Are You Up To Speed with TikTok Fashion Trends?
The fashion industry continues to hold power in retail, accounting for 13 out of the 20 top direct-to-consumer global brands in 2021. And as the digital age has taken over and fashion becomes more accessible, TikTok has become one of the most popular platforms for styling inspiration and trends.
The app has been downloaded more than 1.5 billion times globally and is currently the most downloaded iOS app in the world, per data from Sensor Tower.
How Has TikTok Impacted Fast Fashion?
Although there are plenty of fashion trends that celebrities and influencers have popularized on other social media platforms, TikTok has a unique way of making trends go viral.
In many cases, users will film themselves wearing clothes from fast fashion brands and share their haul with friends or followers. Others will do a “try-on” of sorts, showing off different outfit options and asking viewers to help them choose which one to wear.
This way of engaging with fashion – through short videos that are easy to consume – has dramatically impacted how fast fashion brands operate. In the past, these brands relied on runway shows or lookbooks to introduce new styles and hoped customers would purchase them in stores or online. But now, with TikTok’s help, fast fashion brands can bypass traditional marketing channels and reach consumers directly.
As a result, consumers are seeing more fast fashion brands jump on board the TikTok trend train. H&M, for example, launched its first TikTok campaign in 2019 and has since produced dozens of videos featuring influencers and everyday users wearing its clothes.
Shein, another famous fast fashion brand, has also succeeded on the app, partnering with TikTok stars like Dixie D’Amelio and Addison Rae for promotional videos.
What are the Fashion Trends on TikTok?
TikTok has popularized several fashion trends that you can see almost anywhere now. Below are some of the most popular styles that will most likely continue to be a thing in the coming years:
Oversized Blazers
This fashion must-have is for ladies. Oversized blazers have been a popular style on TikTok, with many users pairing them with a crop top and high-waisted jeans or skirts. The great thing about this trend is that it looks good on everyone. It also comes with a matching set that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Crochet Tops
If you’re looking for a summer-friendly outfit, you can’t go wrong with a crochet top. This top style is perfect for a day at the beach or a casual night out. You can find them in different colors and patterns, so there’s one that will suit your taste. Famous personalities, including Bella Hadid, Kylie Jenner, and Hailey Bieber, have been spotted wearing crochet tops, making it one of the most sought-after TikTok trends.
Tie-Dye Apparel
Tie-dye is making a comeback, and TikTok users love it. The trend has been around for decades, but it became popular again thanks to Gen Zers, who are constantly looking for ways to express themselves. You can find tie-dye clothes in different colors and designs, from playful and funky to more sophisticated options.
Baggy Jeans
While skinny jeans will always be in style, baggy jeans enjoy their moment on TikTok. The relaxed fit is comfortable and can be flexible, whether you’re going for a casual or dressy look. You can find them in different washes and styles, so there’s one that will fit your taste.
Accessories
The cool thing about TikTok fashion is that it’s not just about clothing – it’s also about accessories. You can find videos of users showing off their jewelry, sunglasses, and bags. Many of these items are from fast fashion brands, which is great if you’re looking for affordable options.
What are the TikTok Aesthetics?
Aside from unique fashion finds, expression through aesthetics is also prominent on TikTok. An aesthetic is a particular style characterizing a specific look and feel. It often includes a certain color scheme, theme, or vibe. There are many popular aesthetics on TikTok, but below are some of the most popular ones:
E Girls /E Boys
The “E” in E girl and E boy stands for “emo,” but these styles have become associated with a much more comprehensive range of aesthetics, including grunge, punk, and goth. Common elements of E girl style include oversized hoodies, baby tees, fishnet tops, plaid skirts, and Doc Martens. E boys often dress similarly but with a more masculine edge, such as in baggy jeans, flannel shirts, and Vans shoes.
This trend started to take off in 2019 but picked up steam in 2020 as more celebrities and influencers experimented with the style. Billie Eilish, for example, has popularized the “E girl” look among Gen Z girls. At the same time, Timothee Chalamet and Chase Hudson are two examples of celebrities who have embraced the E boy aesthetic.
Soft Girl / VSCO Girl
The “soft girl” trend is about looking cute and put-together, focusing on pastel colors, romantic details, and an overall girly aesthetic. Typical style items include oversized sweatshirts, cropped tops, skirts, scrunchies and shell necklaces.
On the other hand, the “VSCO girl” look is more about being effortless and beachy. It includes outfits such as oversized T-shirts, cropped tops, jean shorts, and Birkenstocks.
The two trends are often confused with each other, but both have become popular among TikTok creators because of how easy they are to recreate. You can find many TikTok videos of users showing off their soft girl and VSCO girl looks, often with Tips for nailing the perfect aesthetic.
Cottagecore
The “cottagecore” aesthetic highlights a rural lifestyle, focusing on natural colors, (often handmade) homey details and a general feeling of coziness. It’s often associated with activities, such as baking, gardening and spending time outdoors. Elements of cottagecore style include flowy dresses, knit sweaters, straw hats and Birkenstocks.
This style has been popular among TikTok fashion trends because it provides a sense of escapism, which is especially appealing during uncertain times. It’s also relatively easy to recreate, as you can find many style items in your closet or thrift stores.
Cozy Looks
TikTok is also a great source of fashion tips for men. For one, TikTok has popularized the “cozy boy” look, which is all about being comfortable without sacrificing style.
It may sound simple, but there are endless possibilities for nailing the perfect cozy boy outfit. This look often includes oversized hoodies, sweatpants and sneakers. Famous male models, such as Lucky Blue Smith and Jaden Smith, are seen sporting this style.
Streetwear
Another popular TikTok trend for men is the streetwear look. This style is cool and edgy, focusing on bold colors and prints. Everyday style items include hoodies, joggers, and sneakers.
Many brands associated with streetwear are luxury brands, such as Supreme and Off-White. However, you don’t need to spend much money to achieve this look. You can find many affordable streetwear brands, such as H&M and Zara, that offer similar style items.
Which Tiktok Style Trends Can I Pull Off?
Anyone can experiment with TikTok fashion trends, regardless of their style. The key is to explore outfits that speak to you and experiment with different looks until you find one that works.
There’s also no need to limit yourself to just one style. You can mix and match different aesthetics to create a look you can embrace. Experiment with other trends and find what makes you feel most confident. With a bit of an effort, you can put together an outfit that will make you stand out from the rest.
The most important thing is to have fun with it and not take yourself too seriously. After all, fashion should be about expressing yourself and having fun with it!
Is TikTok Good for Fashion?
TikTok is an excellent source of fashion inspiration, whether you’re looking for trends to try or tips on how to style your clothing. However, like most social platforms, it has also been criticized for its negative impact on mental health, body image, and the environment.
Some users have expressed concern that TikTok’s algorithm promotes unrealistic beauty standards and encourages users to buy expensive clothes and products. There is also the risk of developing a “perfectionist mindset” when scrolling through videos of perfectly styled outfits and flawless skin.
However, users can take a proactive approach to the app to promote body positivity, self-love and sustainable fashion. For example, many users have created videos about how to style second-hand clothes or how to make your own clothes. Although TikTok isn’t perfect, it can be a force for good if used in the right way.
Will TikTok Trends Last?
There’s no definite answer as to when TikTok trends will continue to surface, as the fashion industry is constantly changing. Although some trends come and go, others manage to stand the test of time.
But if the app’s popularity is anything to go by, it’s likely to see more TikTok-inspired style in the future, especially as the platform continues to grow in popularity.
If you’re looking for style inspiration, check out TikTok fashion trends. You never know what trends you may find.
