TikTok ‘Very Demure, Very Mindful’ Trend Explained

August 22, 2024

A new TikTok trend is making waves… Are you embracing a Brat Summer or opting for a Very Demure, Very Mindful Summer?

The latest viral sensation on TikTok has users embracing their inner sophisticate with the “Very Demure, Very Mindful” trend. This tongue-in-cheek movement encourages followers to adopt an exaggeratedly prim and proper persona, offering a humorous counterpoint to the more rebellious “Brat Summer” ethos.

The phrase “very demure, very mindful” gained traction in early August 2024, thanks to TikTok creator Jools Lebron (@joolieannie). Lebron’s initial video, captioned “How to be demure at work,” struck a chord with viewers, sparking a wave of imitations and parodies across the platform.

@joolieannie #fyp #demure ♬ original sound - Jools Lebron

In a follow-up video, Jools elaborated on the concept: “You see how I do my makeup for work? Very demure. Very mindful. I don’t show up with a green cut crease. I don’t look like a clown at work. I keep it simple. I’m very mindful while I’m at work.”

What Does It Mean to Be ‘Demure and Mindful’?

By definition, ‘demure’ refers to someone who is reserved, modest, and well-behaved. In the context of this trend, users are taking this concept to comical extremes, offering increasingly absurd tips on maintaining a demure and mindful presence in various situations.

The “Very Demure, Very Mindful” trend has struck a chord with TikTok users for several reasons:

Humor: The exaggerated nature of the advice provides a source of entertainment and levity. Users are drawn to the over-the-top suggestions and the playful mockery of overly prim behavior. The absurdity of some tips, like showing “just a little chee chee,” adds a layer of comedic value that keeps viewers engaged and amused.
Relatability: Many users find the contrast between idealized professional behavior and reality amusing and relatable. The trend taps into shared experiences of navigating workplace expectations and the sometimes unrealistic standards of professionalism. By exaggerating these norms, the trend allows users to laugh at the pressures they often face in their daily lives.
Creativity: The trend allows for creative expression as users develop their own interpretations of what it means to be “demure and mindful.” Participants enjoy putting their own spin on the concept, crafting increasingly outlandish scenarios and advice. This creative aspect encourages user engagement and helps the trend evolve and stay fresh.
Cultural Commentary: Some view the trend as a satirical take on societal expectations and workplace norms. By pushing the concept of “demure and mindful” to its limits, the trend subtly critiques the often arbitrary and sometimes oppressive nature of professional standards, particularly those that disproportionately affect women and younger workers.

As Jools humorously puts it, “You see how I look presentable? The way I came to the interview is the way I show up for the job. Some of you girls show up to the interview looking like Marge Simpson and then go to work looking like Patty and Selma. That’s not demure.”

As with many TikTok trends, “Very Demure, Very Mindful” continues to evolve as more users add their own spin to the concept. Whether you’re embracing your inner demure diva or simply enjoying the humor, this trend offers a refreshing take on self-presentation in the digital age.

Remember, in the world of “Very Demure, Very Mindful”: A modest amount of chee chee? Very demure, very mindful. Green cut crease? Not demure, not mindful. The choice is yours!

Written by: MJ