What makes up the “cool girl”?
Its an epidemic
There’s something effortlessly chic about the “cool girl” or “it girl” of 2024. She’s the type who looks like she just woke up, threw on some random pieces from her wardrobe, and strolled out of the house looking like she stepped out of a fashion editorial. Think Hailey Bieber or Kaia Gerber. But let’s be real, cool is never that effortless, right? There must be a secret recipe behind the seemingly effortless vibe, so let’s break it down.
The Perfect Baggy Jean
The baggy jean. And when I say baggy, I don’t mean your grandfather’s ’80s denim revival. No, this is the perfectly tailored baggy jean, the kind of denim that casually grazes the top of a pair of designer sneakers or vintage loafers, depending on whichever matches her mood that day.
Think "French girl casual" meets "I thrifted this and didn’t spend $400 on it," even though we all know she did. It’s chic, it’s slightly oversized, and it’s got just enough slouch to make you question if you should size up in your own jeans.
Links: 99 Baggy Wide Leg , Bella Low Rise Boyfriend Jean
The Designer Bag (That Doesn't Scream 'Designer')
Of course, every 2024 cool girl needs a designer bag. But here’s the twist: it’s never the one with logos plastered all over it. Oh no, it is understated, minimal, and exudes the kind of luxury that whispers instead of shouts. Maybe it’s Bottega or a The Row tote, giving just enough designer to feel luxe but still grounded in a casual way.
Links: Bottega Mini Wallace , Chloe The 99 , The Row Half Moon
Vintage Sunnies (The Tinier, the Better)
No cool girl ensemble is complete without vintage sunglasses. The smaller they are, the cooler she is — like she’s channeling a '90s supermodel on her day off. Whether they’re actual vintage from a thrift store in Paris or a very convincing modern-day replica, they give off that “I wear these for the aesthetic, not the sun protection” vibe. Think Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.
Links: Le Specs , Prada , Oliver Peoples
Hair That Looks ‘Lived In’ (But Was Probably Coaxed By a Stylist)
And finally, no Cool Girl aesthetic is complete without that lived-in hair. You know, the kind that looks like she rolled out of bed and into a blowout without even trying. It’s tousled just enough like she spent a week in Montauk with salty air swirling around her but has never actually set foot on a beach. It’s an art form. Effortless waves, a little volume, and maybe a claw clip holding together loose strands.
