How TikTok Shaped the Coachella 2025 Aesthetic
Last weekend closed the second weekend of the music festival that all celebrities and influencers alike look forward to. Not only did Coachella have a lasting impression on the crowds, but it had overwhelming coverage on social media. Especially the platform that captures all the latest trends: TikTok.
TikTok has turned the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival into a content machine, with users on the app recording viral concert moments, sharing their creative outfits, and starting new dance trends.
Coachella has only gotten a strong social media presence in recent years, though. With its debut in 1999 and pause in 2020 and 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the avid festival-goers came back with a bang and started to share their experiences online.
Below are some of the ways that TikTok played a major role in crafting the aesthetic, mood, and cultural impact of Coachella 2025.
Viral Moments on TikTok
TikTok served as the primary platform for sharing and amplifying Coachella’s most memorable moments. Videos capturing performances and behind-the-scenes shots quickly gained traction, turning small instances into global sensations.
For example, a TikTok video by influencer Mimi Webb showcased unforgettable highlights from the festival, gaining significant attention.
Another standout moment from this year’s Coachella featured Sofia Richie Grainge and British singer Lola Young.
In November, Richie Grainge’s dance to Young’s song “Messy” sparked a popular TikTok trend. Their long-anticipated meeting was during Young’s Coachella debut at the Mojave Tent, where Young shared a TikTok video of the two enjoying her lyrics together.
Richie Grainge reciprocated with kind words in the comments and included the video in a recap of her Coachella experience on Instagram.
This heartwarming interaction between the influencer and the artist resonated widely, showcasing the positive and unifying power of the internet.
Influencer Fashion Trends
Influencers meticulously planned their outfits to resonate with TikTok audiences, often opting for bold and eye-catching ensembles.
Alix Earle, a prominent social media star, detailed her vibrant fashion choices in her TikTok videos, highlighting her preference for sparkles and accessories over minimalistic trends.
Her looks, including a studded bodysuit with a camo skirt and a full red and brown outfit, were designed to capture attention both on the festival grounds and online.
Celebrities like Lady Gaga and Charli XCX also made fashion statements that resonated on TikTok.
Lady Gaga’s dramatic Victorian-style red dress, which doubled as a performance stage prop, became a focal point of discussions.
Charli XCX’s choice of satin “sneakerinas” from Vivaia highlighted the blend of comfort and style, inspiring festival-goers to consider similar footwear options.
TikTok Dance Challenges
Dance challenges originating from Coachella performances quickly spread across TikTok, encouraging widespread participation.
The “Apple” dance, choreographed by Kelley Heyer to Charli XCX’s hit song, became a viral sensation, performed by numerous celebrities at the festival. In a post by InStyle Magazine, celebrities Alex Consani, Gabbriette and Quenlin Blackwell were seen on stage with Charli XCX helping lead the crowd do the dance.
Similarly, Tyla’s performance inspired the “water challenge,” which features African-style dancing and the act of pouring water on oneself. Fans were seen replicating her moves in various settings, further blurring the lines between performers and audiences.
The Future of Coachella
TikTok’s influence on Coachella 2025 was undeniable, transforming the festival into a dynamic program of music, fashion, and digital trends.
As attendees and online audiences engaged with content in real-time, the platform not only documented the event but shaped its narrative for years to come.
Looking ahead, TikTok’s role in defining cultural moments like Coachella is poised to grow even more significant.
