Look Adorable In These 15 Cutecore Aesthetic Outfits

By Shelby Bonner Mar 01, 2024

Cutecore has been a trending aesthetic since 2020 that has quickly spread globally. It is inspired by Kawaii aesthetics from Japan, with Kawaii being the Japanese word for ‘cute.’ However, unlike the Kawaii aesthetic which is primarily Japanese-themed, cutecore does not always have to be in Japanese styles.

Defining characteristics of the cute core include pastel shades, feminine styles, and character-inspired looks from Japanese animes, cartoons, and games. Cutecore can also be found in Western media such as with the Barbie movie.

Cutecore has faced some criticism for it primarily being inclusive to petite white and Asian women only. It also has been used to create stereotypes of Japanese people instead of celebrating their culture and media.

However, the trend is still growing, and more people and a variety of people are finding inspiration from cute core aesthetics. If you are new to the trend or want to expand your cutecore aesthetic, take a look at these cutecore outfit suggestions.

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Pastel Shades

A main defining feature of the cutecore aesthetic is its pastel shades, primarily in pink, blue, and white. Pastel shades are soft, feminine, and often depicted on female characters and cartoon characters.

Some cute core followers like to create an outfit in all one shade of pastel pink or blue, while others combine colors to form a pleasing palette.

Find more pastel shade looks here.

Fuzzy and Fluffy

To go with the cute animals and characters often included in cute core aesthetics, try to add fuzzy and fluffy elements. This could be a fuzzy sweater, a fluffy purse, or even a fuzzy pom pom hair clip. You can also accessorize with a purse shaped like a teddy bear, or a headband with cat ears.

Check out these purses.

Ruffles and Ribbons

The more ruffles and ribbons you can add throughout your look the better. Nothing is more girly and cute than ruffles and ribbons. You can find ruffles on socks, skirts, and shirt collars. You can also take ribbons and attach them throughout your clothes and even your hair.

Find more places to wear ruffles here.

Braided Pigtails

Pigtails, braids, and braided pigtails are common hairstyles to go with your cutecore outfit. High pigtails and braids can be found in a lot of anime characters and cosplayers. Pigtails and braids help to make you look younger and more girlish, while also showing off your facial features.

Add these hair accessories to your pigtails.

Corset Tops

Corset tops are a more casual choice for a top with structure. They also provide a bit of edge to your cute look while blending in. Their form-fitting nature helps to create a more petite silhouette that can still fit over or under another layer.

Find more corsets here.

Mini Skirts

Mini skirts are another popular choice for your bottom half. They show off your legs and socks while also creating shape. Many mini skirts with ruffles or with a wider hem also help to slim your hips for a more youthful look.

Take a look at these mini skirts.

Baggy Pants

An alternative to a mini skirt is oversized pants that are wide and pool at your feet. The large size makes you appear smaller than you are as well as cute and cozy. Make sure you roll them up if they are too long so that you aren’t dragging them or tripping on them.

Find more baggy pants here.

Mini Dresses

Mini dresses have all the same appeal of mini skirts, while also being a complete look that can be worn over a corset top, or layered under an oversized sweater or cardigan. The short nature of the dress creates a young, feminine look that is also flirty and fun.

Check out these mini-slip dresses.

Mary Jane Shoes

Mary Janes are a common shoe type to cutecore as they are often worn by girls when they are young. They are round and feminine and their open top allows you to show off your ruffled socks or socks with bows.

Solid pastel-colored Mary Janes with no pattern or common, as well as white and black as they go with any look.

Check out these shoe brands.

Comfy Sweater

Many cute core looks include large cozy sweaters in light pink and blue, or with bright feminine patterns like hearts. Pair your sweater with baggy pants for an oversized, casual look, or pair it with a mini skirt to create contrast.

Find more sweaters here.

Lace Up Boots

Another popular shoe choice is lace-up boots, rising anywhere from your ankle up past your knee. Lace-up boots work in any weather and offer more support, while also being cute. The heavier base pairs well with mini skirts and dresses.

Save these knee-high boots.

Oversized T-Shirts

Oversized t-shirts, especially ones with cute images like teddy bears and hearts are another core item. Like with baggy pants, the oversized nature envelops you, making you appear smaller and cute while also being casual and comfortable.

Try out an organic cotton t-shirt.

High Socks

High socks are a common Japanese style that has found its way into cute core. High socks generally go to your knee or your thigh. They are worn with a mini skirt or dress to show them off. Most socks are plain white, or have a pastel-colored pattern such as hearts or diamonds.

Check out these socks.

Checkered Patterns

Many pieces in the cutecore aesthetic incorporate a checkered or plaid option. Many school uniforms in anime show characters in a uniform with a plaid skirt, pants, or accessories. For a cute, youthful touch find a mini skirt with a plaid pattern or add a checkered headband to your look.

Find more pattern pants here.

Oversized Cardigan

A common layer over a cute core outfit is an oversized cardigan in a neutral or pastel shade. The larger size creates a cozy look, that also falls past your waist and hands to make you appear smaller. It also helps create contrast with your tight skirt, socks, or any other more form-fitting layer you choose.

Discover these cardigans.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.

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