Meet Fairycore, the TikTok aesthetic that’s sweeping the red carpet

TikTok has a somewhat wonderful way of leading its users down (not always entirely welcome) content rabbitholes. So I was pleasantly surprised when I found myself on #fairytok and discovered the whimsical world of 'fairycore'.

My “For You” page became an endless scroll of enchanting riverside scenes and cosplays of laced corsets, glittery wings and elvin ears. And such is the power. of TikTok these days that the trend was in full swing on the Met Gala red carpet. From Olivia Rodrigo’s butterfly-embellished waves to Bella Hadid’s evil queen aesthetic, there was a fanciful air to the beauty looks this year that cannot be denied.

So now that fairycore has gone mainstream, you’re probably wondering where it came from and how to add a hint of the trend to your daily aesthetic. Scroll on to find out more about fairycore and pick up some inspiration to bring your inner enchantress to life.

What is Fairycore?

Think of fairycore as cottagecore’s magical cousin. At its core, the trend is all about the magic of nature and incorporates pastel hues, glistening water, butterflies, bows, and, of course, fairy wings.

When it comes to beauty, fairycore is defined by the likes of faux freckles, tousled manes embellished with sparkling clips, romantic rosy cheeks and ears poking out behind tucked strands.

At the other end of the spectrum lies an edgier take known as 'fairy grunge' — an aesthetic that fuses the best of fairycore with grungy Y2K elements. Fairy grunge is defined by baby braids, bold eyeshadow, colourful but sharp winged liner, ripped stockings and endless amounts of lace. 

There’s no real rules when it comes to fairycore, and enthusiasts take notes from the likes of anything Disney, Lord Of The Rings and even Twilight.

The hashtag has more than one billion views (and counting) on TikTok, so it’s safe to say fairycore isn’t going away anytime soon. 

Ready to embrace the trend? We’ve rounded up our favourite fairycore muses to help you bring a hint of magic to your everyday aesthetic.

Main image credit: @f._mg

Want more TikTok-inspired beauty? Check out this graphic eyeliner hack.