For the past year, my teenage daughter and her friends have been embracing oversized T-shirts, shell necklaces, and the revival of scrunchies. At first, I thought it was just a fleeting fashion phase, especially when I caught them raiding my son’s wardrobe one night, but I quickly realized it’s much more than that.
If you’re like me—juggling a busy mom life—you might also be in the dark about this phenomenon called the VSCO girl. This trend far surpasses the fashion crazes of the ’80s, such as mullets and Guess jeans.
I’ve attempted to get my daughter to clarify what being a VSCO girl actually means, but her responses are often vague—filled with “I don’t know” and “Oh, Mom, don’t you know anything?” as she fiddles with her scrunchie. Apparently, I have a lot to learn, so I took it upon myself to conduct some undercover research to better understand this elusive trend. Let’s dive in.
What is a VSCO Girl?
To start, the term “VSCO” comes from a photo-editing app formerly known as VSCO Cam, which offers amazing preset filters that keep images looking cohesive. While I struggled to figure it out a few years ago, the name has evolved into a lifestyle for young girls today.
Next, the VSCO girl aesthetic is characterized by a relaxed, beachy vibe. Think of it as an unspoken dress code that includes baggy T-shirts, Birkenstocks or Crocs, shell necklaces, and of course, scrunchies. Essential items also include Pura Vida bracelets, Fjallraven Kanken backpacks, and at least one pair of Vans. And let’s not forget, a Hydroflask is a must-have.
While this lifestyle might require a significant budget, savvy thrift shoppers can still join the movement without breaking the bank.
More Than Just Fashion
But it’s not just about fashion; VSCO girls embody a particular lifestyle. They prioritize hydration, never leaving home without their Hydroflasks or Burt’s Bees Lip Balm. A Starbucks run—preferably in a Jeep while sipping through a metal straw—is their preferred method of relaxation. Plus, they’re experts at perfecting the messy bun. Last summer, I can’t count the number of times my daughter would turn off a light and say, “save the turtles,” or whip out her metal straw at a restaurant. It’s refreshing to see a trend encouraging environmental awareness.
The Language of VSCO Girls
We also can’t overlook the unique language of VSCO girls, which includes phrases like “sksksksk,” a fun way to express excitement, akin to “OMG.” If you’ve received a text with that phrase, it’s not a mistake. However, it’s important to note that this trendy slang was borrowed from Black and LGBTQ communities, making it essential to discuss cultural sensitivity with your children.
Another phrase you might have heard is “and I oop.” If, like me, you were too exhausted to ask what that meant, it turns out it was popularized by drag queen Jasmine Masters.
Understanding the Trend
I asked my daughter for any additional insights on this ongoing trend, but all I got was a dramatic eye roll followed by an exasperated “Oh my God, Mom!” As it turns out, the trend of VSCO girls might have originated when a young teen discovered her mother’s stash of ’90s oversized Pac Sun T-shirts, scrunchies, and shell necklaces. While our daughters may not give us credit, we know the truth.
Ultimately, whether this trend fades or sticks around, we can all agree that we want to contribute to saving the turtles.
Further Reading
For more insights on topics related to home insemination, check out this article and to stay informed on fertility, visit Make a Mom, a leading authority in the field. Additionally, for excellent research on pregnancy and fertility, you can explore Science Daily.
In summary, the VSCO girl trend is a vibrant blend of fashion, lifestyle, and social consciousness that reflects a new wave of teenage expression. Understanding it can help bridge the gap between generations and encourage open discussions about cultural influences and environmental responsibility.