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That Girl: Definition, Origin, and Impact on Social Media

Updated on October 2, 2024
Image of author Pragya

By Pragya, Posted

That Girl: Definition, Origin, and Impact on Social Media

Table of content

What is "That Girl"?

"That Girl" is a popular social media trend and lifestyle aesthetic that emerged on TikTok in early 2021. It represents a curated image of a woman who embodies wellness, productivity, and self-improvement. The "That Girl" archetype is characterized by early morning routines, healthy habits, and a polished appearance, all shared through carefully crafted social media content.

Origin and Development of "That Girl"

The "That Girl" phenomenon gained traction on TikTok in April 2021, quickly spreading to other platforms like Instagram and YouTube. It evolved from earlier wellness and productivity trends, combining elements of minimalism, clean eating, and fitness culture. The trend's rapid growth coincided with a renewed focus on personal development during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many sought structure and self-improvement while spending more time at home.

How "That Girl" Works

The "That Girl" trend operates through a series of lifestyle choices and social media presentations:

  1. Morning Routines: Early wake-ups, often before sunrise, followed by activities like meditation, journaling, or exercise.
  2. Healthy Eating: Emphasis on nutritious meals, often featuring smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and green juices.
  3. Fitness: Regular workout sessions, typically including yoga, Pilates, or gym routines.
  4. Productivity: Time-blocking, goal-setting, and organized to-do lists.
  5. Aesthetics: Clean, minimalist spaces and a curated wardrobe, often featuring athleisure.
  6. Self-Care: Skincare routines, reading, and mindfulness practices.

Participants share their journey through aesthetically pleasing photos and videos, often using soft filters and calming music to create an aspirational atmosphere.

Popular Examples of "That Girl"

Many influencers and content creators have embraced the "That Girl" aesthetic, sharing their interpretations of the lifestyle:

  • @alexisbarber: Known for her minimalist apartment tours and morning routine videos.
  • @whatsonvisface: Shares skincare routines and productivity tips aligned with the "That Girl" ethos.
  • @emilyluxe: Offers workout inspiration and healthy meal ideas within the trend's framework.

These creators often use hashtags like #ThatGirl, #ThatGirlRoutine, or #ThatGirlAesthetic to categorize their content.

Impact of "That Girl" on Social Media Culture

The "That Girl" trend has significantly influenced social media culture:

  1. Wellness Focus: It has amplified conversations around health, fitness, and mental well-being.
  2. Aesthetic Shift: The trend has popularized a clean, minimalist aesthetic across various platforms.
  3. Content Creation: It has inspired a new wave of lifestyle content, particularly morning routine videos and day-in-the-life vlogs.
  4. Product Marketing: Brands have capitalized on the trend, promoting products that align with the "That Girl" lifestyle.

Controversies Surrounding "That Girl"

Despite its popularity, the "That Girl" trend has faced criticism:

  • Unrealistic Standards: Critics argue that the trend sets unattainable lifestyle and beauty standards.
  • Lack of Diversity: The aesthetic often portrays a narrow, privileged view of wellness and success.
  • Commodification of Self-Care: Some feel the trend reduces self-improvement to consumerism and performative acts.
  • Mental Health Concerns: The pressure to maintain a perfect routine and appearance can negatively impact mental health.

How Brands and Influencers Use "That Girl"

Brands and influencers have leveraged the "That Girl" trend in various ways:

  • Product Placement: Featuring items like yoga mats, planners, and skincare products in aesthetically pleasing content.
  • Sponsored Content: Collaborating with brands that align with the "That Girl" lifestyle.
  • Wellness Programs: Creating courses or coaching services inspired by the trend.
  • Merchandise: Developing products that cater to the "That Girl" aesthetic, such as minimalist water bottles or journal sets.

Future Trends Related to "That Girl"

As the "That Girl" trend evolves, several developments are likely:

  1. Increased Diversity: A push for more inclusive representations of the "That Girl" lifestyle.
  2. Authenticity Movement: A shift towards more realistic, less curated portrayals of self-improvement.
  3. Mental Health Focus: Greater emphasis on genuine well-being over aesthetic perfection.
  4. Sustainability: Integration of eco-friendly practices into the "That Girl" lifestyle.
  5. Tech Integration: Incorporation of wellness apps and smart devices into "That Girl" routines.

FAQs about "That Girl"

  1. Is the "That Girl" trend harmful? While it can inspire positive habits, it's important to approach it critically and prioritize genuine well-being over aesthetics.

  2. How can I become "That Girl"? Focus on developing healthy habits that work for you, rather than trying to emulate a perfect online image.

  3. Is the "That Girl" trend only for women? While primarily associated with women, the core principles of self-improvement and wellness can apply to anyone.

  4. How has the "That Girl" trend affected social media algorithms? It has likely increased the visibility of wellness and lifestyle content, potentially influencing users' feeds and recommendations.

  5. Will the "That Girl" trend last? While specific aesthetics may evolve, the underlying focus on self-improvement and wellness is likely to persist in various forms.

The "That Girl" trend represents a complex intersection of wellness culture, social media performance, and personal branding. As it continues to shape online narratives around self-improvement, it's crucial for users to engage critically with the content, prioritizing genuine well-being over curated perfection.

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