Where did the ‘demure’ trend come from?

It started out as a Brat summer, but now everyone’s talking about things being “very demure, very mindful.” If you want to stay on top of fall fashion, the demure trend is where it’s at. However, you might be left wondering what this craze is all about and where it came from.

We have the answers about the origin of the demure trend, plus some recommendations if you want to try it out. From simple button-up shirts to stylish yet comfortable shoes, you can have your own demure fall. But, remember to take it in the spirit in which it was intended and have fun with it. 

In this article: Liyohon Mock Turtleneck T-ShirtFaherty Organic Cotton Blend Oxford Button-Up Shirt and Blu Pepper Mock-Neck Ribbed Sweater

What’s all this about being demure? 

The demure trend came from a TikTok video made by content creator Jools Lebron. She made a satirical video about how she dresses conservatively for work and how other women should too. She used the phrase “very demure, very mindful” and it took hold. The video went viral, and soon people were using the phrase in their own TikToks and other social media posts. 

It’s worth remembering, though, that this was meant as a joke. Some folks have taken it out of context but nobody’s actually asking women to dress or act demure. It just seems like, after a wild Brat summer, people are wanting to slow down and get cozy for fall. Perhaps the best thing about this trend: Lebron told fans the money she’s made from going viral will be able to fund her gender-affirming surgeries. And, if that’s not demure and mindful, we don’t know what is. 

What you need to get fall’s demure fashion look

Liyohon Mock Turtleneck T-Shirt

Liyohon Mock Turtleneck T-Shirt

This mock turtleneck T-shirt has half-length sleeves and is made from a soft cotton-polyester blend. If your goal is to show up to work very demure, very mindful, it’s a shirt that might just make it into regular rotation. You can choose from 29 colors, including some great fall basics, such as brown, apricot and sienna. 

Faherty Organic Cotton Blend Oxford

Faherty Organic Cotton Blend Oxford Button-Up Shirt

Every fall wardrobe needs a solid button-up shirt. It’s a classic staple that instantly makes an outfit look more put-together, whether you’re at the office, out to dinner, or hitting an event. The fabric is an organic cotton blend and feels high-quality. 

Blu Pepper Mock Neck Rib Sweater

Blu Pepper Mock-Neck Ribbed Sweater

A cozy choice for fall, this sweater looks relaxed but not too casual. The dropped shoulders give it an oversized look, although it isn’t overly baggy. We love the extra-large ribs around the cuffs, neck and hem. 

A New Day Women's A-Line Midi Picnic Skirt

A New Day Women’s A-Line Midi Picnic Skirt

If you’re looking for staples that are versatile and great for the transitional period between the warmer start of fall and the cooler end of the season, this skirt is a great pick. The midi length means your legs shouldn’t get too cold, but it looks great paired with thick tights on those chillier days. 

Universal Standard Verbena Voile Pants

Universal Standard Verbena Voile Pants

These super-wide-legged pants are both stylish and practical. They’re comfortable to wear but look good with everything from a band tee to a button-up shirt and blazer. Sizes run from 00-0 to 38-40. 

Dearmay Gold Bracelets

Dearmay Gold Bracelets 

The demure fashion trend doesn’t have to end at clothes. There’s a place for accessories too. Anyone who wants to add to their jewelry collection without spending too much should consider this set of bracelets. It includes five gold-plated chains, each with its own link design. They’re great worn together or separately — the perfect fall accessories. 

Good American Essential Suiting Oversized Blazer

Good American Essential Suiting Oversized Blazer

A good blazer is hard to find, which is why you should snap this one up. It has a cool oversized look without appearing boxy or ill-fitting. It comes in heather gray or black and works over jeans or with more formal attire. 

Madewell Essential Leather Tote

Madewell The Essential Leather Tote

This leather tote is a great finishing touch to any outfit — and it’s practical too. It’s big enough to fit a laptop, along with other everyday essentials, such as a water bottle and a sweater. It has convenient compartments for keys, wallets and other small items. 

Dokotoo Lightweight Knit Sweater

Dokotoo Lightweight Knit Sweater

We love the crochet effect of this lightweight short-sleeve sweater. The patterns in the knit look almost like lace. Very demure. It comes in 19 shades, including black, mist green and Prussian blue. 

Petal and Pup Trina Button Front Trench Coat

Petal and Pup Trina Button-Front Trench Coat

Fall coats can be tricky, as you don’t need anything too heavy but the weather can get nippy. This trench coat is ideal, as it’s made from a midweight fabric and can keep off light rain. It comes in four colors and sizes from X-Small to X-Large. 

 A New Day Gold Plated Puffed Teardrop Post Earrings

A New Day Gold-Plated Puffed Teardrop Post Earrings

With their cute teardrop shape, these earrings are ideal for rounding out your demure fall look. They’re plated with 14-karat gold and have a sterling silver post. 

Cvistpieo Penny Loafers

Cvistpieo Penny Loafers

Their classic style makes these penny loafers the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. They’re flat, meaning they’re more comfortable and practical for all-day wear than heels. You can choose from 14 color and material combinations, including beige suede, black leather and brown stone leather.

Sojos Classic Retro Sunglasses

Sojos Classic Retro Sunglasses

You might be planning your fall look, but it’s not time to say goodbye to sunglasses. They can still be useful on bright fall days. The classic rounded shape of these shades makes them super versatile, working with a wide range of outfits.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.