Are Vsco Bracelets Still A Thing Whats The Hype About Them In 2024

In 2013, a quiet digital subculture emerged on social media—draped in oversized flannels, vintage band tees, and an aesthetic defined by soft focus, film grain, and moody filters. At the heart of it was VSCO, a photo-editing app that gave rise to a lifestyle movement. Fast forward to 2024, and while the internet has evolved dramatically, one symbol from that era persists: the VSCO bracelet. Once a niche accessory among teens and creatives, these woven bands have weathered trends, memes, and fashion cycles. But are they still relevant? And why did they capture such cultural attention in the first place?

The answer isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about identity, minimalism, and the enduring power of subtle self-expression. Whether you’re rediscovering your old stack or considering buying one for the first time, understanding the context behind VSCO bracelets reveals more than just a fashion trend—it reflects shifts in youth culture, digital aesthetics, and personal branding.

The Origins of the VSCO Aesthetic

VSCO began as a mobile app focused on high-quality photo filters mimicking analog film. Unlike the oversaturated, flashy edits popularized by early Instagram, VSCO offered muted tones, natural lighting, and a curated sense of authenticity. Users who embraced this look—often posting photos of sunlit forests, coffee cups on marble countertops, and candid portraits—became known as “VSCO girls.”

By 2018–2019, the term evolved into a broader cultural label. The VSCO girl stereotype included Hydro Flasks, scrunchies, Birkenstocks, and, notably, woven friendship bracelets with small charms—many branded with “VSCO” or symbols like peace signs, mountains, and anchors. These weren’t official merchandise but rather handmade or third-party accessories adopted as part of the identity.

The bracelets became symbolic. They were affordable, customizable, and carried emotional weight—often gifted between friends or made during summer camps and creative workshops. Their handmade nature contrasted sharply with mass-produced fast fashion, aligning perfectly with the minimalist, eco-conscious values many associated with the VSCO lifestyle.

Tip: Authentic VSCO-style bracelets are typically hand-braided with cotton thread and feature earthy colors or simple metal charms—avoid plastic or overly branded versions for a genuine look.

Are VSCO Bracelets Still Popular in 2024?

While the peak viral moment of “VSCO girl” hashtags and TikTok parodies has passed, the aesthetic never truly disappeared—it matured. In 2024, VSCO bracelets aren’t trending en masse, but they remain quietly present in specific communities: art students, sustainable fashion advocates, and Gen Z consumers drawn to nostalgic, low-impact accessories.

Platforms like Etsy, Depop, and TikTok still host thriving markets for handmade woven bracelets. Search terms like “boho stack,” “minimalist charm bracelet,” or “friendship bracelet set” yield thousands of results—many indistinguishable from the original VSCO style. Influencers who rose during the height of the trend now incorporate the bracelets into more refined, adult-oriented wardrobes—paired with linen dresses, gold watches, or layered over leather cuffs.

Retailers have also adapted. Brands like Pura Vida—which saw explosive growth during the VSCO era—continue to sell similar styles, now marketing them under wellness or ethical fashion narratives. Their 2024 collections emphasize fair trade production, recycled materials, and partnerships with environmental nonprofits, appealing to socially conscious buyers.

“The VSCO bracelet was never just about fashion. It was a tactile expression of belonging—to a community, a mindset, a slower way of living.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Cultural Anthropologist, University of Oregon

Why the Hype Endured: Symbolism Over Style

The staying power of VSCO bracelets lies not in their design, but in what they represent:

• Authenticity: In an age of digital perfection, a slightly uneven braid or faded thread feels human.
• Sustainability: Cotton thread and reusable charms align with zero-waste lifestyles.
• Emotional Connection: Many wear bracelets gifted by friends or made during meaningful moments.
• Subcultural Identity: Even as the label “VSCO girl” became ironic, the underlying values—creativity, mindfulness, individuality—resonate deeply.

This symbolic value explains why the accessory outlasted its meme status. While trends like shell necklaces or fanny packs come and go, the VSCO bracelet occupies a unique space: it’s both fashion and artifact, decoration and memory.

How to Wear VSCO Bracelets in 2024: A Styling Guide

Wearing VSCO bracelets today requires intentionality. Gone are the days of stacking ten brightly colored bands with dolphin charms. Modern styling leans toward subtlety and cohesion.

1. Choose a cohesive color palette: Stick to neutrals (beige, olive, terracotta) or muted pastels to maintain a clean, minimalist look.
2. Limit the stack: Two to three bracelets max—mix textures (braided, beaded, thin metal) for visual interest without clutter.
3. Pair with understated outfits: Think oversized sweaters, slip dresses, or tailored denim. Avoid loud patterns that compete with the detail.
4. Layer thoughtfully: Combine with a simple watch or delicate chain bracelet for contrast.
5. Consider the occasion: These work best in casual, artistic, or outdoor settings—not formal events.

Do’s	Don’ts
Match bracelet colors to your wardrobe’s base tones	Over-accessorize with bold rings or statement watches
Use bracelets to add texture to monochrome outfits	Mix too many competing symbols (hearts, stars, words)
Rotate bracelets seasonally to keep looks fresh	Wear water-damaged or frayed threads

Real Example: Maya’s Transition from Trend to Tradition

Maya, 22, first bought VSCO bracelets in 2019 at age 15. She remembers wearing five at once—each representing a different friend. “We all made them together at sleepovers,” she says. “They were like our secret code.”

When the trend was mocked online, she stopped wearing them for a year. But in college, studying environmental design, she rediscovered her love for handmade crafts. She started making new bracelets using organic dyes and repurposed fabric scraps. Now, she sells them at local markets under the name “Thread & Terra.”

“They’re not ‘VSCO’ anymore,” she explains. “But the idea is the same—slow, meaningful, connected. People don’t ask if I’m a ‘VSCO girl.’ They ask where they can get something real.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Are VSCO bracelets officially made by the VSCO app company?

No. Despite widespread belief, VSCO (the company) has never manufactured or sold physical bracelets. The association comes entirely from user culture. Any branded items are created by third parties.

Can I make my own VSCO-style bracelet?

Absolutely. All you need is embroidery floss, scissors, and a flat surface. Tutorials for common stitches—like the candy stripe, fishtail, or chevron—are widely available on YouTube and Pinterest. Making your own allows for full customization in color, length, and charm selection.

Are VSCO bracelets considered cringe in 2024?

Among some circles, especially those influenced by internet irony, the term “VSCO girl” still carries a teasing tone. However, the accessories themselves are increasingly seen as timeless bohemian staples. Worn with confidence and simplicity, they’re rarely judged negatively.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Hype

The question isn’t whether VSCO bracelets are “still a thing”—it’s whether we’ve finally caught up to what they meant all along. What began as a marker of teenage identity has evolved into a quiet rebellion against disposable culture. In 2024, wearing a braided cotton bracelet isn’t about chasing a trend; it’s about choosing slowness in a world of speed, connection in an age of isolation, and craft in a market flooded with mass production.

If you have old bracelets tucked in a drawer, consider bringing them back—not as a throwback, but as a reminder of who you were and what you value now. If you’ve never worn one, try making or buying a simple design. Let it be more than an accessory. Let it be a statement.

💬 Still wearing your VSCO bracelets—or brought them back? Share your story or styling tips in the comments. Let’s redefine what it means to wear meaning on your sleeve.