Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.
Like it or not, TikTok trends have a huge influence on today's Gen Z and millennial culture and style. Trends on TikTok can go viral seemingly overnight, making it hard to stay up to date. In 2024, the clean girl aesthetic, for instance, has been replaced by the mob wife aesthetic, while grandpacore has gained popularity over gorpcore.
To help you stay in the know, each month we look at trending TikTok hashtags and compile a list of the most popular trends, and how you can get in on them—here are the hottest May 2024 TikTok trends.
1. Unsexy products
These unsexy products may not be luxurious, but they play important parts in hygiene, skincare, and makeup routines.
TikTokers have recently been sharing their “unsexy” products, i.e., the unsung heroes of their skincare routines. What they lack in frills and fancy packaging, they make up for in affordability and proven results. Vaseline, Eucerin, and CeraVe products are among these tried-and-true staples that effectively treat various skin conditions and won’t irritate sensitive skin. While they may not be glamorous, these products are known to get the job done.
These hydrocolloid acne patches improve the look of pimples overnight.
This beloved skincare ointment can be used to hydrate dry lips, protect minor wounds and cuts, and add a highlight to the face.
This creamy, non-foaming cleanser gently removes makeup, oil, and dirt, and is ideal for all skin types.
2. Mermaidcore
Mermaidcore is once again making waves for summer 2024.
Just like it did in the summer of 2023, mermaidcore is making a big splash this season. The aquatic-inspired aesthetic is easy to channel with azure hues, shimmering fabrics, and scalloped hemlines. To subtly mimic the beautiful mythical sea creatures, opt for beachy waves, coral-tinted beauty products, and an iridescent mani.
This seafoam-colored halter top will help you shine.
Embrace the essence of the sea in these light blue satin pants.
This lightweight, stretchy dress will have you beach-ready in no time.
Live your mermaid fantasy with this coral lip and cheek stain.
3. Asoka makeup
The Asoka trend is sweeping TikTok and has become hugely popular among international beauty influencers.
The viral "Asoka" makeup trend involves TikTokers recreating looks inspired by the 2001 Bollywood film, "Asoka." The elaborate makeup routine is putting a spotlight on South Asian beauty, as creators film themselves in traditional Indian bride makeup and outfits to the beat of one of the film's songs, "San Sanana," with bold eyes, dramatic makeup, and gold jewelry.
Use warm and vibrant tones such as gold and bronze on the lids for the Asoka challenge.
Surround the eyes using a bold kohl-rimmed eyeliner.
Complete the look with a traditional Indian bridal jewelry set.
4. Tenniscore
The preppy courtside style known as tenniscore is a timeless fashion trend that's making a comeback both on and off the court. Its recent rise in popularity can be attributed to Zendaya, who's been serving sporty-chic looks while promoting "Challengers," the just-released Luca Guadagnino-directed film. Ace the style with pleated miniskirts, polo shirts, cable knits, tennis whites, and athletic accessories with a vintage country club vibe.
Jump on the tenniscore trend with a knife-pleat skirt.
Grab an exercise dress for a cute court-ready look.
Lace up a pair of white sneakers (and don't forget the white tube socks) to look the part.
Complete your look with a classic tennis bracelet.
5. Cowboy core
Last summer brought us the coastal cowgirl trend, but it seems cowboy core is riding high once again thanks to the release of Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter" album. Global searches are currently skyrocketing for Americana, cowboy fashion, and western wear, so now's the time to saddle up and enter your country era. Hop on the trend with fringe, denim, and of course a wide-brim hat and some boots.
This denim vest has just the right amount of Western appeal.
Your Western look will all come together with a cropped, fringe-trimmed jacket.
These neutral-colored, low-heel boots are perfectly cowboy casual.
6. Boyfriend blush
One of TikTok's recent makeup trends, boyfriend blush, is inspired by the natural, flushed look of when cheeks go rosy in the cold. Just picture your boyfriend's cheeks after he comes back from a winter workout outdoors (hence the name).
TikTokers are replicating this sporty, youthful look by applying blush further across the cheeks, up toward the ear, and down toward the jaw—areas where rosiness might naturally occur. You'll want a light coverage, buildable cream blush to nail it, like the Merit Flush Balm Cream Blush.
Give your cheeks an adorable rosy glow.