E-girls and E-boys emerged as internet-native aesthetic combining anime, gaming, emo, and goth subcultures into distinctive TikTok style. Characterized by dyed hair (often split-dyed or brightly colored), heavy eyeliner, striped long-sleeves under graphic tees, chain accessories, and exaggerated blush, the aesthetic celebrated online culture over IRL trends.
The Visual Markers
E-girl makeup:
- Heavy winged eyeliner or graphic liner under eyes
- Faux freckles or hearts drawn on cheeks
- Neon or pastel hair (often split-dyed pink/black)
- Exaggerated blush across nose
- Dark lipstick or glossy lips
E-boy aesthetic:
- Striped long-sleeve shirts under graphic tees
- Chain necklaces and belts
- Dyed hair (curtain bangs, often black with colored streaks)
- Painted nails (black or dark colors)
- Skater-inspired clothing
The Cultural Roots
The aesthetic drew from:
- Anime/manga (ahegao faces, exaggerated expressions)
- Gamer girl stereotype (Twitch streamers, Belle Delphine)
- Emo/scene 2000s subculture (My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy)
- Goth fashion (dark colors, chains, chokers)
- K-pop visual styles (colorful hair, androgynous fashion)
TikTok Fame (2019-2020)
Creators like @noeneubanks (e-boy), @avani (e-girl), and @lilhuddy dominated “For You” pages with lip-sync videos, POV content, and aesthetic showcases. The hashtag #egirl reached 10 billion+ views. Brands like Dolls Kill capitalized with e-girl starter packs.
The Controversy
Critics noted problematic elements: hypersexualization of young girls, fetishization of Asian aesthetics, and association with “gamer girl” objectification. Belle Delphine’s controversial OnlyFans presence complicated the aesthetic’s relationship with sex work.
The movement also faced accusations of appropriating Black emo/scene culture without credit.
Evolution & Mainstream Adoption
By 2021-2022, e-girl makeup went mainstream: Euphoria’s influence, Olivia Rodrigo’s aesthetic, and high fashion adoption (Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs) legitimized the look. The term “e-girl” broadened from specific subculture to general descriptor for “internet girl.”
The aesthetic’s staying power proved internet-native styles could rival traditional fashion trends.
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