If you've done your due diligence of scrolling through TikTok for an unpreceded amount of time, then you, too, might have noticed that the aesthetic rightfully dubbed the "clean-girl look" has been trending for a long time. Allow me to preserve your screen time, as I've done enough scrolling for the both of us to have a true understanding of the true meaning of this buzzword.
The clean-girl aesthetic is a vibe we're all familiar with at this point. Think slick-back buns, no-makeup makeup, an elevated minimalist wardrobe, and heavy gold jewellery. It looks like you're not at all trying, yet somehow, you look so put-together. And the best part is that if you fill your wardrobe with the right basics, you'll barely have to lift a finger when you get dressed in the morning.
Peek into the '90s for some style inspiration from Princess Diana or Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. You can also take the modern approach of copying Hailey Bieber's street style. I'll save you some time, though. The seven looks below popped up on my Instagram feed and immediately had me clicking save. They're easy outfits to copy and are right on the needle when it comes to getting the clean-girl look. Each piece below will give you outfits for days, so happy shopping!
Back in Business
This look is the epitome of clean-girl style. The hair is slicked back, and the outfit is so sophisticated without overstyling. Apparently, all you need in life is a black midi dress, oversize sunglasses, and a trench coat by your side.
Shop:
Halter dresses are certainly having their moment this summer.
If you're not already wearing oversize sunglasses, what are you doing?
Effortlessly Elevated
Clean girls know how to find basics that are next-level. Think cutouts where you least expect them or a twist to a classic white tee. You'll look effortlessly elevated when you choose pieces like this.
Shop:
This top is so good.
The sleek satin fabric makes these a chic choice.
The Travelling Clean Girl
European travels are on everyone's bucket list for this summer, and I think this just has to be the perfect outfit to wear to feel like you're in the South of France. Everyone needs a high-quality button-down and denim shorts anyway, so shop my favourites below.
Shop:
Such an excellent option.
Fun fact: These are Who What Wear readers' favourite pair of denim shorts. Tested and approved by you all!
Coastal Granddaughter
If you have also heard of coastal grandma, then you would probably agree with me that any clean girl is basically her granddaughter. This look screams Nantucket, and I'm here for it.
Shop:
I haven't seen a better striped sweater in my life.
You're going to get so much use out of these shorts.
Running Errands
The clean girls who live on my Instagram feed are always on the run in low-res zoomed-in video shots, and this is the perfect look to wear for one. Slightly distressed denim and an open, oversize button-down should always be ready to go in your closet.
Shop:
Just look at that seaming.
Finish it off with cream sandals.
Summer Uniform
I'm telling you this in all honesty: I'm wearing this outfit as we speak. It's my go-to when I don't have much time but want to look cute. When you have wide-leg pants and a white ribbed vest in your corner, you can't go wrong.
Shop:
We often turn to COS for great staples.
Wide-leg trousers are going linen.
Staying In
I used to forbid myself from wearing sweatpants, but now, joggers are my jam. Clean girls love any take on the athleisure aesthetic, so you'll have to give this look a try the next time you plan on sitting at home with a good book.
Shop:
Who What Wear editors unanimously agree that this is one of the best white button-down shirts, especially when you consider its price.
The coolest joggers you’ll come across.
Shop more items on the clean-girl shopping list:
A clean girl's wardrobe is drowning in Reformation tops.
In true clean-girl fashion, I'd style this blazer with a workout set.
My favourite wide-leg trousers are still in stock.
How many black vest tops do I need? Many, apparently.
Chunky gold jewellery is a must for a true clean girl.
Simple but so effective.
I've heard so many good reviews of this tee.
I'm all over this tote.
Because Converse trainers are still trending on TikTok.
These jeans own me.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Up Next, Experts Agree: These Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends Really Count
-
European Women Rely on This Elegant Coat Trend to Look Polished in Winter—18 of the Best for Every BudgetA modern classic.
-
6 Winter Outfits That Are Guaranteed to Make You Look RichFrom a designer-loving editor.
-
I Never Thought I'd Wear These "Ugly" Shoes, But I Was Wrong—8 Ways to Style ThemThey're selling out like crazy.
-
10 Cute and Easy Outfits to Wear With SandalsSave for a sunny day.
-
I've Got Rich-Girl Taste On A High-Street Budget—This Is Where I Shop For Affordable LuxuryUnderstated Elegance.
-
Behold, 23 Basket Bags That Are Anti-Trend, Polished and Perfect for SummerFrom designer styles to high-street hits.
-
I'm a Modest Dresser, and I'll Certainly Be Copying These 10 Summer OutfitsI'm taking notes.
-
My Friend Asked Me What to Wear to the Opera—I Suggested These 5 Elegant PiecesUntangling a complicated dress code.
