The Vanilla Girl aesthetic is all over TikTok right now, but what does this neutral-hue-inspired, sweet-loving trend really entail? Here's everything we've sussed out about the vanilla-themed lifestyle, from the outfits and home decor to the must-have beauty products self-proclaimed vanilla gals seem to love.
If you’ve been scrolling TikTok lately, you’ll no doubt have come across a plethora of minimal videos dedicated to Vanilla Girl Aesthetic. Much like the Balletcore and Clean Girl Aesthetics, this new trend encompasses everything from natural-looking makeup and products (right down to the minimal packaging) to vanilla-scented perfumes—which appear to be at the very heart of the vibe. But it doesn't stop there, the trend also branches out into chic, cream home decor and simple, cozy outfits to add to your capsule wardrobe.
Right now, the app seems to be filled with compilations from the quote-on-quote ‘vanilla girls’ of the world, sharing their beauty products, home decor and outfits recommendation—and so far, a few brands, especially in the makeup and perfume department, keep cropping up again and again…
So, if you’re looking to fulfill your vanilla-themed dreams or just want to understand the aesthetic sweeping your For You page—here’s your full guide to the Vanilla Girl Aesthetic...Is anyone else suddenly craving vanilla frosting?
@houseof.inspo ♬ original sound - Fonz
What is the Vanilla Girl Aesthetic?
From what we can tell, someone who fits the vanilla vibe loves neutrals, whether that’s cream knitwear or home furnishings—they also opt for sweet smells, especially where their haircare and body-care are concerned.
A vanilla enthusiast strives to smell like vanilla whenever they can, surrounding themselves and their homes with vanilla-scented candles (obviously) and other things that invoke soft and fluffy vibes.
In terms of makeup, the many many videos online would suggest it’s soft and minimal. Hair-wise, some might opt for vanilla almond-butter blonde tones or golden blonde highlights, but of course, this is definitely not a must—it’s all about the smells, products and a neutral-themed sense of style.
Where to shop Vanilla Girl Aesthetic staples
As mentioned, this trend seems to encompass everything from home furnishings to fragrances—but some brands seem to crop up time and time again. So, here are a few places to snap up some Vanilla Girl essentials
- Makeup: Shop Vanilla Girl-approved brands like Summer Fridays and Charlotte Tilbury at Sephora
- Fragrance: Snap up all the vanilla-scented perfumes of your dreams at Selfridges
- Skincare: Treat yourself to skincare from Caudalie, Drunk Elephant and Supergoop at Ulta
- Hair: Shop Quai and Olaplex at Amazon for some great savings and luscious, shiny locks
- Body: Get ready to slather yourself in vanillary goodness with these Sol De Janeiro body butters at Sephora
- Clothes: Find some cream knits and soft loungewear at Zara
- Home Decor: Find cute home pieces and lamps, ideal for a Vanilla-theme bedroom at IKEA
What are the beauty staples of the Vanilla Girl Aesthetic?
While the saying goes "don't judge a book by its cover," if a product has a cream/neutral and chic, minimal packaging, a vanilla gal is going to be all over it.
So far we've spotted a few of TikTok's viral products in the Vanilla Girl roster, including the Rare Beauty highlighter and the Dior lip oil.
Vanilla Girl Aesthetic makeup
@olvijaoli vanilla girl makeup🍦✨ #makeup #beauty #grwm #makeuptutorial #vanilla #vanillagirl #vanillagirlmakeup
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The makeup is very understated and includes things like gold shimmers or soft caramel eyeshadow shades (all of which can be found in some of the best eyeshadow palettes), brown eyeliner and vanilla-scented lip balms, with lip oils to really finish off the look.
Dewy skin—like most trends today—is also a must, so go for products like the e.l.f halo glow from that Hailey Bieber-esque 'glazed' foundation look. The vanilla makeup look also leans more toward bronzer than blush, to give that skin a 'golden hour' type of vibe.
Vanilla Girl Aesthetic haircare must-haves
When it comes to Vanilla Girl haircare, damaged hair is a big no-no! The TikTok videos often feature hair oils, hair masks and aesthetic-looking shampoos and conditioners—with some of the best Olaplex products often making an appearance.
How to smell like a 'Vanilla Girl'
Say farewell to your favorite floral perfumers, because this trend revolves around vanilla-y notes—like Dua Lipa's favorite perfume, YSL Libre.
A good trick also, to keep that dreamy vanilla buttercream bubble around you is to layer your scents. For example, use a vanilla-scented body lotion before then applying your perfume.
You could even add a sweet-smelling hair oil, like the cult favorite Gisou oil, to your tresses for an all-over delicious aura of vanilla.
How to dress like a 'vanilla girl'
The style of a 'vanilla girl' ranges from white silky skirts to cream knitwear. It's minimal but trendy and basically includes all the staples you need for your capsule wardrobe, just in a very muted color palette.
Material is also key and you want to opt for soft, comfy loungewear, and fluffy jumpers!
So, there you have it, everything you need to become a fully-fledged vanilla girl, but if this lifestyle is a little too sweet for you—the cinnamon girl trend, which is also spicing up TikTok (see what we did there?) might be more your vibe...
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