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    Recap of internet trends in 2024: From brat summer to being demure

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    48 seconds ago

    Okay, Gen Z, hold onto your hats (or, more likely, your wired earphones). If you’re a millennial trying to navigate the ever-shifting landscape of internet trends, you’re probably feeling a bit like a dinosaur trying to understand TikTok. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Let’s dive into the world of “very demure, very mindful” and “brat summer” trends, and try not to accidentally use a Gen Z slang term that’s already outdated.
    Brat Summer: More Than Just a Trend

    Charli XCX’s “Brat” album has been a cultural phenomenon this summer, not only topping charts but also igniting a viral trend known as “brat summer.” This trend isn’t just about a specific fashion style or a carefree attitude; it’s a reflection of a generation’s desire for authenticity, expression, and a bit of chaos.

    The “brat” look is a distinctive blend of edgy Y2K fashion and refined elegance. Think low-rise jeans, crop tops, and statement accessories, all with a touch of sophistication. But Brat Summer goes beyond just the clothes. It’s about embracing a certain mindset – a carefree, bold, and unapologetic spirit.

    In a TikTok interview, Charli XCX explained the essence of being a “brat” in simple terms: “You’re that girl who is a bit messy and loves to party and maybe says dumb things sometimes. She’s honest, blunt and a little bit volatile. That’s brat.”The lyrics of her song “Mean Girls” encapsulate this attitude perfectly, making it one of the standout tracks of the album.   

    Very Demure, Very Mindful: A New TikTok Trend

    The days of “brat Summer” are over. A new ethos has taken over TikTok, and it’s the complete opposite of Charli XCX’s party-girl persona. Now, it’s all about being “very demure, very mindful.”

    So, what does it mean to be demure? According to Lebron, it’s about being modest, considerate, and mindful of others. It’s about presenting yourself in a way that is respectful, elegant, and understated.

    Lebron stated in one TikTok. “The way I came to the interview is the way I go to the job. A lot of you girls go to the interview looking like Marge Simpson and go to the job looking like Patty and Selma. Not demure.”

    The “very demure, very mindful” trend is a refreshing change from the chaos and drama that often dominate social media. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most elegant and effective approach is to be simply demure.

    @jlo

    Very demure … very mindful
    ♬ original sound – JLO

    Other Notable Trends

    “Quiet Luxury”: This trend celebrated understated elegance and wealth, with a focus on timeless pieces and high-quality materials.
    “Old Money Aesthetic”: Similar to “quiet luxury,” this trend embraced a classic, preppy style with a focus on heritage brands and traditional tailoring.
    “Cottagecore”: This trend romanticized rural life, with a focus on cozy interiors, nature, and DIY projects.
    “Goblincore”: This trend embraced the dark and mysterious, with a focus on folklore, fantasy, and the natural world.

    The Influence of Trends on Social Media
    These trends have had a significant impact on social media platforms. They have shaped the content we see, the conversations we have, and even the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us. Some argue that trends can be harmful, promoting unrealistic beauty standards, encouraging materialism, or fostering a culture of negativity. Others believe that trends can be a positive force, bringing people together, inspiring creativity, and sparking important conversations.
    What Should We Make of It All?
    Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide how they want to engage with internet trends. While it’s important to be aware of the potential negative consequences, it’s also essential to recognize the positive aspects of these trends. They can be a source of entertainment, inspiration, and connection. The key is to use trends mindfully and critically, and to remember that they are just a temporary phenomenon.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images:  Instagram @charli_xcx More

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    Watched XO Kitty? Follow up with 7 other romantic dramas to fill the void

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    5 mins ago

    Author Jenny Han is back with another teenage drama, but this time, it’s focused on the Gen-Z. XO Kitty is a spin-off of Han’s original ‘To All The Boys I Loved Before.’
    This particular series focuses on the youngest Covey sister, who happens to finally live her own love story after meddling in the love lives of her older sisters. Katherine Song Covey a.k.a Kitty is possibly the bravest out of the three sisters. She goes after what she wants and isn’t afraid to wear her heart on her sleeves.
    Set in the beautiful city of Seoul (the land where all the romantic K-Dramas emerge from), XO Kitty follows the protagonist’s journey of finding love, forging a connection with her late mother and eventually finding herself amidst the chaos.
    What sets this drama apart? It could have easily been a cliché narrative where the boy meets the girl, some silly confusion and then a happy ending. Han approached a different storyline with this show — instead of giving the viewers a simple comfort watch, she toyed with the idea of sexual identity and how feelings can be fickle in your growing years.
    More than the romantic storylines in this show, it’s interesting to watch Kitty find friendships in a new country that become her ultimate source of strength through difficult times.
    Teenage dramas are typically known for pitting young girls against each other over a boy. While in the beginning, it does seem like this show will take a similar route — but through the course of ten episodes, it pivots. A refreshing departure from the girl vs. girl trope.
    Overall, XO Kitty is a perfect watch on a casual Friday night when you aren’t looking for any mind-utilising content. But after you finish the series, it will leave you in a warm and fuzzy place.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @annacathcart More