The Rise of “Core” Aesthetics: From Barbiecore to Tomato Girl Summer

Miranda Davies

By Miranda Davies | Updated June 3, 2025

PHOTO BY IVAN SAMKOV ON PEXELS

Aesthetic trends like Barbiecore and Tomato Girl Summer are taking over social media, shaping how people express style and mood. Core aesthetics define a clear visual identity that connects fashion, vibe, and culture in a simple, relatable way.

These trends aren’t just about clothes—they capture moods and attitudes that spread quickly online. They make it easy for people to find and share what fits their personality and season.

From Style To Signal: How “Core” Became Culture

People started using “core” aesthetics not just as fashion but as identity signals. These styles quickly moved beyond clothes to represent values and communities.

Social media made this shift possible. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram turned niche looks into shared experiences. Fans express themselves by adopting a “core” that fits their personality or mood.

Examples of “Core” signals:

  • Barbiecore = bold, playful, nostalgic
  • Tomato Girl Summer = natural, fresh, laid-back, as seen in the post below:

These vibes become tags people use to connect with others. It’s less about fitting trends and more about showing belonging.

Viral, Visual, And Very Niche

These core aesthetics thrive on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Their power lies in being highly visual and easy to replicate.

People quickly share looks, makeup ideas, and vibes tied to specific aesthetics. This makes them viral and appealing to tight-knit communities.

Each core targets a very specific taste. They often inspire themed playlists, outfits, and photo styles. These niches are like creative playgrounds for self-expression online.

Here’s an example of a Barbiecore aesthetic:

The Marketing Power Of A Trend In One Word

A single word can capture an entire vibe. It makes trends easy to share and remember. Think Barbiecore or Tomato Girl Summer. These terms pack a mood and style into one catchy phrase.

Brands use these words to create instant connections. It helps them market products quickly and clearly.

Here’s why one-word trends work:

  • Memorable: Easy to recall
  • Shareable: Perfect for social media
  • Unified: Brings communities together

Learn more about Barbiecore in this video:

Miranda Davies

Miranda Davies

Hi, my name is Miranda Davies, and I’ve loved film and television all of my life. Some of my earliest memories involve me and family or friends catching the latest movies, or reclining on the couch to catch some awesome television, and I want to share that passion with fellow fans like you!The best way to celebrate film and television is to chat about it with people as equally passionate as you, so this website will be dedicated to being a hub for those that want to chat about their obsessions in a safe and welcoming environment that is fun to visit!