CORE is a new buzzword that fashion magazines, stylists and brands have started to use as a way to indicate a specific style or sub-genre within a broader trend. The word “CORE” is often put at the end of a word and gives a strong association with a particular style or theme. For example Normcore, Barbiecore or Mermaidcore help to capture the soul of the trend being described and provide a concise way to communicate a specific fashion style. In addition it allows people to easily find a specific trend on the internet and get more inspiration or ideas just by typing “normcore”.
Normcore
is a fashion trend that appeared in the early 2010s, characterised by the elimination of bright colours and pretentious pieces in favour of nondescript and basic outfits.
Key features of Normcore include:
- Minimalism: plain T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, sneakers and casual staples.
- Unisex and gender neutrals: clothes that can be worn by women and men daily
- Muted palette: grey, white, black, beige etc.
- No fashion brands: no branded clothes with obvious logos on top or a recognisable style, no exclusive or trendy items, everything has to be non-identifiable and neutral.
- Emphasis on confrontation: oversized jackets, sweatshirts, pants etc. Natural fabrics.
- Simple/low-maintenance hairstyle: a ponytail, ban or braid without hair accessories.
- Attention to sustainable clothes.
Normecore is often associated with a sense of irony and self-awareness. It is a subversion of traditional fashion norms and an exploration of the concept of normalcy in clothing choices.
Barbiecore
is a fashion trend inspired by the iconic and popular doll, Barbie. This trend is for everyone who loves pink, femininity, and glamorous aesthetics.
Key elements of the Barbiecore trend include:
- Pink and pastel colours
- Playful prints and patterns: such as polka dots, gingham, floral motifs, and iconic Barbie logo designs.
- Puffed sleeves, A-line dresses, ruffles, frills, sparkles, sequins, and glittery accents.
- Bright Accessories: oversized sunglasses, bow headbands, statement jewellery and platform heels.
Barbiecore celebrates femininity, self-expression, and a sense of nostalgia for the beloved doll. You can find more ideas and inspiration about the trend in the Barbie movie and Moschino is a trendsetter of the Barbiecore style.
Mermaidcore
is a fashion trend that became very popular and viral after The Little Mermaid movie was released. The trend was first spotted during winter fashion weeks in which designers used wet-effect hairstyles, blue makeup, and mermaid silhouettes in clothes. It embraces the whimsical, mystical, and enchanting elements associated with mermaids and translates them into fashion, beauty, and lifestyle choices.
Key elements of the Mermaidcore trend include:
- Intense oceanic colours: all shades of blues, greens, turquoises, and iridescent hues reminiscent of underwater landscapes.
- Flowing and sheer fabrics: chiffon, tulle, and organza that create a dreamy and ethereal look.
- Shimmer and shine: sequins, holographic materials, and metallic finishes.
- Texture in hairstyle and makeup: Wet look waves, braids and curls. Blue shades of eyeshadows, sleek skin and highlights on cheeks.
- Ocean and sea motifs: accessories inspired by shells, seashells, starfish, and other oceanic elements. Starfish, sea waves, fish, stars and seaweed prints.
Mermaidcore is about the beauty of the ocean in fashion. This trend is super easy to implement into your everyday look just by adding 1-2 elements to make it Mermaidcore.
Cottagecore
is an urban countryside trend that romanticises a nostalgic, rural, and simpler way of living. It’s very popular among Gen-Zs and embraces the idea of a cosy and idyllic countryside existence, often inspired by cottages, pastoral landscapes, and traditional crafts.
Key elements of the cottagecore aesthetic include:
- Nature prints and organic fabrics: floral prints, natural materials, and rustic settings.
- Vintage and handmade vibes: vintage clothing, antique furniture, and handmade crafts.
- Soft and pastel colours.
- Homespun accessories: straw hats and bags, floral headbands, wicker baskets, and vintage-inspired jewellery.
Cottagecore offers a sense of comfort, tranquillity, and a connection to nature and traditional living.
Balletcore
is inspired by ballerinas and ballet dancers. The main idea of this trend is wearing airy and soft fabrics, pastel shades and feminine silhouettes. But don’t try to look like a ballerina, you need to use only those style elements that emphasise your beauty and style rather than making you look ridiculous.
Key elements of the balletcore aesthetic include:
- Light and flowy fabrics: tulle, chiffon, organza, lace and silk create balletcore aesthetics and mimic ballet dancers’ attires.
- Ballet dancer style: A-line skirts, fitted bodices, straps, sheer tulle overlay skirts, high necklines and empire waistlines.
- Ribbons, laces and wraps: Wrap tops, skirts and dresses with or without ribbons in the outfit. Ribbons around the ankle on shoes and ballerina flat espadrilles.
- Pastel shades and neutral colours: White, cream, blush pink, pale blue, mint green and light grey colours.
To look stylish and organic in that trend try to use not more than two elements in your outfit. More Balletcore ideas can be found in the Miu Miu, Simone Rocha, Rodarte and Giambattista Valli collections.
Tenniscore
or athleisure is a fashion trend that unifies elements of athletic wear with casual, everyday clothing. Compared to sportswear, which includes relaxed jogging pants, shorts, tops, sweatshirts and comfy garments, tenniscore has versatile clothing options that can be worn both during workouts and as everyday casual wear. It blurs the line between activewear and fashion, allowing for comfort and functionality without sacrificing style.
Key elements:
- Sporty fabrics: dry-fit, moisture-wicking, and breathable materials like spandex, nylon, or cotton
- Sporty silhouette: cropped fitted tops, long-sleeve tops, pleated or straight mini skirts
- Sporty accessories: caps, visors and stretchy headbands. White sneakers and socks.
- Muted colours: white, beige, pale grey, navy, or earth tones
To get more ideas and inspiration for wearing tenniscore head to Lacoste and Fred Perry as they have been leading the way in the Tenniscore trend for many years.
