Hot Girl Semester

How hot girl summer changed the face of confidence

By Camilla Breen

The whole world bore witness to the virality of “Hot Girl Summer”: an internet meme created by rapper Megan Thee Stallion that sparked a worldwide self-love movement. The hashtag is used widely via social media as a moniker that incites an empowered state of mind in users. Arguably the most widespread phrase of summer 2019 (and arguably the best thing to happen to Twitter since dark mode), it is undoubtedly the best mentality to be in, regardless of the season.

I consider myself a connoisseur of sorts on having a capital H, capital G Hot Girl summer. Beyond the multiple “Hot Girl” playlists I’ve procured over the summer, I genuinely believe in the phrase despite its internet meme status. Search up hot girl summer on Twitter and a plethora of different photos will show up—individuals from all backgrounds and in different stages of life unequivocally feeling themselves and having fun.

Hot girl summer is not only about posting photos of yourself on social media. In the wise words of Megan Thee Stallion, “Being a Hot Girl is about being unapologetically YOU, having fun, being confident, living YOUR truth, being the life of the party, etc.” It inspires confidence as well as unites people together in a synergistic conglomeration of inclusivity and self-importance. 

Although hot girl summer found its start as a meme, it ultimately facilitates an individual’s self-love and ability to be their best self. Instead of abandoning the “real hot girl shit” in August, we should have this mentality year round. Hot girl summer can mean putting on your best bikini and strutting around the house, or it can mean working five days a week to secure the bag. For some, its both. 

I encourage everyone to live out their hot girl summer fantasies well into winter and hold on to the confidence that motivates you. Take that selfie. Apply for that job. Talk to that boy or girl. Everyone deserves a hot girl summer, no matter the circumstances.