Don’t worry, we will figure this out together; encouraging words to our readers who feel like they are not reflecting the true essence of Soft Boy aesthetics through their outfits.
Before breaking down the different common mistakes that occur when assembling your Soft Boy look, let us first understand what is Soft Boy Fashion and what are some of its basic aesthetics.
So, what is Soft Boy Fashion and what are some of its basic aesthetics
Soft Boy fashion is a gentle and warm style that is influenced by anime, manga, and other forms of Japanese pop culture. It is characterized by soft colors, flowing fabrics, and a gentle and delicate aesthetic that conveys a sense of sensitivity and vulnerability.
This fashion subculture stands out as it is gender-fluid and androgynous, despite the name, making it a suitable look for everyone and anybody. Additionally, it is a fashion trend that embodies a relaxed, comfortable, and emotionally open aesthetic, making it appealing to everyone.
Having understood that, let us now focus on the common mistakes made when creating a Soft Boy look;
1. Failure to incorporate the right aesthetics
Source; Pexels
Every fashion style has common elements that give the style a distinct aesthetic that makes it recognizable and unique from other styles. Even though Soft Boy promotes self-expression and creativity, it is still guided by a distinct set of elements. The trick here is to create an authentic, self-expressing outfit that adheres to Soft Boy aesthetics.
As part of soft boy aesthetics, muted colors are used, comfortable clothing that is loose-fitting and relaxed, layers for texture and depth, subtle accessories not overpowering the look, natural hairstyles that are slightly messy, minimal makeup to create a natural look, a blend of vintage and retro elements. In the end, the look should feel effortless, relaxed, and, most importantly, embrace sensitivity, vulnerability, and authenticity.
When creating your look, let the style’s aesthetics guide you and inspire you. If you are uncertain about the right aesthetics to use, go online and research Soft Boy aesthetics. Don’t randomly mix aesthetics from different fashion subcultures and call it a Soft Boy look.
2. Falling victim to clichés
Source: Pexels
Fashion is an expressive art that embraces creativity, originality, and innovation. When a fashion trend becomes oversaturated with clichéd aesthetics, it loses its attributes and stifles in favor of conformity. True, clichés are a safe bet, however, they are also unoriginal, boring, limiting, and a hindrance to the continual evolution of fashion.
However, don’t completely dismiss clichés, as they are already established and universally accepted looks that capture the true essence of the style. These clichés should inspire innovative and thought-provoking style statements, challenging conventional expectations, and providing a way to bridge the gap between tradition and originality in the ever-evolving world of Soft Boy aesthetics.
For example, a common soft boy fashion clichés is wearing a pastel-colored oversized hoodie with ripped jeans and white sneakers. You can make this look cliché authentic by wearing the pastel-colored oversized hoodie with black leather pants and combat boots. Giving the look an edgier, interesting, and personalized feel.
3. Moderation is key
Source: Pexels
Overdoing a specific aesthetic can be detrimental to the Soft Boy style, as it can result in an exaggerated and inauthentic appearance that contradicts the essence of the style. Soft Boy aesthetics is all about finding a balance between traditionally masculine and feminine features, reflecting a gentle and natural sense of self.
When creating your Soft Boy look, it is important to consider the overall balance and harmony of your outfit. Some areas to watch out for are;
i. Overdoing it with neutral tones
Soft boy fashion tends to feature a more muted and earthy color palette that creates a relaxed and gentle appearance. However, this does not mean day in and day out from top to bottom you be dressed in shades of white, black, and gray. Find a balance with your look by incorporating both pastel colors such as pink and lavender with neutral tones.
ii. Wearing too many buggy clothes
While the Soft Boy aesthetic calls for comfortable and relaxed fits, excessively baggy clothing can lead to a sloppy and unkempt look. Instead, mix and match baggy and fitting clothing for a balanced and put-together appearance. For example, pairing an oversized button-down shirt with a rugged-fitting pair of jeans.
iii. Talking about the relaxed effortless Soft Boy aesthetic literately
While the soft boy aesthetic often includes a laid-back and nonchalant appearance, it should not be confused with neglecting personal hygiene or grooming. This simply means conditioning your hair regularly, using a moisturizer and sunscreen to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant, and having good hygiene practices.
iv. Over accessorizing
Soft Boy accessorizing should complement your outfit by adding personality and flair to the look. Avoid over-the-top or flashy accessories, and opt for more subtle accessories like a simple necklace, delicate bracelets, or vintage or retro accessories.
v. Too much makeup
Soft Boy makeup is typically natural and minimal, focusing on a fresh and youthful appearance. It involves the use of light foundation and subtle enhancements to achieve a natural look.
4. Lack of emotion
Source: Pexels
An authentic, unique, and personalized Soft Boy outfit should reflect your personality, ideologies, and preferences. Your outfit at any given time should be a representation of your emotions, your thoughts, and your general state of well-being.
When your fashion preference does not reflect your personality, you will always have a hard time creating a unique, authentic look that will be eye-catching. Do not just follow a fashion style because it seems cool or is trending, make sure whatever fashion subgenre you incorporate is in line with your personality.
Soft Boy aesthetic emphasizes a sense of sensitivity, vulnerability, and empathy. This attribute should not only reflect on your attire but also on you as a person. You cannot claim to be a Soft Boy when in reality you’re not in tune with your emotions and aren’t ready to express them. It's like going to a cheese tasting even when you are lactose intolerant; it just doesn’t make sense.
In line with this thought, what is your opinion on embracing a fashion subculture that is not in line with your personality? Is it possible to simply appreciate the aesthetics without connecting with it on a personal level?