Here’s How to Nail TikTok’s Girlcore Trend on a Budget
Every few months, TikTok crowns a new aesthetic. Some disappear as quickly as they arrive. Others quietly embed themselves into everyday style. Girlcore falls into the second category.
Soft, hyper-feminine and unapologetically pretty, girlcore is built around bows, ballet flats, mini skirts and delicate details. It leans into nostalgia without looking costume-like. It feels playful but wearable. And most importantly, it does not have to cost a fortune.
If you have been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram and wondering how to make girlcore work for real life, especially university life, this guide breaks it down step by step. From key pieces to styling tricks and budget shopping tips, here is everything you need to know.
What Is Girlcore
Girlcore is a fashion aesthetic centred on hyper-feminine details, playful colours and nostalgic silhouettes. It’s packed with ribbed cardigans, pleated skirts, mini shoulder bags and soft pink tones styled in a modern way.
It draws inspiration from early 2000s fashion, balletcore, coquette style and even a touch of 90s rom-com energy. But unlike full-on costume aesthetics, girlcore works best when it feels effortless rather than theatrical.
The overall vibe is soft and romantic. Silhouettes are fitted but not restrictive. Fabrics are light and touchable. Details matter. A bow in your hair, a delicate buttoned cardigan, glossy lips and a mini bag tucked under your arm.
It celebrates femininity without irony. That is part of its appeal.
The Key Pieces That Define Girlcore
The great thing is that you don’t need a whole new wardrobe! A few well-chosen pieces can transform what you already own.
Ribbed Cardigans
A ribbed cardigan is arguably the backbone of girlcore. Look for cropped or waist-length styles with delicate buttons. Soft pastels are ideal, but cream, grey and baby blue work just as well.
Layer it over a simple vest top or wear it buttoned on its own with a skirt. It gives structure without looking stiff.
Budget tip
Charity shops are brilliant for cardigans. Vintage sections often have quality knitwear that feels far more expensive than it is.
Hair Bows and Clips
Accessories are where girlcore really shines. Satin bows, claw clips, pearl pins and ribbon ties instantly elevate even the simplest outfit.
You do not need to go overboard. One bow at the back of a low ponytail or clipped above a half-up hairstyle is enough.
Budget tip
High street stores often sell multipacks of hair clips for the price of one coffee. Online marketplaces also carry affordable satin bows in every colour imaginable.
Ballet Flats or Mary Janes
Footwear makes a huge difference. Ballet flats and Mary Janes bring softness to an outfit that trainers cannot.
Classic black works beautifully, but blush pink, cream or patent finishes feel especially girlcore. If flats are not practical for you, try a low block heel Mary Jane for more support.
Budget tip
Look out for seasonal sales in high street shops. Ballet flats tend to cycle back every spring, so you can often find discounted pairs out of season.
Mini Shoulder Bags
A mini shoulder bag is small, structured and slightly nostalgic. Think compact shapes that sit neatly under the arm.
Soft leather-look finishes, pastel shades or even simple black will tie an outfit together without overpowering it.
Budget tip
Vintage and second-hand shops are goldmines for 90s-style mini bags. You will often find real leather for less than fast fashion prices.
Pleated Skirts
A pleated skirt brings movement and shape. It does not have to be ultra short. Mid-thigh or just above the knee can feel just as feminine while remaining practical for lectures.
Pair it with tights in colder months and bare legs in spring. Add loafers or flats and a cardigan, and the look is complete.
Budget tip
Pleasted skirts from charity shops can easily double as fashion pieces. Look for neutral colours that you can style repeatedly.
How to Style Girlcore for Everyday University Life
One of the biggest misconceptions about girlcore is that it only works for curated Instagram photos. In reality, it can slot seamlessly into everyday outfits.
The key is balance.
Instead of dressing head-to-toe pink, mix one girlcore piece into a neutral base. For example:
- Ribbed cardigan over straight-leg jeans and a white tee
- Ballet flats with relaxed trousers and a hoodie
- A bow in your hair with an oversized blazer
This approach keeps the aesthetic wearable. You still feel polished and intentional, but not like you are heading to a themed party.
If you are worried about practicality, focus on fabrics and layering. Lightweight knits, breathable cotton skirts and opaque tights make the look functional as well as stylish.
Colour Palette Ideas Beyond Pink
Girlcore is often associated with soft pink, but it is not limited to one shade.
Pastels like baby blue, lavender and butter yellow fit perfectly. Whites, creams and light greys feel equally romantic. Even muted sage or dusty rose can create the same softness.
If you prefer darker tones, you can still participate. Try black Mary Janes with white socks, or a black pleated skirt with a pale cardigan. The contrast can actually make the look feel more modern.
The aesthetic is about energy rather than colour rules.
How to Build a Girlcore Wardrobe on a Budget
You do not need to buy everything at once. Start with one or two pieces and build slowly.
- Look through what you already own
You might already have a cardigan or a skirt that fits the aesthetic. - Shop second-hand first
Charity shops, Vinted and local vintage stores are ideal for cardigans, skirts and bags. - Invest in versatile items
Choose neutral shades that can mix with multiple outfits. - Keep accessories affordable
Hair bows and clips don’t need to be expensive! Save your budget for well-fitting skirts or quality shoes that will last. - Avoid trend overload
It is easy to overspend when a trend feels fresh. Choose items you would still wear even if TikTok moves on.
Hair and Beauty to Complement Girlcore
Although clothing is central, beauty plays a role too.
Hair often looks soft and touchable. Loose waves, half-up styles and ribbon ties work beautifully. Avoid overly structured or slicked-back looks if you want to lean fully into the aesthetic. Try out the Abbey Yung hair care method for soft, silky hair.
Makeup is usually light and glowy. Think flushed cheeks, glossy lips and subtle shimmer on the eyes. The aim is fresh rather than dramatic.
None of this requires high-end products. Drugstore blush and lip gloss do the job perfectly.
Making Girlcore Feel Like You
The best version of any trend is the one adapted to your personal style.
If you lean sporty, combine ballet flats with relaxed joggers. If you prefer minimal outfits, stick to cream and white pieces with delicate gold jewellery.
Girlcore does not have to mean ultra girly if that does not feel authentic. It can be subtle. A single bow. A soft cardigan. A mini bag with an otherwise simple outfit.
The point is to enjoy the femininity without feeling restricted by it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is girlcore only pink?
No. While soft pink is popular, pastels, whites and soft neutrals work equally well. The aesthetic is more about softness and feminine details than a strict colour rule.
Can you wear girlcore casually?
Yes, absolutely! Pair bows or ballet flats with jeans and a hoodie for balance. Mixing structured feminine pieces with relaxed basics keeps the look wearable for everyday life.
Is girlcore suitable for lectures and campus?
It’s the perfect look for uni! A pleated skirt with tights and a cardigan feels polished but comfortable. Flats are practical for walking between buildings.
How do you avoid looking overdressed?
Keep the rest of your outfit simple. If you are wearing a statement bow, tone down other accessories. Let one piece stand out.
Is girlcore just a phase?
Trends evolve, but feminine details like cardigans, skirts and ballet flats never fully disappear. Even if the label fades, the pieces will remain wearable.
Girlcore works because it feels joyful. It celebrates softness without apology. It nods to nostalgia while still feeling current.
You do not need a huge budget or a brand new wardrobe to take part. Start small. Add a cardigan. Tie a ribbon in your hair. Swap trainers for ballet flats one day a week.
Fashion should feel fun rather than intimidating. Girlcore proves that a little femininity, styled thoughtfully, can transform everyday outfits into something that feels special.
And the best part is that you can make it entirely your own.
