Introduction to the Tired Girl Trend
Imagine waking up after a sleepless night, looking in the mirror, and deciding those dark circles and pale skin are your new aesthetic. That’s the essence of the “Tired Girl” trend, a fleeting yet fascinating TikTok beauty movement that’s taken Gen Z by storm. Unlike traditional beauty ideals that push for flawless, radiant skin, this trend flips the script, celebrating the raw, unpolished look of exhaustion. Inspired by figures like Wednesday Addams, it’s a bold statement against perfectionism, and I’m here to dive deep into why it’s resonating so strongly.
What Is the Tired Girl Trend?
Defining the Aesthetic
The Tired Girl trend is all about embracing the look of sleepless nights—think smudged eyeliner, pale skin, and deliberately accentuated under-eye bags. It’s a rebellion against the polished “clean girl” aesthetic, with its dewy complexions and minimal makeup. Instead, this trend leans into a grunge-inspired, undone vibe that feels authentic and edgy. As makeup artist Kim Brown puts it, “The Tired Girl look has an edge and personality. It’s tough and cool.”
Origins and Cultural Context
This trend didn’t come out of nowhere. It draws inspiration from the moody, Tim Burton-esque energy of characters like Wednesday Addams, played by Jenna Ortega in Netflix’s hit series. The look also echoes the ‘90s grunge era, popularized by Courtney Love’s messy eyeliner and disheveled style. But unlike grunge, which had deeper cultural roots, Tired Girl is a transient “core” aesthetic, part of TikTok’s fast-moving trend cycle.
Why Is the Tired Girl Trend So Popular?
A Rejection of Perfectionism
For years, beauty standards have pushed us to hide flaws—concealers for dark circles, highlighters for radiance. The Tired Girl trend says, “Forget that.” It’s a middle finger to the pressure to look perfect, resonating with a generation tired of curated Instagram feeds. As Nirvana Jalalvand, a makeup artist for Wednesday, notes, “We’ve all grown tired of overly curated perfectionism.” This trend is a visual sigh of relief, embracing vulnerability in a world obsessed with flawlessness.
A Reflection of Gen Z’s Struggles
The trend’s popularity goes beyond aesthetics—it’s a cultural snapshot. Gen Z faces relentless pressures: student debt, a shaky job market, and global issues like climate change. The Tired Girl look, with its dark humor, is a coping mechanism. One TikTok creator, Violetta, quipped, “Eye bags are so chic because you actually have to work for them.” It’s a way to laugh through the exhaustion, turning fatigue into a badge of honor.
The Role of Social Media
TikTok’s algorithm thrives on niche aesthetics, and Tired Girl fits right in. By late July 2025, it had become a TikTok category, with tutorials racking up over 300,000 views. Influencers like Emma Chamberlain and Gabbriette have embraced the smudgy, bruised-eye look, making it a viral sensation. The platform’s love for “photo dumps” and blurry, unfiltered content only fuels this messy, authentic vibe.
How to Achieve the Tired Girl Look
Key Elements of the Makeup Style
The Tired Girl aesthetic is deceptively simple but requires intentionality. Here’s what you need to nail it:
- Pale Foundation: Use a foundation one or two shades lighter than your skin tone to create a washed-out look.
- Smudged Eyeshadow: Apply dark eyeshadow lightly under the eyes to mimic natural dark circles.
- Flushed Lips: Opt for a subtle, bitten-lip effect with muted purple or pink tones.
- Minimal Products: Keep it natural—less is more to maintain the “I just rolled out of bed” vibe.
- Gray Contouring: A dash of gray on the cheekbones adds to the exhausted aesthetic.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Want to try it yourself? Here’s a quick guide to the Tired Girl look, inspired by Tara McDonald’s work on Jenna Ortega for Wednesday:
- Prep the Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Skip heavy primers to keep the look raw.
- Apply Foundation: Use a lightweight foundation, slightly paler than your natural tone. Blend sparingly.
- Accentuate Under-Eyes: Dab a soft brown or gray eyeshadow under your eyes with a fluffy brush for a natural shadow effect.
- Add Lip Color: Use a lip tint in a muted purple or mauve, blending it for a just-bitten look.
- Finish with Contour: Lightly dust gray powder on cheekbones for a sunken, tired effect.
This approach, as McDonald explains, highlights natural features without overdoing it.
Tools and Products Needed
| Product | Recommended Brand | Price Range | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Foundation | Glossier Skin Tint | $26–$35 | Sheer coverage for a pale, natural look |
| Gray Eyeshadow | NYX Professional | $6–$10 | Affordable, blendable for under-eye shadows |
| Mauve Lip Tint | Fenty Beauty | $18–$25 | Subtle color for the bitten-lip effect |
| Fluffy Blending Brush | e.l.f. Cosmetics | $5–$8 | Soft application for a natural finish |
These products are budget-friendly and widely available, making the trend accessible to everyone.
Comparing Tired Girl to Other Beauty Trends
Tired Girl vs. Clean Girl
The Tired Girl trend is a stark contrast to the “clean girl” aesthetic, popularized by stars like Hailey Bieber. While clean girl emphasizes radiant skin and minimal makeup, Tired Girl leans into imperfection. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Tired Girl | Clean Girl |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Tone | Pale, washed-out | Dewy, radiant |
| Eye Makeup | Smudged, dark under-eyes | Subtle liner, natural lashes |
| Lip Color | Muted purple or pink | Glossy nude or pink |
| Vibe | Rebellious, undone | Polished, fresh-faced |
The clean girl look screams effortlessness, but it’s meticulously curated. Tired Girl, on the other hand, is genuinely low-effort, celebrating the beauty in chaos.
Tired Girl vs. Grunge and Goth
While Tired Girl shares DNA with ‘90s grunge and goth subcultures, it’s distinct. Grunge, led by Courtney Love, featured babydoll dresses and messy eyeliner but was tied to a music-driven rebellion. Goth is moodier, with heavier makeup and paler skin. Tired Girl is lighter, more playful, and less committed to a subculture—it’s a TikTok moment, not a lifestyle.
The Pros and Cons of the Tired Girl Trend
Pros
- Authenticity: Embraces natural flaws, rejecting unrealistic beauty standards.
- Accessibility: Requires minimal products, making it budget-friendly.
- Cultural Commentary: Reflects Gen Z’s struggles with humor and vulnerability.
- Quick Application: Perfect for those who don’t want to spend hours on makeup.
Cons
- Fleeting Nature: As a TikTok trend, it’s likely to fade quickly.
- Misinterpretation: Some may see it as glorifying unhealthy habits like sleep deprivation.
- Limited Appeal: Not everyone wants to look deliberately exhausted.
- Workplace Concerns: May not be suitable for professional settings.
The Psychology Behind the Trend
Embracing Vulnerability
The Tired Girl trend isn’t just about makeup—it’s a statement. Gen Z is navigating a world of economic uncertainty, social pressures, and digital overload. By flaunting dark circles, they’re saying, “I’m exhausted, and I’m okay with it.” It’s a form of dark humor, a way to cope with the chaos of modern life. As Hastings-Narayanin notes, “Flaunting vulnerability becomes a coping mechanism.”
A Shift in Beauty Standards
Historically, looking tired was a no-no—associated with poor health or aging. The Tired Girl trend challenges this, redefining exhaustion as chic. It’s a pushback against the “hustle culture” that glorifies overwork while demanding we look flawless. By embracing imperfection, Gen Z is rewriting the rules of beauty, one smudged eyeliner at a time.
Where to Get Inspiration for the Tired Girl Look
TikTok Tutorials
TikTok is the heart of this trend. Search for “Tired Girl makeup” to find tutorials from creators like Violetta, whose videos have garnered over 300,000 views. These step-by-step guides show you how to smudge eyeshadow and pick the right lip tint. Follow hashtags like #TiredGirl or #MoldyMakeup for the latest takes.
Celebrity Role Models
Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday Addams is the poster child for this trend, but others like Lily-Rose Depp and Emma Chamberlain have also rocked the smudgy-eye look. Check out their red-carpet appearances or Instagram posts for inspiration. Gabbriette’s smoky, grunge-inspired aesthetic at Saint Laurent’s 2025 menswear show is another great reference.
Movies and TV Shows
Tim Burton’s Wednesday is a goldmine for Tired Girl vibes. Study Jenna Ortega’s makeup in the series for tips on achieving that pale, shadowy look. Older films like Girl, Interrupted (Angelina Jolie’s raw, emotional aesthetic) or Léon (Natalie Portman’s youthful grunge) also offer visual cues.
Best Tools and Products for the Tired Girl Look
Budget-Friendly Options
You don’t need to break the bank to try this trend. Brands like e.l.f. and NYX offer affordable products that deliver the undone look. For example, e.l.f.’s blending brush is perfect for smudging eyeshadow, and NYX’s eyeshadow palettes have the right muted tones.
High-End Alternatives
If you’re willing to splurge, Fenty Beauty’s lip tints and Glossier’s skin tints are top picks. They offer premium quality while keeping the look natural. Fenty’s mauve lip shades, in particular, nail the bitten-lip effect.
Where to Shop
- Online: Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon stock all the recommended brands.
- In-Store: Target and CVS carry e.l.f. and NYX for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Direct from Brands: Glossier and Fenty Beauty’s websites offer exclusive products and tutorials.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the Tired Girl makeup trend on TikTok?
The Tired Girl trend is a Gen Z beauty movement that celebrates looking exhausted, with pale skin, smudged eyeshadow, and muted lips. It’s a rebellion against polished aesthetics, inspired by Wednesday Addams and grunge culture.
How do you do Tired Girl makeup?
Start with a pale foundation, apply light gray or brown eyeshadow under the eyes, and use a mauve lip tint for a bitten effect. Keep products minimal for a natural, undone look. Check TikTok tutorials for step-by-step guides.
Why is the Tired Girl trend popular?
It resonates with Gen Z’s desire for authenticity, reflecting their struggles with humor and vulnerability. It’s a pushback against perfectionism, embracing flaws in a curated digital world.
Is the Tired Girl trend the same as goth?
No, Tired Girl is lighter and less subcultural than goth, which features heavier makeup and paler skin. It’s closer to ‘90s grunge but more fleeting and TikTok-driven.
FAQ Section
Is the Tired Girl trend here to stay?
Probably not—it’s a TikTok trend, and these are famously fleeting. Experts like Hastings-Narayanin predict it’ll be replaced by the next viral aesthetic soon. But its message of authenticity might leave a lasting impact.
Can anyone pull off the Tired Girl look?
Absolutely! It’s versatile and works with minimal products, making it accessible for all skill levels. Just adjust the intensity to suit your style—subtle for everyday, bold for a statement.
Is the Tired Girl trend safe for skin?
Yes, as long as you use quality products and remove makeup properly to avoid irritation. Stick to reputable brands like those listed above to protect your skin.
How does Tired Girl differ from the clean girl aesthetic?
Tired Girl embraces a messy, exhausted look with pale skin and smudged makeup, while clean girl focuses on radiant, polished minimalism. They’re opposites in vibe and execution.
Where can I find Tired Girl makeup tutorials?
TikTok is your best bet—search #TiredGirl or #MoldyMakeup for tutorials. YouTube also has detailed videos, and Instagram posts from influencers like Emma Chamberlain offer inspiration.
The Bigger Picture: What Tired Girl Says About Us
The Tired Girl trend is more than a makeup fad—it’s a mirror to Gen Z’s psyche. It’s a playful yet poignant response to a world that demands perfection while piling on pressures. By embracing dark circles and pale skin, young people are saying, “This is me, flaws and all.” It’s a small act of rebellion, a way to reclaim authenticity in an overly curated digital age.
I remember my own teenage years, trying to hide every blemish with layers of concealer. If I’d had this trend back then, maybe I’d have spent less time stressing over “perfection.” There’s something freeing about smudging eyeshadow under your eyes and calling it chic. It’s not just makeup—it’s a mindset.
Conclusion: Will You Try the Tired Girl Look?
The Tired Girl trend may not last forever, but its impact is undeniable. It’s a bold statement against beauty norms, a celebration of imperfection, and a nod to the struggles we all face. Whether you’re inspired by Wednesday Addams or just tired of flawless filters, this trend invites you to embrace your raw, real self. So, grab some gray eyeshadow, skip the concealer, and give it a try. You might just find beauty in the exhaustion.
For more beauty tips and trend updates, check out Vogue’s beauty section or follow #TiredGirl on TikTok. What’s your take on this trend? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
