Not Perfect, Just Chic: The Messy Girl Aesthetic

I know we’re all equally excited that the unrealistic “clean-girl” aesthetic is on its way out and making room for the “messy girl,” who somehow always looks a little disheveled in the most chic way. But to me, the messy girl is far from dirty. When I think of this aesthetic, I picture a busy fashion girl sprinting through New York City in a classy outfit and the wind in her hair.

People often frame the messy girl as someone who hasn’t gotten her life together. But the messy girl actually knows exactly what’s going on. She’s just as put together as the “clean girl,” only in a way that feels more effortless and exciting. She’s a little chaotic, but in a charming, self-aware way. This aesthetic reminds me of a ’90s rom-com protagonist: busy, slightly disorganized, but ultimately confident in who she is and where she’s going.

Reflecting a stage of uncertainty, messy chic embraces imperfection and authenticity. There are still clean cuts and carefully styled outfits, but they feel more inventive. It’s an aesthetic still rooted in minimalism and wardrobe staples, but worn with a sense of spontaneity rather than strict control.

To channel the messy girl, our outfits need to scream, “I’m not perfect, I’m just chic.” We’re layering classic outfits with an oversized blazer or button-down shirt, pairing boots with midi skirts, and looking like we always have someplace to be. The aesthetic is just as much a nonchalant vibe, undone hair, and smudged makeup as it is our clothes. There’s nothing wrong with a little mess, but I’ll do it in a curated, cool way that echoes the ease of ‘90s and vintage aesthetics. 

 

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Check out my FizzyPicks to snag the key pieces that make messy-girl style effortlessly chic.

TOTEME
Layered Satin Skirt
$720

 

TOTEME
Crinkled Gauze Tank
$510

 

THE ROW
Danas Paneled Suede Midi Skirt
$4,800

 

THE ROW
Eirlys Shirt
$1,550

 

REFORMATION
Eli Oversized Shirt
$128

 

WITH JÉAN
Naomi Skirt
$174

 

WITH JÉAN
Lili Top
$148

 

WITH JÉAN
Sasha Top
$178

 

TANK AIR
Low Slung Jeans
$295

 

WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Classic
$225

 

JAKI
Rue Sheer Sweater
$170

 

DISSH
Amelia Mocha Textured Blazer
$260

 

NAKEDVICE
The Sawyer Blazer
$260

 

STAUD
Hendrix Boot
$595

 

ZARA
Ruched Split Leather Ankle Boots
$149

 

SUSANNA CHOW
Dorothy Leather Coat With Fur Trim
$895

 

FRAME
The Rodeo
$298

 

REFORMATION
Laurel Sheer Alpaca Mock Neck
$158

 

REFORMATION
Raya Fitted Silk Shirt
$198

 

CHARCOAL
Bethany Pants
$75