super stylish in 2010s slang

2 min read 25-02-2025

The 2010s were a wild ride for fashion. From skinny jeans to leggings as pants, the decade's style was as diverse and ever-evolving as its slang. This article dives into the lingo that defined the decade's fashion scene, helping you understand what being "on fleek" truly meant (and still might!).

The Basics: Looking "On Fleek"

The term "on fleek" was the ultimate compliment for a flawless look. If your makeup, hair, or outfit was "on fleek," it was perfect, impeccable, and totally Instagrammable (because, let's face it, Instagram was the place to showcase your style). It was a level above simply "looking good"; it was achieving a level of effortless perfection. Think perfectly sculpted brows, a flawlessly applied lipstick, or that outfit that just works.

Beyond "On Fleek": Other Compliments

"Yas queen!": An enthusiastic affirmation of a stylish choice. Think fierce confidence radiating from a killer outfit.
"Slay": Similar to "yas queen," but perhaps with a slightly more aggressive edge. It's about owning your look and dominating the fashion game.
"Dope": A classic term that transcended eras, but in the 2010s it frequently referred to incredibly stylish attire or accessories.
"Fire": Another term indicating something exceptionally cool and desirable. A "fire" outfit was unforgettable.

Specific Styles & Slang

The 2010s had a plethora of distinct styles, each with its own vocabulary:

The "Tumblr Girl" Aesthetic

The Tumblr girl aesthetic was all about a specific vibe: dark, romantic clothing with a touch of grunge. Think floral dresses paired with fishnet stockings, oversized sweaters, and lots of dark eyeliner. This style was often described as:

"Aesthetic": Highly curated and visually pleasing.
"Ethereal": Dreamy, almost otherworldly.
"Dark Academia": Inspired by classic literature and old-world academia.

The "Basic" Look

Ironically, "basic" became a descriptor for a specific style. The "basic" look often involved:

"Athleisure": A blend of athletic wear and leisure clothing (think leggings and sneakers).
"Normcore": Unassuming, understated style—embracing the ordinary.
"Simple": Clean lines and minimal accessories.

While often used negatively, some embraced the "basic" aesthetic as a comfortable and convenient style.

The "Swag" Factor

"Swag," short for "swagger," represented a confident, stylish, and often slightly rebellious attitude. It often involved:

"Fresh": Looking clean, new, and stylish.
"Fly": Similar to "fresh," implying a high level of style.
"Lit": Amazing, exciting, and stylish.

Accessories & Details

Even accessories had their own slang:

"Bomb": Excellent, amazing; could refer to shoes, bags, or jewelry.
"Drip": The overall stylishness of a person or outfit. A person with "drip" had impeccable style.
"Statement piece": A standout item that draws attention to the entire look.

Keeping it "Lit" Today

While some of this slang might feel dated, the underlying principles of self-expression and confidence remain timeless. The 2010s slang reminds us that fashion is about more than just clothes; it's about attitude, personality, and finding what makes you feel "on fleek." So, embrace your inner 2010s style icon, and let your "drip" shine!