'Very demure, very mindful' - are we missing the joke of viral trend?

A new trend called 'very demure, very mindful' has recently gone viral on TikTok, and it is making waves in how people think about their behavior and fashion choices. This trend began with a humorous video by Jools Lebron, a popular TikTok creator, who shared her thoughts on dressing appropriately for work. In her video, she quipped, 'You see how I do my make-up for work? Very demure, very mindful. ' This playful remark poked fun at how some individuals present themselves during job interviews, suggesting that many could benefit from a more polished appearance. Jools's video quickly gained traction, leading to her newfound fame, appearances on shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live! , and even the ability to finance her gender transition. The trend has attracted attention from various corners of the internet, with even organizations like NASA joining in on the fun by stating, 'You see how Earth looks in space? It’s very demure, very mindful. ' This illustrates just how widespread the trend has become.

While many people are enjoying the humor behind the 'very demure, very mindful' trend, there are concerns that it may inadvertently set unrealistic expectations for women. The term 'demure' typically refers to someone who is reserved and modest, but some individuals, like TikTok user Sabrina Thulander, argue that it can carry negative connotations. Sabrina expressed her view that 'demure' evokes images of women from the Victorian era, suggesting that it promotes outdated ideals of femininity. On the other hand, some women are embracing the 'trad wife' concept, which has gained popularity due to the portrayal of women in period dramas like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey. These shows feature characters who embody the qualities of being polite and adhering to traditional gender roles, which some viewers find appealing.

The impact of the 'very demure, very mindful' trend extends beyond just behavior; it is also influencing fashion choices. Many content creators are interpreting the trend as a call for a more refined and understated style. For instance, Ambika Dhir, a fashion influencer, describes being 'demure and mindful' as wearing well-crafted outfits that exude quiet luxury and sophistication. Similarly, social media strategist Isa Lavahun views the phrase as a representation of self-love, emphasizing that carrying oneself with grace and empathy is more important than seeking validation from others. However, not everyone shares this perspective. Some critics argue that the trend has become too serious, losing the original humor that sparked its popularity. They believe that as the trend has grown, the nuances and sarcasm behind the joke have been lost, leading to a more literal interpretation of what it means to be 'demure.