Slicked back buns, dewy makeup, and monochromatic sets. In 2020, The Clean Girl aesthetic took the world by storm. The movement is a possible response to the pandemic, as it honors hygiene and wellness. Since then, the aesthetic has been criticized for its lack of inclusion and elitism. In an interview with Women’s Wear Daily, designer, Laura Andraschko, laments how The Clean Girl aesthetic upholds unattainable standards for the average woman, “I feel like it’s toxic...You feel like, ‘Oh, I have to wake up, drink bone broth, go to classes at seven in the morning, be perfectly sober, do all these things to fit in this system”.
No matter how you feel about the aesthetic, time is ticking for the trend pendulum to swing in the opposite direction. So, what comes after The Clean Girl?
The Anti-Clean Girl. It’s carefree, adventurous, and reflects the messiness of everyday life. It opposes the soft, girlhood look, opting for a more grown-up lifestyle. There are a few ways to execute The Anti-Clean Girl, today we’ll cover three variations, each inspired by different decades.
The Brat
With the release of her new album, Brat, Charli XCX has reminded everyone what it means to be poorly behaved. This aesthetic draws inspiration from club culture and nightlife, seamlessly blending Y2K with tinges of cyber futurism.
Natalie Miche of FASHION Magazine, perfectly encapsulates the trademarks of a Brat, “Brat summer is more of an attitude than a clear-cut uniform. A brat takes a .5 selfie on the crowded subway platform. A brat waits hours in line at a Chloë Sevigny closet sale, brings a digital camera everywhere, and has in-depth musings about The Real Housewives. A brat complains when it’s warranted and doesn’t stress about changing their mind.”
You can catch The Brat in anything from a sports jersey to a gingham skirt. Just top the look off with a pair of buggy sunglasses.
The Rockstar Girlfriend
Whether you’re the girlfriend or the rockstar herself, this look is perfect for those indulging in their grungier side. The aesthetic emulates well-known 70s figures like Anita Pallenberg and Stevie Nicks. It is tied to rock music like The Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix. In the modern day, the style has seeped into other beloved looks like Indie and Coquette.
The Rockstar’s Girlfriend enjoys leather and fur jackets, black lace, and baby tees with mini skirts. You can easily accessorize this look with a pair of black lenses, a dainty bag, or a cross necklace.
The Pretty Little Liar
The other day, my FYP showed me this video, and I could hardly contain my excitement. A reassurgance of 2010’s style just feels right! It’s fun, girly, eclectic, and doesn’t take anything too seriously.
What makes the PLL style so recognizable? Stylist, Caroline Marchand, says it’s mixing questionable patterns, layering “funky” jewelry, and not committing to a single aesthetic. Of course, The Pretty Little Liar has to finish the look with a chunky bag. The Remi Studded Bag would add the perfect final touch.
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The Anti-Clean Girl movement rebels against the polished norms of the Clean Girl Aesthetic. It celebrates the daring spirit of various influences like Y2K clubs, 70’s rock ‘n’ roll, and the maximalist charm of the 2010s. The Anti-Clean Girl, redefines beauty, urging us to accept imperfection and free expression.
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