The Ultimate Style Guide to Achieving the 2014 Aesthetic

Ahhh, *deep sigh*… 2014. A time when fashion was bold, fun, and unapologetically extra. Looking back, I can’t help but feel a little jealous—WHO WERE THESE DIVAS? From the obsession with Victoria’s Secret PINK and Starbucks to clubbing in business casual, 2014 was a fashion fever dream in the best way possible.

To truly understand the 2014 woman, I had to get into her mindset—so naturally, I found myself in a Starbucks, messy hair, glasses on, mysteriously typing away on my laptop (because duh). The adoration I have for this era? Unmatched. And let me tell you—this was the most fun blog post I’ve ever researched.

Aesthetics That Dominated 2014

2014 Fashion wasn’t just fashion—it was an era. Here are the top aesthetics that ruled the scene (Feel Free to really research these aesthetics. ITS FUN):
-Swag Era – Snapbacks, gold chains, oversized everything, any HUGE glasses
-Grunge/Tumblr Girl – Flannels, ripped tights, Doc Martens
-Hipster Girl – Oversized glasses, indie band tees, those philosophical not-so philosophical life quotes
-Indie Sleaze – ripped tights and the SHORTEST shorts with the baggy shirts, messy hair, platform boots
-Preppy – Ralph Lauren, pleated skirts, pearl necklaces
-Insta Baddies – Bodycon everything, Kylie Jenner brows, statement bags
-The Working Girls – Blazers with mini skirts, heels at the club, structured handbags

Since there were infinite trends in this era, I’ve gathered the essentials to fit every 2014 aesthetic. But before we begin, let me answer the question you’re probably thinking:

"How do I make this fit into modern fashion?"
YOU DON’T. That’s the wrong mindset. The 2014 girl didn’t care. She wore what she loved. So repeat after me: CAREFREE. CAREFREE. CAREFREE. Now, buckle up—we’re going for a ride.

The 2014 Fashion Essentials

1. Clothing Staples

-Victoria’s Secret PINK Everything – Hoodies, yoga pants, and graphic tees with huge logos
-Off-the-Shoulder Tops – Loose, flowy, and effortlessly cute
-Statement Tees – Graphic shirts with sassy or inspirational quotes
-Flannels – Worn over tank tops or tied around the waist for that Tumblr grunge vibe
-Ripped & Skinny Jeans – The tighter, the better! Ripped knees were a must
- Leggings Everywhere – Worn with oversized sweaters or PINK hoodies

2. Skirts/Dress You Had to Own

If you didn’t have at least one of these in 2014… are you okay? These were non-negotiable staples:
- Skater Skirts – (Could you even skate in these? No. But we wore them anyway.)
- Pleated Tennis Skirts – Preppy, flirty, and perfect for that Tumblr aesthetic
- Bodycon Skirts/Dress – Essential for Insta baddies and clubbing queens

3. Footwear Must-Haves

- Doc Martens – A staple for grunge, Tumblr girls, and edgy looks
- Ugg Boots – The ultimate cozy, casual essential (bonus points for pairing them with leggings)
-Chunky Boots – Combat boots, platform boots, and those suede wedge booties everyone had

4. Patterns & Prints

- Animal Print – It was everywhere—tops, skirts, and especially bags
- Geometric Prints – The bolder, the better
- Polka Dots & Stripes – Seen on everything from blouses to skater skirts

5. Accessories & Jewelry

-Maximalist Jewelry – Big statement necklaces, stacked bracelets, oversized rings
- Cool Shades – Reflective aviators, the iconic hipster glasses, oversized sunglasses
- Beanies, and sleazy hats – The slouchier, the better (perfect for Tumblr grunge & indie sleaze)
- Huge Statement Bags – Michael Kors totes, studded backpacks, big shoulder bags
- TONS AND TONS OF SCARVES – Bright, patterned, and layered over everything

Final Thoughts

This was such a fun era to analyze—the girls hanging out at Starbucks, layering their outfits to perfection, and posting Instagram selfies with the iconic 2014 filter (you know the one… that semi-toned-down beige and blue). If you search “2014 aesthetic” on Pinterest, you’ll see exactly what I mean.

And honestly? I’m fully here for this vibe. You will catch me adding these staples to my wardrobe. Because 2014 fashion wasn’t just style—it was a state of mind. 💅🏽✨

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