by Not every viral fashion trend belongs IRL, but these ones have made it from our For You Page into our wardrobes – and they’re surprisingly wearable. From nostalgic throwbacks to subtle statement pieces, these TikTok-approved styles are low-effort, high-impact, and totally campus-appropriate. Here are five TikTok trends we’re actually wearing – and how to style them without looking like you’re in a costume party.
Bow Accessories
If 2024 was the year of the coquette aesthetic, 2025 is all about making it wearable. Think fewer oversized headpieces and more sweet, subtle details: a satin bow on your ponytail, dainty ribbon earrings, or tiny bows on socks peeking out of loafers. Hair bows clipped onto bag straps or hoodie drawstrings are also a thing now, adding a playful, soft-girl touch without going full balletcore. The trick? Balance bows with relaxed pieces – baggy jeans, cargo trousers, or oversized jumpers – so it feels modern, not overly precious.
Big Bag Energy
Micro bags are cute until you need to carry literally anything. Thankfully, TikTok has spoken: oversized bags are back, and this time they’re slouchy, stylish, and functional. Think buttery tote bags, oversized hobos, and padded nylon styles that feel Y2K without the chaos. They’re perfect for dragging your laptop to lectures, carrying snacks, and still having room for your water bottle and lip gloss collection. Look for vintage-inspired brands or high-street versions with fun textures (corduroy! faux leather! shearling!) to tap into the trend.
Although you don’t quite have to go the whole hog…
Ballet Flats
They’re back – and they’ve had a glow-up. Once resigned to school uniforms and awkward teen years, ballet flats are now everywhere, styled with Gen Z nonchalance. Whether you go for classic black leather, Mary Jane straps, or mesh detailing, the key is contrast. Wear them with parachute pants, baggy denim or tailored cargos to avoid looking too preppy. Bonus points for pairing with white ankle socks or legwarmers for peak off-duty dancer vibes.
Pop of Red
It started with red tights on runways, but TikTok took the idea and ran with it – and now adding a “pop of red” is the easiest way to upgrade your outfit. It works with any style: wear a red hair clip with an all-black fit, red trainers with your neutral uni layers, or a cherry red hoodie thrown over basics. Lipstick counts too. It’s giving main character energy without screaming for attention.
Pro tip: if you’re scared of colour, start small – red nails, red phone charm, or even red on your shoelaces. Once you start, you’ll be surprised how versatile it actually is.
Combine this with the ballet flats micro trend too, and you’ve got a winning outfit!
Graphic Baby Tees
2000s nostalgia is going strong, and baby tees are the star of the show. Fitted, cropped, and covered in cute or chaotic graphics, they’re ideal for layering under dungarees, pairing with low-rise cargos, or just wearing with your fave trackies on lazy days. Look for funny slogans, Y2K-style fonts, or niche pop culture references – the weirder the better.
Thrift them, steal them from your older sibling’s stash, or check out indie brands on Depop and Etsy for something unique. We love a tee that makes people do a double-take.
