Defined, "
hot messes" refers to when a "person's appearance is in a state of total disarray while still maintaining an undeniable attractiveness" & allure.
Hot messes' are appealing for a variety of reasons, most notably because they're generally unexpected,
capricious, & agonizingly provocative. Additionally, numerous
contingent factors make duplication rare and continual repetition virtually impossible.
No one set of guidelines can perpetually determine what distinguishes a "hot mess" from an above-average train wreck. Regardless of the circumstances, you know it when you see it; because they are typically conspicuous, and obviously they are always awesome.
**The term "hot mess" can also characterize a unique setting or situation, although in this context the usage parameters become more difficult
to quantify.
Justin: "Did you see Molly this morning? We
partied all night and she ended up passing out
on the lawn."
Eric: "Yea, she came in this morning to find the rest of her clothes. She looked terrible, and awesome."
Justin: "Damn, hot messes' like that don't
come around very often."