When considering the most fashionable films of the '90s and early, it's obvious to cite classics like Clueless, Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, Legally Blonde and The Devil Wears Prada. Despite being an avid fan of these teen-y dramas, there is one movie—and frankly one Y2K style aesthetic—that I think is often slept on: Blue Crush. I grew up with boys, and not just any boys, horrible, boisterous boys, who would make me watch Godzilla, Jackass and Jurassic Park. When it came to so-called "chick flicks," the one we could all agree on watching on repeat was Blue Crush. Maybe it was Kate Bosworth as the ultimate cool girl in a bikini, maybe it's just because that film is actually so good, either way, I had no difficulty in persuading my brothers to watch it.

And it might just be time for a rewatch, because lately I've noticed the surfing style that was present in fashion in that era is definitely making a comeback. Whilst we've been living in a Y2K comeback era for some time, we've seen the return of 2000s activewear, capri pants and even multiple It bags of that time, surfcore hasn't really happened. Until now. From more obvious and actually quite timeless pieces like flip flops and shell details to more divisive trends like board shorts and the colour aquamarine, this movement is about to be a moment.

It isn't just a stylistic trend, but also a hobby, too. From London Girl's Surf Club to content creator Lindsay Holland's Marnie Rays surf retreat in Cornwall, I've noticed a cohort of influencers, editors and multi-hyphenate cool girls frequenting the waves lately. Maybe it's time to pick it up as a hobby? Or you could just watch the film and buy the clothes?

6 Y2K Surfer Fashion Trends Back In Summer 2026

1. Board Shorts

Style Notes: Board shorts are back, baby! Whether you’re a surfer or just a bystander, whether you want to go knee-length or micro, printed or plain, this shorts trend is about to be huge. I’ve spotted a few sporty styles on Free People, panelled with piping in contrasting colours, as well as others with classic hibiscus print. If you got rid of your Roxy pair that you had when you were 12, don’t worry! The Quicksilver brand have collaborated with Miaou for the ultimate surfer girl-coded collection, board shorts included.

2. Hibiscus Prints

Style Notes: Whilst spring and summer collections often bring floral prints, we’ve seen less maximalist florals on the runways in recent years, thanks to a long period ruled by minimalism and quiet luxury. But no more! Dries van Noten presented hibiscus prints for its spring/summer 2026 collection, in beautifully gaudy hues like chartreuse, orange and purple. With the rise of the “yen Z” aesthetic—a TikTok trend that celebrates the wellness movement of the early 2000s (think yoga, harem pants as well as bamboo and orchid motifs)—it was only a matter of time we started to see the return of the hibiscus flower, an integral floral print of the noughties era.

3. Aquamarine

Style Notes: Aqua has to have been one the strongest colour trends of 2026. Everywhere I look I see shades of turquoise, Tiffany Blue and teal (and let's not forget, Transformative Teal was WGSN's colour of the year). I hate to state the obvious but what is more on the nose when it comes to beachy motifs, than the literal colour of the sea? This relatively gaudy and frankly once quite divisive shade is undeniably synonymous with the Y2K era. Just think, cerulean has practically been put on the spectrum because of The Devil Wears Prada, which came out in 2006, and the brighter shades of turquoise are so mermaid-coded, and were popularised in other films of the era, like Mermaids (2003) and Aquamarine (2006).

4. Shells

Style Notes: In case you missed it, shells are everywhere in 2026. From necklaces and earrings to adorned on sandals, bikinis as well as the use of mother of pearl on belts, buttons and handbags, this boho-infused summer detail is really doing the rounds. Whilst shells aren't only associated with the surfer girl, they are—in all forms—synonymous with the beach girl vibe and a must in order to nail this style.

5. Tankinis

Style Notes: Did surfer girls in the Y2K era wear bikinis and swimsuits? You bet. But did they pioneer the tankini movement also? Oh yes! Low rise boxer short bottoms are also really on the rise too, and I have to put this down to this wave of interest in the California beach babe aesthetic prominent in this era. Featured heavily in swimwear collections from the coolest brands, like Damson Madder and the aforementioned Roxy x Miaou collaboration, the return of the tank isn't happening, it's happened and is here.

6. Flip Flops

Style Notes: It seems obvious to call this out, because really flip-flops are a timeless beachwear staple every year. But wearing them outside of beach and pool settings is a trend that's occured in recent years. Especially the classic rubber styles from Havaianas and the like. We've often put this down to Copenhagen street style, who have championed wearing basic flip flops with cotton trousers, skirts and capri pants for some years, but for the surfer girl, this is nothing new at all.

So, you've found yourself completely in love with the dreamy watercolor makeup trend populating Pinterest boards and TikTok For You Pages, and have taken a specific interest in the cherubic cheeks in vivid, pastel hues that can theoretically transform anyone into a modern Marie Antoinette. We've seen the emergence of historical beauty trends appear on the red carpet for a couple of years (notably taking cues from the Renaissance and medieval eras), but the rococo-inspired look has us dreaming of romance just in time for Valentine's Day.

Keep scrolling for my deep dive into the artistic beauty trend with a step-by-step guide on how to create it from a makeup artist, and the absolute best products to make it happen from brands like Hourglass, Rhode, and Makeup by Mario. Just be forewarned, however, that you may be tempted to wear silk heels, dresses draped with candy-colored ribbons, and high hair from this day on.

What is the watercolor blush trend?

Who better to ask for the details on one of TikTok's most wearable trends than a makeup artist who can capture any romantic trend with a wave of a brush? We reached out to New York–based freelance makeup artist and content creator Lila Childs to learn what makes the art-inspired trend so enticing. "The watercolor makeup trend is a slightly more elevated version of the no makeup makeup or 'clean girl' makeup look, in my opinion. It’s all about creating soft, thin layers of product," she says. "I think it has become so popular over the past few months because it ties in makeup artist techniques to elevate a very wearable everyday look." Childs also raises the fact that makeup artists and techniques are becoming more popular, prompting the rise of the watercolor makeup trend.

Step 1: Apply your products like a painter

Before adding any of the romantic details or ethereal finishing touches, Childs recommends making sure you apply all products to the back of your hand, and then working them into the brush rather than applying any product directly to your face. "Think of it as putting paint in a palette and picking up a small amount with a paintbrush, as the trend suggests," she says. "This will allow you to control how much product you are applying and also create thin, watercolor-like layers on the skin."

Placement is also everything for recreating the viral makeup trend. Child's take on the trend sees the blush placed on the center of the cheek (slightly lower than you might think) to create the "cherub cheek" effect. If you don't want to miss a step, refer to the tutorial she posted last summer, breaking down the process.

Step 2: Add the artistic details

Apart from TikTok trends, we've seen watercolor blush in other forms of media—including historical works of art. Childs associates the trend with portraits from the rococo era: an 18th century French art movement that's characterized by the use of pastel colors, aristocratic themes, and pastoral settings. She highlights the makeup trend's flushed cheeks, defined eye lines, specific highlights, and soft pink lips as an idealized nod to the era. For adding artificial highlights to the inner corner of the eye, tip of the nose, and cupid's bow, she uses the Acqua Highlighter in Halo ($39) by Armani Beauty to set the skin aglow.

Childs recommends tightling just the upper waterline and inner corner to define the eyes against the "soft, hazy complexion," with a thin, waterproof liner. Her top pick for this is Canmake's Creamy Touch Liner ($12). She also loves adding a blurred lip line to makeup with watercolor blush since it adds a pop of color to the center of the look. "The Rhode lip liners ($24) are great for this effect, and I like using the same blush for the cheeks on the center of the lips," says Childs.

Step 3: Focus on the finishing touches

Childs tells us that in her viral watercolor makeup routine, she uses a few key products to bring the romantic blush look to life. To add a buildable, vibrant flush of color to the lips and cheeks, she used Victoria Beckham Beauty's Color Wash Blush Water Tint ($46). "Love how the thin stain-like formula really acts as a watercolor for the face," explains Childs. For a warm, sun-kissed glow along the perimeters of the face, she opts for Westman Atelier's Sun Tone Bronzing Drops ($58) and Makeup by Mario's Softsculpt Bronzing & Shaping Serum ($36). To create what she describes as a "painterly blend," the makeup artist recommends any of the brushes from Japanese brand Rephr.

Childs' watercolor makeup essentials

Shop the best blush for the trend:

One of the things I love most about using TikTok for beauty inspiration is that it is a treasure trove of makeup tutorials created by the people who have inspired many of the season's most notable trends. As I scroll through endless beauty videos spilling the details of shopping hauls, GRWMs, and product tests, it's always a treat to discover these hidden gems. This winter, I found myself falling in love with Kelsey Merritt's page on TikTok. She has used her platform to share detailed beauty routines, usually with product names and recommendations sprinkled in the captions and comments.

In her most recent makeup routine posted in late December featuring ultra-precise contouring, glowing peach tones, and a frosty finish, the model shared the specific products in her video without listing their names and shades. In true beauty-editor fashion, I took it upon myself to scour the internet in search of the products Merritt used to create the effortlessly ethereal look, making sure to pay extra attention to how and when they were applied. Below, I'm sharing the 17 skincare and makeup products that you can snag right now to replicate what I've coined as Merritt's "frosted peach" look, plus some of my favorite essentials she's used in other tutorials.

The Makeup Tutorial Breakdown

Shop More Merritt-Approved Beauty Essentials

As someone who is chronically online, I have to admit that TikTok is one of my biggest sources of trend inspiration. From DIY wall-panelling hacks I’ll never attempt, to the songs that become hits overnight, the app is a never-ending stream of creativity and ideas that go straight to my Saved folder. For this reason, the app has consumed hours of my life, but what can I say? With so many trends to discover and dog videos to watch, it’s hard to look away.

The only catch is, TikTok's fashion cycle moves at warp speed. A week off the app, and you might miss an aesthetic that has flown in, gained popularity and died a supernova death all within that timeframe, so filtering out timeless capsule-wardrobe staples from microtrends can feel like a full-time job. Luckily, it actually is part of my full-time job, and on this specific research quest, I called in reinforcements. Flo Palmer, trend researcher and TikTok oracle, whose feed is filled with enviable shopping pieces and styling hacks galore, has kindly lent a helping hand in decoding what's shifting on the app fashion-wise as we roll into 2026.

And I have good news. The runways and TikTok are actually set to align, and the next 12 months will be, amongst other things, all about boho. Since Chemena Kamali re-entered French fashion house Chloé as creative director in 2023, spirited ‘70s “undoneness” has been filtering into our wardrobes. Yet, for those in the know on TikTok, Palmer forecasts something just a touch cooler: bohemia, but with an “indie-chic, grunge twist”. Harnessing the raw and slightly grungy beauty looks and styling of the ‘90s “anti-fashion” movement led by Kate Moss, as well as the early-‘00s era that gave us those iconic street-style pictures of boho queen Sienna Miller, this aesthetic feels a far cry from the clean girls and lovers of quiet luxury we’ve seen in recent times. From Napoleon jackets (a staple of Moss’s ‘90s Glastonbury wardrobe) to backwards Kangol hats, the pieces peeking through feel far more carefree, filled with personal style and playful textures rather than a “samey” polished finish.

What’s interesting is that where the most highly anticipated runways (think Chloé spring/summer 2025, which garnered millions of eagle-eyed onlookers via social media) were filled with Parisian softness and dreamy nostalgia, the TikTok fashion set is channelling something a touch edgier. Palmer foresees the return of “intense hardware detailing, leather and laces galore”, with the most tuned-in dressers pairing their “pretty, flouncy sheers with harder colours, paisley prints and tapestry florals.” In other words, this is boho with bite. Whilst layered tops and cargo-belt bags aren’t an extreme switch, they prove a desire for something more original, for styling dripping in personality rather than overarching aesthetics. In fact, the whole mood feels a touch Serena Van Der Woodsen in Gossip Girl—it’s a little dishevelled and chaotic, but undeniably cool. And of course, some of TikTok’s biggest stars inherently embody this shift. Take Romy Mars and Alix Earle: their audiences can’t get enough of their effortless edge and thrown-together realness.

For those who fall into the more pared-back camp, I offer ‘90s minimalism. Yet instead of investing in new pieces, it's the micro updates (and clever styling hacks) that will define the year. Palmer suggests “tucking your hair into your collar (in the iconic Carolyn Bessette Kennedy way), slipping your jeans into your boots, styling your scarves with jewellery or popping your collar to create that funnel-neck silhouette.” These are all cost-effective tricks which lend your look a more cohesive essence.

Meanwhile, the maximalists are cooking up something far more experimental. Rather than relying on loud colours and punchy prints, they’re going a tad more eclectic, mixing textures and fabrics. Whether it's “fur and a sheer, denim and a sheer or embellishment layered with fringe,” says Palmer, it's all about playing with materials, clashing and contrasting colours. Take fur, for example. The fauxs of today maintain their ‘80s old-money bones, but with far more personality. In 2026, we’re set to be dialling it up, making our looks messier, bolder and more expressive than ever before.

After taking a deep dive with Palmer, the TikTok fashion trends of 2026 are clear and simple. They’re not big zeitgeist shifts, but small changes that add a “now” cohesion to your look. They feel personal and allow onlookers a better understanding of who you are from how you present yourself. Always ahead of the curve, many of my favourite fashion people are early adopters, already showing us how easy it is to wear 2026 TikTok fashion trends now. Scroll to discover the pieces we'll all be living in for the next 12 months.

The 7 Biggest TikTok Fashion Trends of 2026

1. Wedge Heels

Style Notes: The eagle-eyed amongst us have been forecasting the return of the wedge heel for some time. But when Isabel Marant Beckett trainers (a style that instantly takes me back to being 12 years old and watching Beyoncé's Love on Top music video for the first time) landed at number five on The Lyst Index’s hottest products of the year, it was no surprise to us at Who What Wear UK. A silhouette I often associate with an early-2000s Disney girl, today's iteration of these Y2K heels feels a touch more demure than those that once flooded the red carpet on the feet of the golden trio (Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus).

But where has the trend been seen more recently? From the patent black-and-red peep-toes finished with white socks at Xuly Bët's s/s 26 show to Maison Margiela’s icy-white pointed-toe pair, it’s a heel trend that’s been bubbling up for a while. Iris Law has already been spotted in a black pair. These heels have a charm that offsets loose lace layers and straight-leg jeans with ease.

Shop the Trend:

2. Napoleon Jackets

Style Notes: A quieter corner of the boho revival is the piratecore subtrend, defined by sweeping fringe, loose layers (splashed all over the Dior s/s 26 runway) and of course, the return of the Napoleon jacket. And yes, if this instantly conjures images of Cheryl Cole (as she was then known) during her “Fight For This Love” era, you’re absolutely not alone. With those distinctive, pronounced shoulders, braiding and fringed epaulettes that weren’t too far removed from Hugh Jackman’s wardrobe in The Greatest Showman, opting for a style with less fuss is a good way to go for anyone a little nervous of this jacket’s comeback.

The reference I prefer is the queen of indie-grunge herself, Kate Moss, during the anti-establishment era of The Libertines. Popular in a period when going against the grain was the move, it feels aptly timed that this divisive silhouette is once again back in circulation, especially amongst the TikTok fashion set. Making waves at the s/s 26 shows, Kenzo exhibited a cropped iteration offset with micro shorts, whilst it appeared billowing open at Alexander McQueen, paired with extremely low-waisted jeans and the aforementioned wedge heel.

Shop the Trend:

3. Kangol Hats

Style Notes: Catapulting onto the scene with the rise of ‘80s hip-hop culture, Kangol hats have been a streetwear staple for decades. Whether perched on the head of a suave ‘90s Samuel L. Jackson or a noughties-era Eminem in his “Beautiful” music video, Kangols have been synonymous with the coolest of the cool for decades.

Now they’re back, and in the toolkit of the modern maximalist. Everyone from Ruby Lynn to Rebecca Ferraz-Wyatt (pictured above) is using this accessory to inject instant edge to the simplest outfits. It's one of those details that the beady-eyed and those in the know will understand. A quiet flex if you ask me, but a flex all the same.

Shop the Trend:

4. Multi-Layered Tops

Style Notes: A ‘90s styling hack, the multi-layered tops once beloved by Rachel Green in Friends are back and officially at the forefront of fashion in 2026. Since autumn, my feed has been flooded with takes that feel inherently fresh. Another part of the indie-grunge aesthetic from some 30 years ago, this trend started on the streets, eventually transitioning to the runways (most noticeably Marc Jacobs' spring/summer 1993 grunge collection for Perry Ellis, which infamously got him fired).

Fast-forward three decades, and layered tees are having another renaissance. At Valentino, Alessandro Michele sent models down the autumn/winter 2025 runway in vibrant blue collared shirts, topped with a red-and-white graphic tee and tailored trousers. But TikTok fashion influencers are taking it a step further. Layering multiple tops over one another, they’re leaning into the more-is-more maximalism bubbling up right now.

Shop the Trend:

5. Culottes

Style Notes: As the rest of fashion leans into the soft structure and fitted silhouettes of the boho revival (skinny jeans and boot cuts, I’m looking at you!), TikTok-savvy dressers are leaning into the casual-cool essence a culotte brings. Having shed their school-uniform connotations, in 2026, these cropped wide-leg trousers are less Olivia Palermo and more Zoe Kravitz.

A-listers such as Charli XCX are wearing theirs with heeled boots to add instant polish, but I’ll be styling mine like Sofia Mcoelho (pictured above)—with loafers and a layered tee for a laid-back look.

Shop the Trend:

6. Toggled Jackets

Style Notes: When speaking with Palmer about what would be different from this year to next, she insisted that “the details of your pieces will be what set you apart”, and a toggled jacket does just that. Whilst the Róhe Mandarin jacket has been one of the most sought-after pieces of the year, its toggle fastenings are a distinct selling point. I never would have imagined this finish, which originated in Imperial China, would have landed on a velour fabrication. Seems like there’s a toggle detail for everyone!

Shop the Trend:

7. Cargo Belt Bags

Style Notes: If the phrase “cargo-belt bags” instantly conjures up images of a bum bag, you’re not alone. But meshing function and style is the only way Gen Z does fashion. A continuation of the belted bags that put brands like Manu Atelier on the map, these shapes first cropped up at Copenhagen Fashion Week s/s 2026, and who can forget Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic Gucci belt bag? Taking the concept of a stylish wide belt and adding pockets, this layering piece adds visual interest and something unexpected, and I’m here for that!

Shop the Trend:

November 2025 marks Who What Wear UK’s 10th birthday. Yes, we’ve been writing about the trends to take note of, the luxury pieces worth investing in, the beauty heroes and hacks we can’t wait to share and the outfits the team have been rotating for a whole decade! We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our stories as much as we’ve loved creating them. To celebrate the occasion, you’ll find a range of special ten-year-anniversary content across the site this month, from retrospective looks at the biggest fashion moments to the couples who defined the decade and the products that have earned true cult status. Keep an eye out for our 10th birthday badge and enjoy the milestone with us! Thank you for being part of our story so far.

Even though a decade in life can seem to pass by in an instant, in fashion and culture terms, a decade is a long time. With internet culture moving as fast as it does, and the sheer volume of events—not only on the red carpet but on the runways with so many international fashion weeks—it's unsurprisingly that hardly a week can go by without a hot topic to share or gossip about.

When considering the most iconic moments in fashion in the last 10 years, there are plenty to choose from. The Met Gala on the first Monday in May always presents itself with some of the most talked about celebrity outfits. Who understood the theme and nailed it? Who missed the mark completely (remember when Katy Perry went as a hamburger?). Met Ball aside, the red carpet at the Academy Awards, Cannes Film Festival and more movie premiers serve looks worth talking about long after the films screening ends.

Outside of Hollywood, there's the usual fashion week calendar, which can promise some major model debuts and celebrity sightings—it was just in September we saw the cast of The Devil Wears Prada 2 (in character) at the Dolce & Gabbana show in Milan, can it get more iconic than that? On top of all this, I've also considered the biggest 'movements' or trends in the last 10 years. From millennial pink to logomania, to the rise of streetwear and the more recent Y2K renaissance, these trends made a huge impact not only on how we dress, but how we consume culture and, to an extent, live our lives. But more on that further below.

And without further adieu, these are the 10 most iconic moments between 2015-2025.

10 Most Iconic Fashion Moments 2015-2025

1. The Devil Wears Prada at Milan Fashion Week

Two decades after the film's release, watching the cast of The Devil Wears Prada 2 at Milan Fashion Week (filming scenes for the much awaited sequel) felt perfectly full circle. Seeing Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci seated front row at Dolce & Gabbana's Milan Fashion Week show sent social media into overdrive. It wasn't just nostalgia; it was a reminder that fashion, at its best, tells stories that last far longer than a single season.

2. Rihanna's 'Omelette' Dress

When Rihanna stepped onto the Met Gala red carpet in Guo Pei's show-stopping yellow gown, the world collectively stopped scrolling. The look, which was nicknamed the "omelette dress", was pure theatre: a 55-pound couture creation that transformed the Met steps into a royal runway. It wasn't just a fashion moment; it was a declaration that red carpet dressing could be art, spectacle, and self-expression all at once.

3. Brat Girl Summer

Charli XCX's BRAT era ushered in a new wave of raw, chaotic glamour. The look—marked by slick hair, statement eyeliner, low-slung everything and most importantly green—wasn't about being polished. It was about attitude. In a year defined by pop culture maximalism, BRAT became more than an album aesthetic, it became a shorthand for a mood.

4. JLo's Versace Dress 2.0

Nearly twenty years after the original green Versace dress broke the internet, Jennifer Lopez returned to the runway in an updated version for the brand's Spring and Summer 2020 show. The crowd's reaction said it all, this was fashion nostalgia done right. The jungle-print gown reminded everyone that few things rival a pop culture callback, especially when it's worn by the woman who made it iconic in the first place.

5. Quiet Luxury

After years of logo-heavy fashion, 2023 was all about understatement. Think The Row coats, Toteme tailoring and Jennifer Lawrence in simple linen trousers that felt quietly confident. The focus was on quality, not quantity, a subtle rebellion against the constant need to stand out.

6. Bella Hadid and the 'Spray-On' Dress at Coperni

When Bella Hadid stepped onto the Coperni runway and had a dress literally sprayed onto her body, fashion entered a new era of tech-meets-couture. The moment went viral instantly, it was part performance art, part design innovation, and reminded the world that the runway can still surprise us.

7. Y2K Rebirth

By 2021, the return of low-rise jeans, baby tees and rhinestone everything had officially taken over. Influencers channelled early-2000s Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, reviving a wardrobe once dismissed as a guilty pleasure. It marked a shift towards playful, self-aware dressing—proof that sometimes, the trends we once left behind are the ones we end up missing most.

8. Zendaya's Mugler Fembot Look

Zendaya's appearance in the archival Mugler fembot suit for the Dune: Part Two premiere reminded everyone why she's fashion's most compelling dresser. The metallic creation from Mugler's Autumn and Winter 1995 collection felt futuristic yet grounded in fashion history—a masterclass in styling that paid homage to Thierry Mugler's boundary-pushing legacy.

9. Kim Kardashian in Marilyn Monroe's Dress at The Met Ball

Kim Kardashian's decision to wear Marilyn Monroe's original "Happy Birthday Mr. President" gown at the Met Gala became one of the most talked-about fashion choices of the decade. The Jean Louis design, loaned from Ripley's Believe It or Not, sparked debates about preservation, celebrity and spectacle. Regardless of opinion, it was a cultural crossover moment that cemented fashion's power to rewrite history in real time.

10. Billy Porter Oscars Tuxedo dress

Billy Porter's velvet tuxedo gown by Christian Siriano in 2019 redefined what red carpet dressing could look like. The contrast of structured tailoring and sweeping skirt sparked a global conversation about boundaries in fashion. It was confident, powerful and beautifully unapologetic; proof that the best style moments are the ones that make us question the rules.

Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear's own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.

Coffee culture is, in itself, an art form that may seem trivial to some, but for others, it's a daily practice. It can be the simple act of selecting a mug before moving through the motions of filling a coffee pot or using a semi-automatic steamer, then taking the time to froth milk or finishing it off with syrups and spices. That little to-go cup tucked into a gloved hand that was once waiting for you at the end of a coffee shop counter represents a shared experience that, while not everyone may engage with, most know the significance of.

I grew up on the outskirts of Seattle, Washington, where ducking into a coffee house—accented by oversize leather couches, a fireplace or two, and soft jazz or grunge playing in the background—was an escape from the dampness of a Pacific Northwestern fall. I could pull out a book, bring my own mug for a fresh cup of coffee, and get lost in the coziness of it all. While I didn't get to experience the magic of the Global Village Coffeehouse aesthetic that dominated the '90s, I do enjoy scrolling through moody lighting, whimsical décor, and hand-drawn illustrations attributed to it on Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram, tinged with nostalgia.

As much of a social activity as grabbing coffee with a friend can be, I think it's safe to argue that a large number of us coffee drinkers sip with the intent of indulging ourselves in some extra energy. Plus, it just smells amazing. Apart from that, coffee has various uses in beauty. For example, when used as a scrub for the skin, it offers gentle exfoliation for a bright and smooth finish. As an ingredient in haircare, it's a star ingredient for jump-starting hair growth and supporting scalp health. Alternatively, smelling coffee in the form of a perfume or home fragrance can improve alertness, mood, and boost performance as you go throughout your day. Below, I'm sharing all of my favorite coffee-inspired beauty favorites that deliver all the caffeinated goodness I'm after.

Fragrances

Home Scents

Makeup

Skin

Haircare

Manicures

Camelia Farhoodi has been one of my favorite TikTok follows for years. She's based in Melbourne, and her taste is impeccable. It's chic and minimalist but with a darker, more artistic twist that feels both genuine and lived-in. There's an ease to the way she dresses: sleek, elevated basics and an effortless mix of comfort and sophistication.

She often wears all black, but it never feels boring. Think Tom Ford sunglasses, a Calvin Klein turtleneck, a Nina Ricci skirt, and a Siricco jacket (as she recently posted). The details always feel distinct and intentional.

Her aesthetic extends beyond fashion too—you'll see the same understated sensibility in her interiors and beauty choices. With her visual language, Farhoodi has created a space that feels entirely her own, leading to partnerships with Jacquemus, Chanel Beauty, Rhode, Prada, and Mango as well as design collaborations with NA-KD and Lioness.

I spoke to her about her personal style and the pieces she's loving right now.

I'd love to hear more about your background and what originally got you into fashion—do you have any formative memories surrounding it or an overview of your trajectory?

I've always been a creatively driven person, from my earliest memories of stealing my mum's makeup to giving the family fashion shows put together with my grandma's wardrobe. Throughout high school (before getting a job), I would spend my allowance at my favorite op shop once a week in hopes to find as many pieces as I could. I would never look at the garments as they were. I was searching for fabrics that I loved, something I could chop and change—a size 16 top made out of lambskin leather turned immediately into a halterneck and miniskirt with a pair of very blunt scissors.

When I started working, I explored many different avenues, trying to find my creative spark. I worked as a makeup artist (self-taught) for events, weddings, my family, and friends. I worked as a trainee at a spa, learning to do manicures, pedicures, waxing, etc. I worked in retail and hospitality for five-plus years—double shifts going from one to the other. I loved working as soon as I started, and I always put my all into anything I was doing, but none of it felt right.

Whilst I was working in retail (my last job), COVID hit. Forced to stay home—with a closet full to the brim of unworn clothes I had salvaged from the op shop—I decided to start taking photos in my outfits. From that point onwards, I would spend the rest of my time in COVID taking photos that my boyfriend or little brother would help me out with.

My partner is a photographer/videographer/director, so we would shoot together during COVID for fun… until we both got signed with the same agents! We worked throughout the whole COVID together. Brands would send us 10 looks, and we would shoot a whole campaign at home with his equipment. The rest is history!

How would you describe your personal style?

Clean, fresh, and comfortable. A little bit sexy, a little bit androgynous.

What are must-haves in your capsule wardrobe?

I'm a girl with the opinion of everyone looks their best when stripped back and comfortable. In saying that, I can't live without my high-quality basics—new or vintage. I always opt for black silk pants (something that feels comfortable but looks expensive), a classic black tank, a vintage Jil Sander light wool knit, and ballerina slippers.

Is there any outfit formula, in particular, you find yourself repeating over and over?

I'm a creature of habit, so unfortunately yes. When I find something I like, I wear it until it makes me sick to look at. No formula but things that make me feel comfortable and confident, which is usually an all-black outfit 90% of the time. Black also complements my natural features and tones well, so when I'm feeling the premenstrual uglies, I know I can count on that. A vintage pair of satin stretch pants, a black tank, a leather coat, some oversize sunglasses, and a pointed boot—this never fails me.

What are your favorite references for finding new brands?

I usually discover new brands from other content creators on TikTok—something about the video format and seeing how clothing moves and looks in real time. I also just love the TikTok girlies and seeing how they style pieces, always sells me.

Do you have any style icons?

Oh, absolutely. I love the Olsen twins. Some people say I'm the missing third sister? It's the casual and chic mood I'm so attracted to. Wool coat and flip-flops. Undone, loose braids. Has she just woken up? But still looks good? Lived-in looks that feel like it's always been you, I'm into that.

Can you share some of your favorite TikTok accounts?

[I have] so many favorites, but if I had to choose some current faves, it would have to be @levi.coralynn ([I] could binge-watch her videos all day—she makes me feel sexy in my own skin), @brown.lexi (incredible style, always so inspired), @alinatimoo ([I'm] also obsessed with her style, and she makes me laugh), @naichamercier (insane hauls and love her personal style), @ticklemesilly (always obsessed ofc), @there_y0u_are (for interior inspo and learnings).

For people who love brand discovery, what are smaller online shops and emerging brands you're loving?

My current favorite smaller brands are Du Ciel, Flore Flore, and Ayllón.

You're incredible at sourcing vintage. What are the keywords you're using right now?

Gold satin, vintage bootcut pants, Plein Sud leather, vintage Manolo slippers.

What are some items on your wish list at the moment?

Ugh, we could be here for a while, but if I had to choose a few… an old-season The Row Bindle in any fabric really, an old Jil Sander or Gucci turtleneck knit, Tom Ford sunglasses, Maison Magdalena scarf, Flore Flore camisole, Casa Ayllón Noir Pouch, and The Row flip-flop.

Is there a fall or winter trend you're the most into?

I'm loving this very dark and feminine lingerie dressing. Lace hemlines and sheer dresses with long leather coats [are] so sexy and effortless—like you just got out of bed and ready to go get a glass of wine with the girls.

Has there been a standout collection or look you loved this fashion month?

[I'm] currently responding to this mid-NYFW, so the month is yet to come and end, but based on the recent NYFW collections I've seen so far, I'm in love with the Calvin Klein show. Old Calvin is back, and it put a big smile on my face.

I always love your makeup as well. What are your current go-tos?

For makeup, I keep it super simple. I touch my face a lot. I generally have a "less is more" approach on makeup. My current routine uses three products. I travel everywhere with them, and I love knowing if anything gets ruined I can fix it up in two seconds. Chanel Lip & Cheek Balm first; [Copini] Beauty Power Lip on eyes, cheeks, lip liner; and, to finish, my fave in the world, Dior Lip Maximizer in Mahogany.

I also rarely use concealer. I'm a very easily overstimulated girl, so anything on my skin truly can send me into a spiral, but if I have a pimple to cover, I'll go in with the Merit Minimalist Stick—even then, I sometimes don't apply concealer and like to let my breakout breathe so it can heal. I also find that the less makeup I wear on the daily, the better my skin looks with no makeup. It's an interesting cycle but extremely rewarding when you can commit to it.

Do you have a signature scent?

I mix between some favorites depending on my mood! I love Aesop Eidesis after a long shower to give me home spa vibes, Byredo Bal d'Afrique all the time, anytime, and Malin + Goetz Dark Rum for something a little different.

What are your current wardrobe essentials?

Honestly, anything Flore Flore. All my basics are now being replaced for this brand—always happy to invest in their high-quality pieces. Francesca Pecchenino satin pants, Tkees classic leather flip-flops, Aritzia Boyfriend Zip fleece jackets! My WTF must-haves. Vintage satin pants, pointed-toe boots, ballerina slippers, a classic vintage leather coat, and some oversize sunglasses!

Shop Camelia Farhoodi's Favorites

Growing up as a zillennial, I was lucky enough to experience the last of what the '90s had to offer with all the goodness of the 2000s. This meant that while I was too young to participate in the biggest trends my big cousins followed after seeing them worn at the VMAs by Destiny's Child or Britney Spears, I spent the bulk of my childhood taking mental notes for how I wanted to "adult." At the time, my plans for the future consisted of low-rise jeans, my own phone line, and a decked-out MySpace page (the majority of which disappeared by the time I hit middle school).

Until I can hop on a time machine and travel back to the time of butterfly clips and chunky highlights, I get to revisit the decade's biggest beauty moments through film. One of my favorite faces to see in them, albeit not as much as I'd like, belongs to model, retired actress, and Y2K icon Devon Aoki. Below, I'm taking a closer look at her iconic approach to beauty and how, unlike so many of the era's most recognizable looks, millennials and Gen Zers continue to cosign it.

The Devon Aoki Effect

Enter celebrity makeup artist and Wet n Wild brand ambassador Lilly Keys. Keys, who has worked with some of the decade's most influential names from Charli XCX and Jenna Ortega to Tate McRae and Sophie Thatcher, is particularly in awe of Aoki's impact on beauty. She discovered the model through her love for Kate Moss's makeup and what she refers to as the "whole undone supermodel energy." It was Aoki's unique face and the way her makeup was done in the 2000s that stood out to Keys as having the ideal balance of structure and softness.

"Her skin always looked fresh and real, brows were left feathered, and the cheeks were everything," begins Keys. "[Aoki] skipped heavy contour and sharp liner, instead letting that vertical flush of blush define her face." While Aoki has since taken a step back from full-time acting, she remains a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry. In fact, she recently fronted ACNE Studios' spring/summer 2023 campaign and was featured in the Tommy Hilfiger fall 2023 campaign with her sibling, Steve Aoki, a DJ and record producer. At the moment, however, it's her impact on some of the beauty industry's nostalgic beauty trends currently taking over TikTok and Pinterest that inspires me the most.

Aoki's Signature "Lived-In Glamour" Look

Nostalgia-fueled makeup trends aren't anything new, but when they're tied to practical makeup tricks that help elevate particular face shapes, I can't help but screenshot them for reference later. As much as I love having full cheeks and low cheekbones, there have definitely been times when I've wanted to play down their appearance. Then, I see TikTok edits of Aoki haunting my FYP, and I'm reminded of just how much I loved seeing her on my screen growing up for the very same reason.

Keys too adores Aoki's effortlessly lived-in look, which the model became known for throughout the 2000s and beyond. "It wasn’t polished in the obvious way; it was romantic and a little rebellious," she explains. "That’s exactly why it still works today when everyone is chasing that skin-forward, nostalgic look that feels like it’s melted in rather than being painted on. Devon was way ahead of her time with that approach."

She also tells us that the reason Aoki's makeup has remained timeless is that it was never about transforming her natural features, but rather about embracing them. "It was intuitive, undone, and centered on one feature that anchored the whole face. For Devon, it was that blush, and that is exactly what makes it still so inspiring today," adds Keys. Not only did the model know how to wear a flushed face to perfection, but she knew a thing or two about pulling off a playful smoky eye and pouty lip.

Iconic Blush Placement

While I can't prove that vertical blush placement was made for faces like mine in mind, I can say with certainty that my makeup never looked half as good as it does when I take a few extra seconds to change where I rest the brush or Beautyblender on my face. Vertical blush has been called many things (the "boyfriend blush" trend championed the same placement), but Aoki's memorable makeup looks have proven just as influential in 2025 as they were in 2005. So, what gives?

"Devon’s blush placement, in particular, really stands out to me. It wasn’t the boyfriend blush that TikTok made famous with color across the nose and the apples [of the cheeks]," explains Keys. She tells us that Devon's blush was more vertical, starting at the apples and blending up throughout the cheekbone and toward the temple, which provided a lifted and elongated look without looking forced. "To re-create it, I'd use a cream blush like Wet n Wild MegaGlo Vitamin E Makeup Sticks, or a liquid blush like the Wet n Wild MegaGlow Lip & Cheek Color, and work it upward in soft layers, blending until it feels like part of the skin," she shares.

According to Keys, vertical blush works so well on heart-shaped and round faces because it draws the eye upwards and helps balance the fullness of the cheeks without boxing anything in. "The trick is to keep it sheer and buildable, letting the blush do the work of structure instead of relying on heavy contour," she says. "If I want a playful effect, I'll sometimes add a whisper of color across the bridge of the nose to tie it in together."

Now that you've had a taste of what makes this model look as screenshot-worthy as it is, keep scrolling to learn what else you can do to replicate Aoki's many iconic makeup looks, with expert guidance from Keys, product recommendations, and tips for flawless product application.

Dewy Complexion

Shop the Look

Natural Flush

Shop the Look

Berry-Stained Lips

Shop the Look

Metallic Lids

Shop the Look

Fluffy Brows

Shop the Look

Dewy Finish

Shop the Look

I was recently scrolling on TikTok when I came across a series that caught my attention: the concept of "frugal chic." "On the surface, she appears very luxurious, but underneath it all, she's very savvy about her money. She knows where to splurge and where to save," says Mia McGrath.

It reminded me why I started dressing more minimally in the first place—to save money by avoiding the pressure to keep up with every trend. While frugality and chicness might not seem to go hand in hand given their apparent duality, they absolutely do.

Being frugal doesn't mean cheap. It means being intentional. It's about having wardrobe staples you love wholeheartedly and a curated selection of items you consistently reach for—a signature scent, a go-to nail polish color, a capsule wardrobe, and a simplified skincare routine. It takes us back to basics: quality over quantity. You're avoiding overconsumption in favor of pieces that are timeless rather than short-lived buys you'll get sick of.

Below, McGrath is sharing her tips on being both frugal and chic.

A Signature Scent

"The frugal chic woman doesn't have a whole shelf of perfumes. She has one, and it's instantly recognizable. Warm, clean, and quietly captivating, her scent is part of her presence. Mine is Eau des Sens by Diptyque—a zesty, floral skin scent that feels expensive, sensual, and understated. Bonus: A little goes a long way."

Bare or Buffed Nails

"She keeps her nails clean, short, and either bare or with a clear coat. It's low-maintenance, high-impact, and timelessly chic. Use cuticle oils, glass nail files, clear polish, and topcoats."

Strategic Gifts

"She is very clear about the gifts she loves to receive. Although she has the means to splurge on these things herself, there's nothing like getting a present that you wouldn't buy for yourself normally, like a luxe candle."

A Capsule Wardrobe

"She rewears outfits like it's her superpower—leaning into neutral tones, elevated basics, and quality over quantity. [Think] COS, Arket, Uniqlo, vintage blazers, and secondhand leather."

Gold Hoops Always

"She has one or two pairs of earrings that go with everything, and she wears them every day—Mejuri, Missoma, or budget finds on Etsy with real gold vermeil."

A High-Low Mix

"She'll wear Uniqlo trousers with a vintage Max Mara coat. It's not about the label. It's about the eye. Secondhand designer paired with high-street classics."

As a true Midwest girl, jean shorts are practically part of my religion—and believe me, I’ve tried them all. From Daisy Dukes that barely grazed my thighs to the infamous crochet-lined pairs that defined my high school summers in 2016 to ultra-baggy silhouettes that swallowed my frame whole, my drawer has seen it all.

These days, though, I’m all about finding the perfect cut, fit, and length, the kind that hugs in all the right places and passes the sit test (who wants to be adjusting their shorts all day long?!). This summer, I made a vow to refuse to spend another minute in ill-fitting denim.

So, in my quest to find the best pair, I did as any self-respecting Gen Z girl would do: I opened up TikTok and went down the rabbit hole in search of the internet’s favorite jean shorts. After hours of scrolling, screenshotting, and parsing through comment sections, I compiled a short list of the internet’s most hyped jean shorts. I wasn’t just looking for what looked cute in a try-on. My criteria were clear: How do they hold up after a wash? Could I spend hours sitting comfortably in them? Are they actually flattering IRL and not just in a mirror selfie? I mean, this was some serious investigative journalism for goodness sake!

After putting each pair through my highly scientific testing process, which included wearing them to brunch, walking my dogs, sweating through a few subway rides, and even standing in a crowd at an outdoor concert, I’ve officially landed on five standouts.

Whether you’re shopping for a Labor Day Weekend getaway or you’re like me and plan to wear denim shorts for as long as humanly possible into the fall, I can confidently say these pairs deserve a spot in your rotation.

Citizens of Humanity Marlow Long Shorts

This pair feels like a designer version of jean shorts. The denim has that crisp, weighty feel that molds to your body over time, and they hit at an appropriate, above-the-knee spot. They’re definitely going to be a staple for me, especially when I want a more polished look from a short.

Composition: 100% regenerative cotton

Sizes: 23–34

Wash Options: 6

Fit: True to size.

How I'd Style Them:

Levi's Premium High Rise Baggy Shorts

There’s something undeniably timeless about a pair of Levi’s, and this pair proves why. The fit is unexpectedly polished: no gaping at the waist, a flattering hug through the hips, and a structured feel that isn’t too stiff. The dark wash adds a level of sophistication, and while I customized them for a raw edge, the clean hem lends itself perfectly to more elevated styling. At this price point, they’re practically a no-brainer.

Sizes: 23–34

Wash Options: 8

Composition: 95% Cotton, 5% Recycled Cotton

Fit: These run a bit small. I recommend going up one size for a more relaxed fit.

How I'd Style Them:

Reformation Raye Mid-Rise Relaxed Jean Shorts

These might be the comfiest denim shorts I’ve ever put on—no exaggeration. The fabric is unexpectedly soft and has just the right amount of stretch. I love the longer inseam and the trend-forward grommets, which give them a cool twist. It’s no surprise they were all over my feed.

Sizes: 23–34

Wash Options: 4

Composition: 60% organically grown cotton, 40% Tencel x Refibra Lyocell

Fit: True to size.

How I'd Style Them:

Agolde Parker Long Shorts in Skywave

The waist on these sits just right, is secure but relaxed, and the loose leg gives them an easygoing, lived-in energy that feels quintessentially summer. The soft, sun-faded wash reads vintage in the best way, making them ideal for everything from casual afternoons to polished off-duty looks.

Sizes: 23–33

Wash Options: 4

Composition: 100% cotton

Fit: True to size.

How I'd Style Them:

Re/Done 70s High Rise Short

These look exactly like something you’d spot in a ’70s photograph. I’m in love with the light wash and rolled hem, which give them that perfectly worn-in feel, and the fit hits that sweet spot of just cheeky enough without veering into risky territory. I firmly believe every wardrobe needs at least one pair of true short shorts, and this pair is ideal for throwing on anytime you want that effortless French-girl uniform from summer straight into fall.

Sizes: 23–32

Wash Options: 1

Composition: 100% Cotton

Fit: These definitely run on the smaller side. I recommend going up at least one size for a normal fit, or two sizes for a more relaxed fit.

How I'd Style Them:

Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear’s own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.

TikTok wouldn’t be TikTok without introducing a multitude of beauty trends drawn from nostalgic aesthetics, and members of Gen Z (the first generation to grow up with the constant presence of social media) are the prime audience for it. While I think many of us who also belong to the beauty community have a love-hate relationship with the speed at which these aesthetic-led beauty trends come our way, their presence indicates an innate appreciation for imagery we can relate to. I don’t always understand the roots of these trends, but it’s no question to me why they’re so appealing: they let us live out different versions of ourselves using generally accessible beauty finds.

The “island girl beauty” trend, for example, doesn’t rely on one particular product, but rather leans into the idea of streamlining beauty routines while enhancing natural features. The thousands of tutorials posted under the #islandgirlmakeup alone include skincare-forward beauty essentials at noteworthy drugstore and luxury price points that deliver the same dewy look. The trend also encapsulates many other micro trends we’ve seen over the past couple of months, from the tropical pink shades of the “guava girl” to the more subdued “toasty glam” makeup trend.

The Skin

Natural, sun-kissed, and protected from the harsh UV rays. Before setting foot on the beach, the island girl applies her sunscreen generously and tops it off with a shimmering body oil that catches the light. When she returns home, leaving her sandy flip-flops and beach bag at the door, she’ll hop into the shower for a tropical everything shower followed by self-tanner with a natural-looking finish.

Island-girl skin is all about keeping your complexion healthy, glowing, and protected from environmental aggressors and UV damage. While the majority of the trend’s beauty tutorials focus on how to achieve an effortlessly chic beachy look, what would we be without our skincare? Whether you’re braving the day in nothing but a bikini and a floral print sarong or prefer Levi’s cutoffs and a floaty blouse, you’ll want to make sure you’re protecting your skin with sunscreen and other skin and bodycare must-haves. The salty waves, sea air, and high temperatures will have nothing against your skin that’s prepped for anything (including some ultra-glowy makeup).

Shop the Trend

The Makeup

Warm, vibrant, and breathable. After prepping her skin for a day spent sun-bathing and dipping into the ocean waves, she selects makeup products that will play up her natural features while adding some special touches. She starts by grooming her brows before moving on to a light-coverage bronzing concentrate over the high points of her face and blush across the cheeks and nose bridge. The finishing touch? Highlighter and a couple of swipes of guava-colored lip gloss.

One of my favorite things about this particular TikTok-driven trend is that it incorporates the basics of summer skincare (such as protecting your skin from UV ray damage by focusing beauty routines around sunscreen use) with elements of a sun-kissed appearance. One thing every TikTok island-girl beauty routine can agree upon is the use of ample skin prep ahead of the makeup application, and prioritizing makeup products that will leave all complexions bronzed and warmed to perfection. While there are a number of base makeup products that are worth praising, it’s no surprise that several are balm and cream formulas.

If you’ve ever experimented with makeup season to season, then you’re most likely aware of how the texture, tone, and needs of your skin may shift. My skin, for example, stays nice and hydrated during the warmer months and responds well to balms and creams that melt into my skin, giving me stunning light-medium coverage and a natural-looking finish that layers beautifully with additional products. I retire many of my liquid foundations and concealers, as they tend to begin just sitting on the surface of my skin come June, and also have a habit of shifting beneath the rest of my makeup when I’m in high temperatures.

Shop the Trend

The Fragrance

Sweet, tropical, nostalgic, and bright. The island girl loves fragrances that reflect the world around her, and opts for perfumes that combine notes of sticky fruit pulp with soft blossoms carried on the breeze, creamy coconut milk, and salty sea air. Every time she smells these scents, she’ll be transported back to lush flora and fauna and white beaches sprinkled with seashells.

Before becoming a beauty editor, I struggled to understand what defines a scent as tropical when compared to others that may feature a vibrant blend of similar notes. Over the last few years of my career, I’ve come to understand that unique perfumes that fall into this category combine vivid imagery of sandy white beaches, brightly colored flora, and the sticky, sweet pulp of fruits from these climates with the nostalgia of being in these places. Whether you’re already plotting your next tropical vacation to embrace your inner island girl or have a soft spot for the beauty trend’s aesthetics, spritzing yourself with one of these fragrances brings the beach to you.

When I’m shopping for fragrances that perfectly embody the island-girl vibe, I’m on the hunt for scents that strike the perfect balance between tapping into classic scent combinations that immediately make me imagine a tropical paradise and offering alternate variations of notes that I normally expect. For example, while I don’t normally gravitate towards creamy coconut fragrances (I don’t love the dry-down of most of them on my skin), I’ve recently discovered a few that have made me second-guess myself. Alternately, while I strongly associate lemon with a European getaway, it’s not the first note I think of when I think of the Bahamas, but it’s all I can think of now when paired with frangipani.

Shop the Trend

The Hair

Hydrated, shiny, voluminous, and tousled. Whether it’s accessorized with plumeria and sand or a colorful bandana, the island girl likes to wear her tresses natural and healthy by adding a few products to her haircare and styling lineup. She uses ultra-hydrating shampoos and conditioners to add body to her strands and never skips out on UV protection. She also never forgets a spritz or two of a thickening and texturing spray before heading out.

While scanning through thousands of island-girl beauty tutorials, hair stands out to me almost as much as the bright and sun-kissed makeup looks. As someone with 4c hair, seeing curls and coils represented just as frequently as straighter strands made me feel represented by this trend, and I couldn’t wait to take a deep dive into the common haircare and styling products I saw being used to create these looks. One of the best things about this trend is that natural textures are celebrated, and the universal hair styling products I’ve been spotting are being used to keep it that way. Island-girl hair looks range from messy topknots and braids to sun-bleached shades and beachy, colorful accessories. (I’m partial to adorning mine with resin flower claw clips to hold up my curls and natural cowrie shells in my goddess braids.)

Shop the Trend

If you happen to be part of the chronically online community (same), you’ve likely seen this TikTok video of a woman with ethereal, imperfection-free, glassy skin talking about the importance of toner in her skincare routine. She lightly touches on her product of choice, the PCA Skin Hydrating Toner, before launching into why this “slept-on step” makes or breaks your skincare results. And 4.5 million views later, the comment section is alight with viewers praising her recommendation: “I trust you since there’s not a TikTok Shop link,” says one, while another comments, “Aesthetician of 8 years. Hydrating Toner from PCA is actually the GOAT.”

While other TikTokers (and even a few brands) laud her choice in products, others came back to the comment section after a quick Google search to wince at the steep $48 price. Though some internet sleuths found formulas similar to PCA Skin’s Hydrating Toner at cheaper prices, I decided to go a step further and see which of these SKUs are seeing sales—so you can get similar results without the splurge.

Milky, deeply hydrating toners are one of the most effective ways to hydrate your skin at a deeper level, and they certainly aren’t going anywhere thanks to this repopularized step that more people should be taking in their skincare routines. And as it turns out, there are plenty of similar formulas to the pricey pick above on sale at this very moment. Below, eight hydrating-toner deals starting at $10 when you shop today.

The Best Deals on Hydrating Toners RN

It’s no secret that Tiktok provides an unlimited amount of fashion inspiration. From recreating looks I’ve seen on my favorite creators to discovering new beauty brands, Tiktok—especially the Tiktok Shop is the perfect landscape for th stylish and curious.

If you’re like me, and love learning about the latest and greatest deals on the best fashion and beauty items, then you’re just in luck. Currently Tiktok is running it’s Deals For You Days where a wide range of viral products diretly inspired from It’s summer trend report are on sale.

I’ve done the hard part and combed through all the deals, and highlighted some of my favorite fashion and beauty picks to make your shopping experience as seamless as possible. Remember you can find more items for sale under the hashtag #dealsforyoudays and on Tiktok shop through July 19th. Keep scrolling to uncover.

Whenever I want to look at clothes or discover a new brand, I usually end up on TikTok. I follow a lot of influencers with personal style I like to come back to, and it's always interesting to see what products are trending. Recently, I've been noticing the same fashion and beauty items pop up again and again, and a lot of them are available on the TikTok Shop.

Right now, the app is running its Deals for You Days with discounted viral favorites inspired by TikTok's summer trend report, featuring trends like "city girl summer." You can find the sale under the hashtag #dealsforyoudays, and everything from Gap to French Pharmacy is marked down. Whether you're shopping for basics or beauty, there are so many essentials for summer.

Below, I've rounded up the highlights of what I've been seeing NYC fashion people buying and posting about, and you can find even more markdowns on TikTok Shop through July 19.

It finally feels like summer in New York City, and I'm doing all of my beloved warm-weather rituals again: going on long walks, laying in the sun, finishing a pint of ice cream in one sitting. One of the things I look forward to the absolute most is being able to dress the way I want with no winter weather repressing me.

When it comes to shopping, I tend to err on the side of chic and timeless, but it's still fun to see what's going on with trends as the seasons shift. Something I always notice is what micro-trends my favorite influencers are wearing on TikTok, and certain patterns are starting to emerge—some super specific (like mother-of-pearl buttons), others more widespread (such as oversize scrunchies). While I'm not one to buy something just because it's a trend, I like incorporating new things that naturally align with the way I dress and what I'm drawn to, so there are usually at least a few that pique my interest.

These are all of the micro-trends that've caught my eye for summer.

Weird Shoes

My For You page has been filled with "weird shoe collection" videos for many months now. At this point, Tabis, Vibrams, and Nike Air Rifts are basically everywhere. The Adidas Taekwondo Mei in cow print went viral as well.

Tara Gonzalez, our senior fashion and social editor, has even written about them in the form of flip-flips and clear footwear—referring to the category as freaky. Liana Satenstein has a series on this too. She recently called the Merrell Jungle Moc Leather 2 a "hot busted shoe," which fits into this category. While there have always been Merrell loyalists, I honestly never thought I'd see the brand trending.

If you're looking to expand your horizons, I'd recommend taking a look at Dirt's Range line and Miu Miu's Gymnasium Technical Fabric Thong Ballerinas, which feel very much in this vein. It's all about finding unconventional shapes and materials.

Micro Shorts

Lately, micro shorts have been everywhere—from swimwear to everyday outfits. I've worn them as bikini bottoms for years, but after trying on a non-swim pair from Paloma Wool this spring, I love wearing them off the beach too. I personally love polka-dot shorts the most, but there are so many different colors and patterns. I mainly wear them around the house on their own or layer them with a sheer skirt when I'm outside.

Beads

Beaded details have been showing up mostly on swimwear—either strung along bikini ties or placed as a single accent at the center of a top. I saw a lot of this at Miami Swim Week at shows like Vogue Mexico and Leslie Amon, and now, it's made its way to TikTok.

Mother-of-Pearl Buttons

Another small detail I've been noticing is mother-of-pearl buttons on cardigans, shirts, bags, and jewelry. It feels like an understated embellishment that make simple pieces a little more thoughtful and artistic. Paloma Wool has actually been using them since its S/S 24 collection.

Colorful Tote Bags

I was on the train when I first saw someone wearing a colorful tote bag from Monty. Since then, I started seeing them online from all different brands—from COS to The Row.

Statement Scrunchies

Scrunchies never go away, but the statement ones are definitely having a moment again. I like having a bunch of them around my apartment and always keep one in my bag. It's an easy way to feel put-together and make an outfit full of basics a bit more interesting.

Bangles

Chunky resin bangles are one of the biggest accessories trends right now—usually worn stacked or mixed.

Ponchos

Ponchos started popping up earlier this year and have carried over into summer. The versions I'm seeing now are lightweight and see-through and double as swim cover-ups.

Dressing for summer in New York City is its own skill and art form. I always feel like I'm sticky and melting the second I leave the house during the day. While I often find myself constantly asking, What do I even wear? And yes, during the depths of winter, the same question resurfaces whenever it's over 80 degrees.

When I want to feel excited about getting dressed again, regardless of the weather, I have a list of TikTok accounts I turn to when I want to feel inspired again. They're all people with distinct personal style, with their own niche tastes, who make me want to shop.

From cult-favorites to under-the-radar designers, I asked three of my favorite NYC fashion people on TikTok what they're buying for summer. Here what's on their lists.

Carolyn Chang

I genuinely look forward to Carolyn's monthly favorites videos. Her May edit included bejeweled Havaianas, fun bags, and one of my all-time favorite niche fragrances, Ground by Gabar. She formerly worked in fashion PR and usually shares playful pieces, beauty products, and styling advice.

Cheyenne Grenaway

Cheyenne is one of those content creators who makes you feel like you're just catching up with a friend. I first followed her for her product recommendations (she loves brands like Fara Homadi, Pat McGrath, Rhode, and Rōz), but I also love her grounded energy and thoughtful point of view. She shares across fashion, beauty, writing, and the arts. Now and then, she opens up about stories about her family and personal life that add another layer of depth and vulnerability to her videos, which I always appreciate.

Taylor Creel

Taylor is one of the most well-researched people I follow. Her TikToks are like curated guides for people who want to shop with intention. She covers seasonal essentials, emerging brands, trend predictions, and styling ideas that make you rethink what you already own. Nothing feels rushed; everything is carefully considered. She recently moved into a new apartment and started a decorating series as well, so I'm looking forward to continuing to see her interior design and home roundups.

I know what we're all thinking. Sometimes, TikTok users can take it a hair too far, right? From sunscreen contouring to using household items as skincare, we've seen our fair share of trends on the platform that never should have seen the light of day. However, there are exceptions to every rule. Lately, I've seen the "caveman method" making the rounds on the platform and almost wrote it off completely, but once I learned what it actually entailed, I realized that I'd already practiced a lighter version of it with great results.

Don't worry; if you don't know what I'm talking about, I'll explain. The caveman method essentially involves ditching your entire skincare routine and letting your skin reset and heal on its own. I know this may sound unthinkable to some—especially those with acne-prone skin—but TBH, it really worked for me. My skin is extremely sensitive, reactive, and prone to acne, and for the longest time, I couldn't figure out why it would get so red and inflamed. After an eye-opening conversation with celebrity aesthetician Sofie Pavitt, though, I realized that the retinoids and even my cleanser were drying out my already sensitive, barrier-damaged skin, and I desperately needed a reset. While I definitely don't think it's a good idea to completely quit your skincare routine forever, I do think if you're struggling with persistent redness, inflammation, and breakouts like I was, a short reset for a bit can be massively beneficial. I stopped using products for a while and my skin calmed down almost immediately. Now, I use a gentle oil cleanser or cream cleanser and stay away from retinoids. I asked a dermatologist to break down the appropriate way to do a skincare reset below.

How Long You Should Practice the Caveman Method

Like I mentioned above, going commando with your skincare for a minute can definitely have its benefits, especially if you're dealing with a damaged skin barrier like I was. Board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf partner Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, also says, "For individuals struggling with allergic reactions, unexplained rashes, or extremely sensitive skin, eliminating products temporarily can sometimes help identify what may be causing irritation. In that sense, it functions much like an elimination diet, but for your skin."

But she stresses that it isn't recommended to do this for longer periods of time. "While the skin is an intelligent organ that can self-regulate to an extent, completely avoiding products long-term can do more harm than good," she explains. "Without moisturizers or sun protection, the skin is more vulnerable to dryness, environmental damage, UV exposure, and accelerated aging. Think of the skin like a garden: You can let it rest, but if you never water or nourish it, the barrier weakens over time. The key is supportive skincare, not overuse or complete elimination. A balanced approach fosters long-term skin health. Without gentle cleansing, sweat, environmental pollutants, and natural oils can build up on the skin’s surface, creating an ideal environment for fungal or bacterial overgrowth. If someone is dealing with significant skin barrier disruption or irritation, taking a short product break can be helpful, but ideally no longer than a few days. This gives the skin a chance to recalibrate, especially if it has been overwhelmed by too many activities or harsh ingredients. However, even during a reset, I still recommend using gentle, supportive basics like a bland moisturizer and a physical sunscreen daily."

Effective Alternatives to the Caveman Method

As a beauty editor, I love taking a product break. In fact, it feels necessary sometimes when I use and try so many different products all the time. But Bansal says you don't actually have to completely stop using your products. Sometimes, it's just as effective to pare back your routine to the basics. "While the caveman regimen might work for a very select few with specific conditions, for most people, a better approach is simplification—paring back to just a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen—rather than abandoning skincare altogether," she says. "Always listen to your skin, and if you’re struggling, consult a dermatologist before jumping on trending challenges."

For a compromised skin barrier, Bansal recommends a minimalist routine with a gentle fragrance-free cleanser and a moisturizer rich in hydrating and reparative ingredients like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. She also suggests a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and to avoid all exfoliants and other actives like retinol. She says the skin will usually heal within one to three weeks, but it also depends on the severity of the damage.

On the other hand, if you have dermatitis or have recently dealt with an allergic reaction, Bansal says that less is more. She says to stick to petrolatum-based ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor, but you may want to be careful using these on your face if you're acne-prone, as they might be too occlusive. If you are acne-prone, you can try products with ingredients like aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal instead because they're soothing.

Whenever I need to go back to the basics, I reach for the below products.

Skincare Basics I Love When Paring Back

Have you come across a certain effortlessly cool content creator applying their makeup in a sun-soaked field in the British countryside, hanging off the side of a boat, or in the middle of a busy bus on her way to and from appointments? Then you might have experienced the quirky, high-energy magic of Emily Wood. Over the past few years, this on-the-go beauty lover has captured our attention and views with her fast-paced and artistic take on makeup tutorials. Whether Wood is scribbling on her cheek, forehead, and nose with what resembles a colored pencil (it's definitely an eyeliner) or creating an eye shadow look with four ultra-pigmented shades, you can bet the finished result will be as picturesque as the woman making it happen.

Now that a sibling of hers has graced our screens on HBO's The White Lotus season three, Wood is feeling even more grateful for the flexibility of her craft and how it's inspired other beauty enthusiasts to think of their daily makeup routine as a way to play with color and texture. We caught up with Wood to learn more about the inspiration that fuels her creativity, her top products, and her advice for anyone hoping to follow in her footsteps.

Meet Emily Wood: Makeup Artist and Content Creator

You describe yourself as a "face decorator" in your TikTok bio, which taps into your artistic approach to makeup. Have you always been drawn to color and organic shapes, and why do you prefer applying products with your hands rather than a brush or Beautyblender?

I feel very intuitive with makeup and worry about sounding quite cheesy in earnest, but my approach to art in school felt natural. I grew up loving taking the imperfect approach, textures, and going into stationery shops at the weekend. It's very specific and my own type of nerdy! I've always been drawn to very scribbly, imperfect things.

Now, it feels quite metaphorical. … As someone who struggles with keeping a routine, resonates with someone who has ADHD, and is quite a messy person, I see it as something beautiful. From a really young age in art, I always went for textures, and my pigments were really messy. Those are still the types of paintings and art pieces that I'm touched by. With my makeup, I don't know… I feel like I just know what to do!

I layer [makeup products] like you would layer art on a sheet of paper. I just do it, and I don't really have a plan of what I'd like to create. I just pop things in a bag and go outside. I think there's something so beautiful and powerful about the fact I do it outside because I have to use what I've got, and it stimulates me in such a nice way, disrupting me from my neuroses because I have to immerse myself in my work. It's made me extremely creative!

I'm also dyslexic, so problem-solving is my forte. I'm good at problem-solving in a crisis. On a much smaller scale, I can figure things out and have to teach myself how to work with my brain in a way that others didn't relate to. At school, I didn't learn the same way my peers did. The way I learn is so visual, and that's why art was so important for me. There were no rules, and it was all about feeling and self-expression.

You're the definition of a true makeup artist! Whenever I watch your content, it's art, from the way products are applied to the skin with your hands to the act of doing it outside. Where do you look for inspiration?

Yes! On the odd occasion that I do use [brushes], people in the comments are always like, "Wait what?" I didn't think it was something I was doing that much until I went back while editing and saw that, and it's so freeing! I generally don't follow trends and struggle when I have to work closely with others and give quotes to publications about my favorite ones since I don't have any. It's taken me a while to accept that about myself, and I know that's okay!

From such a young age, I have watched my mum and nana apply makeup. They never go without flush across their cheeks and nose! My mum always wears a frosted pink lip with an iridescence and brown lip liner. It's all I've ever watched! I take inspiration from watching both of them do their makeup. There's a lot of neurodiversity, and they're very creative. I'm also inspired by my friends, like Milena. The way she thinks and puts things together really moves me.

As a makeup artist, I crave connection and telling stories that are truthful and honest. It's challenging for me to do certain things that come with makeup artistry, like being on set and working with talent, because, while we're all expected to be the best version of yourself, there's the expectation to be happy all the time in these spaces for the benefit of others. It's the paradox where it forces me to get out of my head, but there's also so much that goes unspoken in my stream of consciousness.

I'm really happy that I've managed to create a career for myself that means I'm alone a lot with creative freedom. It gets me outside on even my worst days. I feel thankful because it shielding me from rumination and intrusive thoughts, which is really useful. I get to say no to things! My little stick brain needs stimulation and autonomy. It's become even more important [with] my sister's career recently. I'm happy I get to channel my interests through my work and have creative freedom.

I was surprised by how many people didn't know you and Aimee Lou are siblings! I'm so excited to hear that you've drawn inspiration from the creative women in your family (including the types of products you wear). Can you tell me more about your makeup favorites?

I also love using a bright, colorful palette! Lately, it's been Anastasia Beverly Hills' face and body palettes, which means their powder pigments are so powerful that [they give] someone like me, who likes to layer, that intense finish. I'm constantly dipping one brush into them to really pack it on and then using a clean brush to go around and diffuse my eye shadow.

I like to get a cream product and apply that like you would use a primer in art so there's something for the powder products to stick to. Whenever I'm doing my skin and wearing foundation, I'll wear something matte that's quite intense because I want to lift, highlight, and brighten. Then, I'll put my powder over it in a way that's almost iridescent but works on my skin tone.

There's definitely something almost retro in the way you do your makeup, which is a big different from the ultra-dewy, no-makeup makeup looks we've been seeing coming in and out of style over the past few years.

I don't use coverage. For an area I'd like to be lifted, I'll add a blusher or a liner. That's how I get the contours. I used to wear a lot of coverage, but then when I was around 20, I realized I liked a curled lash, flush for that almost sunburnt effect, and a lip line. That's my everyday look when I'm rushing out the house. It takes me 30 seconds, and I feel like a new woman. It's either that, or I have a liner on my forehead, cheeks, and lips, or I'm OTD maximalist.

It seems like you're always on the go! Do you have any tips for someone who's looking to add a few steps to level up their makeup routine while out and about?

Have a hand sanitizer with you constantly! Dr. Bronner's Lavender Hand Sanitizer is in every bag. Also, having a liner that will add depth to your face to make you feel more alive so you have contour. Also, you want to add flush to the apples of your cheeks and [curl] your lashes. A good lash curler is a game changer!

From 11 years old, I used to sit at the back of class in school and pulse my eyelashes. I didn't know that you have to replace the rubber thing in the eyelash curler because the metal starts going into it. I sliced half of my lashes from both sides, and they took so long to grow back. So I learned to change the rubber and had to let my lashes grow back! It was my system-regulation tool.

Do you have any advice for someone who's struggling to get their lashes to hold a curl?

It's all about patience! Washing your face before is okay, but you have to make sure your eyelashes are completely dry for at least 10 to 15 minutes. A lash curler works better when it has weight. Curl your lashes, put on one coat of mascara, and let it dry before curling your lashes and focusing on really pulsing the eyelash curler. Then, layer it again four or five times. Also, use a lash-separator tool! They have these metal teeth to comb your eyelashes.

How did you begin doing your makeup on the go?

The on-the-go thing was very natural for me. It makes sense! I'm really good at rushing things under pressure. I procrastinate and do anything that needs to be done besides the actual task. Being outside is what I do every day because I put makeup looks on as I'm moving before I need to be somewhere at a certain time. There's something about the pressure that works for me! When my art doesn't go well and the time's up, it doesn't feel good, but it's also magical because you have to surrender to the perfectionism.

What tips or tricks would you give to anyone who wants to create unique and colorful makeup looks like yours?

For a general approach, I would always say that you should apply a cream product that dries matte, and then powders will stick onto it. Also, make sure you always have hydrated skin, and remember that skin moves! If your skin is hydrated, products will glide onto it since there's a moisturized base and then dry. But it's that step of moisturizing and putting your SPF on before scribbling on the liner! Make sure you have a good skincare regime.

For bold looks, the main thing is to apply cream products and layer pigment on top, or if you'd like to do a red lid, for example, [scribble] a red liner on and blend it quickly. Then, pack lots of powdery pigments on (which is a step up from just using a general primer) to get the tone. For a multicolored lid, I'd scribble a green, red, and yellow, then use the same colors in pigment form.

Lastly, one of the things I've always loved about your posts is your choice in music. It's never a song that's trending! How does that inform your artistry?

I'm going out with a musician, but music has always been my form of escapism. My sister's thing is movies, but mine has always been music! I'm always making new playlists. I can go from soul and jazz to rap in seconds, then back to folk. I love music so much, and I'm really intentional with my music. I don't really imagine a makeup look when I'm listening to music, but I imagine a general vibe! Songs will inspire me in terms of themes, which is also how I think about filming content.

Shop Emily Wood's Makeup Must-Haves

Discover Our Emily Wood–Inspired Beauty Edit

On TikTok over the past month or so, I've been seeing a specific article of clothing getting a lot of attention suddenly: ponchos. The first time I saw someone wearing one, I didn't think much of it, but then it became a pattern. In particular, I noticed people styling them in chic ways reminiscent of The Row.

Then I started spotting them out and about in Brooklyn, worn in an artful way. Not once, but multiple times. I didn't see this micro-trend coming at all—but to be clear, the poncho is far from new. They've been worn for centuries by Indigenous communities in the Andes and continue to influence fashion globally.

It also makes sense through the lens of trends, as capes made a strong comeback on fall/winter 2024 runways, with designers like Proenza Schouler and Chloé embracing them. The poncho feels like a natural evolution from that, especially for the warmer weather in spring and summer.

As a chronically "I'm cold" person, I always like to have a layer on hand—even in spring or summer, when restaurants blast the AC or it cools off at night. A poncho is perfect for that, as it's lightweight, cozy, and easy to move in.

If you're considering getting one yourself, here are the best ones I've found.

If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I’m as Gen Z as they come—and yes, that means I live and breathe TikTok. At this stage, the hours spent on the app have clocked up to practically years of my life, and yet, I return to it daily with the same enthusiasm. Why? Because there’s always more fashion inspiration to find.

When countless fashion girls are eagerly telling you that the Damson Madder leopard-print cargo pants are not just a neutral item, but now a wardrobe staple, it can be hard to separate fashion fact from fiction. But as a fashion editor, I have the skill set to differentiate social buzz from real-life dressing. My favourite pastime is tracking emerging trends from the runways and seeing how they align with what the insiders are shopping, wearing and talking about. It’s this fusion of high fashion and real-world style that never fails to spark my creativity and inform my personal style. Yet, I’m acutely aware that I was raised in an era of digital literacy, and my brain is formed to decipher social algorithms. For someone who may feel easily overstimulated, the sheer volume of information and constant influx of trends on social apps like TikTok can be utterly overwhelming, but my job is to decode the trends and pieces you can skip from the items and looks that are actually worth your time (and money).

After diving deep into the digital fashion world by combing through every corner of TikTok, I’ve found eight key trends that I think are worth the hype for this summer.

8 TikTok Fashion Trends That Actually Matter in 2025

1. Cute ‘90s

Style Notes: If there’s one trend dominating the conversation right now, it’s the cute take on '90s style, a nostalgic revival that captures the essence of the decade’s most iconic looks: effortless minimalism, clean silhouettes and just a hint of playful edge. From the slinky slip dresses made iconic by supermodels to the straight-leg denim and white tanks favoured by Winona Ryder and Gwyneth Paltrow, ‘90s fashion carved out a cool-girl aesthetic that still resonates.

Picture ribbed knits, worn-in leather jackets, tiny sunglasses and strappy black sandals—pieces that feel as fresh today as they did 30 years ago. And it’s not just vintage shops feeling the love; designers and high-street brands alike are embracing the throwback. Labels like Miu Miu, and Khaite are championing elevated basics and minimalist tailoring, whilst TikTok and Instagram feed the resurgence with a mix of modern interpretations and secondhand gems. If you’re dusting off your slip dress or searching for the perfect low-rise trousers, take inspo from @sabinasocol—’90s cute core is less about replicating a moment and more about embodying a mindset: confident, effortless and slightly cheeky. In 2025, it's not just a trend—it’s a mood.

Shop Cute ‘90s:

2. Tortoiseshell

Style Notes: From Audrey Hepburn to Zendaya, tortoiseshell continues to dominate as one of the standout accessory trends of 2025. Whether in sunglasses or hairpieces, this iconic pattern blends elegance with versatility, making it a staple for both vintage-inspired and modern chic styles. Grace Kelly’s use of tortoiseshell accessories in the 1950s set the stage for an era of refined sophistication, and today, it remains a symbol of understated luxury. Its warmth and organic aesthetic seamlessly complement any outfit, adding a touch of timeless class without overpowering the overall look.

Shop Tortiseshell:

3. Micro Miniskirts

Style Notes: Think Carrie Bradshaw, Britney Spears and Paris Hilton—the miniskirt is back, but with a twist. A bold rejection of conservative styling, this iconic piece is undergoing a modern reinvention. Influencers like @linda.sza are pairing micro silhouettes with oversized shapes to create a reverse hourglass effect, offering a striking contrast that feels both fresh and empowering. With designers such as Miu Miu, Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta adding contemporary touches through interesting fabrics and updated silhouettes, the micro skirt has found its place in the fashion spotlight once again. From classic pleated minis to asymmetric cuts and playful prints, my favourite fashion figures are reinterpreting this timeless trend in their own unique ways.

Shop Miniskirts:

4. Striped Polos

Style Notes: I’ve spoken about my love for the striped polo before, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Since the 2000s, striped polos have been worn in a variety of ways, from preppy styling to streetwear looks, and they’ve even been layered in more high-fashion contexts (as showcased in Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2024 collection). The versatility of the striped polo has made it a staple across decades, and it continues to enjoy broad appeal, especially amongst TikTok’s fashion crowd. For those looking to dip their toe into the trend without going all in, take a cue from @isabellapmayer’s lo-fi styling. Pair a classic striped polo with ballet flats and denim shorts for a relaxed look.

Shop Striped Polos:

5. Baby-Doll Dresses

Style Notes: Once a symbol of youth and innocence, the babydoll dress has evolved and is now embraced in a more modern, edgy context—think Kate Moss rather than the iconic Mary Quant-style mod influence. Today, it’s a favourite among fashion insiders like @DevonLeeCarlson, who often styles it in a bohemian Chloé-esque or vintage-inspired Rodarte way, blending carefree femininity with a modern twist

Shop Baby-Doll Dresses:

6. Matching Sets

Style Notes: The matching set is back, but this time, it’s far more refined than the logo-heavy styles made iconic by Juicy Couture and Ralph Lauren in the 2000s. Whether for a casual day or a dressed-up night out, you can’t go wrong with a co-ord. Its appeal lies in its simplicity—the base is already laid out, so all that’s left is to add your personal styling touches. From luxurious silk to textured tweed and sleek leather, designers like Balenciaga, Prada and Chanel have reimagined the matching set, blending sophistication with ease. It’s no wonder this trend has become a staple for the modern style-conscious. Plus, this trend isn’t only stylish, but economical too, offering you a two-for-one wardrobe solution.

Shop Matching Sets:

7. Black, Strappy Sandals

Style Notes: Few shoe styles have earned icon status quite like the black, strappy sandal. Sleek, refined and understatedly sexy, it emerged in the 1990s as the go-to heel for fashion’s minimalist elite. Favoured by the likes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Kate Moss, its barely-there silhouette—defined by slender straps and a low or stiletto heel—embodied the decade’s quiet glamour, with designers such as Calvin Klein, Helmut Lang and Manolo Blahnik instrumental in solidifying its place in the style canon.

In 2025, the strappy black sandal continues to reign. Reimagined by labels like The Row, Saint Laurent and Amina Muaddi, today’s iterations range from ultra-delicate to boldly architectural. Their appeal lies in their adaptability; paired with tailoring, denim or evening wear, or styled like @emmaleger in a playful polka-dot co-ord, they add just the right touch of elegance. These shoes are proof that true icons don’t shout—they simply endure.

Shop Black, Strappy Sandals:

8. Jorts

Style Notes: Once the uniform of nonchalant ’90s style icons—looking at you, Rachel Green—jorts were long confined to the realm of casual, can’t-be-bothered fashion. By the early 2000s, they had fallen from grace, dismissed as a style misstep. But fashion, as always, is cyclical. The modern reinvention of jorts has seen them return with a refined edge: longer, more structured cuts now pair effortlessly with blazers, knee-high boots and polished accessories. For a masterclass in casual-chic styling, look to @kimturkington_, who elevates the humble jort with a crisp white tee, ballet flats and a bold jacket, proving that when styled right, this nostalgic staple feels entirely fresh and new.

Shop Jorts:

As the year goes on, I find myself turning to TikTok more and more when it comes to getting fresh fashion and beauty inspiration. One of my top follows in this regard is Martine Lavelle. The New York City-based social media coordinator and content creator has mastered an effortlessly cool vibe that keeps me coming back for more recommendations. Lavelle recently blessed us with her top winter picks and now she's back with a curated list for spring with finds from favorites like J.Crew, Gap, and Ssense.

It's clear from following Lavelle for some time now that she thrives in warmer weather. Her chic roundup is proof, being filled with an array of drop-dead gorgeous dresses, cool basics like T-shirts and linen pants, fashion-forward flats, sun-kissed beauty picks, and more. Keep scrolling to discover and shop the standout spring-ready fashion and beauty picks that have the stylish New Yorker's attention.

Shop Martine Lavelle's Top Spring Picks

Beauty editors are a discerning breed. Our expertise doesn't allow us to be easily swayed by internet hype. We give beauty products a meaningful seal of approval only after testing them out for ourselves and making sure they meet or exceed our strict criteria. Recently, I've tested everything from TikTok-viral blushes to an internet-famous blurring balm (and hundreds of products in between). However, I can't remember testing a product that was buzzier or more hyped-up than the one I tested most recently: peel-off lip stain.

These lip stains are all over the internet. I can't open TikTok or Instagram without seeing one. At first glance, they seem incredible. I mean, who wouldn't want a product that deposits all-day color without the need for a single touch-up? It sounds like something straight out of my lip-combo dreams. But that doesn't mean I was immediately convinced that they were worth the money. After all, I've been burned by TikTok Shop before. So, I decided to test three of the most viral lip stains and enlist the help of my fellow editors. Read our honest thoughts below.

Wonderskin

Kaitlyn McLintock, Beauty Editor

I had never used a peel-off lip stain before, so I proceeded cautiously with the shade XOXO, a light rose color. The initial cobalt-blue color didn't faze me. (I had done my research.) After spritzing the Activator Spray, I peeled it off all at once—I found this to be extremely satisfying. There were a few little blue bits left by the inner corners of my lips, so I used a tissue to remove them.

I LOVED the result. My lips had a subtle, rosy-pink color that looked stunning on its own and even better with a light layer of gloss. What's even better is that it lasted through hours of eating and drinking. (I'm a self-confessed coffee addict.) I only noticed it start to fade at the seven-hour mark. I can see this becoming a staple in my low-effort, high-impact daily makeup routine.

How Long It Lasted: 7 Hours | Shade Intensity: Medium | Rating: 5/5

Shop Kaitlyn's Shade:

Alyssa Brascia, Associate Beauty Editor

"Now, I’ll admit that I’ve used Wonderskin’s lip stain before (shade Charming is my cutesy pink go-to), but nothing stole my heart like this gorgeous neutral brown. Not too warm or cool, this hue is my new favorite for when I’m headed out for a night full of good food and drinks (or a day when I just really need my lips to survive without touch-ups). I use the applicator like a lip liner and like to sketch a rough, slightly overlined outline of my lips for a base that won’t budge, and I think this shade would work for lip contouring, too. Overall, I’ve loved how easily this glides on and sheers out or builds up where I need it to. It’s great for dinners and long days—I’ll definitely be utilizing this during wedding season—but I’m curious to see if it keeps its quality with time. My mom swore by her Lip Masque for a few months before it started to crack and develop spots of its odd purpley-blue shade on her lips, even after fully removing it." — Brascia

How Long It Lasted: 6–7 hours | Shade Intensity: Buildable | Rating: 4.75/5 (It may not be mature-lip friendly.)

Shop Alyssa's Shade:

Sacheu

Maya Thomas, Associate Beauty Editor

"Initially, I was nervous about using this product (I haven't had the best luck with lip stains in the past), but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked! I started with a single, thin layer on my lips, which showed up against my deep skin tone but wasn't as pigmented as I wanted it to be. To get the look I desired, I went in with a second layer, let it dry longer, and got the stunning burnt-red shade! To finish off my look, I topped off the liner with Anfisa Skin's Ân-Gloss Gloss in Berry Crumble ($45)." — Thomas

How Long It Lasted: 4 hours | Shade Intensity: Medium | Rating: 3.5/5

Shop Maya's Shade:

Jamie Schneider, Senior Beauty Editor

"I had sky-high hopes for this Billie Eilish–endorsed lip stain, and I'm happy to report that it does live up to the hype! The dark-purple pigment looks a bit scary upon application, but trust me, it deposits the prettiest, most natural-looking tint post-peel. I like to slightly overline my Cupid's bow for a rounder, fuller effect, which tends to smudge rather quickly with regular liner (especially after eating or drinking), but Sacheu's stain allowed me to keep that flirty shape all day—no exaggeration.

"My only callout is that it can be difficult to peel off the entire strip of pigment in one go. I was left with tiny, purple flecks on drier areas of my lips, but they came right off with a dry cotton swab (which you can also use to blend any harsh lines). Just make sure your cotton swab is completely dry, or you'll risk wiping off the stain." — Schneider

How Long It Lasted: Over 8 hours | Shade Intensity: Strong | Rating: 5/5

Shop Jamie's Shade:

Cilrofelr

Sabrina Talbert, Assistant Beauty Editor

"This liner was definitely darker than what I expected, but it did a good job at staining my lips. It was super easy to apply and peel off. Plus, the pigment lasted all day. My only con is that this doesn’t work as well with lip oil, as it causes the formula to break down faster." — Talbert

How Long It Lasted: 8 hours | Shade Intensity: Strong | Rating: 3/5

Shop Sabrina's Shade:

Kaitlyn McLintock, Beauty Editor

The application process for this one was similar to the others. The inky liquid was easy to apply in precise strokes, which makes me think it would work really well as a long-lasting lip liner. However, I have thin lips that tend to bleed color quickly, and seeing as I didn't want to end up with a ring of color around my mouth, I filled the color in all over my lips.

The shade itself was really nice, but it was a tad too opaque for my taste. I tend to prefer a subtler, more neutral-toned lip color for daily wear. I also noticed that it wasn't as hydrating as the other lip stains. In fact, it highlighted my dryness and lip lines. While it was long-lasting (it lasted me all day), I don't think I'd come back to this one as quickly as I'd come back to the others.

How Long It Lasted: 8+ hours | Shade Intensity: Strong | Rating: 2/5

Shop Kaitlyn's Shade:

The Verdict

Overall, Wonderskin's Wonder Blading Lip Stain scored higher than Sacheu's Peel Off Lip Liner. However, it's worth noting that our editors thought the Wonderskin one was lighter and less opaque than the Sacheu one, so if you want the most highly pigmented color, we suggest going with the latter. Regardless of which one you pick, we're pleased to say that these are one of the rare internet-viral products that absolutely live up to the hype.

As for the Cilrofelr one, we didn't feel it lived up to the hype. The color wasn't as uniform as the other two, and the pigment was almost too intense. Still, it might be worth a try for seasoned lip-stain wearers.

8 More Editor-Approved Lip Tints

This article was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

They say wealth whispers, but some of the chicest fragrances I've worn over the last several weeks practically screech their intensity. Like choosing a loud, leopard-print coat over a neutral trench, entering a room with a cloud of amber or vanilla in your wake makes a statement—for better or for worse. TikTok would argue the former, as powerful, attention-stealing perfumes (otherwise known as "beast mode fragrances") have taken the thriving #PerfumeTok community by storm. Call it a clapback to soft, "clean girl" scents, but beauty lovers are craving something with a little more juice. That said, ahead, I'm crowning the strongest, most captivating elixirs worth investing in.

What Is a "Beast Mode" Perfume?

"The concept of a 'beast mode' perfume was primarily born of social media," shares Vince Spinnato, cosmetic chemist, perfumer, certified nose, and CEO of Turnkey Beauty. "It’s any fragrance with intense sillage, longevity, and projection." You might have heard the term "beast mode" in reference to someone's aggressive, hardcore nature—most commonly in sports. Fragranceheads— fragrance reviewers on YouTube, followed by the larger #PerfumeTok community—have adopted this same idea for elixirs with a powerful presence.

"It’s a pop culture phrase definitely loaded with testosterone, but it’s taken on new life in the world of fragrance," adds Daniel Patrick Giles, fragrance expert and founder of Perfumehead. Whereas "beast mode" in the context of athletes has a bro-y, somewhat obnoxious (I said what I said) connotation, a "loud" perfume has more of a low-key head-turning ability. It's quiet confidence in a bottle, if you will. "People will stop you [and] ask what you’re wearing. It becomes a conversation starter. It can even lead to a date, or two, or three," adds Giles. "A true 'beast mode' fragrance commands the room without saying a word.

The term may be buzzy, but make no mistake: Powerful, long-lasting perfumes are nothing new. "'Beast mode' perfumes have been around since the 1920s," says Spinnato. Now, they have simply gained a TikTok-friendly moniker.

Why Are "Beast Mode" Perfumes Popular Right Now?

Beauty trends ebb and flow, as you're likely aware. What's old news becomes reborn—sometimes in a matter of months, thanks to TikTok. So while soft, intimate, "quiet luxury" skin scents reigned supreme for quite a while, the tides are turning towards aromas that dominate a room. The fashion space has already seen an anti-minimalist approach with chic neutrals making way for extravagant silhouettes and loud patterns; the beauty space, it seems, is quickly following suit.

Of course, I'd be remiss not to mention the geopolitical forces also at play. As U.S.-imposed economic tariffs take effect, beauty products (fragrances included) are only predicted to become more expensive, and
"beast mode" perfumes do tend to have a much better cost per wear. They're highly concentrated with an intense sillage (aka, scent trail), so you typically only need one spritz to smell incredible all day.

Now, this all being said, demure, delicate fragrances won't ever truly be "out." As Bobby Hammer, perfumer at Orchidia Fragrances, shares, "There’s a time and a place for both! You might avoid putting on a 'beast mode' fragrance for a quiet Sunday afternoon at home. Please (please, please) prevent the application of a 'beast mode' fragrance before getting on a flight. Your fellow passengers will thank you!" Think of skin scents and "beast mode" perfumes not as competitors but as peers for different purposes. Frank Voelkl, principal perfumer at DSM-Firmenich, agrees: "I believe that there are different consumer archetypes," he says. "Many of those still enjoy the fragrance as a more intimate personal experience rather than making an impression on their social environment."

What to Look for in a "Beast Mode" Perfume

First things first: Look for perfumes with a high concentration of fragrance oil. "Your fragrances labeled 'parfum' or 'extrait de parfum' would have a higher fragrance-to-alcohol volume and offer a bigger punch than an 'eau de cologne' or 'eau de parfum," says Spinnato. Absolus also fit the bill, as well as anything labeled "intense." That's not to say you can't extend the life of an eau de toilette or body mist (more on that in a moment), but generally, the higher the fragrance concentration, the better.

In terms of specific notes, Hammer says fragrances with heavy base notes—think amber, musk, oud, patchouli, vanilla, tonka, and tree moss—typically have intense sillage. Giles agrees on the oud front, dubbing it "rich, intense, and polarizing," yet adds some more unexpected players to the mix. "White florals can also be incredibly powerful," he shares. "Spices like cardamom, saffron, and schinus molle bring heat and complexity. I love resins—labdanum, myrrh, amber—that create depth and longevity."

It's also no secret that dessert-inspired perfumes have skyrocketed in popularity, many of which naturally fall into "beast mode" territory. "Sugary-sweet gourmand notes are quite potent, and vanilla, which has been trending quite a bit lately, is a strong ingredient," says Voelkl. "Imagine combining the woody, ambery [notes] with the sugary and vanilla notes, and you will obtain a very potent concoction."

How to Improve the Power of Your Perfume

While "beast mode" perfumes do offer optimal longevity, you can also enhance the staying power of an elixir you already have. Here, find some expert-approved ways to give your daily spritz some "beast mode" energy.

• Hydrate your skin: Both Spinnato and Giles agree that healthy, moisturized skin clings onto fragrance better. Applying fragrance right after body lotion (and ideally post-shower while your skin is still warm) is the ticket to 12-hour wear.
• Layer scented products: "You can always try layering your favorite fragrance with your favorite body lotion," says Spinnato. "If that lotion is fragranced as well, you could discover a combination that accentuates your perfume and creates a scent profile that is uniquely you."
• Layer your perfumes: Pairing different perfumes will not only result in a unique, compliment-collecting scent but also incredible long wear. "Start with a base like a strong musk—Cosmic Cowboy is a great foundation—and build from there," says Giles.
• Apply (and reapply) on your pulse points: "Applying perfume to pulse points (neck, wrists) where [there's] warmth helps diffuse the scent [and] can also make it more noticeable," notes Voelkl. "Reapply your fragrance several times throughout the day and favor the neck and chest when applying it."

The Best Beast Mode Perfumes to Shop

Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear's own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.

Living a stone's throw from one of the most highly revered encyclopedic art museums in the world is never something I thought I would be able to boast about, but it's influenced my approach to beauty greatly. If I'm running low on inspiration, I can take advantage of The Met's pay-what-you-wish admission and spend a few hours haunting its pristine, marbleled halls in hopes of channeling the beauty reflected in the familiar faces of painting subjects and chiselled in the curves of classical sculptures. So it's not surprising that much of what I love in those unique pieces of art is mirrored in the timeless beauty trends I've been gravitating toward lately.

I use the term "timeless trends" a little loosely here since I believe that a trend is something meant to come back around through constant reinvention and smart marketing. The words timeless and trends are so frequently used to offset each other, but how else would you define the revival of beauty practices captured in a painting's strokes? When I see Pre-Raphaelite works such as John William Waterhouse's "The Lady of Shalott" or John Everett Millais "Ophelia," I see the flushed cheeks, long wavy tendrils, and just-bitten lips of their lovelorn subjects, and it's clear to me why a number of current red carpet beauty looks echo the same romantic touches.

This spring, I'll be embracing my romantic, whimsical side with makeup and hair inspired by their legacy. I see it as an ode to the same ideals our beauty-loving ancestors enthused over (which are just as applicable to the iGeneration as they were to Pre-Raphaelite art admirers over hundreds of years ago). Picking and choosing which beauty trends to lean into can help you land on your personal approach to beauty, and Gen Z social media users are still looking to history for a hint as to which trends could be coming next.

Beauty in Movement

If you're unfamiliar with the Pre-Raphaelite art movement, here's a quick rundown. Founded in 1848, the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood (PRB), later known as the Pre-Raphaelites, was a group of English painters, poets, and art critics. They celebrated unconventional methods of composition such as nature scenes, vivid colors, and sharp-focus painting techniques, and romanticism drawn from medieval imagery.

Two of its most famous members, Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Holman Hunt, penned the brotherhood's early doctrines and "List of Immortals," which included real and fictional figures (such as heroes from the literary works of Keats and Tennyson) that would be featured as subjects in the PRB's art. An easy way to understand how "Immortals" played into these artworks is by comparing them to our modern-day, social media–driven aesthetics. "Ophelia" and "The Lady of Shalott," while fictional, are still heavily referenced as two of the most romantic directions of Pre-Raphaelite women.

While they recall an era long before that of Rossetti and Hunt, their ethereal appearance has leapt off the canvas and onto our For You pages. I started sensing tremors of throwback beauty trends when Anitta, Lisa, and Chappell Roan attended the 2024 VMAs wearing Renaissance and medieval-inspired makeup looks that took the internet by a storm. While Roan wore a soft and diffused metallic eye shadow look with a matte burgundy lip to complement her sheer Y/Project gown, green velvet robe, and sword, Anitta and Lisa opted for angelic, diffused complexions framed by floaty veils. At its heart, Pre-Raphaelite beauty is a reflection of both—combining deep earth tones with soft details.

Right now, we're experiencing the blend of multiple history-inspired beauty trends, resulting in the modernized versions of "old" beauty practices. This generation's enchantment with the beauty of yesteryear doesn't propel us backward; it gives us more ways to reinterpret throwback beauty trends. The circulation of beauty-centered "core" culture provides an easy way for users to access these trends without relying entirely on history books and art museum docents for guidance. It's more proof that the same generation that loved the Y2K beauty revival welcomes the return of trends from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

The Makeup

As we head into spring, my goal is to try my hand at Pre-Raphaelite beauty. I want to accentuate my natural features without adding too many steps to my beauty routine. When actress and painter Elizabeth Siddal accepted her role as Millais's muse by modeling for his "Ophelia" painting, she had no idea her face would become synonymous with the notorious Shakespeare tale. And yet, it's Siddal's longing eyes, flushed cheeks, and pink lips as she descends beneath the water's surface that helped define the art movement's prescription of beauty.

According to countless makeup tutorials posted under TikTok's #Pre-Raphaelite Makeup the key for achieving a Pre-Raphaelite-worthy flush is applying more product than you would by modern standards and blending from the apples of the cheeks upward to the temples. The goal? Creating a look that resembles someone who's just run through a field of flowers to a star-crossed lover. It's all about giving in to romantic sensibilities and enhancing your natural features without worrying about being overly precise.

Round faces, rejoice! This blush placement is made to enhance soft, gamine facial features. "You figure out that modern blush trends aren't flattering on round faces, so you start stealing blush placements from paintings instead," reads the text overlaid on one TikTok video by makeup artist Bronte-Marie Wesson. Viewed over 7.2 million times, the minute-long tutorial features Wesson applying Pat McGrath Labs Divine Cream Blush: Legendary Glow Color Balm ($29) over the Nars Blush ($34) with the caption, "The Pre-Raphaelite flush, the love of my life."

In another TikTok video, visual artist Chloé Crane-Leroux models unique blush placement, applying it to her cheeks, forehead, and eyelids. She then contours her face to further enhance her Roman nose and high cheekbones with Stila Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo ($32). After she finishes her makeup base with the help of a paint brush, she completes the look with a berry-toned lip, winged eyeliner, and hair swept into a tousled half-updo.

Crane-Leroux's take on the makeup look requires minimal complexion products but still delivers a look that's so timeless it could have been taken straight from an oil painting (which, by the way, is another social media hashtag commonly applied to the beauty trend). I don't have a Roman nose, but I do have a broad, wide nose that I usually contour to give the illusion of a higher bridge. However, in attempting Pre-Raphaelite makeup, I'll contour to enhance the tip of my nose.

The Hair

To re-create the long, luscious tendrils of the Pre-Raphaelite ladies with my tight coils, I'll be wearing my hair in knotless goddess braids (a protective hairstyle that involves braiding hair with loose curls for a full and textured look). While I've worn goddess braids frequently in the past, I've yet to explore decorating them with flora and fauna like the painting subjects. Since I don't have anything to go off of for coily hairstyles straight from the art, I'll be playing into the softness and volume of my natural texture.

For heatless curls, try using a bathrobe belt. In a TikTok video posted under the name Molly Belle, the content creator models the process—parting hair into four sections, beginning behind the ears and down the center back. She then places a bathrobe belt on top of her head and pins it securely into place before braiding a small portion of hair from a front section over and under the belt, repeating with hair from one of the back sections. From there, she adds in more hair until the braid is finished. She repeats the process on the second side and then uses a second belt to do the same for the remaining back sections before wrapping them in a scarf and sleeping in them.

The video then reveals the result: bouncy and full curls that look worthy of a painting. To create a similar look without a bathrobe belt, consider opting for a satin-lined heatless curling set with small-medium flexi rods, or a silk curling ribbon or curling scrunchie to minimize friction against your strands and protect against frizz.

Now that you know exactly how I plan on incorporating art-inspired beauty practices into my routine just in time for spring, keep scrolling to discover a few more of the products I'll be using and recommending to anyone who compliments me. Who knows? Maybe by this summer, I will have moved on to rococo lip colors and hairstyles bound to reach new heights.

Discover More Pre-Raphaelite Beauty Must-Haves