Drawing from anime and video-gaming cultures, e-girls typically experiment with dyed hair, exaggerated makeup (think vibrant, heavy eyeshadow), and playful accessories infused with a kidcore sensibility [1] like busy prints and a mixture of textures. Members of the subculture spend a lot of time on social media, particularly TikTok and Tumblr. Just one search of the hashtag will reveal countless self-proclaimed e-girls drawing tiny hearts on their faces. As a Vox article explained [2], "They're not amassing followers by going on holidays to St. Barts or Santorini every other week. More likely, they're in their bedrooms, alone. Which is why you'll almost never see an e-girl in real life." To be an e-girl is to exist on a screen, the article continued, explaining that many e-girls are also frequent thrifters. Other popular destinations for e-girl looks include Urban Outfitters [3] and Dolls Kill [4]. The aesthetic embraces an edgy appearance and a strong sense of individuality. E-girl fashion essentials include crop tops, striped long-sleeved T-shirts, pleated skirts, chocker necklaces, and baggy trousers. One TikTok user, Alejandra Olivera [5], showcased her e-girl aesthetic in a recent video [6], where she wore a black bra top, a high-waisted pleated miniskirt in pink and black plaid, and black stockings with sporty white stripes. Read on for a guide to the popular fashion trend.
What Is the Meaning of an E-Girl?
Short for "electronic girl," an e-girl is part of a fashion and lifestyle subculture that is defined by spending time online. Often compared to the emo or punk aesthetics, it typically involves winged eyeliner, heavy eye makeup, and a playful (or even juvenile) sense of style.
How Can I Achieve an E-Girl Aesthetic?
Your favourite anime characters or video avatars will provide plenty of style inspiration, but you don't have to be a gamer to experiment with this aesthetic. Mesh tops, choker necklaces, hair clips, and layers of silver jewellery are among the pieces and accessories you'll need to get started. From a cool graphic T-shirt to a punk-inspired pleated skirt, keep scrolling for a list of e-girl-approved fashion items to add to your wardrobe right now.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Urban Outfitters Nirvana Unplugged T-Shirt Dress
Achieving the e-girl look often revolves around the right graphic T-shirt. This Urban Outfitters Nirvana Unplugged T-Shirt Dress [8] ($39) is a good starting point. Wear it as a T-shirt or dress, whichever you prefer. Pair it with ripped jeans and throw in a few chain necklaces for the full e-girl treatment.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Free People Private Skool Pleated Skirt
Nothing screams "e-girl" like a dark pleated skirt paired with a crop top and choker necklace. If you want to try the trend, this Free People Private Skool Pleated Skirt [9] ($30) offers endless styling possibilities. Finish with classic Dr. Martens boots or chunky platform sandals.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Abercrombie Curve Love 90s Ultra High Rise Straight Jeans
Tap into your inner e-girl in these TikTok-approved Abercrombie Curve Love 90s Ultra High Rise Straight Jeans [10] ($72, originally $90). They have been trending on TikTok [11] since last year, and it's not hard to see the appeal. Their baggy fit and light blue wash convey a comfortable and cool vintage feel.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: UNIF Witz Skirt
UNIF [12] is a family owned and operated clothing site based out of LA that stocks plenty of e-girl pieces, some of which you might expect to find on the likes of Olivia Rodrigo [13]. Aside from popular items like platform brogues and babydoll dresses, you'll find classic "Clueless" staples like this Witz Skirt [14] ($78).
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Vitaly Trespass Necklace
Unexpected, statement-making chokers are hallmarks of the e-girl aesthetic. This Vitaly Trespass Necklace [15] ($110) makes for a theme-appropriate finish. Style it over a bra top and pleated skirt for a bold look that will garner compliments at every turn.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Pull&Bear Pack of Butterfly Hair Clips
Pull&Bear [16], aka Zara's little-sister brand, is reminiscent of Urban Outfitters and its more youth-driven merchandising. Here, you'll spot everything from tie-dye graphic tees to baggy denim, which would all be featured in an e-girl's mood board. Accessories like this 12 Pack of Butterfly Hair Clips [17] ($11) will complete your e-girl outfit.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Urban Outfitters Modern Love Bustier Mini Dress
Add your own sensual spin to the e-girl aesthetic with this Urban Outfitters Modern Love Bustier Mini Dress [18] ($69). It's available in an assortment of hues, but you can never go wrong with black. We bet every e-girl would approve.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Dr. Martens Black Platform Church Boots
You'll likely find a pair of shoes like these Dr. Martens Black Platform Church Boots [19] ($190) in an e-girl's closet. Opt for the signature yellow topstitching for that unmistakable visual contrast.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Prada Monolith Leather Logo Platform Loafers
Turn to these chunky Prada Monolith Leather Logo Platform Loafers [20] ($1,150) for a high-fashion shoe of the moment that grounds your e-girl look, whether you're sporting a plaid mini or '90s-inspired denim. These are becoming an instant classic, so they're worth the investment.
E-Girl Outfit Ideas: Urban Outfitters Liana Low-Rise Kick Flare Pant
These Urban Outfitters Liana Low-Rise Kick Flare Pants [21] ($65) are the ultimate e-girl bottoms. The exposed zipper is a fun detail, and the material and slightly flared hem make them comfortable for all-day wear. Style with a black crop top and lace-up boots.