It's All About the (Style) Aesthetics
In the world of fashion, the concept of style transcends mere clothing choices; it embodies a unique expression of one's personality, culture, and the prevailing zeitgeist. With the TikTok era fully engulfing all of us each day it feels like there is a new style aesthetic on the horizon. A unique style narrative that weaves a distinct story worth exploring in a multitude of ways. In essence, style aesthetics serve as a canvas for self-expression. When a new “trend” comes along these aesthetics allow individuals to curate their unique narrative through fashion choices that resonate with their personalities and tastes. Though the overarching concept isn’t unique, the whole idea invites a fun exploration and really highlights the beauty of diversity in fashion.
By embracing these varied aesthetics, individuals can find inspiration to craft their own style story, celebrating the multifaceted nature of fashion and expressing themselves authentically through the medium. Frankly, who wouldn’t want to embrace the Mediterranean vibe of the Tomato Girl one day and the Nora Ephron-inspired Coastal Grandmother the next? There are so many different ones that seem to appear and they aren’t for everyone, but I’ve decided to highlight a few of my favorites.
The Wild West
Living in the American West, this is one of the aesthetics I was always humored by. Growing up we’d walk past tons of shops with cowboy boots, turquoise jewelry, and wide-brim hats never thinking twice about it. These days I actually enjoy a bit of the Wild West-inspired aesthetic. It has these undertones of the rugged spirit of the area I live in and frankly is representative of much of the history and stories this area continues to tell. Distinctive elements like cowboy boots, fringe details, denim, and wide-brimmed hats evoke a sense of adventure and freedom. It celebrates a fusion of functionality and style, honoring traditional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary interpretations.
Quiet Luxury: The Subtle Elegance
I’ve done entire posts on Quiet Luxury before because it is honestly one of my all-time favorite aesthetic trends that have come along. Quiet Luxury stands in stark contrast to ostentatious displays of wealth. It revolves around understated sophistication, emphasizing fine craftsmanship, exquisite fabrics, and impeccable tailoring. This aesthetic values quality over quantity, focusing on timeless pieces that exude refinement and effortless grace. Minimalist silhouettes, neutral tones, and attention to detail define this refined style, appealing to those who appreciate understated opulence. I love the chicness of it. It’s minimal and it doesn’t really matter what types of pieces one chooses, it always looks put together and eye-catching.
Sporty & Chic: The Intersection of Function and Fashion
On any given day, you’re more likely to see me rocking this aesthetic more than any other. I think that a good workout (no matter how intense) starts with a damn good outfit. Blurring the lines between activewear and high fashion, Sporty & Chic brings athleticism into everyday dressing. This aesthetic seamlessly combines comfort with style, incorporating elements like athleisure wear, sneakers, and streamlined silhouettes. It champions versatility, allowing individuals to transition effortlessly from the gym to casual outings while maintaining an aura of sophistication.
The French Girl: Effortless Elegance
Synonymous with effortless elegance, the French Girl aesthetic embodies an air of nonchalant sophistication. It revolves around timeless basics, such as a striped shirt, tailored blazers, well-fitted denim, and a capsule wardrobe curated around quality essentials. This style celebrates simplicity, focusing on impeccable tailoring, natural beauty, and an attitude that exudes confidence without trying too hard. This one has been around so long and become such a core style aesthetic I don’t even think it can be called a trend. I love this one because French women always seemed to have it 100 all the time with the most basic pieces. I truly admire it and would love 10,000 times over to be able to be that effortlessly elegant.
80s Inspired: Nostalgia and Bold Experimentation
It feels like for ages now we’ve been talking about the ‘90s and Y2K, but then Saint Laurent came out of nowhere with some incredible shoulder pads and I was hot tub time machined back to the 1980s. The 80s left an indelible mark on fashion with its bold colors, exaggerated silhouettes, and daring experimentation. This era embraced extravagance, featuring power suits with broad shoulders, neon hues, oversized accessories, and playful prints. The 80s-inspired aesthetic celebrates nostalgia for this era's audacious spirit, inviting individuals to embrace vibrancy and eccentricity in their fashion choices.
