Boy Next Door

The Boy Next Door aesthetic embodies a sense of familiarity and approachability, celebrating the charm and down-to-earth nature of everyday life. It focuses on relatable experiences, genuine connections, and a sense of comfort, evoking a nostalgic and wholesome atmosphere.
== History ==
The Boy Next Door aesthetic emerged in popular culture during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. It was influenced by the rise of suburban living and the idealization of wholesome, "all-American" values. This aesthetic portrayed the boy next door as the epitome of an ideal neighbor and romantic interest, embodying qualities such as kindness, simplicity, and approachability. Over the years, the aesthetic has evolved and been reinterpreted in various forms of media, including films, television shows, and literature, continuing to resonate with audiences who appreciate its nostalgic and relatable qualities.
== Visual ==
In terms of fashion, the Boy Next Door aesthetic embraces a laid-back and effortless style. It often includes well-fitted jeans or khakis, plain t-shirts or button-down shirts, and comfortable sneakers or loafers. The color palette typically consists of neutral tones such as beige, gray, and white, with occasional pops of denim blue.
The key motifs of the Boy Next Door aesthetic revolve around the everyday life of an average young man. It celebrates mundane activities, such as hanging out with friends, playing sports, or enjoying outdoor hobbies. The aesthetic appreciates the beauty in simplicity and finds charm in the ordinary.
== Fashion ==
Boy Next Door fashion is characterized by its casual and laid-back style with a touch of preppy and clean-cut elements. It often includes items such as fitted jeans or chinos, plain t-shirts or polo shirts, button-down shirts, crew neck sweaters, varsity jackets, casual sneakers, and loafers. The color palette tends to be neutral or classic, featuring shades of navy, gray, white, and earth tones. This aesthetic aims to create a simple yet stylish look that reflects a sense of approachability, friendliness, and a wholesome appeal.
* Casual and laid-back style
* Preppy and clean-cut elements
* Fitted jeans or chinos
* Plain t-shirts or polo shirts
* Button-down shirts
* Crew neck sweaters
* Varsity jackets
* Casual sneakers and loafers
== Media ==
Media that aligns with the Boy Next Door aesthetic includes romantic comedies, coming-of-age films, and slice-of-life TV shows that depict ordinary experiences and relationships. Brands like American Eagle, Gap, and Levi's are often associated with this aesthetic, offering clothing that embodies the relaxed and approachable style of the Boy Next Door.
=== Characters=== 
*Noah Sandborn (The Boy Next Door)
* Cameron James (10 Things I hate About You)
*Josh (To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before)
* Will Stronghold (Sky High)
*PJ Duncan (Good Luck Charlie)
===Films=== 
*10 Things I Hate About You (1999) - A modern adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," this film portrays a charming and relatable high school romance with a Boy Next Door character.
*To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018) - Based on the popular novel by Jenny Han, this romantic comedy portrays a sweet and relatable story of a girl next door falling for a boy next door. It captures the innocence and genuine connections of the aesthetic.
*Sky High (2005) - The Character Will Stronghold is portrayed and example of the Boy Next Door trope.
===TV Series===
* Friends (1994-2004) - This iconic sitcom follows a group of friends living in New York City, highlighting their everyday adventures and relationships. It showcases the camaraderie and down-to-earth nature of the Boy Next Door aesthetic.
* New Girl (2011-2018) - This sitcom follows the life of a quirky young woman living with three male roommates. It showcases the everyday adventures, friendships, and romantic relationships with a touch of Boy Next Door charm.
===Music===
*Ed Sheeran - Ed Sheeran's music often embodies the Boy Next Door vibe with heartfelt lyrics, acoustic melodies, and a relatable persona. Songs like "Thinking Out Loud" and "Shape of You" capture the charm and simplicity of the aesthetic.
=== Literature === 
*The Fault in Our Stars by John Green - This best-selling young adult novel tells a heartwarming and relatable love story between two teenagers, capturing the emotional depth and authenticity of the Boy Next Door aesthetic.
==Criticisms==
===Idealized Portrayal ===
Critics argue that the aesthetic often presents an idealized and unrealistic version of romance, focusing on a perfect and effortless love story between the boy next door and the protagonist. This can create unrealistic expectations and may not accurately reflect the complexities and challenges of real-life relationships.
===Simplistic Characterization===
In some cases, the "boy next door" aesthetic may rely on shallow characterizations, emphasizing surface-level qualities and romantic tropes rather than delving into deeper emotional connections and complexities of relationships. This can lead to one-dimensional portrayals of romance.
==Resources==
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===Vendors===
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===Playlists===
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===Pinterest Boards===
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==Related Aesthetics==
The Boy Next Door aesthetic is closely related to the Girl Next Door aesthetic, as both represent a wholesome and relatable image of youth and neighborly interaction. It shares common elements with other aesthetics such as Cottagecore, which emphasizes a nostalgic and rural lifestyle, and Normcore, which embraces simplicity and blending in.
== Gallery==
Under Construction
==References==
Category:Needs images
Category:Subcultures and Stereotypes
Category:1950s
Category:1960s
Category:Fashion
Category:Fashion Styles
Category:Character Tropes
Category:Masculine
Category:Visual
Category:American