TikTok Trend “Very Demure” Gains Popularity: A Cultural Phenomenon
August 22, 2024 - United States - In the ever-evolving world of social media, a new TikTok trend has taken the platform by storm. The trend, centered around the word “demure,” was popularized by TikTok creator Jools Lebron. Her content, which humorously describes everyday activities as “very demure,” has gained significant traction, even catching the attention of celebrities and the White House.
The Birth of a Trend
The “very demure” trend began in early August 2024 when Jools Lebron, known as @joolieannie on TikTok, posted a video showcasing her professional makeup look. In the video, she described her appearance as “very demure” and “very mindful,” emphasizing a modest and understated style. The video quickly went viral, amassing millions of views and sparking a cultural conversation1.
Lebron’s use of the term “demure” resonated with many TikTok users, who began to adopt the phrase in their own videos. The trend has since evolved into a playful and exaggerated take on modesty and traditional femininity. Users describe various activities, from getting ready for work to waiting in line at the grocery store, as “very demure”2.
Celebrity Endorsements and Media Attention
The trend’s popularity has not gone unnoticed by celebrities and public figures. Several high-profile individuals, including actors and influencers, have joined in on the fun, posting their own “very demure” videos. The trend even caught the attention of the White House, with a spokesperson acknowledging its widespread appeal during a recent press briefing3.
Lebron’s content has also been featured in major media outlets, further amplifying the trend’s reach. In an interview with CBS News, Lebron explained the inspiration behind her videos and what the word “demure” represents to her. “Your demure is what it means to you. It’s being mindful and considerate of the people around you, but also of yourself and how you present to the world,” she said4.
The Impact on Social Media Culture
The “very demure” trend has sparked discussions about self-awareness, confidence, and the power of social media to shape cultural norms. While the trend is lighthearted and humorous, it also highlights the importance of mindfulness and self-presentation in everyday life.
Health experts have noted that the trend’s emphasis on mindfulness can have positive effects on mental health. By encouraging users to be more aware of their actions and surroundings, the trend promotes a sense of calm and self-assurance2.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its popularity, the “very demure” trend has faced some criticism. Detractors argue that the trend reinforces traditional gender roles and expectations of femininity. Others believe that the trend’s focus on appearance can perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards.
Lebron has addressed these criticisms in her videos, emphasizing that her use of the term “demure” is meant to be inclusive and empowering. “We’re all like in this; we’re unified, like nothing has to be so serious. Nothing has to be so aggressive. Like everything could just be very cute. Where, you know, we don’t do too much. We only do a little bit. I’m not crazy with it. I’m very demure,” she explained4.
Conclusion
The “very demure” trend is a testament to the power of social media to create and spread cultural phenomena. What started as a simple makeup tutorial has evolved into a widespread movement, capturing the attention of millions and sparking important conversations about mindfulness, self-presentation, and inclusivity.
As the trend continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and what impact it will have on social media culture. For now, TikTok users around the world are embracing their “very demure” selves, one video at a time.
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