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{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2023}}


An '''Internet aesthetic''', also simply referred to as an '''aesthetic''' or '''microaesthetic''', is a [[Visual arts|visual art style]], sometimes accompanied by a [[Fashion|fashion style]], [[subculture]], or [[music genre]], that usually originates from the [[Internet]] or is popularized on it. Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, online aesthetics gained increasing popularity, specifically on social media platforms such as [[Tumblr]], [[Pinterest]], [[Instagram]], and [[TikTok]], and often were used by people to express their individuality and creativity. They can also be used to create a sense of community and belonging among people who share the same interests. The term ''aesthetic'' has been described as being "totally divorced from its academic origins", and is commonly used as an adjective.<ref name=":6" />
An '''Internet aesthetic''' is a [[visual arts|visual art style]], [[fashion|fashion style]], or [[music genre]] accompanied by a [[subculture]] that usually originates from the [[Internet]] or is popularized on it. Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, online aesthetics gained increasing popularity, specifically on social media platforms, and often were used by people to express their individuality and creativity. They can also be used to create a sense of community and belonging among people who share the same interests. The term ''aesthetic'' has been described as being "totally divorced from its academic origins", and is commonly used as an adjective.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Spellings |first=Sarah |date=2021-05-25 |title=Do I Have an Aesthetic? |url=https://www.vogue.com/article/do-i-have-an-aesthetic |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref>


== Definition ==
== Definition ==
Internet aesthetics are difficult to define. A study published in [[First Monday (journal)|First Monday]] describes them as "labels applied on heterogenous collections of materials and activities by Internet users, which are discussed and constructed primarily on the Internet".<ref name="FM">{{cite journal |last1=Giolo |first1=Guilherme |last2=Berghman |first2=Michaël |title=The aesthetics of the self: The meaning-making of Internet aesthetics |journal=First Monday |date=13 March 2023 |doi=10.5210/fm.v28i3.12723 |doi-access=free |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369252566}}</ref> [[Literary criticism|Literary scholar]] Simone Murray describes internet aesthetics as "less a cohesive movement or delimited subculture than a loose cluster of atmospherics and “vibes”".<ref name="Lee">{{cite journal |last1=Lee |first1=Tori F |title=The haunting of classics in the Dark Academia aesthetic |journal=Classical Receptions Journal |date=1 October 2024 |volume=16 |issue=4 |pages=419–436 |doi=10.1093/crj/clae007 |url=https://academic.oup.com/crj/article/16/4/419/7710018?login=false#487104473 |issn=1759-5142}}</ref> [[Cultural history|Cultural historian]] Robbert-Jan Adriaansen argues that internet aesthetics are unified by their affective curation of an ‘atmosphere’, ‘mood’, or ‘vibe’.<ref name="Lee"/> Adriaansen quotes the Aesthetics Wiki website's description of an internet aesthetic as a “collection of visual schema that creates a ‘mood.’”<ref name="Adriaansen">{{cite journal |last1=Adriaansen |first1=Robbert-Jan |title=Dark Academia: Curating Affective History in a COVID-Era Internet Aesthetic |journal=International Public History |date=1 December 2022 |volume=5 |issue=2 |pages=105–114 |doi=10.1515/iph-2022-2047 |url=https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/iph-2022-2047/html |language=en |issn=2567-1111}}</ref>
Internet aesthetics are characterized and identifiable by their visual style. Sarah Spellings from ''[[Vogue (magazine)|Vogue]]'' stated, <blockquote>''Over time, "aesthetic" has evolved from an academic word and something utilized by artists and auteurs to something to categorize our own identities by. It can mean both personal style and a vague stand-in for beauty.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Spellings |first=Sarah |date=2021-05-25 |title=Do I Have an Aesthetic? |url=https://www.vogue.com/article/do-i-have-an-aesthetic |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref>'' </blockquote>
Kaitlin Tiffany from ''[[The Atlantic]]'' stated:<blockquote>''At this point, the word aesthetic is totally divorced from its academic origins. While Tumblr users mainstreamed it years ago, many teenagers use aesthetic as an all-purpose adjective—"that's so aesthetic" as a shorthand for "that's so aesthetically pleasing to me." But in broader Internet parlance, it now means a collection of signifiers or, more precisely, a "vibe."<ref name=Atlantic2.5.21>{{Cite web |last=Tiffany |first=Kaitlyn |date=2021-02-05 |title=Cottagecore Was Just the Beginning |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2021/02/aesthetics-wiki-cottagecore-tumblr-tiktok/617923/ |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=The Atlantic |language=en}}</ref>''</blockquote>There are five primary categories of internet aesthetic: space, core, wave, group/subculture, and academic.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Spiders |first=Marcel Mensah|date=2022-07-18 |title=Introduction to Internet Aesthetics and Cultural Movements |url=https://www.lonerofficial.com/post/introduction-to-internet-aesthetics-and-cultural-movements |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=LONER Magazine |language=en}}</ref> Specific aesthetics use suffixes, such as -wave and -core, which, according to ''[[The Washington Post]]'', originates from the word ''[[Hardcore punk|hardcore]]''.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news |title=Cottagecore, cluttercore, goblincore — deep down, it's about who we think we are |language=en-US |newspaper=Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/cottagecore-goblincore-cluttercore/2021/09/09/4656e958-09b6-11ec-aea1-42a8138f132a_story.html |access-date=2022-08-09 |issn=0190-8286}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=A Glossary of '-core' Style Aesthetics |url=https://ca.style.yahoo.com/glossary-core-style-aesthetics-120000108.html |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=ca.style.yahoo.com |date=2 August 2022 |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ruane |first=Emily |title=From Cottagecore To Goblincore — What's Your TikTok Fashion Aesthetic? |url=https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2021/03/10353481/core-aesthetic-fashion-trends-tiktok |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=www.refinery29.com |language=en}}</ref> Other aesthetics come together under a central theme such as [[Outer space|Space]] or [[Academy|Academia]].


== History ==
== History ==
In 1735, German philosopher [[Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten|Alex Baumgarten]] derived the term "aesthetics" from the Greek word "aisthetike" or "aisthesis", establishing it as a field of study.<ref>{{Cite web |title=aesthetics |url=https://csmt.uchicago.edu/glossary2004/aesthetics.htm |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=csmt.uchicago.edu}}</ref> The term "aesthetic" has evolved to reflect current trends in digital communication and multimedia art. Many Internet aesthetics have been credited with originating on Tumblr, including [[Dark academia]], [[Cottagecore]], Art Hoe,<ref>{{Cite web |title='Art hoe' isn't just an aesthetic, although we've tried to make it one |url=https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/lifestyle/what-is-an-art-hoe-aesthetic-5555291 |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Vancouver Is Awesome |date=7 July 2022 |language=en}}</ref> Coquette/Nymphet,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-28 |title=Why have young women on the internet always loved Lolita? |url=https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/56630/1/young-women-on-the-internet-love-lolita-nymphet-tumblr-coquette-aesthetic |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Dazed |language=en}}</ref> and Weirdcore.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pradeep |first=Malavika |date=2021-09-05 |title=Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown |url=https://screenshot-media.com/culture/internet-culture/weirdcore-explained/ |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown |language=en}}</ref> With the influence of new social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, however, internet aesthetics are being dominated by micro-trends such as mob wife and tomato girl summer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-24 |title=Set, follow or skip? How brands should navigate micro-trends |url=https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/set-follow-or-skip-how-brands-should-navigate-micro-trends |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=Vogue Business |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 1735, German philosopher [[Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten|Alex Baumgarten]] derived the term "aesthetics" from the Greek word "aisthetike" or "aisthesis", establishing it as a field of study.<ref>{{Cite web |title=aesthetics |url=https://csmt.uchicago.edu/glossary2004/aesthetics.htm |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=csmt.uchicago.edu}}</ref> The term "aesthetic" has evolved to reflect current trends in digital communication and multimedia art. Many Internet aesthetics have been credited with originating on Tumblr, including [[Dark academia]], [[Cottagecore]], Art Hoe,<ref>{{Cite web |title='Art hoe' isn't just an aesthetic, although we've tried to make it one |url=https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/lifestyle/what-is-an-art-hoe-aesthetic-5555291 |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Vancouver Is Awesome |date=7 July 2022 |language=en}}</ref> Coquette/Nymphet,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-28 |title=Why have young women on the internet always loved Lolita? |url=https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/56630/1/young-women-on-the-internet-love-lolita-nymphet-tumblr-coquette-aesthetic |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Dazed |language=en}}</ref> and Weirdcore.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pradeep |first=Malavika |date=2021-09-05 |title=Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown |url=https://screenshot-media.com/culture/internet-culture/weirdcore-explained/ |access-date=2022-08-09 |website=Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown |language=en}}</ref> With the influence of new social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, however, internet aesthetics are being dominated by micro-trends such as mob wife and tomato girl summer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-24 |title=Set, follow or skip? How brands should navigate micro-trends |url=https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/set-follow-or-skip-how-brands-should-navigate-micro-trends |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=Vogue Business |language=en-US}}</ref>

''Aesthetics Wiki'', a wiki hosted on [[Fandom (website)|Fandom]], has frequently been cited for its large database of information on online aesthetics.<ref name=Atlantic2.5.21/><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Year in Aesthetics, From Dark Academia to McBling |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/m7vbma/the-year-in-aesthetics-from-dark-academia-to-mcbling |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=[[Vice (magazine)|Vice]] |date=28 December 2021 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> According to ''[[The Atlantic]]'', the wiki gained a 9,974% increase in traffic during the 2020 pandemic due to chronic online participation and desires for self discovery.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tiffany |first=Kaitlyn |date=2021-02-05 |title=Cottagecore Was Just the Beginning |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2021/02/aesthetics-wiki-cottagecore-tumblr-tiktok/617923/ |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=The Atlantic |language=en}}</ref>

In 2022, Rebecca Jennings from ''[[Vox Media|Vox]]'' argued that many trends from [[TikTok]] fall under one trend, calling it "TikTok couture" and describing it as a "way to describe the coalescence of trends that materialize on [[TikTok]], whether from teenagers experimenting with clothes they've thrifted from their local charity shop, from older folks revisiting the subcultural styles of their youth, or from professional and amateur trend watchers combining aesthetic clues into a single theory of what's coming next", adding "with the help of the supercharged [[TikTok]] algorithm that blasts viral content to millions of users within hours or days, these videos shape what mainstream culture considers stylish, which therefore can affect what we choose to wear ourselves."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jennings |first=Rebecca |date=2022-02-01 |title=Fashion is just TikTok now |url=https://www.vox.com/the-goods/22911116/tiktok-couture-fashion-trends |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=Vox |language=en}}</ref>


In July 2022, Sarah Spellings from ''[[Vogue (magazine)|Vogue]]'' stated that there was a "rise of hyper-specific Internet aesthetics".<ref>{{Cite web |publisher=Condé Nast |date=2022-07-31 |title="Core" Is The New "Chic" |url=https://www.vogue.co.uk/arts-and-lifestyle/article/core |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=British Vogue |language=en-GB}}</ref>
In July 2022, Sarah Spellings from ''[[Vogue (magazine)|Vogue]]'' stated that there was a "rise of hyper-specific Internet aesthetics".<ref>{{Cite web |publisher=Condé Nast |date=2022-07-31 |title="Core" Is The New "Chic" |url=https://www.vogue.co.uk/arts-and-lifestyle/article/core |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=British Vogue |language=en-GB}}</ref>
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===Frutiger Aero===
===Frutiger Aero===
{{Main|Frutiger Aero}}
{{Main|Frutiger Aero}}
[[Frutiger Aero]] is an Internet aesthetic and [[user interface]] design trend based on [[Windows Aero]]. It was popular from roughly 2004 to 2013, succeeding the Y2K aesthetic.<ref name="Dazeddigital">{{cite web |last1=Holliday |first1=Laura |title=What is frutiger aero, the aesthetic taking over from Y2K? |url=https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/58103/1/what-is-frutiger-aero-aesthetic-tiktok-msn-messenger-windows-vista-noughties |website=Dazed|date=February 3, 2023 }}</ref> This aesthetic was named after Swiss typeface designer [[Adrian Frutiger]], whose font and UI theme developments influenced the design choices of major companies. The term ''Frutiger Aero'' was coined in 2017 as an [[Compound (linguistics)|open compound]] of Aero and the [[Frutiger (typeface)|Frutiger]] typeface.<ref>[https://www.reeditionmagazine.com/to-the-minute/unveiling-the-mystery-exploring-the-fascinating-world-of-frutiger-aero Unveiling the Mystery: Exploring the Fascinating World of Frutiger Aero]</ref> The aesthetic resonates heavily with Y2K, focusing around gloss, CGI renders of scenes with nature and technology together, transparency, nature symbolism, [[bokeh]] photography, and elements of [[Skeuomorph|skeuomorphic]] design.<ref name="Dazeddigital"/><ref>{{cite web |last1=Cortés |first1=Michelle Santiago |title=What Frutiger Aero teaches us about niche internet aesthetics |url=https://i-d.vice.com/en/article/88qyn3/what-frutiger-aero-teaches-us-about-niche-internet-aesthetics |website=i-D}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Cinko |first1=Anthony |title=What is Frutiger Aero? Uncovering the nostalgic 2000's aesthetic - US Mobile blog |url=https://www.usmobile.com/blog/frutiger-aero/ |website=Prepaid GSM Carrier News|date=December 17, 2022 }}</ref> It began to decline after 2012, but made a comeback in the 2020s among members of [[Generation Z]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fear |first=Natalie |date=2024-01-04 |title=Why Gen Z is infatuated with the Frutiger Aero design aesthetic |url=https://www.creativebloq.com/news/frutiger-aero-aesthetic-resurgance |access-date=2024-07-20 |website=Creative Bloq |language=en}}</ref>
[[Frutiger Aero]] is an Internet aesthetic and [[user interface]] design trend based on [[Windows Aero]]. It was popular from roughly 2004 to 2013, succeeding the Y2K aesthetic.<ref name="Dazeddigital">{{cite web |last1=Holliday |first1=Laura |title=What is frutiger aero, the aesthetic taking over from Y2K? |url=https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/58103/1/what-is-frutiger-aero-aesthetic-tiktok-msn-messenger-windows-vista-noughties |website=Dazed|date=February 3, 2023 }}</ref> This aesthetic was named after Swiss typeface designer [[Adrian Frutiger]], whose font and UI theme developments influenced the design choices of major companies. The term ''Frutiger Aero'' was coined in 2017 as an [[Compound (linguistics)|open compound]] of Aero and the [[Frutiger (typeface)|Frutiger]] typeface.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.reeditionmagazine.com/to-the-minute/unveiling-the-mystery-exploring-the-fascinating-world-of-frutiger-aero|title=Unveiling the Mystery: Exploring the Fascinating World of Frutiger Aero|website=www.reeditionmagazine.com}}</ref> The aesthetic resonates heavily with Y2K, focusing around gloss, CGI renders of scenes with nature and technology together, transparency, nature symbolism, [[bokeh]] photography, and elements of [[Skeuomorph|skeuomorphic]] design.<ref name="Dazeddigital"/><ref>{{cite web |last1=Cortés |first1=Michelle Santiago |title=What Frutiger Aero teaches us about niche internet aesthetics |url=https://i-d.vice.com/en/article/88qyn3/what-frutiger-aero-teaches-us-about-niche-internet-aesthetics |website=i-D}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Cinko |first1=Anthony |title=What is Frutiger Aero? Uncovering the nostalgic 2000's aesthetic - US Mobile blog |url=https://www.usmobile.com/blog/frutiger-aero/ |website=Prepaid GSM Carrier News|date=December 17, 2022 }}</ref> It began to decline after 2012, but made a comeback in the 2020s among members of [[Generation Z]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fear |first=Natalie |date=2024-01-04 |title=Why Gen Z is infatuated with the Frutiger Aero design aesthetic |url=https://www.creativebloq.com/news/frutiger-aero-aesthetic-resurgance |access-date=2024-07-20 |website=Creative Bloq |language=en}}</ref>


=== Dark academia ===
=== Academia aesthetic ===
The academia aesthetic is an internet-based cultural and visual trend centered on themes of higher education, intellectual pursuits, and scholarly environments. Drawing inspiration from classical literature, historical periods, and collegiate lifestyles, it includes subgenres such as [[dark academia]] and [[light academia]]. These subcultures are defined by their distinct visual styles, thematic focuses, and influences from historical and literary traditions.

==== Dark academia ====
⚫
[[File:Bibliothèque humaniste de Sélestat 21 janvier 2014-97.jpg|thumb|Architecture relevant in Dark academia]]
{{Main|Dark academia}}
{{Main|Dark academia}}
Dark academia is an aesthetic that emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge within a context of mysticism, introspection, and a darker, melancholic atmosphere. It draws heavily from 19th and early 20th-century academic settings and [[Collegiate Gothic|Collegiate Gothic architecture]]. Hallmarks include dimly lit libraries, vintage clothing, and a muted color palette dominated by shades of brown, black, and gray. The aesthetic often celebrates classical literature, philosophy, and art, with themes of existentialism and mortality woven throughout its narratives.
⚫
[[File:Bibliothèque humaniste de Sélestat 21 janvier 2014-97.jpg|thumb|Architecture relevant in Dark Academia]]


[[Dark academia]] is an aesthetic that focuses on higher education, specifically during the 19th century and early 20th century, and [[Collegiate Gothic]] architecture, along with a dark color palette. It also reportedly "emphasizes inclusivity and [[gender fluidity]]" and "has a dedicated [[LGBT|LGBTQ+]] following".<ref name=NYTimes6.30.20>{{Cite news |last=Bateman |first=Kristen |date=2020-06-30 |title=Academia Lives — on TikTok |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/30/style/dark-academia-tiktok.html |access-date=2022-08-08 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> According to ''[https://www.vinsider.ca/voices/the-rise-of-dark-academia/ The INSIDER]'', the aesthetic dates back to 2014 on Tumblr, later getting popularized in 2020 during the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], specifically on TikTok and Instagram.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-11-05 |title=The Rise of Dark Academia |url=https://www.vinsider.ca/voices/the-rise-of-dark-academia/ |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=The Insider |language=en}}</ref> Kristen Bateman of ''[[The New York Times]]'' states, "Though it's unclear how and where, exactly, Dark Academia began, many users discovered it on Tumblr".<ref name=NYTimes6.30.20/>
Dark academia is noted for its inclusivity and connection to LGBTQ+ communities.<ref name="NYTimes6.30.20">{{Cite news |last=Bateman |first=Kristen |date=2020-06-30 |title=Academia Lives — on TikTok |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/30/style/dark-academia-tiktok.html |access-date=2022-08-08 |work=[[The New York Times]] |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> Originating on Tumblr in 2014, the aesthetic gained widespread attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-11-05 |title=The Rise of Dark Academia |url=https://www.vinsider.ca/voices/the-rise-of-dark-academia/ |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=The Insider |language=en}}</ref> Its resurgence during this period reflected a romanticization of scholarly life amidst global lockdowns. As Kristen Bateman of ''[[The New York Times]]'' observed, the aesthetic's origins remain somewhat nebulous but found early traction on Tumblr.<ref name="NYTimes6.30.20" />


=== Light academia ===
==== Light academia ====
[[File:Moray House College of Education.jpg|thumb|Architecture relevant in Light Academia]]
{{Main|Light academia}}
{{Main|Light academia}}
Light academia serves as the counterpart to dark academia, focusing on more optimistic and joyful interpretations of scholarly life. It highlights themes of friendship, curiosity, and the simple pleasures of learning, often set against a visually bright and airy aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from works such as ''[[Alice in Wonderland (1951 film)|Alice in Wonderland]]'' and ''[[Peter Pan (1953 film)|Peter Pan]]'', light academia emphasizes creativity and imagination.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dark Academia, Light Academia, & Cottagecore: Breaking Down 3 Popular Internet Aesthetics |url=https://www.wallflowerjournal.com/lifestyle/dark-academia-light-academia-amp-cottagecore-breaking-down-3-popular-internet-aesthetics |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=wallflower |language=en-US}}</ref> Its visual elements include soft, pastel tones, natural light, and vintage school uniforms reminiscent of early to mid-20th-century college wear.


The aesthetic also incorporates elements of art, ceramics, and architecture with a lighter visual tone.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-27 |title=Which Type of Academia Aesthetics Are You? |url=https://www.theotheraesthetic.com/blog/types-of-academia-aesthetics-which-one-are-you/ |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=The Other Aesthetic |language=en-US}}</ref> Coined on Tumblr in 2019,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jonas |first=Carla |date=2023-04-11 |title=Light Academia: The Ultimate Guide on the Trendy Fashion Aesthetic |url=https://thepearlexpert.com/light-academia/ |access-date=2024-11-18 |website=TPS Blog |language=en-US}}</ref> light academia gained prominence in the early 2020s, appealing to those who sought an alternative to the somber and brooding qualities of dark academia. Some have described it as "cottagecore with more cosmopolitan elements,"<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-25 |title=What is the 'light academia' aesthetic? How to get the look in Vancouver |url=https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/lifestyle/what-is-the-light-academia-aesthetic-vancouver-5516856 |access-date=2024-11-18 |website=Vancouver Is Awesome |language=en}}</ref> blending a rural charm with intellectual and artistic sophistication.
[[Light academia]] is an aesthetic and subculture often featured in literature and the world of higher education that emphasizes visually light aesthetics and positive themes, including optimism, joy, and friendship. Books such as [[Alice's Adventures in Wonderland|Alice in Wonderland]] and [[Peter Pan (1953 film)|Peter Pan]] emphasize light academia as it romanticizes the pursuit of knowledge and imagination.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dark Academia, Light Academia, & Cottagecore: Breaking Down 3 Popular Internet Aesthetics |url=https://www.wallflowerjournal.com/lifestyle/dark-academia-light-academia-amp-cottagecore-breaking-down-3-popular-internet-aesthetics |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=wallflower |language=en-US}}</ref> Accordingly, light academia is often considered to be the visually and emotionally lighter counterpart of dark academia, which has been described as "cottagecore with some more [[Cosmopolitanism|cosmopolitan]] elements". This aesthetic takes inspiration from school uniforms and early to mid-20th-century college wear, featuring staple and vintage pieces. It is a broad term and can refer to aspects such as architecture, artwork, and ceramics.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-27 |title=Which Type of Academia Aesthetics Are You? |url=https://www.theotheraesthetic.com/blog/types-of-academia-aesthetics-which-one-are-you/ |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=The Other Aesthetic |language=en-US}}</ref> The term light academia was coined on [[Tumblr]] in 2019 and gained popularity during the early 2020s.{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}

=== Neo-Victorian ===
{{Main|Neo-Victorian}}
[[File:GrupoTweedRun.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|A collection of people dressed in Neo-Victorian clothing]]
[[Neo-Victorian]]ism is an aesthetic movement that features an overt nostalgia for the [[Victorian era|Victorian]] period, generally in the context of the broader [[Hipster (contemporary subculture)|hipster]] subculture of the 1990s–2010s.<ref>{{Cite book|last1=Heilmann|first1=Ann|title=Neo-Victorianism: The Victorians in the Twenty-First Century, 1999-2009|last2=Llewellyn|first2=Mark|publisher=Springer|year=2010|isbn=978-1-349-31685-4|location=New York|pages=5}}</ref> It is also likened to other "neos" (e.g. [[neoconservatism]], [[neoliberalism]]), which do not simply look back to the past but also reiterate and replay it in more diverse and complicated ways.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Ho|first=Elizabeth|title=Neo-Victorianism and the Memory of Empire|publisher=A&C Black|year=2012|isbn=978-1-4411-6155-0|location=London|pages=9}}</ref> This characteristic makes neo-Victorian art difficult to define conclusively.<ref>{{Cite book|last1=Boehm-Schnitker|first1=Nadine|title=Neo-Victorian Literature and Culture: Immersions and Revisitations|last2=Gruss|first2=Susanne|publisher=Routledge|year=2014|isbn=978-1-134-61469-1|location=New York|pages=3}}</ref>


=== Cottagecore ===
=== Cottagecore ===
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=== VSCO girl ===
=== VSCO girl ===
VSCO girls or VSCO kids emerged among [[Generation Z|Gen Z]] teenagers during the summer of 2019,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/vsco-girl-purchases-boosted-brands-vsco-app-2019-8#the-vsco-girl-summer-is-over-but-sales-are-not-2|title=The summer of the 'VSCO girl' may be over, but retailers and the VSCO app itself are still reaping the benefits of the craze that swept Gen Z|last=Leskin|first=Paige|date=December 12, 2019|website=Business Insider}}</ref> and are often described as "basic".<ref name="Schwedel2019">{{Cite web|url=https://slate.com/human-interest/2019/09/vsco-girls-explained-by-teens.html|title=Teens Explain the VSCO Girl—and Why You Never Want to Be One|last=Schwedel|first=Heather|date=September 12, 2019|website=Slate Magazine|language=en|access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref> The American YouTuber [[Emma Chamberlain]] is considered as an icon of this aesthetic. Named after the [[VSCO]] photography app, VSCO girls live by the statement "pics or didn't happen", using the app to create their social media aesthetic.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-21 |title=The Ultimate VSCO Girl Starter Pack |url=https://www.teenvogue.com/story/vsco-girl-starter-pack |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=Teen Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref> They are stereotyped as having oversized [[T-shirt]]s, [[Sweatshirt|sweatshirts]] or [[Sweater|sweaters]], [[Fjällräven#Fjällräven Kånken|Fjällräven Kånken]]s, [[scrunchie]]s, [[Hydro Flask]]s, [[Crocs]], [[Pura Vida Bracelets|Pura Vida bracelets]], [[instant camera]]s, [[Carmex]], metal straws, [[friendship bracelet]]s, [[Birkenstock]]s, shell necklaces, and other beach-related fashion. A typical VSCO girl outfit consists of [[leggings]], an oversized and vibrant graphic T-shirt, and Birkenstock shoes. [[Environmental protection|Environmentalism]], especially topics relating to [[Threats to sea turtles|sea turtle conservation]], are also regarded as part of VSCO culture.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/a28709397/vsco-girls-what-to-know/|title=A Guide to the 'VSCO Girl' Aesthetic Taking Over Your Feeds |last=Minutaglio |first=Rose |date=August 16, 2019 |website=ELLE |language=en-US |access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theintercept.com/2019/09/20/why-vsco-girls-are-going-on-strike-for-the-climate/|title=Why VSCO Girls are Going on Strike for the Climate|last=Aronoff|first=Kate|date=September 20, 2019|website=The Intercept|language=en-US|access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref> VSCO girls have fallen out of fashion since 2019.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Mutum |first1=Dilip S. |url=https://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-031-39359-4_7 |title=Evolving Consumer Representations and Roles |last2=Ghazali |first2=Ezlika M. |publisher=Springer Nature Switzerland |year=2023 |isbn=978-3-031-39358-7 |location=Cham |pages=149–150 |language=en |doi=10.1007/978-3-031-39359-4_7}}</ref>
VSCO girls or VSCO kids emerged among [[Generation Z|Gen Z]] teenagers during the summer of 2019,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/vsco-girl-purchases-boosted-brands-vsco-app-2019-8#the-vsco-girl-summer-is-over-but-sales-are-not-2|title=The summer of the 'VSCO girl' may be over, but retailers and the VSCO app itself are still reaping the benefits of the craze that swept Gen Z|last=Leskin|first=Paige|date=December 12, 2019|website=Business Insider}}</ref> and are often described as "basic".<ref name="Schwedel2019">{{Cite web|url=https://slate.com/human-interest/2019/09/vsco-girls-explained-by-teens.html|title=Teens Explain the VSCO Girl—and Why You Never Want to Be One|last=Schwedel|first=Heather|date=September 12, 2019|website=Slate Magazine|language=en|access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref> The American YouTuber [[Emma Chamberlain]] is considered as an icon of this aesthetic. Named after the [[VSCO]] photography app, VSCO girls live by the statement "pics or didn't happen", using the app to create their social media aesthetic.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-21 |title=The Ultimate VSCO Girl Starter Pack |url=https://www.teenvogue.com/story/vsco-girl-starter-pack |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=Teen Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref> They are stereotyped as having oversized [[T-shirt]]s, [[Sweatshirt|sweatshirts]] or [[Sweater|sweaters]], [[Fjällräven#Fjällräven Kånken|Fjällräven Kånken]]s, [[scrunchie]]s, [[Hydro Flask]]s, [[Crocs]], [[Pura Vida Bracelets|Pura Vida bracelets]], [[instant camera]]s, [[Carmex]], metal straws, [[friendship bracelet]]s, [[Birkenstock]]s, shell necklaces, and other beach-related fashion. A typical VSCO girl outfit consists of [[leggings]], an oversized and vibrant graphic T-shirt, and Birkenstock shoes. [[Environmental protection|Environmentalism]], especially topics relating to [[Threats to sea turtles|sea turtle conservation]], are also regarded as part of VSCO culture.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/a28709397/vsco-girls-what-to-know/|title=A Guide to the 'VSCO Girl' Aesthetic Taking Over Your Feeds |last=Minutaglio |first=Rose |date=August 16, 2019 |website=ELLE |language=en-US |access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theintercept.com/2019/09/20/why-vsco-girls-are-going-on-strike-for-the-climate/|title=Why VSCO Girls are Going on Strike for the Climate|last=Aronoff|first=Kate|date=September 20, 2019|website=The Intercept|language=en-US|access-date=October 16, 2019}}</ref> VSCO girls have fallen out of fashion since 2019.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Mutum |first1=Dilip S. |url=https://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-031-39359-4_7 |title=Evolving Consumer Representations and Roles |last2=Ghazali |first2=Ezlika M. |publisher=Springer Nature Switzerland |year=2023 |isbn=978-3-031-39358-7 |location=Cham |pages=149–150 |language=en |doi=10.1007/978-3-031-39359-4_7}}</ref>


=== McBling ===
=== McBling ===
[[File:McBling Saturday Night candle with glitter and a disco ball, very Gen Z, unknown designer, produced by DW Home, circa 2024, glass and wax, sold at T•J•maxx in Miami, US (02).jpg|thumb|McBling Saturday Night candle with glitter and a disco ball, very [[Gen Z]], unknown designer, produced by DW Home, {{circa|2024}}, glass and wax, sold at [[TJ Maxx]] in [[Miami]], US]]
[[File:McBling Saturday Night candle with glitter and a disco ball, very Gen Z, unknown designer, produced by DW Home, circa 2024, glass and wax, sold at T•J•maxx in Miami, US (02).jpg|thumb|McBling Saturday Night candle with glitter and a disco ball, very [[Gen Z]], unknown designer, produced by DW Home, {{circa|2024}}, glass and wax, sold at [[TJ Maxx]] in [[Miami]], US]]
McBling (colloquially "Y2K fashion")<ref name="Vogue"/> is a girly aesthetic that was popular from roughly 2003 to 2008, which formed around the growing celebrity culture of the time, [[reality television]] and [[paparazzi]]. It is best known for the high use of hot pink and purple, [[Low-rise (fashion)|low rise jeans]], [[Miniskirt|mini skirts]], [[designer label|logomania]], [[sequins]], [[rhinestones]], halter tops, and monochrome [[tracksuit]]s, colorful sunglasses, butterfly or flower-shaped hair clips, bags worn over the shoulder, and jelly accessories with glitter (including shoes). It is highly associated with the 2000s [[Reality television|reality show]] ''[[The Simple Life]]'', with [[Paris Hilton]] and [[Nicole Richie]], and with [[Regina George (Mean Girls)|Regina George]] from the 2004 film ''[[Mean Girls]]''. Other examples of media that feature this aesthetic are ''[[Legally Blonde]]'', ''[[Sleepover (film)|Sleepover]]'', and ''[[Crossroads (2002 film)|Crossroads]]''. McBling mostly died when the [[2007–2008 financial crisis]] happened, but a resurgence took place on [[TikTok]] around 2021, part of the wave of interest for 2000s trends in fashion and design, led by [[nostalgia]]. McBling has some overlap with the [[#YK2 Futurism|Y2K aesthetic]], with both even being called "Y2K" at times or used to refer to [[2000s in fashion|2000s fashion]] in general.<ref name="Vogue"/>
McBling (colloquially "Y2K fashion")<ref name="Vogue"/> is a girly aesthetic that was popular from roughly 2003 to 2008, which formed around the growing celebrity culture of the time, [[reality television]] and [[paparazzi]]. It is best known for the high use of hot pink and purple, [[Low-rise (fashion)|low rise jeans]], [[Miniskirt|mini skirts]], [[designer label|logomania]], [[sequins]], [[rhinestones]], halter tops, and monochrome [[tracksuit]]s, colorful sunglasses, butterfly or flower-shaped hair clips, bags worn over the shoulder, and jelly accessories with glitter (including shoes). It is highly associated with the 2000s [[Reality television|reality show]] ''[[The Simple Life]]'', with [[Paris Hilton]] and [[Nicole Richie]], and with [[Regina George (Mean Girls)|Regina George]] from the 2004 film ''[[Mean Girls]]''. Other examples of media that feature this aesthetic are ''[[Legally Blonde]]'', ''[[Sleepover (film)|Sleepover]]'', and ''[[Crossroads (2002 film)|Crossroads]]''. Pop singers such as Christina Aguilera displayed the "McBling" aesthetic throughout the 2000's wearing extremely low-rise and tight fitting clothing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Abrigail |date=2022-08-15 |title=What Is McBling and How Is it Different From Y2K? |url=https://www.vogue.com/article/what-is-mcbling |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref> Clothing with cutouts, fringe,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-09-24 |title=50 Christina Aguilera Fashion Moments You Forgot You Were Obsessed With |url=https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/news/g5694/vintage-christina-aguilera/ |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=Cosmopolitan |language=en-US}}</ref> leather, and other distinct designs can be used to describe McBling and as of now are dead stock items, which can only be found in discount stores or secondhand clothing websites. McBling Started Dying Around Late 2008, happened, but a resurgence took place on [[TikTok]] around 2021, part of the wave of interest for 2000s trends in fashion and design, led by [[nostalgia]]. McBling has some overlap with the [[Y2K aesthetic]], with both even being called "Y2K" at times or used to refer to [[2000s in fashion|2000s fashion]] in general.<ref name="Vogue"/>


=== E-Kid ===
=== E-Kid ===
{{Main|E-girls and e-boys}}
{{Main|E-girls and e-boys}}
The [[E-girls and e-boys|E-Girl and E-Boy]] aesthetics gained popularity on [[TikTok]] in 2019 primarily by members of [[Generation Z]]. It is an evolution of [[emo]], [[scene (subculture)|scene]] and [[mall goth]] fashion combined with [[Japanese street fashion]] (such as [[anime]], [[cosplay]], [[kawaii]] and [[lolita fashion]]) and Korean street fashion (such as [[K-pop#Fashion|K-pop]]).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leskin |first=Paige |title=Everything you need to know about e-girls and e-boys, teen gamers who have emerged as the antithesis of Instagram influencers |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/e-girls-definition-tiktok-e-boys-anti-influencer-teen-gamers-2019-9 |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=How to dress like an E-girl in 2022: your definitive guide |url=https://heatworld.com/shopping/fashion/e-girl-style-guide/ |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=Heat|date=June 5, 2022 }}</ref> The E-Kid aesthetic often features bright hair colors, heavy and dark eye makeup, and accessories such as chain necklaces and beanies. Their wardrobe consists of oversized T-shirts, slim jeans, and checkered [[Vans]] shoes.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Madi |first=Madi |date=July 4, 2023 |title=What is an Eboy? The True Eboy Style Explained |url=https://manofmany.com/fashion/mens-fashion-trends/what-is-an-eboy-the-true-eboy-style-explained |access-date=March 19, 2024 |website=manofmany.com}}</ref> According to ''[[Business Insider]]'', the terms are not gender-specific, instead referring to two separate styles of fashion, stating that "While the e-boy is a vulnerable 'softboi' and embraces skate culture, the e-girl is cute and seemingly innocent".{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}
The [[E-girls and e-boys|E-Girl and E-Boy]] aesthetics gained popularity on [[TikTok]] in 2019 primarily by members of [[Generation Z]]. It is an evolution of [[emo]], [[scene (subculture)|scene]] and [[mall goth]] fashion combined with [[Japanese street fashion]] (such as [[anime]], [[cosplay]], [[kawaii]] and [[lolita fashion]]) and Korean street fashion (such as [[K-pop#Fashion|K-pop]]).<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Leskin |first=Paige |title=Everything you need to know about e-girls and e-boys, teen gamers who have emerged as the antithesis of Instagram influencers |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/e-girls-definition-tiktok-e-boys-anti-influencer-teen-gamers-2019-9 |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=How to dress like an E-girl in 2022: your definitive guide |url=https://heatworld.com/shopping/fashion/e-girl-style-guide/ |access-date=2022-08-11 |website=Heat|date=June 5, 2022 }}</ref> The E-Kid aesthetic often features bright hair colors, heavy and dark eye makeup, and accessories such as chain necklaces and beanies. Their wardrobe consists of oversized T-shirts, slim jeans, and checkered [[Vans]] shoes.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Madi |first=Madi |date=July 4, 2023 |title=What is an Eboy? The True Eboy Style Explained |url=https://manofmany.com/fashion/mens-fashion-trends/what-is-an-eboy-the-true-eboy-style-explained |access-date=March 19, 2024 |website=manofmany.com}}</ref> According to ''[[Business Insider]]'', the terms are not gender-specific, instead referring to two separate styles of fashion, stating that "While the e-boy is a vulnerable 'softboi' and embraces skate culture, the e-girl is cute and seemingly innocent".<ref name=":1" />


=== Kidcore/indie kid ===
=== Kidcore/indie kid ===
Line 71: Line 67:


=== Clean Girl ===
=== Clean Girl ===
Popularized in 2022 on TikTok, Clean Girl aesthetic is “[I] just got out of the shower, and I’m effortlessly gorgeous”.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-27 |title=What is the clean girl aesthetic? How to achieve the look |url=https://nypost.com/2022/07/27/what-is-the-clean-girl-aesthetic-how-to-achieve-the-look/ |access-date=2024-03-19 |language=en-US}}</ref> According to ''[[Bustle (magazine)|Bustle]]'', it is "about oversized, sporty basics", and consists of items such as "simple crop tops, loose-fit, high-rise denim, dainty gold jewelry, matching athleisure sets (often from Aritzia), and the latest Nike drop". Clean Girl takes on a minimalist approach to wardrobe, makeup, and essentially, routine. According to ''[[Refinery29]]'', the aesthetic "is basically just [[Minimalism|minimalist]] makeup" and "significantly low effort", citing that as the reason for its popularity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Let's Argue: How Do We Really Feel About The "Clean Girl Makeup" Aesthetic? |url=https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2022/07/11048021/unbothered-clean-girl-makeup-black-women |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=www.refinery29.com |language=en}}</ref> Influencers such as [[Hailey Bieber]] and [[Bella Hadid]] have mastered the Clean Girl aesthetic, contributing to the rise of slicked-back buns, chunky gold hoops, and skin-like makeup.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to Channel the Clean Girl Aesthetic, According to Fashion Influencers Who Have Already Nailed the Trend |url=https://www.instyle.com/fashion/clothing/clean-girl-aesthetic-fashion-trend |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=InStyle |language=en}}</ref>
Popularized in 2022 on TikTok, Clean Girl aesthetic is "[I] just got out of the shower, and I’m effortlessly gorgeous."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-27 |title=What is the clean girl aesthetic? How to achieve the look |url=https://nypost.com/2022/07/27/what-is-the-clean-girl-aesthetic-how-to-achieve-the-look/ |access-date=2024-03-19 |language=en-US}}</ref> According to ''[[Bustle (magazine)|Bustle]]'', it is "about oversized, sporty basics", and consists of items such as "simple crop tops, loose-fit, high-rise denim, dainty gold jewelry, matching athleisure sets (often from Aritzia), and the latest Nike drop". Clean Girl takes on a minimalist approach to wardrobe, makeup, and essentially, routine. According to ''[[Refinery29]]'', the aesthetic "is basically just [[Minimalism|minimalist]] makeup" and "significantly low effort", citing that as the reason for its popularity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Let's Argue: How Do We Really Feel About The "Clean Girl Makeup" Aesthetic? |url=https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2022/07/11048021/unbothered-clean-girl-makeup-black-women |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=www.refinery29.com |language=en}}</ref> Influencers such as [[Hailey Bieber]] and [[Bella Hadid]] are often associated with the Clean Girl aesthetic, contributing to the rise of slicked-back buns, chunky gold hoops, and skin-like makeup.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to Channel the Clean Girl Aesthetic, According to Fashion Influencers Who Have Already Nailed the Trend |url=https://www.instyle.com/fashion/clothing/clean-girl-aesthetic-fashion-trend |access-date=2024-03-19 |website=InStyle |language=en}}</ref>


=== That Girl ===
=== That Girl ===
{{Main|That Girl (Trend)}}
{{Main|That Girl (Trend)}}
The [[That Girl (Trend)|That Girl]] aesthetic refers to a woman who puts an emphasis on physical and mental wellness. It is often associated with [[athleisure]], [[Self-help book|self-help books]], spirituality, and dieting.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cary |first=Alice |date=2023-06-03 |title=How Birkenstock's Arizonas Went From Being Sold Exclusively In Health-Food Stores To A Fashion Editor Staple |url=https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/birkenstock-arizona-sandals |access-date=2024-12-05 |website=British Vogue |language=en-GB}}</ref>
Similarly to Clean Girl, [[That Girl (Trend)|That Girl]] aesthetic consists of an individual who takes care of themselves and puts an emphasis on wellness in all aspects of their lives ([[mental health]], fitness, nutrition, interpersonal relations, etc.) It is most often targeted to women, although not exclusive to women.{{Cn|date=November 2024}}


== See also ==
== See also ==
Line 88: Line 84:
== References ==
== References ==
<references />
<references />

== External Links ==
* [https://www.nylon.com/core-club 'Core Club], series of articles on internet aesthetics by the lifestyle magazine ''[[Nylon (magazine)|Nylon]]'' <!-- to quote the description the site provides "Whether it's a fashion trend on TikTok or a certain style taking over Instagram, internet aesthetics are always changing online. Our series 'Core Club breaks down the looks that you're starting to see a lot on social media and highlights the people and brands channeling it best." -->


{{Aesthetics}}
{{Aesthetics}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Internet aesthetic}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Internet aesthetic}}
[[Category:Internet aesthetics| ]]
[[Category:2010s fads and trends]]
[[Category:2010s neologisms]]
[[Category:2020 in Internet culture]]
[[Category:2020s fads and trends]]
[[Category:2020s neologisms]]
[[Category:Art movements]]
[[Category:Cultural trends]]
[[Category:Digital art]]
[[Category:Fashion]]
[[Category:Internet art]]
[[Category:Internet culture]]
[[Category:Internet memes]]
[[Category:Internet memes introduced in the 2010s]]
[[Category:Internet memes introduced in the 2020s]]
[[Category:Social media]]
[[Category:Style]]
[[Category:Subcultures]]
[[Category:Visual arts genres]]
[[Category:Youth culture]]

Latest revision as of 15:30, 9 January 2025

An Internet aesthetic is a visual art style, fashion style, or music genre accompanied by a subculture that usually originates from the Internet or is popularized on it. Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, online aesthetics gained increasing popularity, specifically on social media platforms, and often were used by people to express their individuality and creativity. They can also be used to create a sense of community and belonging among people who share the same interests. The term aesthetic has been described as being "totally divorced from its academic origins", and is commonly used as an adjective.[1]

Definition

[edit]

Internet aesthetics are difficult to define. A study published in First Monday describes them as "labels applied on heterogenous collections of materials and activities by Internet users, which are discussed and constructed primarily on the Internet".[2] Literary scholar Simone Murray describes internet aesthetics as "less a cohesive movement or delimited subculture than a loose cluster of atmospherics and “vibes”".[3] Cultural historian Robbert-Jan Adriaansen argues that internet aesthetics are unified by their affective curation of an ‘atmosphere’, ‘mood’, or ‘vibe’.[3] Adriaansen quotes the Aesthetics Wiki website's description of an internet aesthetic as a “collection of visual schema that creates a ‘mood.’”[4]

History

[edit]

In 1735, German philosopher Alex Baumgarten derived the term "aesthetics" from the Greek word "aisthetike" or "aisthesis", establishing it as a field of study.[5] The term "aesthetic" has evolved to reflect current trends in digital communication and multimedia art. Many Internet aesthetics have been credited with originating on Tumblr, including Dark academia, Cottagecore, Art Hoe,[6] Coquette/Nymphet,[7] and Weirdcore.[8] With the influence of new social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, however, internet aesthetics are being dominated by micro-trends such as mob wife and tomato girl summer.[9]

In July 2022, Sarah Spellings from Vogue stated that there was a "rise of hyper-specific Internet aesthetics".[10]

Notable examples

[edit]

Corecore

[edit]
Main article: Corecore

Corecore or CoreCore is an aesthetic and artistic movement aiming to capture post–2020 sensibilities. A product of youth culture in the 2020s, the corecore aesthetic was largely found on TikTok, where it juxtaposes various video clips while emotional music plays. Meant to evoke strong emotions, the corecore aesthetic juxtaposes imagery with its content made up of "seemingly unrelated clips" culled from a variety of sources including news footage, social media, films, livestreams, and memes, often overlaid on usually emotionally rousing, somber, or ambient music.[11]

Y2K

[edit]
Main article: Y2K aesthetic
Apple's iMac G3, an example of the blobject styles found in the Y2K era[12]

Y2K (or Cybercore)[13] is an Internet aesthetic based on products, styles, and fashion of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The name Y2K is derived from an abbreviation coined by programmer David Eddy for the year 2000 and its potential computer errors. The Y2K aesthetic can include synthetic or metallic materials, blobjects, reflective clothing, inflatable furniture, and computer interfaces of the dotcom era.[12][14] At times, "Y2K" is used to refer to 2000s fashion in general, overlapping with aspects of the McBling aesthetic.[15]

Frutiger Aero

[edit]
Main article: Frutiger Aero

Frutiger Aero is an Internet aesthetic and user interface design trend based on Windows Aero. It was popular from roughly 2004 to 2013, succeeding the Y2K aesthetic.[16] This aesthetic was named after Swiss typeface designer Adrian Frutiger, whose font and UI theme developments influenced the design choices of major companies. The term Frutiger Aero was coined in 2017 as an open compound of Aero and the Frutiger typeface.[17] The aesthetic resonates heavily with Y2K, focusing around gloss, CGI renders of scenes with nature and technology together, transparency, nature symbolism, bokeh photography, and elements of skeuomorphic design.[16][18][19] It began to decline after 2012, but made a comeback in the 2020s among members of Generation Z.[20]

Academia aesthetic

[edit]

The academia aesthetic is an internet-based cultural and visual trend centered on themes of higher education, intellectual pursuits, and scholarly environments. Drawing inspiration from classical literature, historical periods, and collegiate lifestyles, it includes subgenres such as dark academia and light academia. These subcultures are defined by their distinct visual styles, thematic focuses, and influences from historical and literary traditions.

Dark academia

[edit]
Architecture relevant in Dark academia
Main article: Dark academia

Dark academia is an aesthetic that emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge within a context of mysticism, introspection, and a darker, melancholic atmosphere. It draws heavily from 19th and early 20th-century academic settings and Collegiate Gothic architecture. Hallmarks include dimly lit libraries, vintage clothing, and a muted color palette dominated by shades of brown, black, and gray. The aesthetic often celebrates classical literature, philosophy, and art, with themes of existentialism and mortality woven throughout its narratives.

Dark academia is noted for its inclusivity and connection to LGBTQ+ communities.[21] Originating on Tumblr in 2014, the aesthetic gained widespread attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.[22] Its resurgence during this period reflected a romanticization of scholarly life amidst global lockdowns. As Kristen Bateman of The New York Times observed, the aesthetic's origins remain somewhat nebulous but found early traction on Tumblr.[21]

Light academia

[edit]
Architecture relevant in Light Academia
Main article: Light academia

Light academia serves as the counterpart to dark academia, focusing on more optimistic and joyful interpretations of scholarly life. It highlights themes of friendship, curiosity, and the simple pleasures of learning, often set against a visually bright and airy aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from works such as Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, light academia emphasizes creativity and imagination.[23] Its visual elements include soft, pastel tones, natural light, and vintage school uniforms reminiscent of early to mid-20th-century college wear.

The aesthetic also incorporates elements of art, ceramics, and architecture with a lighter visual tone.[24] Coined on Tumblr in 2019,[25] light academia gained prominence in the early 2020s, appealing to those who sought an alternative to the somber and brooding qualities of dark academia. Some have described it as "cottagecore with more cosmopolitan elements,"[26] blending a rural charm with intellectual and artistic sophistication.

Cottagecore

[edit]
Main article: Cottagecore
Architecture relevant in Cottagecore

Cottagecore is an aesthetic popularised by teenagers and young adults romanticizing rural life, centering on traditional rural clothing, interior design, and crafts such as drawing, baking, and pottery. The term for the aesthetic was coined in 2018 on Tumblr.[27] The aesthetic gained heavy popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, where economic forces and other challenges facing these young people may have been a significant driver of this trend, along with these generations' emphasis on sustainability, and the recent trend to work from home (initially during the pandemic).[28]

VSCO girl

[edit]

VSCO girls or VSCO kids emerged among Gen Z teenagers during the summer of 2019,[29] and are often described as "basic".[30] The American YouTuber Emma Chamberlain is considered as an icon of this aesthetic. Named after the VSCO photography app, VSCO girls live by the statement "pics or didn't happen", using the app to create their social media aesthetic.[31] They are stereotyped as having oversized T-shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters, Fjällräven Kånkens, scrunchies, Hydro Flasks, Crocs, Pura Vida bracelets, instant cameras, Carmex, metal straws, friendship bracelets, Birkenstocks, shell necklaces, and other beach-related fashion. A typical VSCO girl outfit consists of leggings, an oversized and vibrant graphic T-shirt, and Birkenstock shoes. Environmentalism, especially topics relating to sea turtle conservation, are also regarded as part of VSCO culture.[32][33] VSCO girls have fallen out of fashion since 2019.[34]

McBling

[edit]
McBling Saturday Night candle with glitter and a disco ball, very Gen Z, unknown designer, produced by DW Home, c. 2024, glass and wax, sold at TJ Maxx in Miami, US

McBling (colloquially "Y2K fashion")[15] is a girly aesthetic that was popular from roughly 2003 to 2008, which formed around the growing celebrity culture of the time, reality television and paparazzi. It is best known for the high use of hot pink and purple, low rise jeans, mini skirts, logomania, sequins, rhinestones, halter tops, and monochrome tracksuits, colorful sunglasses, butterfly or flower-shaped hair clips, bags worn over the shoulder, and jelly accessories with glitter (including shoes). It is highly associated with the 2000s reality show The Simple Life, with Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, and with Regina George from the 2004 film Mean Girls. Other examples of media that feature this aesthetic are Legally Blonde, Sleepover, and Crossroads. Pop singers such as Christina Aguilera displayed the "McBling" aesthetic throughout the 2000's wearing extremely low-rise and tight fitting clothing.[35] Clothing with cutouts, fringe,[36] leather, and other distinct designs can be used to describe McBling and as of now are dead stock items, which can only be found in discount stores or secondhand clothing websites. McBling Started Dying Around Late 2008, happened, but a resurgence took place on TikTok around 2021, part of the wave of interest for 2000s trends in fashion and design, led by nostalgia. McBling has some overlap with the Y2K aesthetic, with both even being called "Y2K" at times or used to refer to 2000s fashion in general.[15]

E-Kid

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Main article: E-girls and e-boys

The E-Girl and E-Boy aesthetics gained popularity on TikTok in 2019 primarily by members of Generation Z. It is an evolution of emo, scene and mall goth fashion combined with Japanese street fashion (such as anime, cosplay, kawaii and lolita fashion) and Korean street fashion (such as K-pop).[37][38] The E-Kid aesthetic often features bright hair colors, heavy and dark eye makeup, and accessories such as chain necklaces and beanies. Their wardrobe consists of oversized T-shirts, slim jeans, and checkered Vans shoes.[39] According to Business Insider, the terms are not gender-specific, instead referring to two separate styles of fashion, stating that "While the e-boy is a vulnerable 'softboi' and embraces skate culture, the e-girl is cute and seemingly innocent".[37]

Kidcore/indie kid

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Maximalist kidcore glass necklace, unknown designer or brand, c. 2024, glass, sold at Stockmann in Helsinki, Finland

The "kidcore" or "indie kid" look centers around bright colors and nods to the late 1990s and 2000s. The aesthetic was first defined on Tumblr around the mid-2010s. In 2020, TikTok and Instagram contributed to a sharp increase in popularity. The indie kid aesthetic is characterized by overly saturated photos and "crop tops, baggy pants/jeans, tartan tennis skirts, tight-fitting tops, polo shirts, platform boots or sneakers, as well as skate brands in general", along with Monster Energy also being considered "a staple".[40] Unlike the hipster subculture of the 2000s and early 2010s, indie kids of the 2020s favored a more childlike style that took inspiration from the late 1990s and 2000s, Japanese subculture, bedroom pop, skater fashion, energy drink culture, and hyper pop.

Clean Girl

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Popularized in 2022 on TikTok, Clean Girl aesthetic is "[I] just got out of the shower, and I’m effortlessly gorgeous."[41] According to Bustle, it is "about oversized, sporty basics", and consists of items such as "simple crop tops, loose-fit, high-rise denim, dainty gold jewelry, matching athleisure sets (often from Aritzia), and the latest Nike drop". Clean Girl takes on a minimalist approach to wardrobe, makeup, and essentially, routine. According to Refinery29, the aesthetic "is basically just minimalist makeup" and "significantly low effort", citing that as the reason for its popularity.[42] Influencers such as Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid are often associated with the Clean Girl aesthetic, contributing to the rise of slicked-back buns, chunky gold hoops, and skin-like makeup.[43]

That Girl

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Main article: That Girl (Trend)

The That Girl aesthetic refers to a woman who puts an emphasis on physical and mental wellness. It is often associated with athleisure, self-help books, spirituality, and dieting.[44]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Spellings, Sarah (May 25, 2021). "Do I Have an Aesthetic?". Vogue. Retrieved August 5, 2022.
  2. ^ Giolo, Guilherme; Berghman, Michaël (March 13, 2023). "The aesthetics of the self: The meaning-making of Internet aesthetics". First Monday. doi:10.5210/fm.v28i3.12723.
  3. ^ a b Lee, Tori F (October 1, 2024). "The haunting of classics in the Dark Academia aesthetic". Classical Receptions Journal. 16 (4): 419–436. doi:10.1093/crj/clae007. ISSN 1759-5142.
  4. ^ Adriaansen, Robbert-Jan (December 1, 2022). "Dark Academia: Curating Affective History in a COVID-Era Internet Aesthetic". International Public History. 5 (2): 105–114. doi:10.1515/iph-2022-2047. ISSN 2567-1111.
  5. ^ "aesthetics". csmt.uchicago.edu. Retrieved October 2, 2024.
  6. ^ "'Art hoe' isn't just an aesthetic, although we've tried to make it one". Vancouver Is Awesome. July 7, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022.
  7. ^ "Why have young women on the internet always loved Lolita?". Dazed. July 28, 2022. Retrieved August 9, 2022.
  8. ^ Pradeep, Malavika (September 5, 2021). "Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown". Inside Weirdcore, an internet-born art movement triggering nostalgia of the unknown. Retrieved August 9, 2022.
  9. ^ "Set, follow or skip? How brands should navigate micro-trends". Vogue Business. January 24, 2024. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  10. ^ ""Core" Is The New "Chic"". British Vogue. Condé Nast. July 31, 2022. Retrieved August 11, 2022.
  11. ^ Mendez II, Moises (January 20, 2023). "What to Know About the Corecore Aesthetic Taking Over TikTok". TIME. Retrieved April 13, 2024.
  12. ^ a b Alexander, Leigh (May 19, 2016). "The Y2K aesthetic: who knew the look of the year 2000 would endure?". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Archived from the original on September 26, 2024. Retrieved September 26, 2024.
  13. ^ "Cybercore Is The Next Y2K Fashion Aesthetic Trend". Nylon. February 20, 2024. Retrieved May 28, 2024.
  14. ^ Friedlander, Emilie (December 28, 2021). "The Year in Aesthetics, From Dark Academia to McBling". VICE. Archived from the original on September 18, 2024. Retrieved September 26, 2024.
  15. ^ a b c Chokrane, Boutayna (December 13, 2023). "Y2K Fashion 101: How 2023 Got the Millennium Bug All Over Again". Vogue. Retrieved May 27, 2024.
  16. ^ a b Holliday, Laura (February 3, 2023). "What is frutiger aero, the aesthetic taking over from Y2K?". Dazed.
  17. ^ "Unveiling the Mystery: Exploring the Fascinating World of Frutiger Aero". www.reeditionmagazine.com.
  18. ^ Cortés, Michelle Santiago. "What Frutiger Aero teaches us about niche internet aesthetics". i-D.
  19. ^ Cinko, Anthony (December 17, 2022). "What is Frutiger Aero? Uncovering the nostalgic 2000's aesthetic - US Mobile blog". Prepaid GSM Carrier News.
  20. ^ Fear, Natalie (January 4, 2024). "Why Gen Z is infatuated with the Frutiger Aero design aesthetic". Creative Bloq. Retrieved July 20, 2024.
  21. ^ a b Bateman, Kristen (June 30, 2020). "Academia Lives — on TikTok". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  22. ^ "The Rise of Dark Academia". The Insider. November 5, 2020. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  23. ^ "Dark Academia, Light Academia, & Cottagecore: Breaking Down 3 Popular Internet Aesthetics". wallflower. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  24. ^ "Which Type of Academia Aesthetics Are You?". The Other Aesthetic. October 27, 2022. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  25. ^ Jonas, Carla (April 11, 2023). "Light Academia: The Ultimate Guide on the Trendy Fashion Aesthetic". TPS Blog. Retrieved November 18, 2024.
  26. ^ "What is the 'light academia' aesthetic? How to get the look in Vancouver". Vancouver Is Awesome. June 25, 2022. Retrieved November 18, 2024.
  27. ^ Jennings, Rebecca (August 3, 2020). "Cottagecore, Taylor Swift, and our endless desire to be soothed". Vox. Retrieved August 11, 2022.
  28. ^ "Why is 'cottagecore' booming? Because being outside is now the ultimate taboo | Amelia Hall". the Guardian. April 15, 2020. Retrieved August 11, 2022.
  29. ^ Leskin, Paige (December 12, 2019). "The summer of the 'VSCO girl' may be over, but retailers and the VSCO app itself are still reaping the benefits of the craze that swept Gen Z". Business Insider.
  30. ^ Schwedel, Heather (September 12, 2019). "Teens Explain the VSCO Girl—and Why You Never Want to Be One". Slate Magazine. Retrieved October 16, 2019.
  31. ^ "The Ultimate VSCO Girl Starter Pack". Teen Vogue. August 21, 2019. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  32. ^ Minutaglio, Rose (August 16, 2019). "A Guide to the 'VSCO Girl' Aesthetic Taking Over Your Feeds". ELLE. Retrieved October 16, 2019.
  33. ^ Aronoff, Kate (September 20, 2019). "Why VSCO Girls are Going on Strike for the Climate". The Intercept. Retrieved October 16, 2019.
  34. ^ Mutum, Dilip S.; Ghazali, Ezlika M. (2023). Evolving Consumer Representations and Roles. Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland. pp. 149–150. doi:10.1007/978-3-031-39359-4_7. ISBN 978-3-031-39358-7.
  35. ^ Williams, Abrigail (August 15, 2022). "What Is McBling and How Is it Different From Y2K?". Vogue. Retrieved December 8, 2024.
  36. ^ "50 Christina Aguilera Fashion Moments You Forgot You Were Obsessed With". Cosmopolitan. September 24, 2020. Retrieved December 8, 2024.
  37. ^ a b Leskin, Paige. "Everything you need to know about e-girls and e-boys, teen gamers who have emerged as the antithesis of Instagram influencers". Business Insider. Retrieved August 11, 2022.
  38. ^ "How to dress like an E-girl in 2022: your definitive guide". Heat. June 5, 2022. Retrieved August 11, 2022.
  39. ^ Madi, Madi (July 4, 2023). "What is an Eboy? The True Eboy Style Explained". manofmany.com. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  40. ^ "The Indie Aesthetic has changed, here's what you need to know". Happy Mag. July 1, 2021. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  41. ^ "What is the clean girl aesthetic? How to achieve the look". July 27, 2022. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  42. ^ "Let's Argue: How Do We Really Feel About The "Clean Girl Makeup" Aesthetic?". www.refinery29.com. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
  43. ^ "How to Channel the Clean Girl Aesthetic, According to Fashion Influencers Who Have Already Nailed the Trend". InStyle. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
  44. ^ Cary, Alice (June 3, 2023). "How Birkenstock's Arizonas Went From Being Sold Exclusively In Health-Food Stores To A Fashion Editor Staple". British Vogue. Retrieved December 5, 2024.
[edit]
  • 'Core Club, series of articles on internet aesthetics by the lifestyle magazine Nylon


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