Eight Trends to Modernize the Tumblr Era Look in a Twee Style

Fashion is a time when what’s old is new again. This saying is probably something you’ve heard before. It certainly applies to TikTok’s now-viral-again, twee aesthetic. Merriam-Webster defines «twee» as a British term. It refers to «affectedly, excessively dainty or delicate, cute or quaint.» The original Twee aesthetic was first seen on Tumblr in the […]

Fashion is a time when what’s old is new again. This saying is probably something you’ve heard before. It certainly applies to TikTok’s now-viral-again, twee aesthetic.

Merriam-Webster defines «twee» as a British term. It refers to «affectedly, excessively dainty or delicate, cute or quaint.» The original Twee aesthetic was first seen on Tumblr in the late 2000s and early 2010. This look combined simple preppy principles (ballets anyone?). Retro-inspired touches such as cat-eye shades, funky patterns and Oxford heels were paired with hipster-fied staples such as Peter Pan collars or Oxford heels.

Many celebrities have -and continue to -fit the twee aesthetic to a T. Taylor Swift, in her Speak Now era and Red eras (circa 2010, 2012) and, most importantly, Zooey deschanel are just a few examples. The star of New Girl and Days of Summer—who is also half of the indie music duo She & He—has been a twee icon since her bold bangs, flouncy dresses and tights as well as her frilly skirts and frilly skirts. Deschanel posted a collage on TikTok of her most twee outfits while lip-syncing her She & His song «Why Do You Allow Me to Stay Here?» was a popular trending topic. She playfully thanked TikTok, saying that it had taught her what twee meant. Hundreds, if not thousands, of other TikTokers, such as Steffy Degreff (influencer and content creator), also shared their favourite twee moments.

You’re not alone if you feel inspired to reinvent your twee style or try it for the first time. You don’t have a better time to embrace your Tumblr-era, adorkable style than now. Continue reading for eight of our favourite twee-styled staples. Don’t forget to snap that classic OOTD photo.

The Peter Pan Collar

Layering is easy with detachable Peter Pan collars like this one by Lele Sadoughi. You can choose a mini or flowy blouse if you prefer your collars to be attached.

PRODUCT PICKS:

LELE SADOUGHI Cecilia Imitation Pearl Framed Collar ($95)
& OTHER STORIES Peter Pan Collar Shirt ($89)
LEVI’S Mira Dress ($59.98)

Statement tights

These Sheertex polka-dot tights are playful and go well with any skirt, dress or high-waisted pants. Even better? You can find them in sizes XS through 3X. You can choose an all-over pattern like Calzedonia’s art-deco-inspired Calzedonia or flowers if you don’t consider polka dots neutral.

PRODUCT PICKS:

SHEERTEX Polka-Dot Classic Sheer Tights (99$)
WOLFORD Roses tights (55$)
CALZEDONIA Fans 50 Denier Mesh Eco-Tights ($15)

Plaid Dresses

A plaid dress with a fitted and flare silhouette is a great way to show your twee style. You can modernize the look by adding color blocking, puff sleeves or a new silhouette.

PRODUCT PICKS:

Emmaline Dress ($475)
Gingham is a must-have! Midi Dress ($89)
Plaid Organza Mini Dress ($109)

Blouses with puff sleeves

Plaid, polka dots and puff sleeves. Also known as the Triple P of Twee. You can mix and match the styles by pairing the blouse with a plaid puff sleeves blouse or a mini in a pleated skirt.

PRODUCT PICKS:

LISA SAYS GAH Maddie Long Sleeve Top ($44.70)
SUMMERSALT The Cotton Pintuck Blouse ($85)
FARM RIO Red 3D Pineapple Blouse ($165)

Headbands with a cheesy theme

An adorable accessory is a bold headband. This accessory is a must-have.

PRODUCT PICKS:

The Alice Headband ($50)
Floral Knotted Knit headband ($14.95)
Meadow Rust Bow Headband (55$)

Flats of Classic Beauty

The Rothy’s flats are a contemporary, sustainable, and comfortable take on a classic staple. Ballet flats can feel a bit too old-fashioned, but give them another chance by giving them a new texture and silhouette.

PRODUCT PICKS:

ROTHY’S Mary Jane ($155)
FLATTERED Polly ($169)
EVERLANE The Scrunch Flat ($50)

Crossbody bags

You’ll look polished and well-put together in no time with this signature leather satchel. A colorful or textured crossbody might be a good choice for you if you have outgrown the traditional twee satchel.

PRODUCT PICKS:

CAMBRIDGE SATCHEL COMPANY The Mini ($235)
SIMON MILLER Sling Bag ($490)
Julia Chain Crossbody Bag ($59)

Pleated Mini Skirts

Back in Tumblr’s days, short, pleated mini-skirts were very popular. Although heavily pleated skirts are still in fashion, try something more layerable and flowing.

PRODUCT PICKS: