How To Wear Circuscore Without Going Over The Top

A practical guide to a very extra aesthetic.

POSTED BY ANNMARY MAILYAN

The Circuscore aesthetic has been around for a while: it started gaining popularity back in 2021 but for some reason never moved beyond its niche. Inspired by circuses (duh) and carnivals, it may have seemed too extravagant to fit into everyday outfits. But is it really? Seeing all these stunning photos on Pinterest made me wonder: is it possible to dress Circuscore without looking like you were juggling in the ring just a minute ago? After a bit of research, I found a few fun yet practical ways to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe.

The first feature that defines this aesthetic is its rich color palette—red, orange, blue, and green. If you don’t feel confident combining multiple bold shades in one outfit, try making one tone your statement and using others as accents. Imagine a red top styled with green and yellow jewelry. Not too overwhelming, but playful and eye-catching enough. 

The next key element is the geometric patterns: they’re the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the circus, aren’t they? Stripes, checkers, or polka dots all fit in this category. To make them feel more Circuscore, pair them with the bold colors we discussed earlier. Try striped pants with a navy blue sweater or a checkered top with an orange skirt. And if you’re feeling a bit more daring, you can experiment with mixing a couple of patterns in one look.

Forget about overly structured tailoring, cause where’s the fun in that? This aesthetic leans into asymmetrical cuts and interesting silhouettes, heavily relying on ruffles, puff sleeves, and drapes. Even pom-poms can work. Anything that will add personality and a sense of movement to the outfit fits right in. 

There are also a few signature pieces that instantly channel this style. A top hat, for example. It doesn’t have to be dramatic enough to pull a rabbit out of it, but it definitely sets the tone. You can, however, swap it with something more subtle, such as a beret. Vests and blazers are also great options, especially in fabrics like velvet. Picture a burgundy velvet vest layered over a checkered dress. As for accessories, go for chokers and colorful statement jewelry, ribbons, ruffled collars, and even some multicolored tights. These details can bring a hint of Circuscore even to the most casual ensemble.

The most important rule is not to wear everything at once, or you may end up looking like you’re headed to a costume party. When styled thoughtfully, this trend can become a surprisingly wearable way to make your outfits stand out. 

And if you’re in the mood to experiment a little, you can find the best Circuscore-inspired pieces in my Fizzypicks below.

 

BRONX AND BANCO 
Dakota Mini Dress 
$650

 

LOVA 
Azelea Mini Skirt 
$140

 

NADINE MERABI 
Beatrice Blazer 
$455

 

FAITHFULL THE BRAND 
Product Jensen Pant 
$250

 

NORMA KAMALI 
Capri Legging 
$150

 

MORE TO COME 
Piper Mini Dress 
$78

 

POLO RALPH LAUREN 
Fair Isle Wool Blend Turtleneck Sweater 
$498

 

FREE PEOPLE 
Clear Skies Cardigan 
$328

 

AMANDA UPRICHARD 
Saddler Pants 
$216

 

ZEMETA 
Classy Check Corset Top 
$145

 

CAPITTANA 
Kari Pant 
$190

 

LIONESS 
Rugby Jersey 
$69

 

MARIANNA SENCHINA 
Scarlett Velvet Short 
$383

 

FOR LOVE & LEMONS 
Noemie Vest 
$198

 

WOLFORD 
Rose Tights 
$65

 

ARTLESS FOREVER 
Kaia Vest 
$94

 

AMANDA UPRICHARD 
Monterey Dress With Scarf 
$299

 

MORE TO COME 
Halley Bloomer Short 
$56

 

ALEXIS 
Cambridge Top 
$425

 

ALL THE WAYS 
Mamie Blazer 
$72

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