What is “It’s giving”?

“It’s giving” is a social media slang phrase used to say that something gives off a specific vibe or feeling—almost like shorthand for “this reminds me of…” or “this feels like…”. You’ll typically see it followed by a word or phrase that describes that vibe: for example, “It’s giving summer vacation” or “It’s giving boss energy.”

Where does “It’s giving” come from?

This phrase originated in the Black and Latinx ballroom scene of the 1980s and draws from African American Vernacular English (AAVE). It was popularized in drag culture — people would say things like “It’s giving face” or “It’s giving body” to praise style, performance, or presence.

Why does “It’s giving” matter in social media?

“It’s giving” matters because:

  • It’s short and punchy — you can convey a complex impression quickly, which suits fast platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
  • It shows cultural awareness — using it signals that you’re in tune with current pop culture language.
  • It encourages engagement — the open-ended structure often leads audiences to comment with their own “It’s giving…” ideas.

How do brands use “It’s giving” effectively?

Try these ideas for brands and creators:

  1. Add flair to captions: “It’s giving beachside brunch vibes” for a foodie post.
  2. React in real time: “It’s giving us all the retro pride” in response to cultural moments.
  3. Start conversations: Ask, “What do you think this look is giving?”

This phrase helps brands speak the same language as their audience—making content feel more natural and engaging.

Can “It’s giving” be negative?

Usually it’s positive or neutral, celebrating a mood, aesthetic, or energy. But it can also be used sarcastically or critically—like “It’s giving garbage truck” to mock something low-quality. Tone and context are key.

Tips for using “It’s giving” in your content

  • Match your audience: It resonates most with Gen Z and younger Millennials.
  • Keep it relevant: Make sure the vibe you’re highlighting fits your brand or post.
  • Use sparingly: Overusing it can feel forced—drop it when it naturally fits.
  • Pair it with visuals: A bold image or video makes the phrase pop even more.

By using “It’s giving” smartly, you’re tapping into a playful, current way to describe feelings or styles—which helps your content sound fresh, relatable, and human. Give it a try next time you’re posting a mood or vibe!