Tiktok, as we know it, has captivated audiences globally since its creation with its viral trends and captivating content.
From dance challenges across countries to creative skits that provoke laughter. This platform has, over time, become a breeding ground for community engagement, bonding and Internet culture.
In this article, we look into the top TikTok trends that have shaken the internet, carving a niche for popular culture. These trends, however, are characterised by their viral nature and widespread participation. They have entertained millions and served as a testament to the power of creativity, networking and the ability of a short video to make an unforgettable impact.
Here are ten notable TikTok trends that have gained significant attention since the inception of the app
1. The ‘Bored in the House’ Trend.
This particular trend is one of my favourites. The ‘Bored in the House’ trend emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when people worldwide had no choice but to spend more time at home due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. The trend was sponsored by the desire for entertainment and connections during these challenging times.
TikTokers of all ages and races took to the app to display their creativity and share how they kept themselves occupied while being ‘Bored in the House’. The trend involved users creating short videos highlighting various activities they were engaging in to pass the time.
@tyga #boredinthehouse @curtisroach ? Bored In The House – Tyga & Curtis Roach
These activities, however, went from creative pursuits like art, music and cooking to fitness routines, DIY projects and even more funny skits.
Although, one thing I loved was the fact that users could find joy and inspiration in their everyday lives, despite the already-established limitations imposed by the pandemic.
It allowed people to connect, exchange ideas and discover new hobbies or interests. The ‘Bored in the House’ trend served as a reminder that you can find creativity and a sense of community even in challenging times.
Many TikTokers used the hashtag #BoredInTheHouse or incorporated the original song “Bored in the House” by Curtis Roach into their videos. The trend quickly gained attention and allowed individuals to express their experiences and share glimpses into their lives during the pandemic.
Nonetheless, the ‘Bored in the House’ TikTok trend provided a platform for users to find inspiration, creativity and connection when many people were seeking new ways to entertain themselves while staying safe at home.
2. The ‘Savage’ Dance Challenge
The ‘Savage’ dance challenge has become one of the most popular TikTok trends, gathering millions of views and inspiring countless user-generated videos. This trend, however, was based on the song ‘Savage’ by Meghan Thee Stallion, which was already gaining wild popularity outside the TikTok scene due to its catchy beat and motivating lyrics.
The challenge involved a choreographed dance routine that users attempted to copy. Confident facial expressions often accompanied the dance moves. The challenge allowed TikTokers to showcase their dance skills and creativity while grooving to the song.
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What made the ‘Savage’ dance challenge particularly notable, you might want to ask?
Was its widespread appeal? It attracted many participants, from casual TikTok users to professional dancers and celebrities. Many users, including Meghan Thee Stallion herself, joined in on the trend and shared their versions of the dance routines.
@analisseworld @katttrod dc : @cassidycondiee ? Savage Remix – Megan Thee Stallion
In no time, the ‘Savage’ dance challenge quickly became a viral sensation, with the hashtag #Savagechallenge accumulating millions of views and engagements. It showcased the power of Tiktok as a platform for dance trends and created a fun and expressive outlet for users to connect through music and movement.
3. The ‘Don’t Rush’ Challenge
The ‘Don’t Rush’ Challenge invaded the TikTok scene seamlessly, offering users a creative and empowering way to display their style and transformations.
The trend was born out of the desire to celebrate individuality, self-expression and the satisfaction of getting ready.
A trend morning bloomers would happily relate to.
@victorialyn Me and my friends getting ready for PROM! Virtually?????? TAG your favs! #dontrushchallenge #beauty #makeup #style ? Don’t Rush (feat. Headie One) – Young T & Bugsey
The challenge typically involved participants, each appearing in their everyday attire and minimal makeup. As the song “Don’t Rush” by Young T & Bugsey played in the background, participants would pass an object, often a makeup brush, in front of the camera. With each pass, the screen would transition into a participant showcasing a glamorous look, complete with full-faced makeup, styled hair and a stunning outfit.
4. The ‘Buss it’ Challenge
Based on the song “Buss It’ by Erica Banks. This involved a dramatic before and after transformation that displayed confidence and self-expression.
What made the #Bussitchallenge unique and enthralling was the surprise factor. The transition from the casual, laid-back appearance to the glamorous and confident presentation aroused a lot of anticipation from viewers.
@shaygood One for the new year ? couldn’t let this transformation challenge pass me. #foryoupage #tiktokzambia #tiktoklover #bussit #shapeshift ? Buss It – Erica Banks
Moreover, the challenge served as a reminder that TikTok can unify people by showcasing diverse individuals embracing their unique styles and interpretations of confidence.
5. The ‘Say So’ Challenge
This challenge is an adaptation of Doja Cat’s song ‘’ Say So”. The challenge usually involves energetic moves featuring catchy and synchronised routines.
@liyahdia You gotta keep me focused ?@ocescroom #sayso #saysochallenge #pourtoi #foryou #parati #viral ? Say So – Doja Cat
The challenge also enables the user to showcase their creativity by adding flair to the choreography, resulting in diverse interpretations.
6. The ‘Blinding Light’ Challenge
Its universal appeal made the ‘Blinding Lights’ challenge very captivating.
Users of all ages and dance backgrounds joined in, putting their finesse on the choreography and sharing their interpretations.
@giannagiovenco Day shift, challenge accepted! you’re MOVE #blindinglightschallenge #nursechallenge #nightshift #foryoupage #covid ? Blinding Lights – The Weeknd
This challenge didn’t just create a platform for expression and an avenue for connection but collaboration through a shared experience.
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7. The Ratatouille: The Musical Trend
This musical demonstrated TikTok users’ immense creativity, resourcefulness, and ability to create something magical and inspiring.
@andre_rampazo Servidos? #ratatouille #ratatouillechallenge #foryourpage ? sonido original – _Disney30s_
As outstanding as it was, this trend represented a unique moment in internet culture, capturing the hearts and minds of users worldwide and providing the power of enthusiasm and creativity.
8. The Flip Switch Trend
Just as the lyrics mention, “I just flipped the switch”, at a specific moment, the lights would turn off or the screen would go blank. When the lights return, the participants would have to swap outfits or positions, effectively “Flipping the switch”.
@pinkmandalorian Flip the switch? #fliptheswitch #fliptheswitchchallenge #MickeyFriendsStayTrue #trend #transition #cosplay ? original sound – ??????????
9. Scrap Cooking
The zero-waste movement particularly inspired this trend. This involved making food out of would-be kitchen waste.
This mindful approach called for cooking with whole ingredients, from seed to stem.
@chef_tristan_welch Take your homemade vinegar to the next level with pineapples and chilli ? #pineapplevinegar #rubbishcooksathome #rubbishcooks #foodwaste #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #viral #scrappycooking #foodwastewarriors #sustainability ? Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
10. Twee Everything
According to TikTok, the ‘Twee’ aesthetic is an avenue to re-introduce pop culture this year.
But in case you’ve forgotten, the Twee is the hipster style you’ll possibly find in a Wes Anderson Movie.
@junosteelesghost what’s next owl everything? #twee ? Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? – She & Him
It also features a long line of sweet twee activities, like sipping tea from dainty floral cups, reading Alice in Wonderland and embroidering love notes into cloth napkins.
In conclusion, TikTok has revolutionized how we consume and participate in online trends. Throughout the years, the platform has witnessed an array of captivating and influential trends that have left a lasting impact on popular culture. TikTok has proven to be a channel for innovation and entertainment.