Introduction to Aesthetics: Kidcore

By Avani Sethi and Niko Adams

In the next article of Introduction to Aesthetics, we will be describing Kidcore, an aesthetic that like many others, found its way into the mainstream fashion industry early last year. 

Taking inspiration from 90’s nostalgia and early 2000’s fashion, Kidcore aims to replicate the sense of “growing up”, taking aspects of age regression, and vintage childhood themes into account. The style, which incorporates stickers, rainbows, and colorful filters, is meant to mimic the themes of childhood, sometimes including storybooks, bandaids, and denim. And adding to Kidcore’s increasing popularity is a number of musicians (namely Kidcore) who both fuel the aesthetic and its followers with numbers to add to their anthem list. In addition, sister aesthetics like Rainbow Core, which has found its place in the LGBTQ+ community, and Hobicore– named after popular BTS member J-hope– have started increasing the number of sub genres that draw attention to the style. A few other subgenres of Kidcore include: Spooky Core, Loudcore, Stickercore, and Girlcore. 

Unlike Dark Academia, Kidcore is a style aimed at letting loose and reliving childhood memories. Thus, media associated with it usually involves children’s cartoons– Disney Channel, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network being the first to come to mind. As the aesthetic revolves around the 90’s and reliving our childhoods, some Kidcore activities include making fun outfits, painting, especially in watercolor, and rollerskating. Additionally, taking photos with funky filters, making friendship bracelets and 90’s sweaters would also describe some a Kidcore activities.

Fashion inspiration for the genre includes collared shirts, sneakers, beaded necklaces, denim, and puffy sleeves, making it easy to dress the part too. Tee-shirts, preferably of cartoon shows, with simple patterns, or animals, striped socks, and hightops are also key style choices. An easy way to add a bit of this aesthetic would be adding a homemade bracelet or pair of earrings made of chunky, bright, colorful beads. Other elements include stuffed animals, roller skates, candy, and color-blocking, a style trend that has become increasingly popular along with street fashion and the break from style minimalism. And always remember, these aesthetics are just for fun, so when thinking of Kidcore, think bright, fun, and kid-ish—anything that would make your inner child excited!