Each month on B&T, Fabulate’s head of strategy and talent, Lucy Ronald, breaks down what’s trending on TikTok – and more importantly, why it matters.
With Married at First Sight once again dominating TV ratings, it’s no surprise TikTok decided to dial up the drama too. But this time, everyone became the main character. Everyday moments were edited like prime-time reality shows, creators brought back bold 2000s glam with the Bebot transformation trend, fake laughter became a survival tactic, and KC and the Sunshine Band reminded us all to unapologetically like what we like.
Here’s what defined February on the For You Page (FYP):
Reality TV Show Editing
What it is:
Creators are turning everyday moments into full-blown reality TV episodes. A family holiday. A chaotic team meeting. Dinner with friends.
Filmed in quick snippets, then edited with dramatic audio, sharp cuts, zoom-ins and suspenseful music – suddenly your 3pm coffee run feels like a season finale cliffhanger.
This trend is all about manufacturing drama from the mundane. And honestly? It works. Because we’re all the main characters now.
@shannyn_smith Better office culture where?? #realitytv #blackhorne #realestate #office #officelife ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – 🔵けちゃん🎠❤️🔥8/22生誕祭🎂🥂✨🔵 – けちゃん🎠❤️🔥
Bebot Makeup Transformation
What it is:
Set to Bebot by Black Eyed Peas (banger), creators are jumping on bold before-and-after transformations.
They start bare-faced, then cut to full glam inspired by early 2000s beauty. Think sultry eyes, glossy lips, heavy liner and unapologetic nostalgia.
It’s high impact, high energy and taps straight into the Y2K revival that refuses to slow down.
@giannarose.xo How did I do? 🫣 #bebot #bebotmakeup #makeuptrend ♬ original sound – 𝖏𝖚𝖑𝖘
That’s the Way I Like It
What it is:
Using That’s the Way I Like It by KC and the Sunshine Band, creators add text on screen calling out something they’re often judged for.
“You’re always shopping.”
“You’re in bed by 9pm.”
They turn to camera and confidently respond:
“That’s the way I like it.”
It’s simple, it’s defiant, and it leans into self-awareness. The trend works because it flips judgement into confidence – something TikTok audiences consistently reward.
@mananamariee Period aye period uh #ilikeit #thatsthewayilikeit #fridaynight #weekend ♬ original sound – prodpoodee
Fake Laughing
What it is:
A painfully relatable format where someone cracks a joke and the creator responds with an exaggerated laugh.
The camera then cuts closer to reveal the truth – they’re not amused at all. Text on screen explains why they’re keeping up the performance:
“Fake laughing at my boss because I need a raise.”
“Fake laughing at my friend because I need a lift home.”
It’s subtle social commentary disguised as humour – and that’s why it resonates.
@fabulatehq Girl you’re hilarious 😭 #fakelaugh #boss #officelife #corporatetok ♬ nhạc nền – The Office Life
When It’s Cold Outside
What it is:
Using the trending audio, “When it’s cold outside, it’s always warm around here,” creators lean their heads on family, friends, partners or even coworkers, as the lyric plays.
The warmth isn’t literal. It’s emotional.
It’s a softer trend compared to the rest of the month, but it cuts through because it centres connection and community. And in a feed full of noise, that simplicity stands out.
@natalya..robinsonWhen it’s cold outside.. it’s always warm right here 🫶🏼♥️♬ original sound – K
