This year, immersing myself in Heuritech’s fashion analysis has revealed just how dynamic and inventive the world of trends can be. Among the most fascinating are “core” trends—buzzing online and driven largely by Gen Z’s fast-paced, tech-enabled creativity. As the generation that distills complex ideas into catchy concepts, Gen Z has embraced the “-core” suffix to define aesthetics that resonate deeply with their identity and values.
What are “core” trends?
These thematic styles are rooted in cultural, historical, or aesthetic inspirations, capturing the spirit of the times while shaping future wardrobes. Each season, Heuritech’s fashion experts decode these aesthetics, offering clients actionable insights into emerging trends.
In this article, I revisit the past year’s analysis done by our fashion team, diving into the evolution, key elements, and cultural impact of some of the most captivating “core” trends—from the raw energy of Grunge Core to the ethereal beauty of Mermaid Core. Let’s explore how these trends continue to shape both runways and daily life!
Grunge Core: The Artistry of Defiance
With hashtags like #grungecore amassing over 73 million views and #grungeaesthetic exceeding one billion on TikTok in the USA, this iconic style is making a powerful comeback.
Our data highlighted Charcoal Gray as a defining hue of the trend, witnessing a notable surge in popularity, particularly within edgy market segments. Grunge Core combines 90s nostalgia with rebellious punk elements, embodying nonconformity and individuality.
This aesthetic integrates oversized tops, tartan prints, and distressed fabrics like denim. Iconic influences, such as Vivienne Westwood’s punk culture, add feminine touches to a style that celebrates alternative music subcultures. From modern e-girl aesthetics to cybercore, Grunge Core’s adaptability underscores its lasting impact on fashion.
Office Core: Empowered Elegance
Office wear is back with a bold twist. #corpcore, #bosslady, and #officefits are redefining traditional workwear aesthetics on platforms like TikTok, where #officecore has gained over 700k views in the USA.
This trend thrives on contrasts: tailored wide-leg pants paired with playful constructions, asymmetric shirting, and oversized blazers. Designers are infusing office essentials with charisma—double belts, cut-outs, and voluminous silhouettes redefine professionalism with a modern edge.
For women, pencil skirts, off-shoulder blouses, and cropped blazers convey both empowerment and allure. Office Core demonstrates that power is not just about clothing but a mindset.
Image: from our Instagram account
Designers continue to challenge traditional “power symbols” of office wear, bringing a grungy and rebellious twist to the table that resonates strongly with Gen Z sensibilities. This was particularly evident during the SS25 Fashion Week, where tailored blazers met oversized hoodies, and tailored trousers were juxtaposed with crop tops.
Ballet Core: Embracing Off-Duty Elegance
#balletcore epitomizes a delicate yet urban coolness, gaining traction with 32K posts on TikTok in September 2023. This aesthetic blends “Petit Rat de l’Opéra” elements—knitted leggings, tulle tops, and leg warmers—with contrasting urban pieces like baggy denim and oversized blazers.
This resurgence also extends to ballerina flats, which are trending upwards in the USA and Europe. Ballet Core’s juxtaposition of rough and feminine makes it a standout trend that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
Bloke Core: Athletic Meets Urban
Inspired by football culture and amplified by the Women’s World Cup, Bloke Core represents the fusion of sports gear with urban fashion. #blokecore and #soccerjersey have consistently risen on TikTok since April 2023.
This trend thrives on vintage athletic pieces like soccer jerseys, track jackets, and sneakers, styled with lace tops, mini skirts, or loafers. Bloke Core’s versatility and gender-neutral appeal make it a favorite among both fashion enthusiasts and die-hard sports fans.
Image: from Heuritech Market Insights Platform
Barbie Core: Empowerment in Pink
The release of Barbie the Movie ignited a global wave of neon pink and hot pink aesthetics, with Barbie-related hashtags dominating TikTok. #barbie garnered 3 billion views, while #barbiemovie and #barbiegirl reached 1 billion and 621 million views, respectively.
Barbie Core transcends playful imagery, promoting empowerment through self-expression. Beyond its whimsical appearance, it addresses deeper themes of feminism and individuality, resonating particularly with Gen Z.
Mermaid Core: From Deep-Sea to City Streets
The influence of The Little Mermaid movie has propelled Mermaid Core into mainstream fashion. Key trends include fishtail dresses, metallic tones, and satin fabrics, which have shown consistent growth since early 2023.
This aesthetic, initially glamorous, has evolved into everyday wear, combining romantic undersea references with urban practicality. Details like asymmetries, flowing flounces, and silky textures modernize the trend while maintaining its ethereal allure.
The enchanting allure of Mermaid Core extended beyond everyday fashion and made a splash on the SS25 Fashion Week runways. Designers translated this aquatic-inspired aesthetic into fluid silhouettes and intricate details, evoking the motion of waves and the beauty of the deep sea in refined, avant-garde creations.
While this article highlights primarily female-oriented themes, the “core” trend movement extends well beyond gender boundaries. Male-focused aesthetics have also seen significant growth, showcasing unique interpretations and adaptations that reflect the evolving dynamics of men’s fashion. Let’s explore two standout male trends: Gothgorp and Ravecore.
Gothgorp: Functional Minimalism Meets Dark Aesthetics
Marking a further evolution in the already solid Gorpcore trend, Gothgorp introduces a minimalistic goth aesthetic into outdoor fashion. This fusion emphasizes dark, functional styles that appeal to a generation increasingly drawn to both practicality and visual impact.
Our data highlights the enduring appeal of performative and innovative materials like Gore-Tex and Dyneema, often used for shell jackets, parachute pants, and insulated coats. These materials not only offer weather-resistant functionality but also align with growing sustainability values among Millennials and Gen Z.
The aesthetic twist comes from hybrid elements: raw-edged denim, fuzzy polar fleeces, and wide-leg pants with multi-pocket designs. These textural contrasts inject a rugged, grunge-inspired edge into a style traditionally associated with utilitarian simplicity. Gothgorp’s mix of durability, modernity, and subtle rebellion resonates deeply with those seeking fashion that bridges form and function.
Image: from Heuritech Market Insights Platform
Ravecore: Vibrancy and Nostalgia in Equal Measure
Ravecore captures the exuberant spirit of the 90s rave scene while channeling a renewed desire for community and celebration post-lockdown. The aesthetic is characterized by vibrant energy and bold, fearless fashion choices that reflect a generation’s craving for joy and connection.
This trend is defined by easy-to-style silhouettes like tank tops, crop tops, and oversized bottoms, which are complemented by flashy, abstract prints and daring colors. Neon greens, hot pinks, and electric blues dominate the palette, mirroring the pulsating lights and music of rave culture.
On the runways, the influence of Ravecore has grown steadily, with designers embracing its nostalgia-infused modernity. The trend also finds its way into everyday fashion, with wearable adaptations that combine statement pieces with casual basics. It’s more than a fashion movement—Ravecore embodies a cultural celebration of individuality and unrestrained self-expression.
As someone who’s delved deeper into fashion trends this past year, I find “core trends” particularly fascinating for how they reflect the creativity and dynamism of today’s fashion landscape. Fueled by social media, the rapid pace of these trends—what some might call the “core-isation” of fashion—offers both opportunities and challenges for brands seeking to stay relevant.
At Heuritech, our advanced technology and fashion expertise enable brands to navigate this fast-moving environment and leverage the most impactful trends strategically. By decoding distinct narratives and forecasting their evolution, we help our clients cut through the noise and focus on the key aesthetics that truly resonate with their audiences. If you’d like to explore how our insights can support your strategy, feel free to book a demo with our team!
