Gen-Z’s engagement with micro-cores: Exploring aesthetics and identity in contemporary times

‘Aesthetics’ is the new ‘it’ word among Gen-Zs. They stand for stylized visual trends shared on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The suffix -core is frequently used on these social media platforms to describe the various aesthetics. These micro-cores have emerged as mediums of self-expression and catalysts for social change amongst Gen-Zs. This study aims to understand the concept of trending micro-cores and the impact they have on framing identities of today’s youth, who have grown up amid warnings of impending doom brought on by climate change, pandemic lockdowns and economic collapse. The study discusses four micro-cores – Barbiecore, Y2K, quiet luxury and e-girl/e-boy – to understand their meaning, origin and relevance in current cultural contexts. It follows a qualitative approach with an interpretivist paradigm to develop themes from literature by analysing website, blogs and social media content. The study then triangulates the data by surveying Gen-Z participants to understand their perspectives on the influences that urge people to adapt to these micro-cores.