Ditch clean chic, it’s time for mob-wife glam!
Tired of minimalism? TikTok’s new favorite, the mob wife aesthetic, is your excuse to unleash your inner maximalist with animal prints, leather, and gold galore. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Dua Lipa are already on board!
This trend started bubbling last October with a TikTok video defining the look: black leather, animal prints, messy hair, gold jewelry, and designer bags. But it exploded in early 2024, thanks to TikTokker Mikayla Toninato‘s take on the glamorous, messy appeal with big hair, smoky eyes, and over-the-top outfits.
Think 90s supermodel vibes mixed with early 2010s maximalism. Think the confidence of Mob Wives‘ Big Ang, rocking diamonds and not caring if she spills Chianti on her all-black outfit.
While Italian-American culture, especially from New Jersey and New York, heavily influences the aesthetic, the “mob” part comes from the characters it evokes: mafia wives like Drea de Matteo in The Sopranos or Lorraine Bracco in Goodfellas. And of course, the reality series Mob Wives, with its abundance of black leather and designer sunglasses. These are strong, independent women with bold style and the attitude to match.
Even if you don’t love the whole look, you might enjoy its individual elements. Leopard print, statement tights, chunky gold jewelry – these micro-trends are already trending on social media. Combine them all for a full-blown mob-wife statement. Plus, it’s the complete opposite of the minimalist trends dominating your feed – it’s loud, glamorous, and screams “luxury!”
However, there’s a slight identity crisis. The mob-wife image, despite its strong fashion sense, is ultimately defined by a husband’s profession. But TikTokker Toninato argues: “She is a boss in and of herself. It’s an attitude, an aura.” Maybe we should call her a mob boss instead?
To rock this look, stock up on key pieces: leopard print dress, jacket, or skirt; black leather (faux is great!); knee-high boots; roomy bags; oversized sunglasses; and gold earrings. Balance the glam with a simple white tank top and wide-leg leather pants.
But the most important ingredient? The confidence of a woman with money and no time to waste. Rock your gigantic coat and statement dress, channel your inner mob boss (Sunday sauce skills optional!), and sashay away – capeesh? This mob wife aesthetic is going to be fierce!