The Ultimate Soft Boy Aesthetic Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Soft boy aesthetic guide

Hey babes! Have you been scrolling through your Insta feed and found yourself double-tapping on those soft boy aesthetic outfit ideas? Trust me, you're not alone. With more than 1.3B views on TikTok and 500k posts on IG, this trend is serving us all the feels in 2024 and we're here for it. So what exactly is a soft boy? Strap in as we explore the latest fashion trends on soft boy clothing, the meaning of soft boy, and its roots in today's internet subculture. 🌈


What is a Soft Boy?

Glad you asked, honey! The term soft boy was originally a derivative of the soft grunge aesthetic that took over Tumblr a few years ago. Today, the soft boy persona represents more than just a style. It's an internet subculture on its own! 💕

Characteristic

Description

Emotional Depth

Openness to showing vulnerability and emotional intelligence

Musical and Artistic Vibes

A strong affinity for non-mainstream, emotionally rich music

Fashion Sense

A wardrobe filled with soft boy outfits and aesthetic clothing

Intellectual Angle

An interest in literature, philosophy, and deep conversations

Harry Styles Factor

A likely appreciation for the singer's fashion and emotional depth

Social Media Presence

Curated profiles that reflect their aesthetic and emotional state

Soft Boy Meaning

A soft boy is the epitome of emotional intelligence, often sporting oversized sweatshirts and straight-leg jeans, while jamming to Harry Styles or the latest K-pop sensation. They're approachable, sensitive, and ooze an irresistible blend of confidence and vulnerability.

soft boy meaning

The Soft Boy Persona

Get this: the soft boy persona isn't just about the clothes or the hairstyle—it's a mood. Think of it as the male counterpart to the "VSCO girl" or "e-girl." It's an internet subculture rooted in expressing emotional openness, a love for art and indie music, and yes, a serious knack for fashion.

Comparison chart between Soft Boy and VSCO Girl aesthetics, showcasing differences in fashion, lifestyle, visuals, and emotional identity.

Where did the Soft Boy Come From?

Oh my stars, the story of the soft boy is like something out of a hipster fairy tale. They didn't just appear out of nowhere; they've got origins!

Soft Boy Name Origin

The name of the soft boy aesthetic originates from one who is soft, simple, delicate, and tender. Way before the soft boy aesthetic hit your Insta feed, it was slowly simmering in various internet subcultures. We're talking Tumblr, YouTube, Reddit, and, of course, TikTok! These platforms have given the soft boy persona a stage to evolve and define itself.

Soft Boy Lyrics 

OMG! How can we ignore the massive influence of pop groups and their lyrics? K-pop idols and bands like BTS have seriously made the soft boy look iconic. Even Western pop groups and solo artists like Harry Styles have embraced the soft boy vibe. Music and fashion are like BFFs, and in this case, they’re giving us major inspo.

Collage of iconic pop idols like BTS and Harry Styles showcasing the soft boy aesthetic against a backdrop of neon-lit Seoul streets and pastel European scenes.

Soft Boy Fashion Style

Ready for some mind-blowing milestones? The soft boy aesthetic has even made its way to mainstream media and fashion shows. Designers are dropping soft boy clothing lines, and celebs are rocking this look on red carpets. Yes, the soft boy has arrived, and they're turning heads.

How to Dress Like a Soft Boy

So you're ready to embody the soft boy aesthetic? Brace yourself, because we're diving deep into everything from essential soft boy aesthetic clothing items to hair and accessories. This isn't your everyday fashion guide; this is your soft boy blueprint!

The Soft Boy Starter Pack: Your Wardrobe Essentials 🎒

Soft boy aesthetic outfits and accessories highlighting key style trends and essentials.

Tops

  1. Oversized Sweatshirts: These are the soft boy sweaters that make the world go 'round. Opt for shades like pastel pink, cream, or faded blues. Look for unique designs, an aesthetic clothing store, or even go DIY with your own patchwork or embroidery!

  2. Graphic Tees: Whether it's a vintage band tee or a modern pop culture reference, a soft boy shirt needs to tell a story. It should resonate with your personal interests, whether that's Harry Styles, skater culture, or Korean pop music.

Bottoms

  1. Straight Leg Jeans: These are the soft boy pants. Look for lighter washes and a relaxed fit. Fold them at the hem for that extra flair.

  2. Soft Boy Shorts: For those warmer months, go for loose shorts in muted or pastel shades. Pair them with a loose tee and you're summer-ready!

Outerwear

  1. Hoodies: Hoodies are perfect for layering and adding depth to your soft boy clothes. Go for neutral or pastel colors. Bonus points for comfy hoodies from your favorite pop groups!
  2. Cardigans: Aesthetic cardigans are ideal to wear over shirts, especially on fall and winter! They give the soft vibe.

Shoes

  1. Chunky Shoes: These are like the cherry on top for any soft boy aesthetic outfit.

  2. Loafers or Casual Slip-Ons: For when you want to switch things up. These offer a more sophisticated but still laid-back look.

Accessories are the Spice of Life 🌟

  1. Crossbody Bags: Not only functional but super stylish. Perfect for carrying your essentials like your latest read or a sketchbook.

  2. Bucket Hats: The epitome of cute and casual. These add a level of effortlessly cool to any outfit.

  3. Rings and Bracelets: Subtle but essential. Go for silver or simple beaded styles or a tiny aesthetic jewelry to add that extra personality to your look.

Soft Boy Hair: The Crown Jewel 👑

Your soft boy hairstyles can be as expressive as you want. Loose waves or curls give a relaxed, carefree vibe. If you're feeling daring, pastel highlights (think blue or pink) add a pop of color and a dash of intrigue.

The Ultimate Soft Boy Aesthetic Shopping List 🛒

Item Category Specific Item Soft Boy Vibe Popular Brands / Where to Buy
Tops Oversized Sweatshirt Comfortable & Casual Nike, Uniqlo, Thrift Shops, Litlookz Studio
Graphic Tees Personal & Expressive Urban Outfitters, Etsy, Litlookz Studio
Bottoms Baggy Jeans Relaxed & Stylish Levi's, ASOS, Litlookz Studio
Soft Boy Shorts Summer-Casual H&M, Gap, Litlookz Studio
Outerwear Jackets Layered & Cozy Supreme, Zara, Litlookz Studio
Shoes Nike Air Forces Iconic & Versatile Nike, Litlookz Studio
Loafers or Slip-Ons Laid-back Sophistication Sperry, Vans, Litlookz Studio
Accessories Crossbody Bags Functional & Fashionable Fjällräven, Herschel, Litlookz Studio
Bucket Hats Cute & Casual Adidas, Nike, Litlookz Studio
Rings and Bracelets Subtle & Stylish Pandora, Local Craft Stores, Litlookz Studio
Hair Hair Wax / Gel For that Soft Boy Hairstyle Gatsby, American Crew
Temporary Hair Color For Bold Highlights Manic Panic, L'Oréal Colorista

Soft Boy Personality and Vibe

So, you've got the wardrobe down, but what about the vibe? What does it mean to be a soft boy? Here's the 411 on soft boy personality traits and how you can spot one in the wild—or become one yourself! 🌟

Complete collection of key items defining the soft boy aesthetic, from fashion accessories to signature attire

Deep Emotions🔑

One of the defining characteristics of a soft boy is their emotional depth. This isn't just about being sensitive; it's about being tuned into their own emotions as well as those of the people around them. Unlike the stereotypical "macho man," a soft boy isn't afraid to show vulnerability.

Intellectual Conversations > Small Talk

If your guy's favorite pastime includes discussing the latest book he's reading or diving deep into philosophical conversations at 2 AM, then girl, you've found yourself a classic soft boy. They love stimulating conversations and connecting on a mental level.

The Cute Factor

Soft boys often radiate a kind of "pretty boy" charm that's hard to define but easy to recognize. They're the ones posting TikTok videos with a background of indie pop songs, showcasing their latest art project or thrift shop haul. They capture your attention with their authentic cuteness—think Harry Styles meets skater meets art student.

The Harry Styles Effect

Speaking of Harry Styles, he's the poster boy for the soft boy aesthetic. From his fashion choices to his fluid expressions of masculinity and femininity, he embodies the soft boy style and vibe like no one else. It's all about pushing boundaries while keeping it 100% real.

Comparison to Other Aesthetics

Aesthetic

Color Palette

Attitude

Key Elements

Example Icon

E-boys

Darker shades, black and red

Edgy, a bit mysterious

Chain necklaces, nail polish, cargo jeans, black combat boots

Lil Peep

Skater Boys

Neutral tones, pops of bright colors

Carefree, adventurous

Skateboards, baggy jeans, Vans

Tony Hawk

Soft Boys

Pastels, earth tones

Sensitive, artsy

Oversized sweaters, pastel shades, knitted sweaters, vintage finds

Harry Styles

Bonus: If you're looking for that cherry on top, consider investing in oversized soft boy sweaters for the winter season. Brands often collaborate with popular artists and pop groups to release limited edition collections. Don't miss out!

Soft Boy Aesthetic Must-Have Outfits

Embracing the captivating world of the soft boy aesthetic means diving headfirst into a realm of unique fashion that seamlessly blends comfort, nostalgia, and self-expression. Here's your essential guide to assembling the perfect wardrobe that's bound to make you stand out as an icon of soft boy style.

Soft Boy Sweatshirts

When it comes to comfort, versatility, and, of course, aesthetic clothing, sweatshirts are doubtless the first thing that comes to mind. Soft boy sweatshirts are ideal for the personal expression of your unique style.

1

SOFT BOY BASIC OVERSIZED SWEATSHIRT

a soft boy wearing a blue basic oversized sweatshirt

1

SOFT BOY BASIC OVERSIZED SWEATSHIRT

 

BUY NOW — $45

The soft boy basic oversized sweatshirt effortlessly complements pastel hues, allowing you to adorn yourself with everything.

2

SOFT BOY OVERSIZED SWEATSHIRT

a soft boy wearing a grey aesthetic oversized sweatshirt with a best growing cool ystaozis slogan on

2

SOFT BOY OVERSIZED SWEATSHIRT

 

BUY NOW — $46

A soft boy oversized is all you would ever need if you wanna look aesthetic and feel comfy.

3

SOFT BOY SWEATSHIRT & SWEATSHORTS TWO PIECE SET

a soft boy wearing a beige aesthetic sweatshirt and sweatshorts two piece set

3

SOFT BOY SWEATSHIRT & SWEATSHORTS TWO PIECE SET

 

BUY NOW — $53

Looking for an aesthetic outfit for a day out? Soft boy sweatshirt & sweatshorts two-piece set is perfect to chill.

4

SOFT BOY PRINTED SWEATSHIRT

a soft boy wearing a blue aesthetic printed sweatshirt on which colorful do not hurt with my princess prints

4

SOFT BOY PRINTED SWEATSHIRT

SALE 33%

BUY NOW — $59.90

Soft boy printed sweatshirt is the best when it comes to looking lit and taking attention!

Soft Boy Pants

Comfort, innovative designs, and timeless fashion... Yes, we're talking about pants! No matter what era you live in or which aesthetic you like, pants are one of the priorities for your aesthetic style. 

5

SOFT BOY WASHED BAGGY JEANS

a boy wearing dark blue soft boy washed baggy jeans

5

SOFT BOY WASHED BAGGY JEANS

SALE 32%

BUY NOW — $56.90

Going to the concert to listen to some soft boy songs? Wear soft boy washed baggy jeans and a comfy sweater. You're gonna look lit.

6

SOFT BOY CORDUROY JOGGER PANTS

a boy wearing green soft boy corduroy jogger pants

6

SOFT BOY CORDUROY JOGGER PANTS

SALE 32%

BUY NOW — $52.90

Need a comfy and practical aesthetic piece? Soft boy corduroy jogger pants are both slay and cozy, just as you need.

7

SOFT BOY BAGGY JEANS

a boy wearing blue soft boy baggy jeans

7

SOFT BOY BAGGY JEANS

 

BUY NOW — $48

Sometimes all you need is a pair of pants to look effortless but sleek. Wear soft boy baggy jeans, you'll see the difference. 

8

SOFT BOY HIGH WAIST BAGGY PANTS

a soft boy wearing green aesthetic high waist baggy pants and a white tee and white shoes

8

SOFT BOY HIGH WAIST BAGGY PANTS

NOW 24% OFF

BUY NOW — $64.90

Wanna look nostalgic? Soft boy high waist baggy pants are all you need! Pair them with a retro top and show how aesthetic you are!

9

SOFT BOY CASUAL JEANS

a soft boy wearing blue aesthetic casual jeans and converse shoes and a black long sleeve shirt

9

SOFT BOY CASUAL JEANS

 

BUY NOW — $52

Soft boy casual jeans can be comfy and practical for school. We suggest you give it a try. You'll never regret it.

Soft Boy Shorts

11

SOFT BOY DRAWSTRING WAIST SWEATSHORT

a boy wearing pink soft boy drawstring waist sweatshorts and a white shirt and nike socks and shoes

11

SOFT BOY DRAWSTRING WAIST SWEATSHORT

NOW 33% OFF

BUY NOW — $48.90

Wherever you are, at home or the gym, soft boy drawstring waist sweatshorts are ideal for comfort and relaxation as well as looking aesthetic.

Soft Boy Tees

12

AESTHETIC SKY TEE

a boy a white tee with a picture of a red aesthetic sky

12

AESTHETIC SKY TEE

 

BUY NOW — $35

Are you the one who likes to look slick but wears basic? Check out our aesthetic sky tee, you're gonna love it!

13

SOFT BOY CREW NECK BASIC TEE

a boy with a tattoo wearing an aesthetic light green soft boy crew neck basic tee

13

SOFT BOY CREW NECK BASIC TEE

 

BUY NOW — $34

Looking aesthetic would never be that easy... The soft boy crew neck basic tee is dapper enough to make you look sleek.


From its roots in internet subculture and pop groups to its embodiment in stars like Harry Styles, the soft boy aesthetic is more than just a fleeting fashion trend. It's a celebration of emotional depth, intellectual conversation, and breaking gender norms.

🎥 Watch & Learn: If you're a visual learner, don't worry; there's a perfect video guide out there that will show you how to nail the soft boy aesthetic. Trust me, you don't want to miss this! 🌟

The soft boy outfits and fashion trends may evolve, but the core values of the soft boy aesthetic remain timeless. So whether you're here for the fashion or here for the vibe, you're part of a movement that is authentically beautiful. 🌹

So there you have it, sweets! The Ultimate Soft Boy Aesthetic Guide. Now, go forth and spread the softness. 🌟💫

If you're interested in different types of aesthetic, our 33 types of aesthetic guide is ideal to see various styles. If you like the soft boy style, check out our aesthetic blogs and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and YouTube to see more!


FAQ's | Aesthetic Soft Boy

Q: How do you get the soft boy look?

A: Girl, let me spill the tea! ☕

    • Wardrobe: Oversized sweatshirts and straight-leg jeans are your besties. Keep it chill, but stylish.
    • Shoes: Chunku sneakers are the iconic soft boy shoes. So comfy, so aesthetic.
    • Accessories: Ever heard of the "less is more" mantra? Choose minimal but meaningful pieces like beaded necklaces or a leather bracelet.

👟 Pro Tip: Unique socks can be your signature. Think cute patterns or subtle colors. It's all about those little details!

 


Q: What does soft boi mean?

A: Honey, listen up! 🎶

    • Persona: It's not just a look, it's a vibe. A soft boi is the epitome of a modern, gentle masculinity.
    • Emotion: These boys aren't afraid to express their feelings. Think Harry Styles but make it everyday.
    • Culture: They're into art, maybe even write poetry, and are often caught listening to indie pop groups.

🖋️ Pro Tip: Being a soft boi is also about spreading positivity. So, kindness is your best accessory.

 


Q: How to dress soft boy without looking like a girl?

A: No worries, girl, let's get you sorted! 🛠️

    • Fit: Keep to patchwork jeans that are relaxed but not baggy.
    • Tops: Stick with oversized sweatshirts, but go for more neutral or dark colors to keep it masculine.
    • Details: It's all about the balance. Simple caps, classic wristwatches or even an aesthetic backpack can keep your look grounded.

👕 Pro Tip: Choose sweatshorts with minimalistic or text-based designs. It helps keep the focus on the "boy" part of "soft boy."


About The Author

Buse Gul Avatar

Buse Gul

Buse is a freelance content creator at Litlookz Studio and an EFL teacher. She's a coffeeholic cat mom and aesthetic style lover.


0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published