Babycore is an internet aesthetic centered on the visual culture and nostalgic themes of early childhood, specifically infancy and toddlerhood. It is characterized by a soft, pastel color palette and motifs drawn from baby toys, clothing, and accessories. The aesthetic emphasizes themes of innocence, comfort, and gentleness, creating a soft and nurturing atmosphere.

Babycore is a purely non-sexual aesthetic. It is often associated with the concept of finding comfort in childhood nostalgia but is distinct from both the BDSM practice of ABDL (Adult Baby/Diaper Lover) and age regression as a therapeutic coping mechanism. For adherents of the aesthetic, it is a form of self-expression and is not a reflection of a specific mindset or practice.

The Babycore aesthetic emerged in the 2010s on platforms like Tumblr as a sub-style of Kidcore . While Kidcore often focuses on the brighter, primary-colored world of school-aged children from the 1990s and 2000s, Babycore distinguishes itself by focusing on the softer, more pastel-oriented visuals associated with an even younger age group (0-4 years old).

Independently, the term "babycore" was used by artist Matt Starr in 2015 for an art project that involved recreating 1990s infantwear (from brands like Gymboree) in adult sizes. Starr's project was a commentary on nostalgia and branding, and he explicitly stated it had no connection to any sexual subcultures. While Starr's work shares the theme of nostalgia, the online Babycore aesthetic is a separate, organically developed phenomenon rooted in kawaii and internet culture.

The visual style of Babycore is defined by its softness and innocence. The color palette consists almost entirely of light, washed-out pastels, with baby pink, baby blue, mint green, and pale yellow being the most common. The aesthetic is often maximalist and cluttered, creating a room or image that resembles a child's nursery or playroom. Common motifs are items directly associated with babies and toddlers. These include plush toys (particularly from brands like Sanrio and Care Bears), baby bottles, pacifiers (used as decorative motifs or accessories), alphabet blocks, rattles, and mobiles. Other common visuals include baby animals like bunnies, lambs, and kittens, as well as characters from media aimed at very young children.

Babycore fashion takes inspiration from the clothing of toddlers and young children, adapted into adult styles. The look is soft, comfortable, and playful. Garments often feature childlike details such as frills, ruffles, bows, and Peter Pan collars. Common clothing items include overalls, pinafores, ruffled dresses, and character onesies.

Outfits are typically in pastel colors and may feature prints of cute animals or characters. Accessories are central to the style and include frilly socks, barrettes, bonnets, and jewelry made from beads or childlike charms. Footwear is usually simple and comfortable, such as Mary Janes or platform sneakers.

Due to its focus on infant and toddler themes, Babycore is frequently confused with other unrelated practices.

While some people who engage in age regression or are part of the ABDL community may adopt the Babycore aesthetic, the aesthetic itself is separate and not inherently connected to either of these. Babycore is a purely visual style focused on nostalgia and comfort.