Style

5 Feminine Aesthetics That Don’t Exist Yet But Should

As both a fashion and lifestyle journalist and author, I have my finger on the pulse of a thousand different trends, micro-trends, and aesthetics. As a visual processor and “aesthetic-first” writer, I often use aesthetics as inspiration for my next article or novel. But even I can become frustrated by the surprising narrowness of aesthetic options.

By Taylor Bennett10 min read
Pexels/Sergio Montoya Gianello

Sure, there’s Old Money, Dark Academia, Barbiecore (and, of course, PlazaCore), and some quirkier options like Coastal Grandma and Mob Wife. But, after a while, they all start to look the same. (If anyone cares to explain the difference between Old Money and Dark/Light Academia, then I’m all ears.) What’s an eclectic girl to do, then, in a world where true originality is so sought-after yet so rare? And then I realized – in order to be original, we have to be unconventional

I can create my own aesthetic whenever I feel like it – and you can, too! We never know when the next big trend will strike, so let’s be the trend before it happens. I’ve scoured the internet for inspiration for five fabulous fashion aesthetics that don’t exist…yet. Let’s make them our own!

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New Money: Because What’s Old (Money) Can Be New Again

Dark Academia has Light Academia, Clean Girl has Grunge, Old Money has…New Money?

Once used as an elitist slur, New Money now celebrates the power of innovation and persistence in place of generational wealth and trust-fund dependence.

If you read The Great Gatsby in high school, you might remember the lengths to which F. Scott Fitzgerald goes in his quest to underline the difference between “old money” families with centuries-old wealth and “new money” self-made millionaires. And, while there’s much to be said for the beauty of classic “quiet elegance” aesthetics, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of Roaring ‘20s glitz and glam. 

New Money takes the opulence and luxury of Old Money and turns it on its head – think Tesla versus Rolls Royce. In the world of fashion, this means adding a dash of glitter, a few feathers, and a bit of the extreme to create a look that is no less glamorous but certainly more daring. The New Money aesthetic highlights everything that was “roaring” about the ‘20s and takes it to new heights in the 2020s, featuring statement pieces such as sequined dresses, feathered clutches, and anything a little…extra.

Where Old Money focuses on etiquette and restraint, New Money is an opportunity to experiment with formality, add color and texture, and play with proportions to create over-the-top, visually stunning looks.

Think about the Vienna Opera Ball versus the Met Gala – one is steeped in tradition, whereas the other emphasizes exploration. And, while I love a good tiara and a pair of gloves, there’s something fun about being able to express yourself through your outfit. 

Here are some New Money aesthetic staples to get you started:

Bags with Bling

The New Money aesthetic uses materials typically only found in jewelry (rhinestones, pearls, and metals) or hair accessories (ribbons, feathers, and netting) to accent (or even construct) a variety of jaw-dropping evening bags. This feathered handbag on Amazon has a bit of everything (and it comes in a range of colors so you can decide whether to stick with a neutral palette or pick a shade that stands out), from feathers and a rhinestone clasp to a strung-pearl handle and micro pearl fringe. It’s classy, sassy, and New Money at its finest. If you’re looking for a splurge, this beaded bag from Badgley Mishka looks both fuzzy and flashy, thanks to its fringe made from seed beads.

Shoes with Sass

New Money shoes do the talking (not just the walking) when it comes to defining your style. Borrowing the aspects from the handbags above, these shoes are ready for a night on the town, or, if you feel like going old-school with your New Money vibe, they’re perfect for dancing a Gatsby-era Charleston, too.

These black pumps from the Kate Spade Outlet feature metallic-threaded tweed and feathery pompom toes. They’re perfect for taking an outfit from day to night and keeping one foot in Old Money elegance while still standing firmly in the realm of New Money glam. A little more daring, these velvet-and-tulle black pumps from Sam Edelman might be just what you need – they’re whimsical and charming with flower-shaped studs to give them a modern edge. (If you’re looking for a budget option, these sparkly satin-and-tulle point-toed pumps from Amazon might be the perfect fit!)

Glittering Gowns

In honor of the New Money aesthetic’s roots in Roaring ‘20s style, these party dresses call to mind Jazz Age galas and flapper dances, as well as the New Wave fashion of the ’70s. This black satin dress from Sachin & Babi would be a simple, chic Old Money standby…if not for its ambitious fuchsia-sequined, one-shoulder neckline. And this fringe-and-feather frock from Amazon comes in a range of colors to help you express yourself while nailing the New Money glam look.

Coffee Girl: Like Clean Girl, but Make It Cozy

The Coffee Girl aesthetic takes the elusive, unattainable beauty of the Clean Girl aesthetic (pin-straight hair, flawless skin, matching workout gear, etc.) and softens it a little – okay, a lot.

Instead of spending their time pursuing a lifestyle that will win them perfect skin, hair, and physique, Coffee Girls choose to cultivate inner beauty and spark joy in the lives of people around them. They’re still polished and put together, but they embrace themselves for who they are, choosing styles that flatter their own unique body type instead of fitting a particular aesthetic. Rather than wearing basic clothing that echoes the style of every other twenty-something on the street, Coffee Girls seek out items that reflect their own personal style.

The Coffee Girl aesthetic doesn’t seek to impress with your outward appearance (although those who nail the look probably will anyway), but that doesn’t mean it’s sloppy. It’s real, relatable, and – most importantly – infinitely customizable, so it’s right for you.

Here’s how you can embrace the Clean Girl aesthetic’s cooler little sister and start incorporating the Coffee Girl vibe into your own lifestyle.

The Aesthetic

The Coffee Girl aesthetic borrows much from its namesake – it’s a warm, frothy look with a dash of sweetness to temper a subtle earthiness and tang. Coffee Girls aren’t exactly wilderness gurus, but they love connecting with nature through a walk outdoors or a quick trip to the mountains or beach. Their style is cozy and comfortable, with a focus on day-to-night looks and pieces that are sturdy enough to withstand an adventure or two. Textures such as genuine wool, leather, and wood feature prominently in a Coffee Girl’s wardrobe, and their house might be decorated with family heirlooms and antiques – think Cottagecore meets Old Money meets Academia. 

Coffee Girls aren’t exactly messy, but they might exist within a bit of controlled chaos. They’re so busy living they might forget to tidy up before tumbling into bed. They’re more likely to choose a coffee date with friends or a surprise road trip over sticking to their house-cleaning schedule…but they love a comfortable space, so they’ll make sure to fit the work in somewhere. That’s because, at their core, Coffee Girls are warmhearted, sensitive souls who dream big dreams but love their little life just the way it is, too. 

The Mindset

Coffee Girls appreciate the finer things in life, but those “finer things” aren’t necessarily ones that cost an exorbitant amount. Instead of racing to the mall the second a designer drops their latest line, Coffee Girls are catching up with their friends, reading a book, or taking a walk in the sunshine (or dancing in the rain). A Coffee Girl is more likely to light a candle, pop some popcorn, and queue up a favorite movie on a rainy Friday night than they are to spend all evening primping and prepping for a party. Although they might live a busy life, filled with soul-nourishing activities such as dates with friends, club involvement, and volunteer work, they also relish time alone to engage in self-care.

Unlike Clean Girl maintenance – perfecting your tan, complexion, and hairstyle – Coffee Girl self-care looks inward, with an emphasis on personal growth and mental health. While Coffee Girls would never turn up their nose at a cozy bubble bath (don’t forget the scented candles and gourmet chocolates!) or a relaxing massage, they also carve out time to work through a devotional study (like this one that encourages women to journey bravely through life) or record their thoughts in a journal. Eating healthy is important to Coffee Girls, but not so much so that they shy away from comfort food recipes. And, of course, they never miss their second cup of joe!

The Style

Coffee Girl style is polished, preppy, and put together, but not in such a way that it seeks to impress. While clothes that reflect this aesthetic might be on the higher end, this is because Coffee Girls value items with longevity that can be worn year after year or passed down to future generations. The Coffee Girl aesthetic emphasizes comfort and personal gratification over conforming to styles and trends. Self-expression is key, which means Coffee Girls might “break the rules” as they seek to explore their own style. Vintage style, reminiscent of pieces found after a day of brunching and antiquing, is a constant, but Coffee Girls can choose to dress things up with an old-fashioned silk scarf or keep things cozy and casual with a pair of worn-in loafers.

If you’re looking to add a bit of Coffee Girl style to your wardrobe, take a peek at the bevy of gently used loafers or cozy, oversized blazers on TheRealReal, an online designer consignment store. Since Coffee Girls make it a point to hang onto memories more than materialistic things, consider purchasing a statement necklace that doubles as a way to keep the ones you love close, such as this gorgeous engraved locket from LoveLox. To “dress” things up a bit, consider a fun piece like this rich brown sweater dress that takes you from day to night and looks equally amazing on a coffee date as it does at a five-star restaurant.

Tiffanycore: Let Barbiecore Sing the Blues

After the Barbie movie rocked our world, our demographic has been obsessed with all things pink. But if you’re getting tired of viewing life through rose-colored glasses, then it’s time for you to convert to Tiffanycore, an aesthetic that borrows essential elements from both the iconic Hollywood classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s as well as Tiffany’s itself. 

Tiffany’s is a place where “nothing very bad could happen to you,” as Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly says in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and, indeed, the retailer’s Fifth Avenue flagship is serene and sedate, filled with the finest things. Founded in the mid-19th century and once a supplier of Union Army sabers and surgical tools, Tiffany’s history is vast and varied.

Tiffanycore embraces all this and more through its effervescent, enigmatic style celebrating the jeweler’s greatest triumphs as well as the infamous cast of characters who have made history while wearing their jewels. Tiffany’s became famous not only because of its prominent feature in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (the opening scene of which is said to be one of the most iconic in history) but also through cameos in other films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blonds (which popularized the song “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend) and Diamonds Are Forever (one of the first in the James Bond franchise).

Based on an empire known as well for its celebrity clientele as its jewelry, Tiffanycore celebrates the glittering world of designers, diamonds, and dreams through Tiffany-inspired fashions. Here’s how you can adopt this glamorous look on your own and give the pink in your closet a well-deserved break.

The Tiffany Blue Hue

Just as Barbiecore would be nothing without pink, Tiffanycore relies upon its signature shade of cyan. “Tiffany Blue” has been trademarked for nearly three decades, and, though it might be one of the most essential aspects of Tiffanycore style, subtlety is key! Unlike Barbie pink, Tiffany blue can be a bit shocking in large doses. It works best as a playful accent rather than the main event. Take a cue from Audrey Hepburn’s character in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and go for a chic, all-black outfit (I love this sleek satin dress from Bloomingdale’s for evenings and this playful pantsuit from Nordstrom during the day) with unexpected accents to help you sing the blues. 

These Betsy Johnson heels hide Tiffany’s iconic color beneath tulle, sparkles, and jewels for a fancifully fun flash of blue whenever you take a step. Tiffany’s own oversized sunglasses (a Tiffanycore essential in their own right) are a bit of a splurge, but their playful blue-gradient lenses make them a showstopping piece for your wardrobe.

Silver, Sparkles, and Shine

Once a silversmith, Tiffany’s remains famous today primarily for their silver, white gold, and platinum pieces, and some of them aren’t as prohibitively expensive as you’d think. My favorite pieces that I own from Tiffany’s are this simple silver ring, a day-to-night essential that stacks especially well with glittering bands for added sparkle, and my monogrammed pendant that adds a dash of class to any outfit. If you’re looking for something bolder (with a hidden pop of Tiffany blue!) this enamel-backed heart necklace is the perfect piece.

While a Tiffany diamond might not be in any of our futures, there are more affordable options elsewhere. Ross Simons has a host of reasonably priced sparkles, including this whimsical cat-inspired ring that hints at Tiffany’s history of feline friends and this more traditional filigree necklace.

Tied with a Bow

Those iconic little blue boxes from Tiffany’s would look nearly naked without a prim white satin bow, and a Tiffanycore outfit would be equally incomplete! Tiffanycore takes the Coquette aesthetic’s trademark bows and makes them a little less flirty and a little more elegant. Tiffanycore makes the most of petite bows hidden in unexpected places to give your outfit an extra bit of fun and all of the allure of an unwrapped gift. This dress from Zara is a perfect combination of sparkles and bows (and this long-sleeved velvet version from Tuckernuck is worth the splurge), while this light blue one incorporates the accessory with hints at Tiffany’s more vibrant signature shade. Feeling daring? Play with contrasting colors and try this oversized bow embellished jumpsuit from Bower or this evening dress for your next formal affair.

Après Ski: Cottagecore, but Let It Snow

Translated as “after skiing,” Après Ski refers to the glamorous, relaxing activities in which you might partake after a day on the slopes. Ranging from cocoa by the fireplace to champagne and caviar overlooking snowcapped mountains, Après Ski gives happy hour an alpine-style glow-up, reflecting all that is good and Gucci about ski culture. The best part is, you don’t have to fly to Aspen or St. Moritz to get in on the trend. All you need are a few cozy essentials and a (dare I say?) chill frame of mind.

The Après Ski aesthetic – oversized fur coats, designer sunglasses, and gourmet snacks – isn’t simply about uninhibited decadence. After a long day spent moving your body and developing a new skill, a bit of indulgence is not only acceptable…it’s much-needed and appreciated! You’ve been working hard all day, and, as such, you certainly deserve a little treat, whether that’s in the form of a favorite food or an opportunity to don your favorite dress and whip out those designer shades.

The Après Ski aesthetic borrows a bit of Cottagecore charm, due to its reliance on design inspiration from nature’s beauty (snowy white and creamy ivory shades, furry, fuzzy textures, and dazzling, icy accessories) as well as its prevalence in rural ski villages. However, while Cottagecore draws romance from the simplistic, homespun aspects of small town life, Après Ski brings in big-city glam made apparent through its contrast with the rustic backdrop of snow, sun, and frost-covered trees.

Want to live your own Aprés Ski life, black diamond(s) optional? Here’s how to start:

Atmosphere over Aesthetic

Whether you’ve been skiing your heart out or working hard on your passion project, taking a break in the evening hours can be one of the best parts of your day, when you relax and raise a glass with friends old and new in celebration of all you’ve seen, done, and accomplished. Of course, you aren’t on a never ending vacation, but there’s no reason you can’t adopt the same sort of celebratory mindset at the end of each workday.

Instead of slogging home and immediately collapsing on the couch with a bag of chips, turn your time off into a different sort of “happy hour” by putting together a snack that is not only nourishing but also, well, fun. Top deviled eggs with caviar (Caviart is a fantastic low-cost and vegan alternative, if you can’t quite get behind real fish eggs), or bake a wheel of Brie with honeycomb and chopped herbs. On a chilly night, warm a mug of Angelina’s signature Parisian hot chocolate (though I hear nothing beats the real thing itself) for some French flair. Light a spruce-scented candle and get a fire roaring in the hearth, slip on some cozy slippers, and spend time catching up with your loved ones as you celebrate the little things in life.

Keep It Classy and Cozy

The Après Ski aesthetic is all about luxurious textures, but there’s a reason behind the prevalence of opulent fibers such as cashmere, leather, and fur – these are some of the warmest textiles, making them essential post-ski choices and flat-out adorable. Pair an oversized coat and sleek sweater dress (like this one from House of Harlow) with knee-high boots (be prepared to splurge if you want real leather like these from Stuart Weitzman). This faux-fur trimmed coat from Guess exemplifies the look, featuring nubbly wool and shiny gold buttons, and this oversized faux fur coat makes even more of a statement. 

Of course, protecting your bones from the chill of the cold shouldn’t be the only thing on your mind. The Après Ski aesthetic also includes an unexpected accessory: sunglasses. The glare of the sun on the slopes can be brutal, making a pair of oversized shades not only a fashion statement but also a necessity. Grab a pair of shades from your favorite designer via TheRealReal for a steal!

Don’t Forget Loungewear

Après Ski pajamas have taken on a life all of their own lately. Whether you prefer nightgowns, pajama pants, or shorts in silk, linen, or fleece, there is an alpine-themed loungewear set for you! That’s because the Après Ski aesthetic isn’t only focused on glamorizing the evening events that take place outside your home – it also reflects the blissful luxury of getting undressed after a night of caviar, cocktails, and connection with others. A cozy pair of flannel pajamas like these, a coordinating set of shearling slippers, and a faux fur blanket are all you need to perfect your evening routine in preparation for another day of chasing the wind…or your dreams.

Catgirl: Because the Baddie Aesthetic Is Overrated

The Barbie aesthetic’s cooler, more delinquent older sister, the Baddie aesthetic is a favorite of those seeking to emulate the style of certain celebrities (cough cough the Kardashians) and dreaming of becoming Insta-famous themselves. This aesthetic features daring, eye-catching pieces and a couldn’t-care-less attitude reminiscent of some of pop culture’s most kick-butt heroines – and, quite frankly, those who adopt the aesthetic could do well to care a bit more.

That’s where the Catgirl aesthetic comes into play. It’s difficult to find a heroine more intriguing and unflappable than this aesthetic’s eponymous Catwoman from the DC comics. While I’m far from a superhero guru, I think Anne Hathaway’s rendition of the vintage comic character in The Dark Knight Rises (2012) is unparalleled, turning Catwoman into something of a style icon in her own right, and Baz Luhrmann’s shoot for Vogue, transforming Blake Lively into a 21st-century version of Hitchcock’s “The Cat” is pure brilliance.

The Catgirl aesthetic captures all of the allure and sass of the Baddie aesthetic but with far more subtlety and sophistication. Instead of a wild and unregulated wardrobe of countless colors and patterns and textures, Catgirls have a code, and they stick to it. Their style is femme fatale with a bit of uncanny “who, me?” innocence snuck in at the end – like Anne Hathaway’s character when Bruce Wayne finds her breaking into his safe to steal an heirloom necklace. 

Catgirls don’t flaunt themselves. Indeed, they’d rather stay hidden in the dark, hence their propensity for dark neutrals and minimal accessories. But they know how to dress for the ultimate success in any situation – usually in a little black dress that helps them hide in plain sight. If you’re looking to add a dose of glamor and mystique to your wardrobe and lifestyle, the Catgirl aesthetic might be for you. 

One of its key components isn’t any particular accessory or article of clothing – it’s a way of being that projects your personality as nuanced and witty yet elegant and compassionate. Unlike aesthetics that pride themselves on flaunting your assets, the Catgirl aesthetic understands that intrigue is essential to elegance. 

Here are some pieces to add to your wardrobe that don’t skimp on the style but contain design elements that leave a little to the imagination.

Cute & Catty

While you’d never want to be called “catty” in real life, adding a bit of feline intrigue to your wardrobe is the first step in achieving a killer take on the Catgirl aesthetic. Naturally, black is the color du jour, but that doesn’t mean your clothes have to be boring! This long sleeve mini dress seems simple, but it hides a surprise in the back. Looking for full coverage for your mission? This Norma Kamali bodysuit comes with built-in fingerless gloves for extra intrigue.

Heist Style 

Whether you take the majority of your inspiration from Catwoman or “The Cat,” your style icon is bound to be a jewel thief – making one or two statement pieces of jewelry essential to your Catgirl outfit. Remember, subtlety is key; your pieces should complement your clothes, not fight with them for center stage. That’s why delicate pieces and a flash of black diamonds are ideal. This black diamond cluster necklace from Ross Simons is on clearance for, well, a steal, and this diamond pendant dangles from a delicate velvet choker to give off classy cat-collar vibes that play up the aesthetic’s feline aspect. Weighing in at a luxurious half-carat of black diamonds, this ring is delicate, discreet, and delightful, while this 9mm black pearl ring makes a bit more of a statement.

Incognito Accessories

While Catwoman might be famous for her cat ears and mask, they’re not exactly en vogue (short of a costume party, perhaps). But, to get the aesthetic, consider incorporating accessories that project a similar vibe, like this sleek leather headband from J.Crew and cat-eye sunglasses from Saint Laurent. Making a quick getaway wearing heels might not be our forte, but if you don’t have to make an escape, these black leather stilettos are the perfect finishing touch for a Catgirl aesthetic.