How to Master the ‘That Girl’ Aesthetic
Meet TikTok’s favorite look and learn how to rock it for yourself.
Written by Katie Teas
Who is that girl – you know, the girl who’s taken your social and Instagram feeds by storm these last few months? The ‘that girl’ aesthetic hit the Internet in late 2021, and it’s looking like she’s here to stay. This girl is all about minimalist fashion and clean makeup, smoothie bowls and chai lattes. She’s put-together and confident, a beacon of self care who never forgets to take her makeup off at night. You might not really be that girl – I know I’m not – but you sure can look like her. All connotations of lifestyle aside, the ‘that girl’ aesthetic is chic, modern, and totally attainable.
Skincare
Skincare has a chokehold on the influencer scene right now, and for good reason. A solid and consistent skincare routine will take you toward that “lit from within” glow that dominates the ‘that girl’ aesthetic.
If you’re new to the skincare world, don’t stress– start with the basics. There are three main goals when it comes to skincare: cleansing, addressing problem areas, and hydrating. Cleansing is the simple step that you probably already have on lock; a bottle of Cetaphil from your local drugstore is enough to do the trick. Your next step will vary based on your specific needs. There are a million different toners and serums on the market that attack a huge range of skin concerns. Pick up one of each based on your goals and apply to clean, dry skin. The final and possibly most important step is moisturizer. Moisturizer is something that everyone needs in their regimen to slow down aging and always look healthy and fresh. Even oily skin types benefit– just pick up an oil-free product and your complexion will thank you later.
To really feel like ‘that girl,’ try storing your products in a skincare mini fridge (or, you know, the one in your kitchen) and pick up a gua sha or jade roller. These influencer favs are super affordable and any easy way to feel extra bougie.
Makeup
This aesthetic is all about looking clean and effortless. We love a bold makeup moment, but this is the time to drop the heavy products and simplify your routine.
If you don’t need much coverage, pick out a tinted moisturizer or bb cream and apply with a light hand. For a fuller coverage foundation, make sure to go with something satin or dewy finish. The overly highlighted strobing trend (circa 2015) is not the vibe for that girl – instead, focus on using products that create a subtle glow. Pair your base with a cream blush and you’re all set!
Soap brows are another staple for the ‘that girl’ aesthetic. If you’re new to the trend, no biggie – this look is actually way easier than popular brow looks of the past. All you need is a spoolie and a literal bar of soap! Just coat your spoolie with the slightly-dampened soap bar and brush upwards through your eyebrows. This creates a laminated effect that should last all day – perfect for the girl who spends her afternoons shuttling between pilates and her favorite green smoothie cafe.
The eyes might be the simplest part of the whole look. If you’re an eyeliner girl, use a black pencil and thinly trace across your lash line. This aesthetic does not submit to liquid wings or thick lines; your liner should exist only to accentuate your lashes. Go in with a black mascara and you’re done!
Finally, a good lip oil is that girl’s best friend – this moisturizing pseudo-gloss keeps the lips shiny and hydrated without the stickiness of a gloss. It’s light enough that any color is doable, so just pick the one you like and try not to get it on your matcha latte.
Fashion
‘That girl’ fashion is a dream for those who avoid color like the plague and stay away from bold prints. It’s minimal, chic, and totally accessible to the less fashion-minded. Go for staple pieces like straight leg jeans, thin black turtlenecks, and oversized blazers; corset tops and leather jackets are having a huge moment too. Try pairing your outfit with chunky-heeled black boots or retro-style sneakers.
The goal is to create a wardrobe where pretty much everything can go together. That girl doesn’t have time to put together complicated outfits – she’s out taking over the world.
You’ve got the look – now what? Aesthetic aside, the real key to becoming that girl is to create a healthy, balanced life. Pick up a bullet journal, drink your greens, go for a walk, and rest when you need it. Wasn’t that easy?
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