2010 slang for stylish

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2 min read 19-02-2025

2010s Slang: Decoding the Decade's Stylish Lexicon

The 2010s were a fashion rollercoaster, a whirlwind of trends resurrected from the past and entirely new styles emerging. Naturally, this vibrant fashion landscape spawned its own unique slang. If you want to understand the true meaning behind the decade's style statements, you need to know the lingo. This article dives into the slang used to describe stylish people and outfits in the 2010s.

Beyond "Fly": The Core Terms for Stylishness

While "fly" had some lingering presence from the 2000s, it wasn't the dominant term. The 2010s offered a broader palette of words to express stylishness, reflecting the diverse trends of the era:

Dope: This word transcended its drug-related origins to become a versatile term of approval, often used to describe something cool, stylish, or impressive. An outfit could be "dope," a haircut "dope," even a dance move. It signified a high level of coolness.
Fresh: Similar to "dope," "fresh" indicated a stylish and up-to-date appearance. It suggested a clean, crisp look, often associated with trendy streetwear or sportswear. A freshly-pressed shirt? Fresh. A new pair of kicks? Fresh.
On fleek: This phrase gained immense popularity, particularly among younger generations. It described something flawlessly executed, often referring to perfectly groomed eyebrows or a well-put-together outfit. "My makeup is on fleek!" became a common declaration.
Swag: While present earlier, "swag" remained a significant term, emphasizing a confident and stylish demeanor. It wasn't just about clothes; it encompassed attitude and overall coolness. Someone with "swag" carried themselves with a certain effortless flair.

Specific Styles and Their Slang

The 2010s were all about niche aesthetics, each with its own vocabulary.

Streetwear and Hip-Hop Fashion

Lit: Describing something exciting, energetic, or amazing. A particularly impressive outfit could be deemed "lit."
Drip: This became a popular term, signifying a high level of style and confidence expressed through clothing and accessories. Someone with "drip" exuded a sense of effortless cool.

The "Tumblr Girl" Aesthetic

This online-influenced style had its own language, often emphasizing vintage or quirky elements. Terms weren't always directly related to clothes but contributed to the overall vibe:

Aesthetic: While not strictly slang, "aesthetic" became a keyword in describing cohesive and visually pleasing styles.
Alternative: This indicated a style that moved away from mainstream trends, embracing individuality and unique self-expression.

The Rise of Influencer Culture

The increasing prominence of social media influencers impacted the slang, creating terms to describe aspirational or trendsetting style:

Inspo: Short for "inspiration," referring to outfits or styles seen online that someone wanted to emulate.
Look: A more general term for a complete outfit, emphasizing the aesthetic and overall impression. "I'm loving this new look!"

Looking Back: The Enduring Impact

While many of these terms have faded from everyday use, understanding them provides a window into the 2010s fashion scene. They reflect not only the styles of the era but also the influence of social media, music, and youth culture on how we express ourselves through clothing. The slang of the 2010s provides a valuable insight into the decade's ever-evolving fashion landscape. From "dope" to "drip," these words capture the spirit of a stylish generation. Knowing this vocabulary allows you to truly appreciate the decade's fashion legacy and understand its ongoing influence on current trends.