity and design.
2. Y2K
Y2K entered the fashion scene with faux fur, pink shoulder bags, and chunky heels. It was named after the Y2K bug, often known as the millennium bug, which happened as calendars changed to the year 2000. This unique aesthetic combines pop culture with technological developments from the new millennium.
The Y2K bug in 1999 and the introduction of the Bratz dolls in 2001 are just two examples of the many nostalgic impacts that still exist today. Just think of all things metallic, bubblegum pink, and velour tracksuits.
3. Dark Academia
The passion for knowledge and learning is also reflected in the wardrobes of the dark academics. Black, dark brown, forest green, and burgundy make up a gloomy colour scheme that is contrasted with cream, gold, and orange. The look can be categorised as preppy in general. Oxford shirts, blazers, tweed pants, trench coats, duffel bags, and knit waistcoats are hallmarks of the college look. The preferred footwear includes brogues, loafers, Chelsea boots, and Dr. Martens.
Brooches, eyeglasses, ties, watches, and umbrellas are examples of accessories. Short pleated skirts are fashionable with knee-high socks, and jumpers are typically slung freely over the shoulders and casually fastened in the front.
4. Rockstar gf/bf
Rockstars and their significant others serve as major sources of inspiration for the girlfriend/boyfriend look. Consider Penny Lane from Almost Famous or model Anita Pallenberg. It’s all about leather boots, jackets and pants – whilst maintaining a somewhat grunge/dark aura to your look.
Other well-known instances of the “Rockstar girlfriend/boyfriend” include Alexa Chung’s relationship with Arctic Monkeys singer Alex Turner and model Devon Lee Carlson’s relationship with Jesse Rutherford of the Neighborhood.
5. Old Money
The old money aesthetic is prevalent in Elite on Netflix, which follows the lives of private school teenagers in Spain, including those who are marchionesses, diplomats, and entrepreneurs.
Old money wears understated clothing, such as cashmere, vintage pearls, and handcrafted loafers. Designer brands are understated when they are worn, such as Chanel and Hermes as compared to Balenciaga and Dolce & Gabbana.
6. Barbiecore
Barbiecore is a hyper-feminine, predominantly pink movement that combines nostalgia with the empowering reclamation of “girlie” interests. Barbiecore clothing embraces femininity without reservation. Key elements include vivid pinks, glitter, and staggeringly high heels. The BarbieCore trend is a movement for TikTokers to embrace and feel empowered by a feminine appearance while having fun.
7. Cyberpunk
The cyberpunk aesthetic blends 1940s film noir attire, 1990s gothic trends, military uniforms and equipment, as well as more avant-garde and experimental cybernetic features. Despite the cyberpunk aesthetic’s apparent originality, it draws inspiration from a wide range of sources.
Cyberpunk fashion, which includes trench coats, boots, slick black clothing, etc., is greatly influenced by movies like Johnny Mnemonic, Blade Runner, and The Matrix. Cyberpunk fashion has been described as “futuristic gothic fashion.”
8. BONUS! If you know, you know – Paramountcore
Yes, we’re going there – we’re most definitely speaking about our beloved Taman Paramount, that has recently become known as the place where “scary” kids in size 10XL jeans held up by a shoe lace will “beat up” people who aren’t dressed the same way, or are too “basic”.
Essentially, the Taman Paramount style is a mixture of Y2K, Gorpcore, Barbiecore and Cyberpunk – it’s what they call ‘edgy’ and ‘alt’. It’s honestly difficult to use just one word to describe this very unique style because there’s just so much going on in one aesthetic. But here’s some really good examples:
So, have you found your TikTok aesthetic/core?
