Less is more.

The clean girl aesthetic, also known as the it girl aesthetic, is a fashion style where everything revolves around minimalism and looking as fresh and as put-together as possible. The clean girl aesthetic isn’t just a style; it’s a mindset. It is a fashion sense that gives recognition to all the simple little touches that you give to your look, from your small jewelry, to your shiny hair, to your neutral-colored clothing, to your “no-makeup makeup” look. This all gives a person a look of effortless elegance. 

According to Cozy Earth, this viral style originated as a minimalist response to maximalist fashion trends, drawing inspiration from 1990s minimalism and Scandinavian design. It gained popularity through social media platforms, like Instagram and TikTok, because of a desire for a simple, fresh and uncluttered look. It also has an association with a modern lifestyle, evolving over time through influencers and fashion brands. 

But what exactly makes the clean girl aesthetic so captivating? And is it deserving of all the positive attention it’s been getting?

First, in a world where things can often feel overwhelming, the simple and neat look of this aesthetic provides a sense of calm and tranquility. It’s like a breath of fresh air among the chaos of daily life. 

This simplicity also extends to the lifestyle associated with the aesthetic. It encourages mindful consumption and a focus on quality over quantity, which relates with many people looking to simplify their lives and reduce their environmental impact.

Moreover, the clean girl aesthetic offers a sense of aspirational living. It’s not just about how you look; it’s about embodying a certain lifestyle—one that is chic, modern, and effortlessly put together. 

This aspirational aspect is a big part of what makes the aesthetic so appealing on social media platforms, like Instagram. People are drawn to the constant photos and videos about this aesthetic on their feed, and eventually it really does influence them. It’s also a type of style that is inspiring people to strive for a similar level of simplicity and sophistication in their own lives.

But does “clean” always mean affordable? 

In an article on Byrdie, Ariane Resnick argues that the clean girl aesthetic promotes unrealistic beauty standards and consumerism, as achieving the perfect “clean” look often requires investing your money in expensive products and clothing. 

Additionally, the idea of minimalism can often come across as exclusive. It communicates to others that, just because they may not be able to afford those investments, they are automatically unable to participate in that lifestyle.

However, advocates of the clean girl aesthetic argue that it’s more than just a trend on social media—it’s a whole way of thinking. At its core, the aesthetic encourages mindfulness, intentionality, and self-expression. 

It’s about embracing what brings you joy and letting go of what doesn’t serve you. In a world filled with sadness and troubles, the clean girl aesthetic offers a refreshing alternative—a reminder to focus on the things that truly matter and to live with intention.

Furthermore, the clean girl aesthetic has spread beyond just fashion and lifestyle choices. It has become a symbol of empowerment for many individuals, especially women. By embracing simplicity, and rejecting society’s pressures to constantly strive for perfection, this movement encourages self-acceptance and self-expression, emphasizing that true beauty lies in embracing one’s uniqueness rather than conforming to unrealistic standards.  Nowadays, how you look matters more than the type of person you are, so this aesthetic serves as a powerful reminder that authenticity and individuality are far more valuable than any sort of picture we put out there.

The clean girl aesthetic is also gaining popularity, because it promotes sustainability and ethical consumption. People are adopting minimalist lifestyles to reduce waste and support moral brands. It encourages mindful consumption, from wardrobe choices to skincare routines, showing that style and conscience can coexist.

In the end, the clean girl aesthetic has become a viral sensation on social media for several reasons. Its simplicity, aspirational lifestyle, and emphasis on mindfulness have stuck with many people looking to simplify their lives and develop a sense of calm in a chaotic world. 

So whether you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe, or simply seeking inspiration for a more intentional way of living, the clean girl aesthetic is a trend that you should definitely look into. Its pros definitely outweigh its cons.