If there’s one question that consistently pops up on my social media platforms, it’s about achieving the coveted clean girl aesthetic.
So, I decided to take you through my personal tips on attaining that fresh, polished look.
How to Get the Clean Girl Aesthetic
Makeup Magic for a Healthy Glow
For me, achieving the clean girl aesthetic begins with makeup, specifically focusing on that coveted healthy glow.
A key aspect is maintaining a robust skin prep routine.
The essence is in cultivating dewy, radiant skin that looks natural. While some may perceive this glow as oily, I see it as a sign of vitality and health.
You can easily do this with a good primer or a very rich cream that you apply before makeup. And the secret here is a creamy, very rich formula, which can also be a little thicker in consistency. You want to apply as little makeup as possible afterward so that your face looks smooth and clean without it.
I like to use the e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer* or the La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume b5* cream (I use this mainly on dry areas, rub it in well, and the makeup doesn’t crease at all, which makes my skin look like I’m not wearing any makeup).
Personally, I limit setting my makeup to under my eyes and the middle of my face, allowing the rest to exude a natural, dewy finish.
Overlining lips or having bold lashes might work for some, but I believe in sticking close to my natural attributes and avoiding anything that feels too heavy or artificial.
Finding the right combination of makeup products is super important and it took me some trial and error to discover the perfect products that seamlessly work together, providing long-lasting results. Patience is key in this journey, as finding the products that suit you might require experimentation.
Hair: Down, Slicked, and Always Clean
Clean, well-groomed hair is a cornerstone of the clean girl aesthetic.
Even if you’re not washing your hair daily (I only do it once a week), it should always appear freshly washed.
Slicked-back hairstyles, in my opinion, suit almost everyone and all hair types. I’ve become a convert to this style, despite initial reservations, and now it’s my go-to. Whether you slick it all back or leave a couple of strands at the front, the key is keeping it neat.
Personally, I occasionally indulge in a hair mask when slicking my hair back. It adds a touch of self-care and contributes to maintaining that clean and polished appearance.
Slicked-back hairstyles convey a chic, sophisticated look that aligns seamlessly with the clean girl aesthetic.
Signature Scents: The Unseen Accessory
Strangely enough, smelling nice has become a subtle yet significant aspect of the clean girl aesthetic.
Having a few signature scents adds a layer of sophistication. I’ve experimented with various perfumes, and currently, I love the Fashionably London and Ebony Wood scents from Zara. A consistent fragrance associates you with a fresh, clean vibe, earning unexpected yet delightful compliments.
Ariana Grande’s Pink Cloud perfume* is another recent addition to my collection, offering a fresh and floral scent perfect for various occasions. The key is to find scents that resonate with you and create a memorable olfactory impression.
The Power of Wardrobe Basics
When it comes to fashion, adhering to a neutral color palette is often suggested.
However, I beg to differ.
While neutrals dominate my wardrobe, I believe any color can work if the outfit is well-coordinated. The key is looking put together, whether you opt for a matching ensemble or throw together seemingly disparate pieces that surprisingly complement each other.
Basics play a pivotal role in achieving this aesthetic. I swear by neutral-toned sets, which provide versatility and easy mixing and matching. Monochrome outfits, focusing on a single color or tone, contribute to that effortlessly polished look that defines the clean girl aesthetic.
Jewelry: The Finishing Touch
Jewelry may be a small detail, but it makes a significant difference in completing the clean girl aesthetic.
I strike a balance, opting for enough jewelry to enhance the look without becoming too busy. Stacking rings, like the Cartier dupe from Amazon* and the PDP Ella piece, add a touch of elegance.
For bracelets, I combine a Van Cleef dupe with an Amazon Cartier dupe, creating a balanced yet chic adornment. Gold and silver jewelry, when paired thoughtfully, complement each other seamlessly. Gold hoops, both statement and dainty, along with a delicate necklace, serve as the perfect finishing touches.