Famous TikTok Trends of 2021

TikTok, the social media phenomenon that captivated millions worldwide, saw a whirlwind of trends and viral moments in 2021. As the app continued to dominate our screens, several trends emerged that not only entertained but also shaped pop culture. Here, we dive deep into the most iconic TikTok trends of 2021, exploring their origins, impact, and what made them so captivating.

Viral Challenges and Dance Moves

One of the most defining aspects of TikTok in 2021 was its dance trends. The platform's ability to turn a catchy song into a global phenomenon through dance challenges was in full force.

1. "Up" Challenge: Cardi B's hit single "Up" inspired a dance challenge that quickly became one of the most popular trends of the year. With its energetic beat and catchy lyrics, TikTok users worldwide took to the app to showcase their dance skills, creating a wave of creativity and fun.

2. "Savage Love" Dance: Jason Derulo’s "Savage Love" had already started making waves in 2020, but the dance trend continued to evolve throughout 2021. The choreography, often performed with a partner, became a staple in TikTok dance compilations, showing how a trend can evolve and persist over time.

3. "Ratatouille: The Musical": The trend started as a joke, but it quickly became a full-fledged phenomenon. TikTok users collaborated to create a musical adaptation of the Disney film "Ratatouille," showcasing the platform’s unique ability to turn fan creativity into a collective experience.

Viral Sounds and Memes

Beyond dance, TikTok's diverse sound library provided a rich tapestry for memes and viral content in 2021.

1. "Buss It" Challenge: This challenge started with Erica Banks’ track “Buss It” and involved a transition from casual to glamorous looks. The transformation videos, often involving dramatic before-and-after changes, captivated users and led to a wave of creativity.

2. "Chug Jug With You": A Fortnite-inspired song that took TikTok by storm, "Chug Jug With You" became a meme in itself. The song’s catchy, comedic nature lent itself to a variety of humorous videos, making it a staple for creators looking to entertain their audience.

Fashion and Beauty Trends

TikTok also had a significant influence on fashion and beauty trends in 2021.

1. "E-girl" Aesthetic: The E-girl trend, characterized by a mix of anime-inspired makeup, pastel colors, and a distinct style, continued to dominate TikTok. This aesthetic blended elements from different subcultures, creating a unique look that many TikTok users embraced.

2. DIY Fashion: With many people spending more time at home, DIY fashion became increasingly popular. TikTok users shared creative ways to upcycle old clothing, leading to a surge in sustainable fashion trends.

Food Trends

Food trends on TikTok not only became viral but also influenced real-world culinary practices.

1. Dalgona Coffee: Originally a Korean trend, Dalgona coffee gained international fame on TikTok. The whipped coffee drink, made with instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, became a viral sensation, with many users trying their hand at making the frothy beverage.

2. Feta Pasta: The Feta pasta trend, which involved baking a block of feta cheese with tomatoes and mixing it with pasta, took TikTok by storm. The simplicity and delicious results made it a popular choice for home cooks looking for a quick and tasty meal.

Pet Trends

Pets have always been a significant part of TikTok, but 2021 saw a surge in pet-related content.

1. "How It Started vs. How It’s Going": This trend, where users showed the evolution of their pets from when they first got them to their current state, became a heartwarming way to share the joy pets bring to their lives.

2. Pet Challenges: Various pet challenges, from teaching dogs new tricks to dressing them up in cute outfits, continued to entertain TikTok users and bring a smile to their faces.

Influencer Trends

TikTok influencers played a crucial role in driving trends and shaping the platform’s content.

1. Collaborations and Brand Deals: Influencers in 2021 continued to leverage their platforms for collaborations and brand deals. The ability to reach large audiences made TikTok an attractive option for brands looking to connect with younger demographics.

2. Content Creation Tips: Influencers also shared tips and tricks for creating viral content, helping others understand what makes a TikTok video successful. These insights not only benefited aspiring creators but also contributed to the overall growth of the platform.

Cultural Impact

The trends of 2021 were not just about entertainment; they had a broader cultural impact.

1. Social Justice Movements: TikTok became a platform for raising awareness about social justice issues. Trends related to activism and advocacy emerged, reflecting the platform’s role in facilitating important conversations.

2. Mental Health Awareness: Many creators used their platforms to discuss mental health, sharing personal stories and offering support. This trend highlighted the growing importance of mental health in online communities.

As we look back on 2021, it’s clear that TikTok’s trends were diverse and impactful, ranging from dance challenges to social justice movements. The platform’s ability to turn a simple idea into a global sensation demonstrates its unique place in the social media landscape. Whether it was through viral dances, innovative recipes, or heartwarming pet videos, TikTok in 2021 showcased the power of creativity and community in the digital age.